Journal of Communicable Diseases (E-ISSN: 2581-351X & P-ISSN: 0019-5138)

A Contemporary Cross-Sectional Study on Oral Manifestations of Leprosy

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 09:59:26 +0000

Introduction: Leprosy, originating from the Greek word “lepi,” meaning scales similar to those on a fish, is also commonly known as Hansen’s disease (HD). It was first recorded in ancient Indian texts from the 6th century BC. This disease, caused by the bacteria M. leprae and M. lepromatosis, has persisted over time. The oral mucosa, including areas such as the tongue, lips, soft palate, and uvula, is often affected.
Aim: This contemporary cross-sectional study aims to analyse the oral manifestations of patients with leprosy.
Materials and Method: The study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology, Rajiv Gandhi Government Medical College Chennai. Personal and medical histories, along with the findings from oral examinations and investigations, were documented using a proforma specifically designed for this study.
Results: The study included 100 leprosy patients, comprising 66 males and 34 females, aged between 10 and 83 years. Among them, 20% had chronic generalised periodontitis, 16% exhibited papillae atrophy, and
15% experienced loss of taste sensation. Additionally, 12% reported aphthous ulcers and candidiasis each. Moreover, 13% presented with depigmentation, 7% had a fissured tongue, and 5% showed symptoms of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF).
Conclusion: Oral lesions associated with leprosy are nonspecific and often overlooked or misdiagnosed by clinicians. The role of dental professionals, especially oral medicine specialists, is crucial in the early diagnosis of
these oral lesions. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of this chronic infection is essential for providing the highest standard of healthcare.0

How to cite this article:
Thangavel G, Sabarinathan S, Annamalai S,
Rajasekar M, Arafat Y, Rajeswari MRC, Bharathesh
S, Arunkumar P. A Contemporary Cross-Sectional
Study on Oral Manifestations of Leprosy. J
Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):1-4.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202441

A Record-Based Study on Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Measles Patients Admitted in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Ahmedabad City, Gujarat

Arpit Prajapati, Sahil Kumari Chaudhari, Himadri Patel , Margi Sheth — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Measles is an acute and highly infectious disease of childhood, transmitted by droplets from the nose, mouth or throat. In India, doses of measles-containing vaccine are postponed or missed due to a lack of
awareness among people to utilise immunisation services, rural residence, COVID-19 pandemic, home birth, low birth weight for newborns, early age at first birth, and lower maternal education. This delayed or missed
vaccination increases the risk of bigger outbreaks around the world.
Objective: To determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with measles.
Material and Method: A record-based study on all clinically or laboratoryconfirmed patients admitted in the years 2019 to 2023 was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Ahmedabad city. Data collection was done
using a pre-tested and pre-designed questionnaire to include all the recorded cases diagnosed with measles.
Results: Among a total of 150 participants, there were 52.7% males and 47.3% females. The mean age of patients was 37 months ± 32 SD. Around 61.3% of cases were in the age group of 1–5 years. In 96.6% of patients, fever and rash were the most common symptoms, followed by coryza in 88% and conjunctivitis in 29.3% of the patients. An increase in the number of cases was observed during the winter months of 2022–23, while there were fewer cases admitted duringthe COVID-19 pandemic period. About 62.7% of patients who were admitted had not taken any dose of measles vaccine.
Conclusion: There were more cases observed in the winter months. The important epidemiological factors found were age group (1–5 years) and unvaccinated status of the children. There is an increasing
need for awareness about measles immunisation in order to reduce morbidity among children.

