Prevalence Rate Of Infection Research Articles

Worldwide prevalence of emerging parasite Blastocystis in immunocompromised patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundBlastocystis is one of the most common pathogens of the human intestine, caused by an emerging parasite, which can lead to severe symptoms and even death in immunocompromised patients. We aimed to determine the global prevalence of Blastocystosis infection in people with immunodeficiency. A systematic literature search was conducted on Web of Science, Scopus, Google scholar, Science Direct and MEDLINE databases to select all observational studies reporting the prevalence of Blastocystosis infection in Worldwide, based on different diagnostic methods in immunocompromised patients of any age and published from inception to February 2019. Pooled estimates and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using random effects models and in addition, the I2 statistic was calculated. The geographic distribution of studies was evaluated and the diagnosis of Blastocystis was compared by various techniques. Electronic databases were reviewed for Blastocystosis infection in HIV/AIDS, cancer and other immunocompromised patients, and meta-analyses were conducted to calculate the overall estimated prevalence. Total68 eligible studies were included. The estimated pooled prevalence rate of Blastocystosis infection in immunocompromised patients was overall 10% (95% CI, 7–13%; I2 96.04%) (P < 0.001), of whom 21% [18-25] were in Australia, 12% [4-24] in America, 11% [6-17] in Europe and 10% [5-15], 7% [3-13] in Asia and Africa, respectively. It was calculated that the estimated pooled prevalence rate of Blastocystosis infection in immunocompromised patients was overall 10% and the prevalence estimates ranged from 0.44 to 72.39. Also, overall the prevalence of parasites co-infection in immunocompromised patients was detected as 0.024%. Our finding showed that immunocompromised people show a high prevalence of Blastocystosis infection compared to the control population. Adequate information on the prevalence rate is still missing from many countries. However, current information underscore that Blastocystis should not be neglected.

Comparison of McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC effi ciency methods in diagnostics of Ascaris suum infection in young pigs

The coproovoscopic methods involving count chambers are widely used in the veterinary practice for diagnostics. These methods are important in assessments of the prevalence rates of nematode infections in pigs and for FECR tests. However, more basic data is needed on the efficiency of the commercial methods of diagnostics, tested at the different specific gravity of the flotation solutions. In a thorough analysis of publications of Ukrainian scientists, we have found that the data is sparse on the efficiency comparison of the modified McMaster’s and MiniFLOTAC methods. The aim of our study was to compare the efficiency of the commercial coproovoscopic techniques: the modified McMaster’s method (with sensitivity of 25 EPG), and MiniFLOTAC combined with Fill-FLOTAC (with sensitivity of 5 EPG) in testing for A. suum infection in piglets. Results of approbation of the mentioned methods are presented for the following saturated solutions: NaCl (SG=1.2), MgCl2 •6H2 O (SG =1.27) and NH4 NO3 (SG=1.28). Fecal samples were taken at own private farm, in Mlynok village of Onufriivka district, Kirovohrad region from 20 4 month old pigs with spontaneous A. suum infection. The laboratory assessments were performed in the Scientific Laboratory of Parasitology and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise of the Poltava State Agrarian Academy. It is established that at high rates of A. suum infection in young pigs, McMaster’s method with the ammonium nitrate solution is more efficient compared to the Mini-FLOTAC method. In average, 5331.2 eggs of A. suum were determined per 1 g of feces using the former method, compared to 4567.5 EGP according to the Mini-FLOTAC technique (P &lt; 0.001). The highest diagnostic efficiency of the modified McMasters method and the combination of Mini-FLOTAC and Fill-FLOTAC is seen when ammonium nitrate (NH4 NO3 ) solution of 1.28 SG is used (P &lt; 0.001). Our results add new data on the efficiency of the commercial methods of diagnostics with varying specific gravity of the flotation solutions, for pigs infected with nematodes. Key words: EPG, pigs, nematode, ascariasis, diagnostics, efficiency.

The medical impact of hepatitis D virus infection in Asia and Africa; time for a reappraisal.

Although hepatitis D is believed to be an important medical problem in Africa and many areas of Asia, the geographical distribution and prevalence rates of infection with the hepatitis D virus (HDV) vary considerably, are often inconsistent and sometimes conflicting. Discrepancies may depend on methodological problems, primarily on different modalities of patients' recruitment; these are analysed in this mini-review, in order to provide a uniform clinical approach when testing patients with chronic HDV disease.

