Public Health Officials Research Articles

HARNESSING DATA INSIGHTS FOR CRISIS MANAGEMENT IN U.S. PUBLIC HEALTH: LESSONS LEARNED AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The effective management of crises in U.S. public health relies heavily on harnessing insights from data. This paper examines the lessons learned from past crises and outlines future directions for leveraging data to enhance crisis management efforts. Drawing on case studies of significant events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, we analyze the role of data in informing decision-making, identifying challenges, and deriving best practices. Despite the advancements in data infrastructure, including real-time monitoring systems and predictive analytics, there remain significant challenges in data collection, integration, and analysis. The paper highlights the importance of improving data governance, investing in technology, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address these challenges. Additionally, considerations such as equity and privacy are crucial in the development and implementation of data-driven strategies. Looking ahead, the paper provides recommendations for enhancing crisis management practices, including the adoption of standardized data protocols, the development of early warning systems, and the promotion of data-driven decision-making processes. By prioritizing data-driven approaches and embracing continuous learning, stakeholders can better prepare for and respond to future public health crises. This paper serves as a roadmap for policymakers, public health officials, and researchers to optimize data utilization in crisis management, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of communities across the United States.
 Keywords: Data Insights, Crisis Management, in U.S. Public Health, Lessons Learned, Future Directions.

Biomonitoring Equivalents for ethylene thiourea

Ethylene thiourea, or ETU, is used in the rubber industry and is a degradation product and impurity in some fungicides. The general public may be exposed to low concentrations of residues of ETU in a variety of ways, including food treated with ethylene bis-dithiocarbamate (EBDC) fungicides or migration from rubber products. Biomonitoring of ETU in urine is useful for an assessment of integrated exposures to ETU across different sources and routes of exposure. In this evaluation, we review available health-based risk assessments and toxicological reference values (TRVs) for ETU and derive Biomonitoring Equivalent (BE) values for interpretation of population biomonitoring data. BEs were derived based on existing TRVs derived by Health Canada, yielding a BE of 27 μg of total ETU/L in urine associated with the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) and 6.7 μg/L associated with a 1e-6 cancer risk. These BEs are based on an analytical method that involves a digestion step to liberate conjugated ETU, thus producing ‘total’ ETU in urine. The BE values derived in this manuscript can serve as a guide to help public health officials and regulators interpret population based ETU biomonitoring data in a public health risk context.

Rabies can lead to carnivores-vehicle collisions: A survey in Fars province, Iran

Road mortality caused by collisions with vehicles is the most tangible impact of road networks on wildlife. Neurological disorders in animals resulting from infectious diseases such as rabies can exacerbate the risk of road kills. To investigate this aspect, we examined 10 carnivores that had collided with cars and were subsequently transferred to the Bamou Rescue Centre. The Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT) results were positive for rabies in four individuals. In addition to these four carnivores involved in vehicle collisions and found to be rabid, three other wild individuals in the province were reported to be infected with rabies without any history of road accidents. Rabies thus poses a significant threat to wildlife biologists, public health officials, and veterinarians who are typically involved in rescuing carnivores involved in road accidents. These findings emphasize the importance of veterinarians being knowledgeable about the potential causes and backgrounds of carnivore road accidents.

Sex-structured disease transmission model and control mechanisms for visceral leishmaniasis (VL).

