Journal Of Infection In Developing Countries[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the temporal trend of indicators for access to tuberculosis diagnosis: A systematic review.
Gaspar Botelho Funari de Faria M, De Paula Andrade Gonçalves RL, Maria Lopes L … +15 more , Fransiscon Naves E, Oliveira Bonfim R, Mendes da Silva DH, Marques Valença AB, Roberto Bollela V, Perón Rujula MJ, Alexandre Arcêncio R, Carvalho Pinto I, Fredemir Palha P, Garcia de Almeida Balestero J, Gomes D, Guo Z, Farley J, Reynolds N, Aparecida Monroe A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060732 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the behaviour of numerous diseases, overloading health systems and weakening public health infrastructure and access. METHODOLOGY: This study aimed to analyse the repercussi...
INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the behaviour of numerous diseases, overloading health systems and weakening public health infrastructure and access. METHODOLOGY: This study aimed to analyse the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis diagnosis indicators. A systematic review was conducted, examining studies published between 2020 and 2024 in Portuguese, English, or Spanish across five databases and Google Scholar. The search, performed in March 2024, led to the identification of 6,378 studies, of which 23 were included after an independent review of titles, abstracts, and full texts. Data were extracted and narratively synthesized following a methodological quality assessment. RESULTS: The review revealed significant declines in TB incidence, detection, notification, and diagnosis during the pandemic, alongside reduced etiological confirmation of cases. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight a need to reorganize and enhance health service responses to address the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Strengthening these services is crucial to recover missed TB cases and improve indicators, supporting the goal of eliminating TB by 2030.
Evaluation of pathogens isolated from wound infections and their antibiotic susceptibility profiles in a wound care unit.
Yucens M, Sari T, Aydemir N … +4 more , Öztürk SS, Akman A, Inal O, Demirkan F
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060731 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Wound infections, particularly diabetic foot infections (DFIs), are major clinical challenges, often exacerbated by polymicrobial colonization and rising antibiotic resistance. This study evaluates the path...
INTRODUCTION: Wound infections, particularly diabetic foot infections (DFIs), are major clinical challenges, often exacerbated by polymicrobial colonization and rising antibiotic resistance. This study evaluates the pathogens isolated from DFIs in a Turkish hospital and their antibiotic susceptibility profiles to guide empirical treatment. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective study was conducted in the orthopaedic wound care unit of Pamukkale University Hospital. Data from 478 wound cultures of 136 patients treated between 11/02/2021 and 02/03/2023 were analyzed. Pathogens were identified using microbiological methods and the VITEK 2 system, with antibiotic susceptibility testing performed via the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. RESULTS: Among the 478 clinical samples, 66.9% displayed monomicrobial growth, and 32.1% were polymicrobial. Gram-negative bacteria were more prevalent, found in 85.7% of samples, with Escherichia coli (21.5%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14%) being the dominant isolates. Gram-positive organisms were identified in 50.6% of cases, with Staphylococcus aureus (11.7%) as the most common, of which 8.9% were methicillin-resistant (MRSA). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains were detected in 320 Gram-negative isolates, including E. coli (89 isolates), P. aeruginosa (40), and Proteus spp. (50). Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production was observed in 27.1% of the isolates, and carbapenem resistance in 2.3%. Notably, MDR pathogens were more frequent in patients with osteomyelitis, amputations, or HbA1c levels > 8%. CONCLUSIONS: Gram-negative bacteria, particularly E. coli and P. aeruginosa, were the predominant pathogens in DFIs in Turkey. The increasing prevalence of MDR strains necessitates careful selection of empirical antibiotics, favoring coverage of Enterobacteriaceae and P. aeruginosa over MRSA until culture results are available.
Scabies cases at a dermatological outpatient clinic in Türkiye: Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Atalık K, Çevik M, Kaya AD … +1 more , Babaoğlu ÜT
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060730 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Annually, scabies affects more than 400 million people worldwide and is an important public health problem. This study investigated the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with scabie...