Ancylostoma ceylanicum: The Neglected Zoonotic Parasite of Community Dogs in Thailand and Its Genetic Diversity among Asian Countries.

Simple SummaryAncylostomiasis is a zoonotic disease caused by the Ancylostoma hookworm infection of dogs, cats, and other wildlife species and is frequently found in Asia and tropical regions. The present study had confirmed the species of hookworm in dogs and soil environments collected from temple communities. In addition, we investigated the association of hookworm-contaminated soil in temple areas to increase awareness and establish a regimen to prevent zoonotic hookworm transmission. Lastly, we analyzed the genetic diversity and evolution of hookworm in dogs and soil environments among Thai A. ceylanicum and other Asian populations and disclosed insight into their fundamental genetic relationship.Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a zoonotic helminth that is commonly found in domestic dogs and cats throughout Asia but is largely neglected in many countries. This study aimed to confirm the species of hookworm in dogs and soil environments and investigate the evolutionary analyses of A. ceylanicum among Thai and Asian populations. In a total of 299 dog fecal samples and 212 soil samples from 53 temples, the prevalence rates of hookworm infection by microscopic examination were 26.4% (79/299) and 10.4% (22/212) in dog and soil samples, respectively. A PCR-RFLP targeting the ITS region was then utilized to identify the hookworm species. In dogs, A. ceylanicum was the main hookworm species, and the rates of A. ceylanicum and A. caninum infections were 96.6% and 3.5%, respectively. The genetic characterization and diversity indices of the A. ceylanicum cox1 gene among Thai and Asian populations were evaluated. Nine haplotypes were identified from Thai A. ceylanicum, in which the haplotype diversity and the nucleotide diversity were 0.4436 and 0.0036, respectively. The highest nucleotide diversity of Chinese A. ceylanicum populations suggested that it could be the ancestor of the populations. Pairwise fixation indices indicated that Thai A. ceylanicum was closely related to the Malaysian population, suggesting a gene flow between these populations. The temples with hookworm-positive dogs were associated with the presence of hookworm-contaminated soil, as these levels showed an approximately four-fold increase compared with those in temples with hookworm-negative dogs (OR = 4.38, 95% CI: 1.55–12.37). Interestingly, the genotypes of A. ceylanicum in the contaminating soil and infecting dogs were identical. Therefore, increased awareness and concern from the wider public communities with regard to the responsibility of temples and municipal offices to provide proper deworming programs to community dogs should be strongly endorsed to reduce the risk of the transmission of this zoonotic disease. In addition, parasitic examination and treatment should be strongly implemented before dogs are imported and exported worldwide.

Relationship between new-type drug use and high risk sex behavior in men who have sex with men

Objective: To understand the relationship between new-type drug use and high risk behavior in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shandong province. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys was conducted to collect the information about demographics, sexual and drug use behaviors of MSM and HIV-related services in MSM in three sentinel surveillance sites in Shandong from April to July in 2019. Blood samples were taken from the MSM for serological tests of HIV antibody and syphilis antibody. Results: A total of 1 203 MSM were included in this study. The average age of the MSM was 30.2±8.9 years. Among these MSM, 67.7% (815) were unmarried; 66.9% (805) had education level of college or above; 62.2% (721/1 160) had unprotected sex behaviors and 16.3% (189/1 160) had group sex behavior in the past six months and 54.2% (652/1 203) ever used new-type drugs. HIV infection and syphilis prevalence rates were 3.1% (37/1 203) and 4.7% (56/1 203), respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis indicated that MSM who had unprotected anal sex in the past six months were more likely to be from Qingdao (aOR=1.59, 95%CI:1.13-2.23), with education level of high school or below (aOR=1.61, 95%CI: 1.20-2.16), with male sex partners from bars/dance halls or other venues (aOR=1.69, 95%CI: 1.06-2.69), with HIV knowledge awareness score <6 (aOR=1.55, 95%CI: 1.01-2.37), with ≥2 sex partner in the past week (aOR=1.48, 95%CI: 1.12-1.95), to have group sex behaviors in the past six months (aOR=2.43, 95%CI:1.61-3.67) and to use new-type drugs (aOR=1.46, 95%CI: 1.11-1.91). MSM who had group sex were more likely to have following features: being from Qingdao (aOR=2.21, 95%CI: 1.45-3.38), non-Shandong residents (aOR=2.13, 95%CI: 1.28-3.55), HIV knowledge awareness score ≥6 (aOR=3.11, 95%CI: 1.55-6.25), ever having unprotected anal sex behaviors (aOR=2.60, 95%CI: 1.71-3.96) and ever having male commercial sex (aOR=3.38, 95%CI: 1.92-5.95) in the past six months, ever using new-type drugs (aOR=2.71, 95%CI: 1.82-4.04), and never having HIV testing in the past year (aOR=2.66, 95%CI: 1.59-4.43). Conclusion: New-type drug use is common in MSM in Shandong. The use of new-type drugs promotes unprotected sex and group sex in MSM. Surveillance and intervention measures targeting this population should be strengthened.