How to cite this article:
Prajapati A, Chaudhari S K, Patel H, Sheth M.
A Record-Based Study on Epidemiological
and Clinical Characteristics of Measles
Patients Admitted in a Tertiary Care Hospital
of Ahmedabad City, Gujarat. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):5-9.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202442

The Anti-Filarial Antibodies Prevalence after Mass Drug Administration in Two Endemic Areas of Indonesia

Helena Ullyartha Pangaribuan, Nungki Hapsari Suryaningtyas, Sunarno Sunarno — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:00:31 +0000

Introduction: Lymphatic filariasis is a public health problem in Indonesia, and efforts to eliminate it began in 2006 in Belitung and in 2007 in Pekalongan City. It is endemic to LF, and MDA treatment has been
implemented. The study’s goal is to find antifilarial IgG4 antibodies in the community after a lot of drug treatment for filariasis in places where Brugia malayi is common, like Belitung district, Kepulauan Bangka Belitung, and Pekalongan city, Central Java, where Wuchereria bancrofti is common.
Method: We will conduct this study using serum-stored biological material and immunological techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Using ELISA, we examined a total of196 serum samples in Belitung and 140 serum samples in Pekalongan.
Results: The study results showed that the antibody prevalence in Belitung was 33.1% (665 out of 196) and 1.43% (2 out of 140). This study discovered a high prevalence of filariasis in children in Brugia-endemic
communities. However, the study found lower rates of Bancroftian infection compared to adult communities.
Conclusion: In Lassar, children still have a high prevalence of antibodies. In Gemar, the prevalence of antibodies tends to be low across all age groups. The Bm14 antibody test is a promising method for seroepidemiology. We recommend further research to identify suitable populations for transmission assessments.

How to cite this article:
Pangaribuan H U, Suryaningtyas N H, Sunarno.
Anti-Filarial Antibodies Prevalence after Mass
Drug Administration in Two Endemic Areas of
Indonesia. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3): 10-16.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202443

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes obtained from Patients with Throat Infection

Ehsan F Hussein, Haider Qassim Raheem, Ahmed H Merdas — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Streptococcus Group A (GAS) or Streptococcus pyogenes are major causes of infectious diseases, including upper respiratory tract illnesses, especially throat infections. This infection involves the inflammation of pharyngitis. Recently, streptococcal species have shown a wide range of antimicrobial resistance.

Method: Sixty-four throat specimens were collected using a sterile broth tube and transferred to the bacteriological laboratory unit. These specimens were grown on different media and were then primarily
identified using several types of biochemical tests and the process was completed through the VITEK 2 system for diagnosis of Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus spp. The antibiotic susceptibility pattern of these bacterial isolates was identified on the Muller-Hinton Agar.
Results: The percentage of positive bacterial growth was equal to 55. The Streptococcus pyogenes growth was detected in 17.14% of the sample (66.67% in males and 33.33% in females). The antimicrobials levofloxacin, azithromycin, amikacin, norfloxacin, trimethoprim, erythromycin, and amoxicillin are effective against various samples of Streptococcus pyogenes with an efficacy of 66.67%.
Conclusion: Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) is one of the major causes of throat infection. These infections are more common in males than females. The antimicrobials levofloxacin, azithromycin, amikacin, norfloxacin, trimethoprim, erythromycin, and amoxicillin are effective against Streptococcus pyogenes.

How to cite this article:
Hussein E F, Raheem H Q, Merdas A H.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Isolates
of Streptococcus pyogenes obtained from
Patients with Throat Infection. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):17-21.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202444

Biofilm Formation of Staphylococcus saprophyticus Urinary Tract Infection and Cytokine Response in Reproductive Age Women

Samira Ayoob Hameed, Rafal Khaleel Farhan — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:15:26 +0000

Introduction: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period extending from the first of November 2022 to the end of Jun 2023. In this study, 425 women aged between 15-45 years old were selected.
Material and methods: Urine samples were cultured and IL17 and CXCL1 levels were determined by using the enzyme-linked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.
Results: The urine culture revealed that 65.65% of urine samples were positive for bacteria while 34.35% were negative. The study showed that urinary tract infection Staphylococcus saprophyticus is most common
in the age group of 15-25 years old (45.2%) and in the age group 26-35 years old it was 38.1% while the lowest rate was within the age group of 36-45 years old (16.7%). Biofilm formation was 92.9%. The current study shows that the mean urine IL-17 level among the study group had non-significant differences compared with that of the control group.
Conclusion: The study shows that urine CXCL1 mean level of reproductive age women with UTI where statistically significant as compared to the control group.