INTRODUCTION: Annually, scabies affects more than 400 million people worldwide and is an important public health problem. This study investigated the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with scabies at a major dermatologic clinic in Turkiye in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective evaluation was performed on outpatients diagnosed with scabies between 2014 and 2022. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0. RESULTS: In total, 759 of the 48,381 patients (1.6%) who visited the dermatology outpatient clinic were diagnosed with scabies. The incidence rate of scabies was 0.5-0.9% before the pandemic, which increased to 3.1-4.4% in 2020-2022. Cases were more common in October-December (36.5%), and 57.9% of patients were 18-44 years old. Those aged 1-6 years showed an increased rate of scabies from 3% to 7.8% during the pandemic. There was no significant difference according to gender or nationality. All patients complained of itching, and 35% had a history of contact with individuals who were diagnosed with scabies. The recurrence rate was 27.3%. Lesions of 73.1% of patients showed a generalized distribution, as well as local lesions on the hands (7.9%), genital area (6.4%), trunk (4.0%), arms (3.0%), legs (2.8%), feet (1.6%), and head (1.2%). CONCLUSIONS: The results emphasize that scabies can develop regardless of age, gender, and ethnicity, and periods such as pandemics may delay diagnosis and treatment, leading to a higher occurrence of the disease.
Expression analysis of DDC, dACE2, and EPO genes in Moroccan COVID-19 patients: links to viral load and demographics.
Laazaazia O, Ouladlahsen A, Aqillouch S … +7 more , Altawalah H, Noureddine R, Sarih M, Pineau P, Maaroufi A, Lkhider M, Ezzikouri S
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060729 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Interactions between host and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are incompletely understood. Studies have highlighted the roles of L-dopa decarboxylase (DDC), interferon-inducible...
INTRODUCTION: Interactions between host and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are incompletely understood. Studies have highlighted the roles of L-dopa decarboxylase (DDC), interferon-inducible truncated isoform of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (dACE2), and immunomodulatory hypoxia-regulated gene erythropoietin (EPO) in viral infections. This study investigated the expression levels of DDC, dACE2, and EPO in 136 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and 88 controls. METHODOLOGY: Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to quantify mRNA levels of DDC, dACE2, and EPO; and the SARS-CoV-2 viral load in nasopharyngeal swabs. RESULTS: Significantly elevated levels of dACE2 (p = 0.003), DDC (p = 0.004), and EPO (p = 0.006) were observed in patients compared to controls. No correlation with the viral load (DDC: r = 0.12, p = 0.136; EPO: r = 0.02, p = 0.802; dACE2: r = 0.05, p = 0.491), and no associations with age or gender (all p > 0.05) were noted. There were positive correlations between DDC and dACE2 mRNA levels in infected (r = 0.31, p = 0.0002) and uninfected individuals (r = 0.25, p = 0.015); and between DDC and EPO in infected (r = 0.22, p = 0.008) and uninfected individuals (r = 0.27, p = 0.010). There was a positive correlation between dACE2 and EPO mRNA levels in both groups (infected: r = 0.22, p = 0.007; uninfected: r = 0.38, p = 0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: DDC, dACE2, and EPO may contribute to COVID-19 pathogenesis through mechanisms independent of viral load, age, or gender.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B, C and HIV infection in healthcare personnel in Turkey.
Altıntaş Öner B, Keskin BH, Öztürk Çerik H
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060728 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections among health care workers in Zonguldak Gynecology an...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections among health care workers in Zonguldak Gynecology and Pediatrics Hospital. METHODOLOGY: The records of healthcare personnel working in the hospital between 2023 and 2024 were retrospectively analyzed through the hospital information management system (HIMS) and periodic examination forms. Age, gender, job, and test results for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV), Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), and HIV antibodies (anti-HIV/1-2) were all recorded. RESULTS: A total of 364 healthcare personnel, including 25 doctors, 135 nurses, 14 technicians, 39 cleaning staff, and 151 other personnel, were included in the study. The staff comprised 266 (73%) female and 98 (27%) male workers, and the mean age was 37.69 ± 9.95 years. The HBsAg positivity rate was found to be 0.8%, and the anti-HBs positivity rate was noted to be 82.9%. Significant differences were determined for age, gender, and anti-HBs among occupational groups (p < 0.001). The prevalence of anti-HBs was markedly elevated in the group of doctors (p < 0.001). The anti-HBs value was statistically significantly different between occupational groups (p < 0.001). No staff members tested positive for anti-HCV or anti-HIV. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in infection rates and immunological responses were seen among various occupational groups, emphasizing the necessity for targeted medical attention within this population. Healthcare personnel should have screening for HBV, HCV, and HIV, and individuals susceptible to HBV should receive vaccination.