High prevalence of multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterial infection following pediatric liver transplantation.

Bacterial infection has been identified as one of the most significant complications of liver transplantation (LT). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacteria (GNB) infection remains problematic issue following LT in the adults. However, data in children are scarce. We aimed to examine the prevalence and associated factors of MDR-GNB infection among pediatric LT recipients.We performed a single-center retrospectively study of 118 children who underwent LT between January 2010 and December 2018. Data on the prevalence, clinical characteristics, types, and sites of MDR-GNB infection within 3 months after LT as well as the treatment outcomes were collected. Multidrug resistance was defined as acquired non-susceptibility to at least 1 agent in 3 or more antibiotic classes.In total, 64 (53.7%) patients developed 96 episodes of culture-proven bacterial infection with 93 GNB isolates. Moreover, there were 58 (62.4%) MDR-GNB isolates, with a predominance of Klebsiella pneumoniae (32.7%), Escherichia coli (31%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (10.3%). Interestingly, 10 (17.2%) isolates were determined to be carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. The median time to MDR-GNB infection was 9 (interquartile range: 5-33) days. The most common type of infection was intra-abdominal infection (47.9%). In the multivariate analysis, the significant variables associated with post-LT MDR-GNB infection include exposure to third-generation cephalosporins (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.16, P = .023), operative time (hazard ratio [HR] 1.20, P = .009), and length of intensive care unit stay (HR 1.03, P = .049). With a focus on carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae infection, a pediatric end-stage liver disease score >21 was the only significant 6 variable in the multivariate analysis (HR 11.48, P = .024). The overall 3-month mortality rate was 6.8%.This study has highlighted the high prevalence rate of MDR-GNB infection after pediatric LT. Therefore, caution on the emergence of MDR-GNB infection should be paid in at-risk children. Moreover, knowledge regarding the prevalence of MDR-GNB infection and resistant patterns is essential for guideline development to prevent and minimize the risk of MDR-GNB infection in this group of patients.

Prevalence of soil - borne nematode infections among residents living in urban/town areas of China in 2015

To understand the prevalence of soil-borne nematode infections among residents living in urban/town areas of China, so as to provide insights into the control and elimination of soil-borne nematodiasis. A total of 5 epidemic areas were classified in China according to the prevalence of human Clonorchis sinensis infections captured from the 2014-2015 national survey on major human parasitic diseases in China, and the total sample size was estimated according to the binomial distribution and Poisson's distribution. Then, the total sample size was allocated proportionally to each province (autonomous region, municipality) of China based on the percentage of residents living in urban and town areas, and the number of survey sites in each province (autonomous region, municipality) was proportionally assigned according to the percentages of residents living in urban and town areas. Then, stratified sampling was performed at county, township and community levels according to the number of sampling sites in each province (autonomous region, municipality), and the survey site (community) was defined as the smallest sampling unit. All permanent residents in the survey sites were selected as the study subjects, and their stool samples were collected for identification and counting of parasite egg using a Kato-Katz technique. The prevalence and intensity of each parasite species were calculated. From 2014 to 2015, among the 133 231 residents detected in 31 provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities) of China, the overall prevalence of soil-borne nematode infections was 1.23% (1 636/133 231), and the prevalence rates of hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura infections were 0.77% (1 032/133 231), 0.32% (426/133 231) and 0.17% (224/133 231), respectively. The highest prevalence of soil-borne nematode infections was seen in Jiangxi (4.03%, 82/2 034) and Chongqing (4.03%, 524/13 012), followed by in Hainan (3.47%, 72/2 075). The prevalence of soilborne nematode infections was 1.07% (662/62 139) in men and 1.37% (974/71 092) in women, and the greatest prevalence was found in residents at ages of 65 to 70 years (2.56%, 219/8 569). With regard to occupations and education levels, herdsmen (2.47%, 2/81) and illiterate residents (3.33%, 226/6 795) were found to have the highest prevalence of soil-borne nematode infections, respectively. In addition, mild infections were predominantly identified in hookworm-, A. lumbricoides- and T. trichiura-infected individuals (all > 90%). The overall prevalence of soil-borne nematodiasis remains low in urban and town areas of China; however, human infections are widespread. According to the epidemiological features, health education combined with deworming are recommended to reduce the prevalence of soil-borne nematode infections among residents living in urban and town areas of China.