How to cite this article:
Hameed S A, Farhan R K. Biofilm Formation
of Staphylococcus saprophyticus Urinary Tract
Infection and Cytokine Response in Reproductive
Age Women. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):22-30.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202445

Burden and Pattern of Infectious Diseases among Tribal and Non-Tribal Peoples of North Bengal, India

Biswajit Mahapatra, Paramita Bhattacharya — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This study was conducted to ascertain the types and patterns of infectious diseases among the diverse tribal and non-tribal populations living in tea gardens in North Bengal, India.

Methods: Present study was conducted in five Blocks in two districts of West Bengal, India. 71609 patients visited our mobile medical clinics (MMCs) between April 2021 and March 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to draw our inference. To analyse association between demographic factors and illness category through multinomial logistic regression model.

Results: Overall, 14981 patients with infectious diseases belonged to 62.1% (9296) tribal and 37.9% (5685) non-tribal populations. Females were more prone to RTI, digestive infections, and oral health-related diseases than males. We observed significant gender and ethnicity disparities in the presenting complaints (p-value= <0.001). Blockwise, Dhupguri block shows more than four times the risk of gastrointestinal problems (AOR=4.01; 95% CI: 3.01-5.34), more than twenty-nine times the risk of RTI/UTI (AOR= 29.95; 95% CI: 18.35-48.87), more than ten times the risk of ENT and eye problems (AOR= 10.22; 95% CI: 4.39-23.78) and more than three times the risk of oral problems (AOR= 3.73; 95% CI: 2.37-5.85) than the other blocks. Kalchini and Jalpaiguri block shows more than eleven and six times the risk of skin problems (AOR=11.39; 95% CI: 9.83-13.19) (AOR = 6.64; 95% CI: 5.70–7.74) than the other illnesses, respectively.

Conclusion: For better treatment of infectious diseases, mobile medical clinics are useful for reaching tribal and nontribal people living in underserved areas.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia of Bacterial Origin in Paediatrics: Delphi Method about Symptoms, Aetiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Colombia

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:47:04 +0000

Introduction: Paediatric pneumonia causes 14% of deaths in children 0–5 years of age. In community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) of bacterial origin, only a third of children receive the antibiotics they need. The clinical management of bacterial CAP is complex and, in most cases, leads to the indiscriminate use of antibiotics.
Objective: To generate recommendations derived from a consensus of experts in paediatric infectious diseases to address CAP of bacterial origin in paediatrics.
Method: This research was carried out through a Delphi process with 16 paediatric infectious diseases specialists from Colombia and two specialists who reviewed the process, guaranteeing iterativity, anonymity of the answers, controlled feedback, and consolidation of the answers with statistical criteria.
Results: The recommendations agreed upon by the experts on the following topics of CAP are presented; signs and symptoms, aetiological agents, laboratory tests, radiological findings, criteria for hospitalisation
and admission to the paediatric ICU, and antibiotic therapy.
Conclusion: This consensus document will help in the improvement of a few practices of physicians and paediatricians, who are the professionals who perform the initial approach to CAP, in order to unify some criteria that improve clinical outcomes.

How to cite this article:
De La Espriella-Pérez A, Cardona-Arias JA,
Pediatric infectiology group-NAC. CommunityAcquired Pneumonia of Bacterial Origin in
Paediatrics: Delphi Method about Symptoms,
Aetiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Colombia.
J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):40-47.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202447

Comparison of Nucleocapsid Antigen, ORIF 1ab and RdRp (RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase) in the Diagnosis of COVID-19