Microbial etiology of hospital-acquired pneumonia/ventilator-associated pneumonia in hospitals of Shandong Province.
Zhang G, Cheng Y, Hu X … +4 more , Li W, Sun J, Chen Z, Xu H
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060727 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Nosocomial pneumonia includes hospital-acquired pneumonia without association with mechanical ventilation (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The prevalence and microbial etiology of HAP/VAP in...
INTRODUCTION: Nosocomial pneumonia includes hospital-acquired pneumonia without association with mechanical ventilation (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The prevalence and microbial etiology of HAP/VAP in Shandong Province were evaluated to provide a reference for hospital infection control. METHODOLOGY: Data was obtained from patients with HAP/VAP admitted to hospitals within the network of Shandong Provincial Hospital infection management and monitoring from 2019 to 2023. RESULTS: The prevalence of HAP/VAP showed an overall downward trend across the 5-year period, with range of 0.68-0.43% and 0.067-0.04%, respectively. A total of 83,533 HAP and 7,205 VAP cases were diagnosed (male-to-female ratio of 1.89:1 and 2.13:1; and median age of 67.7 and 64.2 years), among which 47,862 and 9,806 strains were isolated from patients with HAP/VAP, respectively. The primary pathogens in HAP/VAP were similar, and included Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The antimicrobial susceptibility was low, with lesser susceptibility in VAP. The major multidrug resistant microorganisms (MDROs) were identical in HAP/VAP; and MDR-A. baumannii had the highest detection rate, followed by MDR-Staphylococcus. aureus and MDR-P. aeruginosa. The Mantel-Haenszel χ2 test suggested that there was a linear relationship between the detection rate of MDR-P. aeruginosa and MDR-S. aureus and time (p < 0.001 for MDR-P. aeruginosa in HAP/VAP and MDR-S. aureus in HAP; p = 0.023 for MDR-S. aureus in VAP). CONCLUSIONS: The infection rates of HAP and VAP displayed a declining trend. The major pathogens were similar in HAP and VAP, but with low antimicrobial susceptibility and high detection rate of MDROs.
Correlation of BIPQ score with socioeconomic characteristics of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and CT severity score.
Jankovic J, Sljivic A, Djukic V … +9 more , Vukomanovic V, Kapor S, Blagojevic N, Blagojevic D, Guslarevic I, Savic P, Nesic I, Karic U, Stjepanovic M
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060726 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rapidly became a global pandemic with clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic infection to life-threatening illness. While physician assessment of disease sever...
INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rapidly became a global pandemic with clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic infection to life-threatening illness. While physician assessment of disease severity is largely objective, patient perception of illness is often influenced by psychosocial and demographic factors. This study aimed to explore determinants of illness perception among patients hospitalized with COVID-19. METHODOLOGY: A cohort of 262 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection was evaluated. Baseline characteristics included age, gender, smoking history, body mass index, and sociodemographic information (relationship status, education, employment, and physical activity). Disease severity was assessed using chest computed tomography (CT) scans. Illness perception was measured with the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ). RESULTS: The median patient age was 56.3 years, and 65.6% were male. More than half (56.5%) had completed higher education, 90% were married or in a relationship, 57.6% were unemployed, and 85.9% reported no regular physical activity. Male patients demonstrated higher absolute CT scores (p = 0.018) but lower BIPQ scores. Severe pneumonia, as defined by CT findings, correlated with longer hospitalization, although no significant differences in total BIPQ scores were observed across CT severity groups. Illness perception was not influenced by education (p = 0.43), employment (p = 0.096), or physical activity (p = 0.94). However, relationship status significantly affected total BIPQ scores (p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS: The study found BIPQ useful for rapid illness perception assessment, recommended for routine practice. Socio-economic factors influenced responses, while CT severity did not. Linking CT scores with BIPQ may identify patients at risk of psychological distress.