Leishmaniasis are a group of diseases caused by more than 20 species of the protozoan that are transmitted through the bite of female sand fly. The disease is endemic to 98 countries of the world. It affects most commonly the poorest of the poor and mainly males. Several research has been conducted to propose disease control strategies. Effective medical care, vector control, environmental hygiene, and personal protection are the mainstays of the current preventative and control methods. The mathematical models for the transmission dynamics of the disease studied so far did not consider the sex-biased burden of the disease into consideration. Unlike the previous VL works, this study introduces a new deterministic sex-structured model for understanding the transmission dynamics of visceral leishmaniasis. Basic properties of the model including basic reproduction number ([Formula: see text]), and conditions for the existence of backward bifurcation of the model are explored. Baseline parameter values were estimated after the model was fitted to Ethiopia's VL data. Sensitivity analysis of the model was performed to identify the parameters that significantly impact the disease threshold. Numerical simulations were performed using baseline parameter values, and scenario analysis is performed by changing some of these parameters as appropriate. The analysis of the model shows that there is a possibility for a backward bifurcation for [Formula: see text], which means bringing [Formula: see text] to less than unity may not be enough to eradicate the disease. Our numerical result shows that the implementation of disease-preventive strategies, as well as effectively treating the affected ones can significantly reduce the disease prevalence if applied for more proportion of the male population. Furthermore, the implementation of vector management strategies also can considerably reduce the total prevalence of the disease. However, it is demonstrated that putting more effort in treating affected reservoir animals may not have any significant effect on the overall prevalence of the disease as compared to other possible mechanisms. The numerical simulation infers that a maximum of 60% of extra preventative measures targeted to only male population considerably reduces the total prevalence of VL by 80%. It is also possible to decrease the total prevalence of VL by 69.51% when up to 50% additional infected males receive treatment with full efficacy. Moreover, applying a maximum of 15% additional effort to reduce the number of vectors, decreases the total VL prevalence by 57.71%. Therefore, in order to reduce the disease burden of visceral leishmaniasis, public health officials and concerned stakeholders need to give more emphasis to the proportion of male humans in their intervention strategies.

ICNIRP Statement on Short Wavelength Light Exposure from Indoor Artificial Sources and Human Health.

Concerns have been raised about the possibility of effects from exposure to short wavelength light (SWL), defined here as 380-550 nm, on human health. The spectral sensitivity of the human circadian timing system peaks at around 480 nm, much shorter than the peak sensitivity of daytime vision (i.e., 555 nm). Some experimental studies have demonstrated effects on the circadian timing system and on sleep from SWL exposure, especially when SWL exposure occurs in the evening or at night. The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) has identified a lack of consensus among public health officials regarding whether SWL from artificial sources disrupts circadian rhythm, and if so, whether SWL-disrupted circadian rhythm is associated with adverse health outcomes. Systematic reviews of studies designed to examine the effects of SWL on sleep and human health have shown conflicting results. There are many variables that can affect the outcome of these experimental studies. One of the main problems in earlier studies was the use of photometric quantities as a surrogate for SWL exposure. Additionally, the measurement of ambient light may not be an accurate measure of the amount of light impinging on the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells, which are now known to play a major role in the human circadian timing system. Furthermore, epidemiological studies of long-term effects of chronic SWL exposure per se on human health are lacking. ICNIRP recommends that an analysis of data gaps be performed to delineate the types of studies needed, the parameters that should be addressed, and the methodology that should be applied in future studies so that a decision about the need for exposure guidelines can be made. In the meantime, ICNIRP supports some recommendations for how the quality of future studies might be improved.

Investigation of Enteric Parasites with a Focus on Zoonotic Parasites in the Feces of Galliformes.

Galliformes have a global distribution and are bred by humans as domestic animals or game birds. The world's poultry population is increasing due to high consumer demand for poultry products. Due to the increasing growth of Galliformes breeding, this study aimed to investigate gastrointestinal parasites in the feces of some species of Galliformes. In the present study, 100 distinct fecal samples were collected from seven different Galliformes species, including rural chickens, peacocks, partridges, pheasants, turkeys, quails, and guinea fowls. Sampling of each bird was performed separately, and these birds were kept in cages. In order to identify gastrointestinal parasites, the samples were evaluated using the Clayton-Lane method, the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen, and the Trichrome staining methods. Among 100 birds sampled, 53% were positive for gastrointestinal parasites. Moreover, 30%, 18%, and 5% of birds were infected with Eimeria spp., nematodes, and Giardia spp., respectively. The highest rate of parasitic infestation in Galliformes was related to protozoan infections, and the highest rate of protozoan infection was related to Eimeria (30%). In addition, complex infestation was not detected. Considering that most parasitic infections have been detected in apparently healthy birds, it is recommended to observe hygiene to regularly disinfect cages and reduce the density of birds in the nests. Due to the zoonotic potential of Giardia and the contamination of some birds with this parasite, this issue should be considered by public health officials, bird sellers' markets, owners, and breeders of these birds.