Nandhini R V, Bhuvaneshwari Gunasekaran, Jayakumar S — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is responsible for a global pandemic, causing respiratory or flu-like illnesses. This study prompted the urgent need for simple,
rapid, and accurate diagnostic tests for COVID-19. It evaluates the diagnostic performance of RT-PCR (real-time reverse transcriptasepolymerase chain reaction), targeting the ORF1ab, RdRp, and N genes of SARS-CoV-2, and compares these results with rapid antigen detection tests.
Method: This study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College andHospital, Chennai, India, from April to September 2022. A total of 100 suspected COVID-19 samples were analyzed. RT-PCR performance was
assessed in terms of sensitivity and specificity, focusing on the ORF1ab, RdRp, and N genes. Two RT-PCR kits, KIT-1 and KIT-2, were evaluated for diagnostic accuracy. The study also examined c-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) levels as potential COVID-19 diagnosis and management biomarkers.
Results: RT-PCR demonstrated a sensitivity of 83.8% and a specificity of 59.3% compared to rapid antigen tests. Detection of the ORF1ab gene showed higher sensitivity (89.7%) than the RdRp gene, which had a higher specificity (84.3%). Among the two RT-PCR kits, KIT-2 outperformed KIT-1 in both sensitivity and specificity. The study also found statistically significant p values for CRP and PCT levels among suspected COVID-19 cases, indicating their potential diagnostic value.
Conclusion: This study supports the use of RT-PCR as the primary diagnostic tool for COVID-19, with the ORF1ab and RdRp genes proving effective targets. Rapid antigen tests serve as useful supplements in
high-prevalence settings. Further research on viral gene dynamics, especially ORF1ab, is recommended for a better understanding of COVID-19 pathogenesis and for enhancing diagnostic approaches.

How to cite this article:
Nandhini R V, Gunasekaran B, Jayakumar S.
Comparison of Nucleocapsid Antigen, ORIF 1ab
and RdRp (RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase)
in the Diagnosis of COVID-19. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):48-55.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202448

Detection of Insecticide Resistance in Aedes aegypti from Dengue Endemic Areas of Northern India

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 10:54:44 +0000

Introduction: Aedes aegypti, a primary vector of arboviral diseases like dengue and chikungunya is distributed widely in the state of Punjab, India. The use of synthetic insecticides and source reduction are the most common methods used to control Aedes populations, although the development of insecticide resistance in Aedes worldwide has become a major challenge. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of resistance of Ae. aegypti to temephos and G119S mutation in the Ace-1 gene which confers resistance toward it.
Method: For this, larval susceptibility to temephos was tested in five districts of Punjab at the WHO recommended concentration of 0.025 mg/L, followed by calculation of LC50 and LC90 at 24 hrs for each district
using log-probit method. Based on larval resistance ratios (RR), the districts were categorised as having mosquitoes that were highly resistant,moderate or susceptible to temephos. The Ace-1 gene was amplified
and sequenced in resistant populations.
Results: We found that Ae. aegypti larvae were resistant to temephos in four out of five districts. Based on LC50 and RR ratios, Ae. aegypti larvae showed moderate resistance in three districts and were highly resistant
in one, and susceptible to temephos in another district. However, the commonly described G119S mutation in the Ace-1 gene was not found in any of the resistant populations.
Conclusion: In conclusion, temephos resistance is developing in Ae. aegypti in the state of Punjab, however, the genetic basis of the same needs further exploration in future studies. There is a need to develop an extensive database of the resistance profile of Ae. aegypti in order to guide the strategic plan of action for the control of Ae. aegypti populations.

How to cite this article:
Kaura T, Devi S, Mewara A, Kaur J, Lovleen, Singh
N, Sharma S K, Takkar J, Sehgal R, Ratho R K,
Grover G S. Detection of Insecticide Resistance
in Aedes aegypti from Dengue Endemic Areas of
Northern India. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):56-61.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202449

Entomological Surveillance of Dengue Vector Aedes Mosquito Larvae in City Sadar Paharganj (SP) Zone of MCD, Delhi