Intracranial infection caused by Mycoplasma hominis after neurosurgical operation: an easily overlooked but serious condition.
Liu Y, Tang J, Wang Y … +2 more , Cui F, Yang Y
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060725 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Mycoplasma hominis (M. hominis) is a commensal that mainly colonizes in the microflora of the genitourinary tracts and is associated with urogenital tract infections. There are reports of central nervous sy...
INTRODUCTION: Mycoplasma hominis (M. hominis) is a commensal that mainly colonizes in the microflora of the genitourinary tracts and is associated with urogenital tract infections. There are reports of central nervous system (CNS) infections in neonates caused by M. hominis. Nevertheless, M. hominis CNS infections in non-neonatal patients are extremely rare. Herein, we have reported a case of a man who suffered from intracranial infection secondary to M. hominis after neurosurgical operation. Additionally, we reviewed the relevant published literature to raise awareness on such infections and highlight the importance of proper treatments. CASE PRESENTATION: A 68-year-old man underwent emergence craniotomy for intracerebellar hemorrhage. He presented with a moderate fever unresponsive to piperacillin-tazobactam on the seventh day after the surgery. His body temperature continued to increase, and he presented with signs of CNS infection. The antimicrobial therapy was switched to meropenem and vancomycin. No obvious reduction in the body temperature was observed. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained previously revealed tiny point colonies which were morphologically consistent with M. hominis and subsequently confirmed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Thus, M. hominis induced intracranial infection was diagnosed, and a combination therapy with moxifloxacin and minocycline was implemented. Fortunately, the patient's body temperature decreased to normal range after effective antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the lesson of our case and a thorough review of published literature, the possibility of M. hominis induced CNS infections after neurosurgical intervention should not be ignored, especially when there is no response to standard antimicrobial therapy.
Epidemiological evaluation of measles cases seen in 2019-2023: an example from Türkiye.
Tekdemir L, Özsaydı SZ, Borlu A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060724 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Measles is highly contagious and transmitted via droplets, leading to complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and death. Although global vaccination efforts have reduced cases, gaps in vacc...
INTRODUCTION: Measles is highly contagious and transmitted via droplets, leading to complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and death. Although global vaccination efforts have reduced cases, gaps in vaccination coverage and vaccine hesitancy continue to cause outbreaks. This study aims to evaluate measles cases reported in Kayseri, Türkiye, from 2019 to 2023. METHODOLOGY: The study analysed measles cases reported to the Kayseri Provincial Health Directorate's İZCİ system from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2023. Demographic characteristics, vaccination status, symptoms, complications, and case classifications were recorded. Annual incidence rates were calculated using data from the Turkish Statistical Institute. RESULTS: A total of 137 measles cases were reported, of which 126 were included in the analysis. Among confirmed cases, 48.2% were children aged 0-4 years. The most common symptoms were rash (89.7%) and fever (81.0%). Among confirmed cases, 17.9% developed complications, including pneumonia (12.5%) and diarrhea (1.8%). The incidence of measles peaked in 2019 and 2023. CONCLUSIONS: The resurgence of measles is driven by factors such as inadequate vaccination coverage, with 35.7% of the population remaining unvaccinated. Strengthening immunization programs and primary healthcare services is essential for the elimination of measles.
The digital revolution in healthcare: how AI is reshaping the battle against infectious diseases in developing countries.
Antonello VS, Ferreira Antonello IC
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Sep · PMID 41060723 · Publisher ↗
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Another case of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever in Rio Grande do Sul: the curious epidemiological niche of ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 in Southern Brazil.
Headley SA, Martins FDC, Rodrigues DL
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920734 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2) is the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF). Although SA-MCF is endemic in most geographical regions of Brazil, outbreaks are more frequently report...