Unexpected findings of hepatitis B and delta infection in northeastern Brazil: A public health alert

Introduction and objectivesResearch has shown that hepatitis B (HBV) and Delta virus (HDV) are a worldwide public health problem. This study aims to estimate the prevalence rates of HBV and HDV infection in five municipalities of Maranhão, Northeastern Brazil. Materials and methodsA total sample between 3856 and 4000 individuals. Questionnaires were used to register sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with transmission. Patients were tested for hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc), and antibodies against hepatitis Delta virus (anti-HDV). Factors associated with HBV were detected by means of multivariate Poisson regression. ResultsOverall, 3983 subjects were included. Ninety-two of the participants were HBsAg-positive (2.30%, 95% CI 1.80–2.80), and anti-HBc was detected in 1535 (38.50%, 95% CI 37–40). The factors associated with the presence of anti-HBc were: (1) Municipality (P<0.001); Age (P<0.001); School education (P<0.001); Illicit drug use (P=0.001); non-HBV vaccine (P=0.041). Among the HBsAg carriers, eight were anti-HDV-positive (8.69%, 95% CI 2.90–14.40). The most frequent HBV genotype was D4. The only HDV genotype was HDV-8. ConclusionHBV exhibited intermediate endemicity in the studied region. Traditional factors were associated with exposure to the virus. The presence of the HDV was confirmed. The most frequent HBV and HDV genotypes were unlike the ones currently described in Brazil.

Prevalence of genital HPV infection in STI and healthy populations and risk factors for viral persistence.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-established carcinogenic agent. This study aimed to assess prevalence and persistence rate of genital HPV infection in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) patients and healthy subjects. The risk factors influencing the persistence of genital HPV infection were also investigated. The samples were collected with the ThinPrep liquid-based cytology system. Among the HPV-positive patients, those consenting were retested after 12months. Overall, 145/292 subjects proved HPV positive with a higher prevalence (51%) in STI than in healthy population (43%). The persistence of genital HPV infection was statistically associated with female gender, HR-HPV infection, smoking, and Ureaplasma parvum infection.

PREVALENCE OF HAEMOPROTOZOAN DISEASES IN EQUINES OF NORTHERN REGION OF SINDH, PAKISTAN

Haemoprotozoan infections causes devasting loss to the livestock population through mortality and morbidity thereby reducing their production and lowered working efficiency. The present study was conducted to investigate the haemoprotozoan infection in equines in the district Larkana in northern Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 300 blood samples were collected from different species of equines in various localities of Larkana. The study was carried on stray and reared equines, including horses, donkeys and mules. The overall prevalence rate of protozoan infection in equines was found as 23.33% (70 animals) at different talukas/tehsils of district Larkana. Equine species wise haemoprotozoan infection was recorded as 7.69%, 24.11% and 20% in horses, donkeys and mules, respectively. Overall age-wise protozoan prevalence was determined as 18.5% in below 2 year and 23.80% in above 2 years age group. Whereas, in horses the infection rate was noted as 7.69% in above 2 years age group. The donkeys, above 2 years age group were susceptible for haemoprotozoan infections, which was recorded as 24.70% as compared to below 2 years age group (18.51%). In case of mules, the infection rate was recorded as 20% in above 2 years of age group. Overall gender-wise protozoan prevalence was found 43.46% in male equines, whereas in female, it was 21.73%. Equine species wise infection was recorded high in male of horses (9.09%), donkeys (24.13%) and mule (20%) as compared to female horses (0%), donkeys (23.80%) and mule (0%). Housing wise prevalence was recorded as high (51.51%) in chhapra than open (15.97%) and paka (24.39%).The management wise infection was recorded as 100% in stray equines as compared to reared ones (22.81%). The current study provides a baseline data on the prevalence of haemoprotozoans in equines in northern Sindh which may be helpful in designing control strategies for infectious diseases in equines.