Amar Nath Pandey, Rohit Sagar, S K Sagar, Neera Kapoor — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Dengue fever is an arboviral disease and its vectors are Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It is considered to be the leading cause of arboviral diseases across the world. The patterns of different urbanizations, with the growth of human population density, lead to favourable conditions for the breeding of Aedes species. It leads to the emergence and spreading of diseases like dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, etc. As there is no vaccine or licensed drug available for the treatment of dengue, it is a major public health concern. One of the possible ways by which dengue transmission can be prevented is control at the level of vector and this can be achieved by entomological surveillance.
Method: In the present study, the entomological surveillance of Ae. aegypti in the City Sadar Paharganj (SP) Zone of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi from July 2023 to June 2024 was done.
Results: In the study, all larval indices (HI, CI and BI) were high from the month of July to August. The maximum larval breeding was found in plastic containers (39.26%) followed by earthen pots (20.09%) and
coolers (17.80%).
Conclusion: As container positivity was high in plastic containers, earthen pots and coolers, therefore these can be used as vector control tools so that transmission of vector-borne diseases can be checked and timely
preventive measure can be taken to suppress the seasonal infection.

How to cite this article:
Pandey A N, Sagar R, Sagar S K, Kapoor N.
Entomological Surveillance of Dengue Vector
Aedes Mosquito Larvae in City Sadar Paharganj
(SP) Zone of MCD, Delhi. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):62-65.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202450

Expression of Biofilm and Virulence Factors Genes by Commensal and Virulent Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolates

Hind Hamid Muneam, May Talib Flayyih — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:02:04 +0000

Background: The pathogenicity of Staphylococcus epidermidis in community-associated bacterial infections has incredible significance due to its capacity for biofilm production. The goal of this investigation was to compare the expression of different virulence factors among clinical and healthy isolates.
Methods: Six S. epidermidis isolates were confirmed by 16S rRNA, and then phylogenetic tree analysis was used to detect the relationship between clinical and healthy isolates. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to compare the S. epidermidis gene expression level between clinical and healthy isolates. The expression levels of the icaA, clf, and IgG genes were compared in planktonic cells and biofilm form for the same S. epidermidis isolates.
Results: All clinical isolates appeared highly capable of expressing all three genes compared to healthy isolates. The isolate SP137 with robust biofilm formation exhibited significantly higher expression of icaA, clf, and IgG genes (27, 3783.3, and 247.6, respectively) compared to the other isolates (p < 0.01).
Conclusion: Clinical isolates harbor more genes related to virulence factors than healthy individual isolates.It was discovered that all genes (icaA, clf, and IgG) are expressed more strongly in clinical isolates than in healthy persons.

How to cite this article:
Muneam H H, Flayyih M T. Expression of Biofilm
and Virulence Factors Genes by Commensal and
Virulent Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolates. J
Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):66-73.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202451

Inactivation of Phosphoserine/Threonine Phosphatase PstP in H37Rv Mycobacterium tuberculosis by In silico Drug Design Approach

Asra’a Adnan Abdul-Jalil, Omar Qahtan Yaseen, Samer N Khalaf — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:15:08 +0000

Introduction: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is the aetiological agent of the infectious disease tuberculosis (TB). According to the World Health Organization’s most recent study, kinases play a crucial role in phosphorylation by transferring phosphate moieties to target proteins, while phosphatases reverse this process by dephosphorylating substrates or regulating kinase activity, restoring proteins to their unphosphorylated state.
Method: Several software, programs and databases were used to predict and calculate the interaction between target protein and ligand molecules.
Results: Protein phosphatases are essential components in cellular signalling pathways mediated by phosphorylation. Despite the presenceof eleven serine/threonine protein kinases in Mtb, only one of them,
namely phosphoserine/threonine phosphatase (PstP), has been identified. PstP stands out as a promising drug target due to its singular role as the exclusive phosphatase in Mtb. Serine/threonine protein phosphatase (PDB ID: 2cm1) was docked using AutoDock Vina software with ligands collected from other studies conducted on Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Virtual screening was carried out using ZincPharmer to find the homologous molecules to load the pharmacophore.
Conclusion: Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv has multiple targets for new drug design procedures. This is due to the variation in the proteins. PstP protein has five pockets and was given a good docking score with eight safe inhibitors for further studies, and eight tested molecules with PubChem_IDs 50956528, 7388777, 46780845, 3635532, 46954451, 1494562, 540267, 79107978, which have good features and
can bind to PstP protein.