A simple, collaborative prioritization process for wildlife-associated zoonotic diseases in northern Tanzania

Background and Aim: Zoonotic diseases are naturally transmissible infections between animals and humans. To address these cross-sectoral health issues holistic, transdisciplinary health approaches are required. The legalization of the game meat trade in Tanzania in 2020 has created a new value chain from wild habitats to registered game meat selling facilities in human settlements, thus creating new human–animal interfaces associated with potential risks of zoonotic disease transmission among wildlife, livestock, and human populations. This study aimed to apply a simple, collaborative prioritization process to identify important zoonotic pathogens associated with wild animal taxa harvested and traded for game meat consumption in northern Tanzania. Materials and Methods: A prioritization process was conducted to identify and rank zoonotic diseases associated with wildlife in the Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara regions of northern Tanzania to help determine the zoonotic disease risks associated with the game meat value chain. Two districts from each region were selected for this study. The prioritization process was conducted through an expert workshop that involved 41 participants, including a District Veterinary Officer, Public Health Officer, and District Game Officer from each district, as well as national One Health focal persons, zonal Veterinary and Laboratory Officers, scientific researchers, and a representative from the national Game Meat Selling Advisory Committee. Results: Experts identified 11 common zoonotic diseases reported in these regions, of which anthrax, rabies, brucellosis, Rift Valley fever, and bovine tuberculosis were considered the most important. This finding is broadly consistent with the national priority list for zoonotic diseases. Conclusion: This approach was time-efficient and cost-effective. In Tanzania, multi-sectoral planning, communication, and cooperation among human health, domestic animal health, wildlife health, and environmental protection have been strengthened. In the future, we recommend regular exercises using such an approach to update the information on important diseases and promote information sharing for epidemic and pandemic preparedness associated with the wild animal trade. Keywords: epidemic and pandemic, expert opinion, game meat, one health, wildlife, zoonoses.

COVID-19 Parental Job Disruptions and Adolescent Suicide

ABSTRACT A persistent issue for public health officials, suicide attempts among adolescents have increased in many parts of the United States since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite some work examining antecedents of suicide decisions, less is known about how certain experiences – exacerbated by the pandemic – influence adolescents’ propensity to attempt suicide. Using representative data from a sample of Florida adolescents, this study relies on Agnew’s General Strain Theory to investigate how pandemic-related parental job disruptions influence suicide decisions, and whether this relationship occurs indirectly through feelings of anger and depressive emotions. Results indicate that parental job disruptions are positively associated with one’s odds of attempting suicide, with most of this relationship occurring indirectly through depressive emotions.

What influence mothers’ mental health and health care seeking behaviors for their malnourished children in Nepal: building evidence for a broader perspective

IntroductionImplementing research projects on community-based health care interventions in low-ressource settings is feasible with specific methods and applications. In order to critically understand all ins and outs of influencing factors involved in health care pathways for children and their mothers, we must consider to implement more than one research in the same context.ObjectivesThe objective of this presentation is to showcase the continuum of research projects starting from the assessment of the effectiveness of a combined nutrition and psychosocial intervention and its economic evaluation, and how that led to exploring social representations of malnutrition in order to better understand the link with health care seeking behaviours.MethodsThe FUSAM cluster randomized control trial included 427 were severe acutely malnourished (SAM) children and their mothers. They were divided in two groups receiving the standard nutrition treatment while the intervention group benefited from five psychosocial sessions. A battery of tests for child development and maternal mental health was administered pre and post intervention. For the economic evaluation, a data collection was conducted with 98 community members and District Public Health Office personnel in Saptari and 17 Action contre la Faim and government personnel in Kathmandu. Finally, a mixed-method study comparing social representations of malnutrition included 376 adults in Saptari and Nuwakot district. Data analysis was performed according to the study design: a multivariate model analysis for the CRCT, a micro-costing methodology to cost data collection and analysis was favored. For the mixed-method analysis, descriptive and inductive analysis were performed.ResultsRegarding the child development, children in the intervention group showed higher scores than children in the control group at all time points. And the economic evaluation showed that the costs of adding psychosocial counselling to an existing CMAM program was approximately EUR 28,788 for 6 centers per year. However, referrals of children through the community-based screening were not optimal. The findings related to health seeking behaviors showed that different meaning categories were simultaneously resorted to by community members leading to different representations of SAM children and that relevant health advises were neither systematically nor uniquely associated to medical categories but are linked to different meaning categories depending on the cultural context.ConclusionsMultiplying research projects is crucial to mitigate the limitations of the studies often facing numerous contextual challenges and ultimately to leverage further opportunities.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Estimating Obesity Levels Using Decision Trees and K-Fold Cross-Validation: A Study on Eating Habits and Physical Conditions