Analyzing and forecasting COVID-19 pandemic in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using ARIMA and SIR models.

The novel coronavirus COVID‐19 is spreading all across the globe. By June 29, 2020, the World Health Organization announced that the number of cases worldwide had reached 9 994 206 and resulted in more than 499 024 deaths. The earliest case of COVID‐19 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) was registered on March 2 in 2020. Since then, the number of infections as per the outcome of the tests increased gradually on a daily basis. The KSA has 182 493 cases, with 124 755 recoveries and 1551 deaths on June 29, 2020. There have been significant efforts to develop models that forecast the risks, parameters, and impacts of this epidemic. These models can aid in controlling and preventing the outbreak of these infections. In this regard, this article details the extent to which the infection cases, prevalence, and recovery rate of this pandemic are in the country and the predictions that can be made using the past and current data. The well‐known classical SIR model was applied to predict the highest number of cases that may be realized and the flattening of the curve afterward. On the other hand, the ARIMA model was used to predict the prevalence cases. Results of the SIR model indicate that the repatriation plan reduced the estimated reproduction number. The results further affirm that the containment technique used by Saudi Arabia to curb the spread of the disease was efficient. Moreover, using the results, close interaction between people, despite the current measures remains a great risk factor to the spread of the disease. This may force the government to take even more stringent measures. By validating the performance of the applied models, ARIMA proved to be a good forecasting method from current data. The past data and the forecasted data, as per the ARIMA model provided high correlation, showing that there were minimum errors.

Joint and Separate Analysis for Longitudinal and Survival Data on Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV Among Infected Mothers on Option B+ at Health Centers in North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia, 2017.

BackgroundPrevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) is a frequently used word for programs and intervention methods to decrease the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The aim of this study was to identify determinants of the reduction of CD4 count through time and the maternal transmission of HIV to their child on the PMTCT program at health centers in North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.MethodsThe cohort study design was conducted by using secondary data collected from the cohort register of PMTCT starting from September 1, 2014 to November 30, 2017. In this study, a longitudinal study was conducted for two types of result; these were longitudinal response measurements of HIV infected women CD4 count and the time to maternal transmission of HIV taken from 203 patients.ResultsThe prevalence rate of HIV infection among exposed infants was 5.58%. Baseline CD4 count, visiting times, weight, and interaction between visiting time and baseline CD4 count had a statistically significant effect on the longitudinal biomarker. From the Weibull AFT model, ART start, partner test, clinical stage, educational status, place of delivery, and MUAC were statistically significant. Hence, as a measurement unit decreased in square root CD4 cell count by 1.18 elevates the risk of maternal transmission of HIV.ConclusionIn this study, the determinant of mother-to-child transmission of HIV including loss of weight, ART start (ANC), place of delivery at home, illiterate and mother with severe malnutrition, had a significant effect. The longitudinal biomarker also had a strong association with baseline CD4 and the risk of maternal transmission of HIV. Health education should be given about balanced diet, weight control, and take medication for HIV positive patients by the responsible bodies.

MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF ENTAMOEBA HISTOLYTICA IN SULAIMANI PEDIATRIC TEACHING HOSPITAL

Background &#x0D; Entamoeba histolytica is a unicellular protozoon that conceder as a common cause of dysentery in human especially in the children under 6 years old. This may be transmitted via the ingestion of cystic stage of the parasite. &#x0D; Objectives &#x0D; This study aimed to investigate the total rate of Entamoeba histolytica infection in children admitted to the Pediatric Teaching Hospital in Sulaimani City, and considering some other aspects such as culturing and detecting subtypes using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). &#x0D; Patients and Methods&#x0D; This epidemiologic study includes 1005 stool samples collected from children aged 6 months to 6 years old from the 1st of Jun to the 30th of October 2014. Each stool sample was examined and identified by direct wet mount method using normal physiological saline and iodine solution, followed by culturing and isolation of the parasite for 14 days to elongate life span and then genomic amplification applied from the cultured Entamoeba histolytica by appropriate PCR based method.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; The result of rapid kit occult blood combined with microscopic wet mount (iodine) showed that the infection with E. histolytica was (12.9%), in which the rate in male (14.18%) was higher than that female (11.42%), with no significant difference between both genders. cultured E. histolytica showed a great ability of this parasite to grow, with detection of the parasite under light microscope (40X). Then two standard kits were used specific primer (1147, F&amp;R), and thus about 1147bp PCR produced. Then, nested PCR was performed for the same PCR products two different primers (246 F&amp;R) which resulted in fragments of approximately 246bp. This fragment coding for the 16S SSUrDNA gene of HM-1IMSS 16s E. histolytica confirms the previous PCR amplification finding. The results of sequence methods identified E. histolytica subtype 1 from PCR positive samples by sequencing alignment (99%) similarity with accession number KB823016. &#x0D; Conclusion&#x0D; The prevalence rate of infection with E. histolytica in Pediatric Teaching Hospital in Sulaimani City was (12.9%). Beef extract medium for culturing of E. histolytica showed a great ability for growing of the parasite cystic form. E. histolytica subtype1 can be detected by sequencing method for the first time in molecular genotype of human E .histolytica in Sulaimani city.

Assessing the potential impact of COVID-19 on life expectancy.

BackgroundThe COVID-19 virus pandemic has caused a significant number of deaths worldwide. If the prevalence of the infection continues to grow, this could impact life expectancy. This paper provides first estimates of the potential direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on period life expectancy.MethodsFrom the estimates of bias-adjusted age-specific infection fatality rates in Hubei (China) and a range of six prevalence rate assumptions ranging from 1% to 70%, we built a discrete-time microsimulation model that simulates the number of people infected by COVID-19, the number dying from it, and the number of deaths from all causes week by week for a period of one year. We applied our simulation to four broad regions: North America and Europe; Latin America and the Caribbean; Southeastern Asia; and sub-Saharan African. For each region, 100,000 individuals per each 5-year age group are simulated.ResultsAt a 10% COVID-19 prevalence rate, the loss in life expectancy at birth is likely above 1 year in North America and Europe and in Latin America and the Caribbean. In Southeastern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, one year lost in life expectancy corresponds to an infection prevalence of about 15% and 25%, respectively. Given the uncertainty in fatality rates, with a 50% prevalence of COVID-19 infections under 95% prediction intervals, life expectancy would drop by 3 to 9 years in North America and Europe, by 3 to 8 years in Latin America and the Caribbean, by 2 to 7 years in Southeastern Asia, and by 1 to 4 years in sub-Saharan Africa. In all prevalence scenarios, as long as the COVID-19 infection prevalence rate remains below 1 or 2%, COVID-19 would not affect life expectancy in a substantial manner.InterpretationIn regions with relatively high life expectancy, if the infection prevalence threshold exceeds 1 or 2%, the COVID-19 pandemic will break the secular trend of increasing life expectancy, resulting in a decline in period life expectancy. With life expectancy being a key indicator of human development, mortality increase, especially among the vulnerable subgroups of populations, would set a country back on its path of human development.

Prevalence and intensity of hookworm infection in relation to anaemia among primary school pupils in Lafia rural areas

The study was carried out between March to September 2020 to determine the prevalence and intensity of hookworm infection in relation to anaemia among primary school children in Lafia rural areas of Nasarawa State namely Musha, Alawagana, Duglu and Azuba. Four primary schools were randomly selected from the locality and a total of 560 faecal and 69 blood samples were collected and analysed. Out of the 560 faecal samples analysed, 115(20.5%) were infected with hookworm with a Geometric Mean Intensity (GMI) of 436.2 eggs per gram of faeces (epgf). Meanwhile, the prevalence and GMI of hookworm infection were higher in females (21.5%, 76.3 epgf) than in males (19.6%, 71.1 epgf), though no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) in the prevalence between males and females. Age group 10 12 years old had the highest prevalence rate of hookworm infection (26.3%), followed by 13 15 (22.9%), 7 9 (19.2%) and 4 6 (9.0%). There was a strong inverse correlation (r = -0.99) between the intensity of hookworm infection and haemoglobin value. Haemoglobin value decreased with an increase in the intensity of hookworm infection in terms of eggs per gram of faeces. Hookworm infection is therefore associated with anaemia in the study area.