How to cite this article:
Abdul Jalil A A, Yaseen O Q, Khalaf S N. Inactivation
of Phosphoserine/Threonine Phosphatase PstP
in H37Rv Mycobacterium tuberculosis by In
silico Drug Design Approach. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):74-80.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202452

Insecticide Resistance and Occurrence of L1014F kdr Mutation in Wild Culex quinquefasciatus Populations from sub-Himalayan Region of West Bengal, India

Manas Pratim Modak, Subhajit Das, Abhirup Saha, Dhiraj Saha — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Culex quinquefasciatus has been known to be the prime vector of lymphatic filariasis in the sub-Himalayan regions of West Bengal. For the control of this vector species, synthetic pyrethroids are frequently used. These vector populations eventually develop insecticide resistance due to recurrent and rampant application of these synthetic pyrethroids.
Method: In this study, wild Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae are collected from various districts of the sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal and insecticide susceptibility status against 0.025% deltamethrin, 0.025% lambda-cyhalothrin, 0.25% permethrin, and 4% DDT was evaluated. The allele-specific PCR assay was performed for the detection of kdr mutation. The presence of the L1014F kdr mutation in Lambdacypermethrin-resistant Cx. quinquefasciatus populations has been further confirmed by vgsc gene sequencing.
Result: The study revealed that Cx. quinquefasciatus populations from this region are highly resistant against synthetic pyrethroids and possess L1014F kdr mutation. The presence of kdr mutation in vgsc gene was a primary mode of insecticide resistance mechanism in Cx. quinquefasciatus populations.
Conclusion: The present study shows occurrence L1014F kdr mutation in synthetic pyrethroid resistant Cx. quinquefasciatus populations of the sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal. The study offers current insecticide resistance profile of Cx. quinquefasciatus populations from this region. Finding the vector populations’ resistance mechanisms is essential to making the required implementations easier and reducing mistakes in vector control techniques.

How to cite this article:
Modak P M, Das S, Saha A, Saha D. Insecticide
Resistance and Occurrence of L1014F kdr
Mutation in Wild Culex quinquefasciatus
Populations from sub-Himalayan Region of West
Bengal, India. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):81-90.
Modak P M, Das S, Saha A, Saha D. Insecticide
Resistance and Occurrence of L1014F kdr
Mutation in Wild Culex quinquefasciatus
Populations from sub-Himalayan Region of West
Bengal, India. J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):81-90.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202453

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) on HIV/ AIDS in Adolescents Attending School in Medellín-Colombia

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Malaria Outbreak and its Management in Hardoi District of Uttar Pradesh, India

D N Giri, Nischay Keshari, R K Singh, H Negi, Ramesh Chandra, Shaukat Kamal — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Uttar Pradesh is endemic for vector-borne diseases (VBD) like malaria, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis (JE), Kala- azar, and lymphatic filariasis. Malaria, JE, and dengue are epidemic- prone, claiming lives during outbreaks. In September 2023, a malaria outbreak in Hardoi district caused numerous deaths due to favourable geo-climatic conditions for vector and parasite transmission. NCVBDC guidelines are crucial for controlling these diseases.
Methods: A team of officers from the Regional Office for Health & Family Welfare (under the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control), Lucknow visited the Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh in September 2023 to assess the various factors responsible for the fever/ malaria outbreak and guide and support the district health authorities for proper implementation of the various intervention measures to contain it.
Results: The detailed investigations revealed an SPR value of 33.99% and an SFR value of 35.48% and exhibited a multifold increase in malaria cases, though the district data reflected a 4-fold rise in malaria positives in 2023 over preceding years and a 6-fold increase in Plasmodium falciparum cases in CHC Ahirori. Similarly, SPR and SFR values of 39.24% and 26.58%, respectively, were seen in CHC Tadiyawan. These values confirmed and reflected indigenous transmission of malaria cases in both CHC areas.
Conclusion: The sharp rise in malaria cases confirmed the outbreak, with deaths suspected but not confirmed as malaria-related. The outbreak was attributed to excessive rainfall, inadequate vector/disease surveillance due to insufficient health workers, poor lab facilities, and delayed interventions. RDT screenings showed high positivity for Plasmodium vivax (Pv) and Plasmodium falciparum (Pf), though no fever-related deaths were confirmed as malaria. Corrective actions were recommended to district health authorities to contain the outbreak.