INTRODUCTION: Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2) is the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF). Although SA-MCF is endemic in most geographical regions of Brazil, outbreaks are more frequently reported in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (RS). This report describes the findings of an SA-MCF outbreak in cattle from RS and investigates the possible reasons for the elevated occurrence of outbreaks in cattle from this geographical region of Brazil. METHODOLOGY: An outbreak of SA-MCF involving a 7-month-old dairy calf died acutely after presenting fever, profuse salivation, and respiratory difficulties. This calf was maintained on a farm that contained two asymptomatic sheep. A qPCR assay detected OvGHV2 DNA in multiple organs of the dead calf and blood from the two asymptomatic sheep. RESULTS: These findings confirmed OvGHV2-related infection in the calf and the participation of the two sheep as possible disseminators of this infection. A sheep:cattle ratio (SCR) that evaluated the chances of SA-MCF outbreaks to occur within the mesoregions of RS where cattle and sheep are reared simultaneously, demonstrated that geographical regions with an SCR > 0.15 have a significantly increased chance to develop outbreaks of SA-MCF in cattle relative to mesoregions with an SCR < 0.15 within RS. CONCLUSIONS: The SCR may be used as a possible indicator for the occurrence of SA-MCF outbreaks in cattle within the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Additionally, the traditional sheep production system and rearing practiced within RS seem to favor the development of SA-MCF outbreaks in susceptible cattle populations.
Increasing spread of Candida auris and investigation of risk factors for invasive infections in colonized patients.
Arslan Gülen T, Akar N, Oruç E … +4 more , Turunç T, Daş K, Ünlü N, Uğurbekler A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920733 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Candida auris is a yeast that has a high mortality rate in critically ill patients and is resistant to many antifungal agents enhancing its clinical importance. Our study identifies the risk factors for C....
INTRODUCTION: Candida auris is a yeast that has a high mortality rate in critically ill patients and is resistant to many antifungal agents enhancing its clinical importance. Our study identifies the risk factors for C. auris invasive infection, antifungal susceptibility, and outcomes. METHODOLOGY: A total of 100 adults with C. auris isolated in any clinical specimen between 07.01.2022 and 31.12.2023 were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. Data were obtained via retrospective screening of patient files. C. auris identification was performed by MALDI-TOF MS. Antifungal susceptibility was carried out by VITEK 2 and CDC methodology. Colonized and infected patients were compared to assess the risk factors for and outcomes of invasive infection. RESULTS: Twenty (20%) patients developed invasive infections, with 16 (80%) having candidemia. Age, Candida score, prior antifungal agent use, number of previously used antibiotics ≥ 3, presence of central venous catheter or nasogastric catheter, and being monitored out of burn unit were the risk factors, and Candida score was identified as an independent risk factor for invasive infection development. Of the isolates, 55% were resistant to fluconazole and 100% were resistant to amphotericin B. No micafungin resistance was detected. The overall mortality rate in patients with invasive infection was 75%. CONCLUSIONS: Knowing the risk factors for invasive infection will help early initiation of empirical antifungal therapy by ensuring early identification of high-risk patients, and Candida score appears to be an effective method for this. Revealing antifungal susceptibility will also guide the selection of appropriate empirical treatment.
HIV viral load suppression amongst the incarcerated populations in Cameroon.
Fualefac A, Fru-Cho J, Jokwi PK … +3 more , Mbekem JN, Ndip LM, Njukeng AP
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920732 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Despite increased national and international funding to combat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic, prison health services remain underfunded, resulting in poor HIV management among inmates. Thi...
INTRODUCTION: Despite increased national and international funding to combat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic, prison health services remain underfunded, resulting in poor HIV management among inmates. This study assessed viral suppression rates among HIV-positive inmates across four central prisons in Cameroon to evaluate the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in these settings. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study included four central prisons-prisons A, B, C, and D-each located in different regions of Cameroon. Data were obtained from patient records, and blood samples were collected from inmates eligible for viral load (VL) testing. RESULTS: A total of 268 inmates receiving first-line ART were enrolled. The overall viral suppression rate, defined as VL < 1000 copies/mL, was 89.9%. The suppression rates in the four prisons were 94.25%, 87.69%, 78.95%, and 50% for Prison C, D, A, and B, respectively. There was a strong association between viral suppression and the specific prison (p < 0.001). Inmates on dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimens had significantly higher suppression rates (p = 0.027). Moreover, prisons supported by the United States President's Emergency Plan for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Relief (PEPFAR) reported better suppression outcomes compared to non-PEPFAR-supported facilities (X²(1) = 13.28, p = 0.000268). CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the disparities in HIV care across correctional facilities and highlight the need for harmonized clinical management of HIV in prisons. Ensuring equitable access to comprehensive HIV services is essential for achieving the 95% VL suppression target among incarcerated populations.