This study harnesses the predictive capabilities of machine learning to explore the determinants of obesity within populations from Mexico, Peru, and Colombia, using a Decision Tree algorithm bolstered by 5-fold cross-validation. Our comprehensive analysis of 2111 individuals' lifestyle and physical condition data yielded accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-scores that notably peaked in the third and fifth folds. The findings affirmed the significance of dietary habits and physical activity as substantial predictors of obesity levels. The variability in model performance across the folds underscored the importance of robust cross-validation in enhancing the model's generalizability. This research contributes to the burgeoning field of data science in public health by providing a viable model for obesity prediction and laying the groundwork for targeted health interventions. Our study's insights are pivotal for public health officials and policymakers, serving as a stepping stone towards more sophisticated, data-driven approaches to combating obesity. The study, however, recognizes the inherent limitations of self-reported data and the need for broader datasets that encompass more diverse variables. Future research directions include the analysis of longitudinal data to establish causal relationships and the comparison of various machine learning models to optimize predictive performance

Genotyping of Leptospira spp. in wild rats leads to first time detection of L. kirshneri serovar Mozdok in Serbia.

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and molecular characterization of Leptospira species in Belgrade, Serbia, an area where this disease is underexplored. Specifically, the study sought to employ molecular and multilocus sequence typing analyses to fill the gap in understanding the diversity and distribution of Leptospira species within the region. A comprehensive molecular analysis was conducted on kidney samples obtained from Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) in the urban environment. The study utilized molecular diagnostic techniques including real-time PCR targeting the lipL32 gene and performing sequence-based typing schemes utilizing adk, icdA, lipL32, lipL41, rrs2, and secY genes. These methodologies were applied to ascertain the presence and characterize different Leptospira species and serovars, respectively. The findings revealed the presence of two Leptospira species and three separate serovars in the Belgrade area. This study identified the presence of L. kirschneri serovar Mozdok in Serbia for the first time, a significant discovery previously undocumented in the region. This pioneering investigation sheds light on the molecular diversity and prevalence of Leptospira species in Serbia. The study underscores the importance of employing molecular typing methods to gain insights into the epidemiology and characterization of Leptospira species. These findings significantly contribute to both local and global perspectives on leptospirosis epidemiology, providing vital insights for the development of effective control strategies and interventions. In our recent study, we explored the presence and performed molecular typing of the Leptospira species, the bacteria responsible for leptospirosis, in wild rats in Serbia. This was the first time such a study was conducted in the region. Leptospirosis is a serious disease that affects both animals and humans, often transmitted through contact with water contaminated by infected animals. Our focus was on understanding which types of Leptospira were present in these animals. Excitingly, we discovered a particular strain of Leptospira, known as L. kirshneri serovar Mozdok, for the first time in Serbia. This finding is significant because it sheds light on the presence and spread of different Leptospira serovars in Serbia. It also raises awareness about the potential health risks associated with this serovar, which was previously unknown in the area. Our work fits into a broader context of disease surveillance and public health. By identifying the types of Leptospira present in a specific region, we can better understand the risks to public health and take steps to prevent and control the spread of leptospirosis. This discovery is not just important for scientists studying infectious diseases; it has real implications for public health officials, veterinarians, and anyone concerned with preventing and treating leptospirosis. Our findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of Leptospira in wildlife and synanthropic fauna, to protect both animal and human health.