Modeling the Prevalence of Asymptomatic COVID-19 Infections in the Chinese Mainland

SummaryRecently, considerable efforts have been focused on intensifying the screening process for asymptomatic COVID-19 cases in the Chinese Mainland, especially for up to 10 million citizens living in Wuhan City by nucleic acid testing. However, a high percentage of domestic asymptomatic cases did not develop into symptomatic ones, which is abnormal and has drawn considerable public attention. Here, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of COVID-19 infections in the Chinese Mainland from a statistical perspective, as it is of referential significance for other regions. By conservatively assuming a development time lag from pre-symptomatic (i.e., referring to the infected cases that were screened before the COVID-19 symptom onset) to symptomatic as an incubation time of 5.2 days, our results indicated that 92.5% of those tested in Wuhan City, China, and 95.1% of those tested in the Chinese Mainland should have COVID-19 syndrome onset, which was extremely higher than their corresponding practical percentages of 0.8% and 3.3%, respectively. We propose that a certain false positive rate may exist if large-scale nucleic acid screening tests for asymptomatic cases are conducted in common communities with a low incidence rate. Despite adopting relatively high-sensitivity, high-specificity detection kits, we estimated a very low prevalence of COVID-19 infections, ranging from 10−6 to 10−4 in both Wuhan City and the Chinese Mainland. Thus, the prevalence rate of asymptomatic infections in China had been at a very low level. Furthermore, given the lower prevalence of the infection, close examination of the data for false positive results is necessary to minimize social and economic impacts.

The Prevalence of Ticks Infestation of Dogs in Runjin Sambo Area of Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria

Ticks are still considered a major cause of zoonotic diseases most especially to dogs and other related animals. This study was conducted to assess the ticks infestation of dogs in Runjin Sambo area Sokoto. The sample was collected using hand picking and hair brushing method with the assistance of dog owners. A total of sixty dogs were randomly selected in four different sub areas in Runjin Sambo. The locality, sex and age of the dogs were noted. The ticks species were identified in the entomology laboratory using key devices. Four species of ticks namely, Amlyomma variegatum, Rhipicephalus pulchellus, Boophilus decolaratus and Hyalomma excavatum were identified. The 45 (75%) of dogs were found infected with prevalence of 11.67%, 21.67%, 25.00% and 16.67% in the four sub-areas respectively. The prevalence rate of infection was 31.67% in male dogs and 43.33% in female dogs. Similarly 55.00% and 20.00% in adult and puppy dogs respectively. Tick infestation of dogs seems to be due to poor and unhygienic condition of the dogs and can be reduced by proper sanitation, improve hygiene and health education.

Toxigenic Corynebacterium ulcerans associated with upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs.

To describe infection in companion animals with the zoonotic pathogen Corynebacterium ulcerans and to determine its prevalence in clinically-affected and healthy animals. The clinical presentation and treatment of three cases of C. ulcerans infection is described. Two studies to determine C. ulcerans prevalence rates were undertaken: (a) a prospective study of nasal samples from healthy animals, 479 dogs and 72 cats; (b) a retrospective analysis of records of nasal samples collected over a 10-year period from 189 dogs and 64 cats affected by respiratory signs. Toxigenic C. ulcerans was isolated from four cats with nasal discharge while concurrent C. ulcerans and mecC methicillin-resistant S. aureus infection was detected in a dog suffering from chronic nasal discharge. Clinical features were not distinctive and all cases recovered following antimicrobial treatment. Multilocus sequence typing supported a common source for isolates from the shelter cats. Carriage rates of C. ulcerans in healthy animals were 0.42% (2/479) in dogs and 0.00% (0/72) in cats whereas in animals with signs of upper respiratory tract infection prevalence rates were 0.53% (1/189) in dogs and 6.25% (4/64) in cats. Clinicians should be aware that dogs and cats can be infected with (or carriers of) toxigenic C. ulcerans Considering the potential zoonotic risk, assistance from medical and public health colleagues should be sought in confirmed cases.