The influence of parents' knowledge on HPV vaccine uptake - evidence from Albania.
Çela M, Gjata E, Sinaj E … +7 more , Ndreu V, Gega M, Dervishi O, Neçaj L, Refatllari B, Sinaj E, Kamberi F
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920731 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Despite the HPV vaccine's efficacy in cervical cancer prevention, cervical cancer ranks second in prevalence among women, following breast cancer. Various factors negatively impact HPV vaccination uptake, w...
INTRODUCTION: Despite the HPV vaccine's efficacy in cervical cancer prevention, cervical cancer ranks second in prevalence among women, following breast cancer. Various factors negatively impact HPV vaccination uptake, with parents' knowledge and attitudes being particularly crucial in this regard. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2023, targeting parents in northern Albania. The standardized Vaccination and HPV Knowledge (THinK) questionnaire was used, and a random sampling methodology was applied. Data were collected at primary healthcare centers, targeting parents who were seeking various healthcare services. RESULTS: A total of 102 participants completed the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 74%. The majority of parents were married (79.4%), female (82.4%), over 30 years of age, and residents of urban areas (67.6%). A low mean score was reported for both the vaccination rate of girls (1.79 ± 0.40) and the willingness to vaccinate them (1.31 ± 0.46). Of the participants, 15 (14.7%) parents expressed strong knowledge of vaccines, while only 6 (5.9%) had knowledge about HPV, and 52 (51%) expressed interest in receiving information about HPV vaccination. Three factors emerged, explaining 71.02% of the variance: knowledge about HPV and vaccination, side effects of the vaccines, and the impact of vaccinating girls on HPV vaccination uptake. CONCLUSIONS: The study found that the identified factors-knowledge, side effects of vaccines, and vaccination attitudes-significantly influence HPV vaccination uptake. Co-creation activities involving parents, girls, and healthcare professionals are the most effective strategies to build trust and improve awareness among the target population regarding the HPV vaccine.
Impact of Epstein-Barr virus infection on the development and prognosis of allergic purpura.
Zhao Z, Zhang Y, Han J … +3 more , Ren R, Li G, Yang J
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920730 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the impact of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection on the occurrence and prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP). METHODOLOGY: A total of 120 children diagnosed with HSP were s...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the impact of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection on the occurrence and prognosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP). METHODOLOGY: A total of 120 children diagnosed with HSP were selected as the experimental group, and 100 healthy children who underwent physical examinations were the control group. We compared renal function markers and quantified 24-hour urine protein in HSP children with different EBV infection statuses, and analyzed the association between EBV infection and Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN). RESULTS: The detection rate of EBV-DNA load in the experimental group (30.83%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (10.00%) (p < 0.05). Among children with HSP, the detection rate of EBV-DNA load was significantly higher in those with abdominal involvement compared to those with joint or mixed types (p < 0.05). Serum levels of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and urine protein quantification were significantly higher in the EBV-positive group than in the EBV-negative group (p < 0.05). The detection rate of EBV-DNA load was significantly higher in the HSPN group compared to the non-HSPN group (p < 0.05). The detection rate of EBV-DNA load was significantly higher in the recurrence group than in the non-recurrence group (p < 0.05), and it was also higher in the relapse group compared to the non-relapse group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: EBV infection is associated with the development of HSP; and gastrointestinal, joint, and renal damage. It is also an early warning sign for disease recurrence, which highlights its clinical significance.
Monkeypox infection in pregnancy, maternal and fetal outcomes: a systematic review.