Spatiotemporal dynamics of cholera hotspots in the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1973 to 2022

Background Since the early 1970s, cholera outbreaks have been a major public health burden in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Cholera cases have been reported in a quasi-continuous manner in certain lakeside areas in the Great Lakes Region. As these cholera-endemic health zones constitute a starting point for outbreaks and diffusion towards other at-risk areas, they play a major role in cholera dynamics in the country. Monitoring the spatiotemporal dynamics of cholera hotspots and adjusting interventions accordingly thus reduces the disease burden in an efficient and cost-effective manner.Methods A literature review was conducted to describe the spatiotemporal dynamics of cholera in the DRC at the province level from 1973 to 1999. We then identified and classified cholera hotspots at the provincial and health zone levels from 2003 to 2022 and described the spatiotemporal evolution of hotspots. We also applied and compared three different classification methods to ensure that cholera hotspots are identified and classified according to the DRC context.ResultsAccording to all three methods, high-priority hotspots were concentrated in the eastern Great Lakes Region. Overall, hotspots largely remained unchanged over the course of the study period, although slight improvements were observed in some eastern hotspots, while other non-endemic areas in the west experienced an increase in cholera outbreaks. The Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC) and the Department of Ecology and Infectious Disease Control (DEIDC) methods largely yielded similar results for the high-risk hotspots. However, the medium-priority hotspots identified by the GTFCC method were further sub-classified by the DEIDC method, thereby providing a more detailed ranking for priority targeting.ConclusionsOverall, the findings of this comprehensive study shed light on the dynamics of cholera hotspots in the DRC from 1973 to 2022. These results may serve as an evidence-based foundation for public health officials and policymakers to improve the implementation of the Multisectoral Cholera Elimination Plan, guiding targeted interventions and resource allocation to mitigate the impact of cholera in vulnerable communities.

Syncretism and Cultural Resilience: The Coexistence and Evolution of Traditional Itolimin and Christian Burial Practices in Esanland, Nigeria

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to uncover how traditional second burial rites coexist with and have adapted to Christian funeral norms, reflecting the socio-religious negotiation in a postcolonial context. Methodology: Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study gathered data through semi-structured interviews with local chiefs, elders, and adults, alongside observations and an extensive review of related literature. Participants were selected based on their deep knowledge of Esan customs and involvement in the Itolimin practice. Main Findings: The study revealed that Itolimin, while embracing certain Christian elements, remains a vital cultural practice that reinforces the community's moral and social order. The rite's evolution showcases the Esan people's ability to blend traditional and Christian values, thereby preserving their cultural identity amidst religious changes. This syncretism illustrates the community's broader cultural resilience and adaptation approach in a rapidly changing religious landscape. Applications of this Study: Insights from this study apply to the broader discourse on funeral practices in postcolonial societies, providing a framework for cultural preservation amidst religious transformation. It is relevant for policymakers and public health officials regarding community health and burial practices. The findings also offer a basis for developing contextual theological education that respects indigenous beliefs within Christian teachings. Novelty/Originality: This study provides a unique contribution to the understanding of funeral rituals within African postcolonial societies by documenting the living tradition of Itolimin. It highlights how syncretism acts as a dynamic cultural force, shaping the way communities like the Esan negotiate identity and religious practice in a contemporary Christian-dominated context.

Changes in Partner-Seeking and Sexual Behavior Among US Adults During the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced partner-seeking and sexual behaviors of adults. We examined cross-sectional survey data collected at the end of the first year (n = 1161) and second year (n = 1233) of the COVID-19 pandemic by the National Opinion Research Center's nationally representative, probability-based AmeriSpeak panel. Data were analyzed to (1) quantify behavioral changes across pandemic years, (2) examine changes of in-person dating prevalence during year 2, and (3) assess risk perception for acquiring COVID-19 or HIV/STIs through new partnerships during year 2. Weighted percentages were calculated for responses; univariate relationships between demographic characteristics and outcomes were assessed. Prevalence of new partners for dating remained stable across pandemic years (year 1: n = 1157 [10%]; year 2: n = 1225 [12%]). The prevalence of in-person sex with new partners was also stable (year 1: n = 1157 [7%], year 2: n = 1225 [6%]), marking a decline from a prepandemic estimate (2015-2016: 16%). Partner-seeking experiences varied by age and sexual identity in both years, and by race/ethnicity during year 2. Reports of in-person dating fluctuated throughout year 2, without clear relationship to viral variants. Respondents who met new partners in person during year 2 generally reported greater concern and preparedness for reducing risks associated with HIV/STIs than COVID-19. The prevalence of US adults seeking new partners for dating or sex remained stable across pandemic years. During future public health emergencies, public health officials are encouraged to offer guidance for reducing disease risks in partnerships, while emphasizing sexual health and providing tailored messaging for persons more susceptible to infection.