Prevalence Rate of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) Infection in Iraqi Patients on Hemodialysis: Cross Sectional Study

Background: Globally, the prevalence rate of chronic HCV infection is highly variable and it is estimated&#x0D; to range from 5 % up to 60 %. In the United States, it has been estimated that the prevalence rate of HCV&#x0D; in patients on hemodialysis is 5 times as that seen in the general population; the prevalence rate in those&#x0D; patients has been approximately 8 %. Hepatitis B virus infection was also a common health issue affecting&#x0D; patients on hemodialysis; however, a great reduction in the incidence rate of HBV in those patients has been&#x0D; noticed over that last decades. This reduction in the incidence of HBV has been attributed to vaccination, the&#x0D; use of erythropoietin instead of frequent blood transfusion for treatment of anemia and screening of blood&#x0D; donors.&#x0D; Aim of the study: the current study was planned and carried out aiming at exploring the prevalence rates of&#x0D; both HBV and HCV in patients and hemodialysis.&#x0D; Patients and methods: The current cross sectional study was based on the inclusion of 160 patients with&#x0D; chronic renal failure and on regular hemodialysis. The study was carried out in the dialysis unit at Adiwaniyah&#x0D; Teaching Hospital, Adiwaniyah Province, mid-Euphrates region of Iraq. The study started on the second of&#x0D; January 2019 and Ended on the 15th of September 2019. From each patient, a 5 ml sample of venous blood&#x0D; was obtained and send to the central Laboratory of Adiwaniyah Teaching Hospital for purpose of serologic&#x0D; identification of HBV and HCV infection in addition to estimation of both blood urea and serum creatinine.&#x0D; Results: HCV was detected in 34 (21.2 %), while HBV was seen in 2 (1.2 %) and combined HBV and HCV&#x0D; infection was observed in 2 (1.2 %). According to serologic method, 122 (76.2 %) were free of HCV or HBV&#x0D; infection.&#x0D; Conclusion: HCV was far more frequent than HBV infection in Iraqi patients with hemodialysis with&#x0D; prevalence rates of 21.2 % versus 1.2 %, respectively.

Molecular detection and genetic characteristics of Babesia gibsoni in dogs in Shaanxi Province, China

BackgroundSeveral members of genus Babesia are important pathogens causing babesiosis in dogs. In China, at least five Babesia species have been described in dogs or ticks. This study sought to determine the prevalence and molecular characteristics of various Babesia spp. in dogs in cities in Shaanxi Province in China, including Xi’an and Hanzhong.MethodsA total of 371 blood samples were collected from pet dogs presenting to veterinary clinics in the cities of Xi’an and Hanzhong in Shaanxi, China. Babesia spp. DNA was detected via amplification of partial 18S rRNA genes by semi-nested PCR. Almost full-length 18S rRNA, ITS, partial TRAP and complete cytb genes were recovered for analysis of the genetic characteristics and relationships with known isolates.ResultsA single species, Babesia gibsoni, was identified in dogs in Xi’an and Hanzhong. Consistently, B. gibsoni was also detected in 14 ticks collected from positive dogs. Sequence similarities and phylogenetic analysis suggested that the isolates identified herein showed a closer genetic relationship with isolates from East Asian countries rather than India, Bangladesh, or the USA. Sequence analysis based on tandem repeat analysis of the TRAP gene further revealed that specific haplotypes were circulating in both Xi’an and Hanzhong, with no specific regionality. In addition, 10.9% of all isolates with atovaquone (ATV)-resistance were identified because of M121I mutation in the deduced cytb protein.ConclusionsThis study revealed a high prevalence rate of Babesia infection. Babesia gibsoni was the only Babesia species identified in cases of canine babesiosis in the cities of Xi’an and Hanzhong cities in Shaanxi, China. In addition, the TRAP gene presented high genetic diversity across isolates. Such information is useful for elucidating the epidemiological characteristics of canine babesiosis, as well as the overall genetic diversity of Babesia spp. circulating in dog populations in Shaanxi Province.