Camones-Huerta J, Cordero-Campos A, Cuya-Sahua A … +5 more , Guzmán-Carrasco S, Condori-Quispe L, Chin-Wu K, Quispe-Villegas G, Flores-Noriega M
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920729 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Monkeypox (mpox) is an emerging infectious disease with increasing global incidence. Limited evidence exists regarding its impact on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes, especially in low-resource settings. Th...
INTRODUCTION: Monkeypox (mpox) is an emerging infectious disease with increasing global incidence. Limited evidence exists regarding its impact on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes, especially in low-resource settings. The objective was to systematically synthesize current evidence on maternal and fetal outcomes associated with mpox infection during pregnancy. METHODOLOGY: A systematic review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase (as of 4 September 2024) databases were searched. Case reports, case series, cohorts, and observational designs were included. Duplicates were removed using Rayyan. Only 6 studies (out of 471) met the eligibility criteria. A descriptive analysis was conducted due to heterogeneity and small sample sizes. RESULTS: A total of 6 studies were included (4 from US, 1 from Spain, 1 from Democratic Republic of Congo), comprising 33 pregnant women aged 18-29 years. Mpox was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 32 cases. The clinical symptoms included vesicular rash, genital lesions, and systemic manifestations. No maternal deaths were reported. Adverse fetal outcomes included miscarriage (9.1%), stillbirth (6.1%), and 4 intrauterine deaths. Most pregnancies (84.8%) resulted in live births. The reported complications included oligohydramnios, cholestasis, chorioamnionitis, and fetal tachycardia. One study confirmed vertical transmission via placental and fetal tissue analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Mpox infection during pregnancy is associated with significant risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Although current evidence is limited, these findings highlight the urgent need for more robust data to inform clinical and public health guidance.
Bloodstream infections in older cancer patients: epidemiology and risk factors for mortality.
Çeken S, Yılmaz N, Hekimoğlu CH … +6 more , Yapar Toros G, Güleşen Aİ, Savaş EM, Altunay B, Taşpınar Şen E, Çiçek Şentürk G
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920728 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Both aging and malignancy are associated with an increased risk of infections, including bloodstream infections. Despite their clinical significance, research concentrating on the epidemiology, outcomes, an...
INTRODUCTION: Both aging and malignancy are associated with an increased risk of infections, including bloodstream infections. Despite their clinical significance, research concentrating on the epidemiology, outcomes, and risk factors influencing mortality in older cancer patients is still limited. This study aims to examine the epidemiology of bloodstream infections and factors contributing to mortality among older cancer patients. METHODOLOGY: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Etlik City Hospital from January to December 2023. The subjects included cancer patients aged 65 years and older who had experienced bloodstream infections and received a minimum of 48 hours of antimicrobial therapy. Data, including demographics, clinical features, microbiological findings, and antimicrobial therapy, were collected. Bloodstream infections were categorized as either hospital-acquired or community-acquired infections and further classified by their source. RESULTS: Among 160 bloodstream infection episodes observed, 68.8% of them occurred in patients with solid tumors, while 31.3% were found in those with hematological malignancies. Hospital-acquired infections comprised 78.8% of the total cases. Mortality was significantly associated with inappropriate initial antimicrobial therapy, carbapenem resistance, and multidrug resistance. Additionally, patients who presented with septic shock and fungal infections had higher mortality rates. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the urgent need for early implementation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy and effective infection control measures. The persistence of multidrug resistance and hospital-acquired infections presents critical challenges in reducing mortality rates among older cancer patients. The development of tailored infection management strategies and robust antimicrobial stewardship programs is essential for enhancing outcomes in cancer patients.
Treatment outcomes and risk factors for severity and mortality in Clostridioides difficile infection: a single-center study in Thailand.
Chaemprida T, Nasomsong W
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920727 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Clostridioides difficile often causes hospital-acquired diarrhea, leading to unfavorable treatment outcomes. This study investigates CDI treatment outcomes and factors affecting severity and mortality at a...