Epidemiología, clínica y prevención de la Viruela Símica. Revisión bibliográfica

Introduction: Monkeypox, or monkeypox, is a zoonosis endemic in the rural jungle areas of central and western Africa, in humans the first occurrence was in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is caused by a virus belonging to the genus Orthopoxvirus of the Poxviridae family. Objective: To determine the causes and predisposing factors to the outbreak of monkeypox, transmission routes, clinical manifestations, evolution, complications, diagnosis, therapeutic management, prevention and control of infection.Material and methods: A systematic review was carried out in the Medscape, Pubmed, Science Direct and Scielo databases. Thirty-one papers were used.Results: Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 in the city of Copenhagen, capital of Denmark, in monkeys used for research. In 1970, the first case of monkeypox in humans was reported in a child in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Once the diagnostic suspicion is determined, sampling is indicated to confirm infection by nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) or real-time PCR. PCR is the definitive diagnostic test, can be alone or followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis or sequencing, has high sensitivity and specificity; and a rapid turnaround time of about one day or less. Monkeypox is usually mild and most people recover without treatment.Conclusions: So far in Ecuador 421 cases of monkeypox have been reported, so it is important that public health officials and health care personnel receive training on the risk of the disease, recognition, treatment and isolation of cases. It is important that the country has sufficient PCR tests in public facilities for the confirmation of cases and as a method of prevention, citizens should maintain the biosecurity measures announced by the MSP.

Effect of single-dose, live, attenuated dengue vaccine in children with or without previous dengue on risk of subsequent, virologically confirmed dengue in Cebu, the Philippines: a longitudinal, prospective, population-based cohort study

A three-dose dengue vaccine (CYD-TDV) was licensed for use in children aged 9 years and older starting in 2015 in several dengue-endemic countries. In 2016, the Philippine Department of Health implemented a dengue vaccination programme, which was discontinued because of safety concerns. We assessed the relative risk of developing virologically confirmed dengue among children who did or did not receive a single dose of CYD-TDV by previous dengue virus (DENV) infections at baseline classified as none, one, and two or more infections. In this longitudinal, prospective, population-based cohort study, we enrolled healthy children (aged 9-14 years) residing in Bogo or Balamban, Cebu, Philippines, between May 2, and June 2, 2017, before a mass dengue vaccination campaign, via the Rural Health Unit in Bogo and three Rural Health Units in Balamban. We collected demographic information and sera for baseline DENV serostatus and conducted active surveillance for acute febrile illness. Children who developed acute febrile illness were identified, clinical data were collected, and blood was drawn for confirmation of dengue by RT-PCR. The primary outcome was the relative risk of developing virologically confirmed dengue among children who received or did not receive a single dose of CYD-TDV by DENV serostatus at baseline. A single dose of CYD-TDV did not confer protection against virologically confirmed dengue in children who had none or one previous DENV infection at baseline. One dose conferred significant protection against hospital admission for virologically confirmed dengue among participants who had two or more previous DENV infections at baseline during the first 3 years (70%, 95% CI 20-88; p=0·017) and the entire follow-up period (67%, 19-87; p=0·016). The risk of developing virologically confirmed dengue after a single dose of CYD-TDV varied by baseline DENV serostatus. Since the study assessed the effect of only a single dose, the findings cannot inform decisions on vaccination by public health officers. However, the findings have implications for children who receive an incomplete vaccination regimen and these results should prompt more detailed analyses in future trials on dengue vaccines. The Philippine Department of Health, Hanako Foundation, WHO, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, International Vaccine Institute, University of North Carolina, and US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Don’t blame the messenger? An assessment of public regulations announcements and support for the governing party and the public policy

ABSTRACT Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, public health officials became increasingly visible in the media, sometimes appearing alone or alongside elected officials to announce policy changes and updates on the virus. To what extent does varying the official chosen to announce a new policy affect public support for the governing party and the policy? To answer this question, we analyze data from a survey experiment fielded in March 2022 announcing the implementation of additional COVID-19 vaccine requirements. We draw from three experimental treatments that manipulate who delivers the message and a control group. We find no discernable difference in either political or policy support when this message is delivered by a scientific expert, a political leader or both. The sole exception is the personal impact delivering this message has on the Premier’s rating, although this loss is only evident among those already opposed to COVID-19 regulations.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Prevention Practices towards Common Zoonotic Diseases in and around Bahir Dar City, North Western Ethiopia

The problem of zoonoses diseases is a global public and veterinary health concern. Globally coordinated and well-established research efforts are essential to successfully fighting and reducing the health burden of zoonoses. In our study area, the interplay of intense livestock animals, agricultural activities, and poor health services characterized the high risks of zoonotic diseases. Thus, people suffer from easily preventable diseases with hygiene and good-quality food. The main objectives of this study were to: (i) evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices of people handling farm animals and their products toward common zoonotic diseases; and (ii) estimate the associated risk factors influencing their knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to August 2022. A simple random sampling technique was followed to select respondents. Multivariable logistic regression model analysis was conducted using STATA version 14. The overall level of knowledge, attitude, and prevention practice for the major zoonotic disease was 52.5%, 68.6%, and 39.4%, respectively. Rabies, tuberculosis, taeniasis, anthrax, and brucellosis were the major zoonotic diseases selected by respondents in the study areas. The age of respondents, training status, educational status, and farm location were significantly (P <0.05) associated with the level of knowledge and prevention practice against zoonotic diseases. This study revealed that the level of knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices for major zoonotic diseases in Bahir Dar City were relatively poor. Therefore, a concerted effort among various government and nongovernment stakeholders, including veterinarians, public health officials, and environmental experts, is needed to create and raise awareness among livestock producers about the transmission and control methods and the economic and public health importance of zoonotic diseases.

A One Health Platform for Future Epidemic Preparedness.

Here, we introduce the EpiConnect Intelligence Platform (ECIP), a platform facilitating rapid, transparent data sharing and analysis to support researchers and public health officials in Europe, with a focus on Italy. ECIP provides reliable, concise, machine-readable data to aid in epidemiological understanding, standardize case characteristics, and estimate key parameters. The platform adheres to FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) principles, offering easily accessible and downloadable datasets for researchers' endeavors. Future enhancements include involving national public health authorities, expanding data streams, and fostering collaboration between experts and users for improved epidemic risk monitoring. Shared standards among diverse surveillance systems are advocated to achieve common strategic goals, emphasizing the need for forward-looking policies to empower professionals to analyze disease dynamics in the context of evolving health crises. The recent emergencies underscore the importance of collective efforts towards shared strategic goals, highlighting the necessity for coordinated action to address mutual concerns affecting everyone's lives.

The Watermelon Meow Meow Outbreak: Enhancing Public Health Education Through Real-World Experience, Statistical Programming, and Infectious Disease Modeling

There is a need for public health undergraduates to acquire skills in data collection, statistical programming, and infectious diseases modeling. Public health officials and accreditation bodies underline the importance of a cumulative, “real-world” experience as part of a student's education. The Watermelon Meow Meow (WMM) outbreak is a cumulative experience that teaches upper-level undergraduate/graduate students about infectious disease dynamics by asking students to: participate in a fictitious outbreak; collect and analyze outbreak data. Innovative to our approach is the use of DataCamp as a technology to support learning statistical programming and framing WMM under principles of Universal Design Learning (UDL). We evaluated 27/32 student responses using a mixed-methods approach. We found WMM: augmented traditional lecture-style instruction and increased student awareness of heterogeneous risks associated with infectious diseases. We identified three student typologies: students who learn best from (i) integrating traditional lecture plus WMM, (ii) participating in WMM data collection but not coding, and (iii) from lecture and classroom-based learning from peers. WMM is an example of a more general approach – which we call Slate, Operate, Translate – that instructors can follow to combine technology and a hands-on experiment to satisfy both UDL principles and increasing demands of public health education in a mathematics/statistics class.