INTRODUCTION: Clostridioides difficile often causes hospital-acquired diarrhea, leading to unfavorable treatment outcomes. This study investigates CDI treatment outcomes and factors affecting severity and mortality at a university hospital in Thailand. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective study was conducted from June 2019 to December 2021. The primary endpoints were treatment outcomes with a 95% CI. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses determined risk factors for severe CDI and 30-day mortality. RESULTS: Of 187 patients receiving a diagnosis of and receiving treatment for CDI, 103 patients (55.8%) presented non-severe CDI, and 84 patients (44.2%) had severe CDI. The 30-day mortality rate of CDI was 24.1%, which was significantly higher in the severe group (36.9 vs. 13.6%, p ≤ 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed the independent risk factor for severe CDI was chronic kidney disease (aOR 15.16, 95% CI 6.3, 36.48), and risk factors for all-cause mortality at 30 days were ICU admission (aOR 3.56, 95%CI 1.48, 8.56) and carbapenem exposure (aOR 2.79, 95% CI 1.17, 6.68). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated high mortality rates and a significant incidence of refractory and recurrent infections in the severe CDI group. Chronic kidney disease was an independent risk factor for severe CDI. ICU admission and carbapenem exposure were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality.
Evaluation of alternative clinical samples for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus by automated multiplex RT-PCR.
Özarslan MA, Parkan ÖM, Soylu M … +18 more , Acet O, Gökahmetoğlu S, Türe Yüce Z, Kalın Ünüvar G, Durmaz S, Akyol D, İzci Çetinkaya F, Sağıroğlu P, Akkuş Kayalı G, Durusoy IR, Zeytinoğlu A, Atalay MA, Taşbakan M, Çiçek C, Yıldız O, Pullukçu H, Sertöz ŞR, Erensoy S
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920726 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare the performance of different clinical specimens-nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs collected by healthcare professionals (HCP-NP), self-collected nasal swabs (Sc-N), and saliva s...
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare the performance of different clinical specimens-nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs collected by healthcare professionals (HCP-NP), self-collected nasal swabs (Sc-N), and saliva samples (S)-in diagnostic tests for investigating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA and influenza A/B RNA. METHODOLOGY: These clinical samples were collected from 404 symptomatic cases and tested with the SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B RNA tests on the cobas 6800 System of Roche Molecular Systems (Roche Molecular Systems, Pleasanton, USA). The SARS-CoV-2 or influenza virus infection status was determined for all patients based on the predefined criteria and corresponding algorithms. Positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV), sensitivity, specificity, coefficient of variation (CV), interrater reliability, correlation, ,and days of sample collection of these three sample types were analyzed. RESULTS: There was almost perfect agreement between the these sample types for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A. The overall performance (PPV, NPV, sensitivity) and reproducibility (CV ≤ 6%) were favorable. Additionally, they showed similar trends for days of sample collection. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnostic detection of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza RNA from Sc-N and S samples was comparable to HCP-NP samples. Using these samples would provide an advantage in diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A infection, as they can be easily collected without the need for viral transport media.
Detection of pathogens and epidemiological characteristics of community-acquired pneumonia in children using metagenomic next-generation sequencing.
Deng S, Wu Y, Hu P … +3 more , Lin J, Yao J, Wang B
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Aug · PMID 40920725 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common respiratory disease in children and a significant factor in child mortality. METHODOLOGY: We aimed to investigate metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS)...
INTRODUCTION: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common respiratory disease in children and a significant factor in child mortality. METHODOLOGY: We aimed to investigate metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) technology to explore pathogens and epidemiological characteristics of pediatric CAP. We retrospectively analyzed mNGS detection and microbiological culture results of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and sputum samples from children with CAP. RESULTS: Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the predominant pathogen. Bacteria/fungi detection rates using mNGS in sputum and BALF were higher than those using microbiological culture (p < 0.05). Cytomegalovirus was the predominant pathogen in children aged 0-1; Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the predominant pathogen in those over 1. Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, human bocavirus 1, and Streptococcus pneumoniae were the predominant pathogens in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: mNGS is superior to traditional microbiological culture for pediatric CAP potential pathogen detection. CAP pathogenic infection characteristics at different ages and seasons detected by mNGS will benefit clinical practitioners in the prevention and treatment of pediatric CAP in their local/regional areas.
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