How to cite this article:
Giri D N, Keshari N, Negi H, Chandra R, Kamal S.
Malaria Outbreak and its Management in Hardoi
District of Uttar Pradesh, India. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):111-118.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202455

Persistent symptoms at the end of 3 months after Acute COVID-19 infection among adult patients admitted to a tertiary care centre: A descriptive longitudinal study

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:46:44 +0000

Background: COVID-19 has affected all corners of the world. Multiple symptoms reported during the hospital stay may persist after the patient discharged from the hospital. Objectives: 1) To study the persistence of symptoms at the end of 3 months after acute COVID-19 infection among adult patients admitted to a tertiary care centre. 2) To review their symptoms during the acute COVID-19 infection. 3) To study the association between various factors and the persistence of symptoms of acute COVID-19 infection.
Material & Method: This was a descriptive longitudinal study conducted in November 2021. The sample included 200 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases discharged from the tertiary care hospital of Pune City after obtaining written informed consent.Epidemiological information was obtained by telephonic interview with predesigned and pretested proforma covering socio-demographic data, related factors and information about the onset and duration of symptoms after the patient was discharged from the hospital.
Results: The study involved 200 recovered COVID-19 patients (115 males, 85 females) with a mean age of 46.42 ± 16.22 years. Notably, 90% of males had some form of addiction, compared to 10% of females, revealing a significant gender disparity (p value <0.0001). Fatigue (75.50%), cough (73%), and fever > 38.0 OC(69.50%) were prevalent persistent symptoms. A statistically significant association of persistence of symptoms was found with age and COVID-19 vaccination status.
Conclusion: Our study provides crucial insights into long-term COVID-19 symptoms, advocating targeted interventions considering demographic factors. This comprehensive approach guides effective management of persistent symptoms post-COVID-19.

Salunke P H, Kendre V V, Parande M A, Patekar A
U, Tambe M P, Jadhav Y U, Jagdale G R, Hatnapure
M, Borle P, Shinde P V, Mule N D, Baviskar R N,
Pardeshi S S. Persistent Symptoms at the End of
3 Months after Acute COVID-19 Infection among
Adult Patients Admitted to a Tertiary Care Centre:
A Descriptive Longitudinal Study. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):119-126.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202456

Predation Efficiency of Non-Blood Sucking Mosquito Larvae of Toxorhynchites splendens (Weidman) Determined by Kruskal–Wallis One-Way Analysis of Variance by Ranks over Immature Stages of Malaria (Anopheles stephensi), Filariasis (Culex quinquefasciatus)

P. Basker — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Biological control is a component of the integrated vector control strategy. Its aquatic habitat, which is safe for non-target organisms and appropriate for coexistence with target organisms and predators
without the presence of predator’ enemies, is its limitation in terms of mosquito larval control.
Methods: A predator Toxorhynchites splendens second instar larva was used in this study to consume immature stages of the second and third instars of Anopheline stephensi Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti. The immature stages were raised in a rectangular enamel-coated tray that measured 17 x 12 x 6 inches and was filled with enough chlorinefree water in a lab at the Institute of Vector Control and Zoonoses (IVCZ),
Hosur. To assess the predator's effectiveness, the number of preys it consumed was noted. A nonparametric ANOVA was used to model the relationship between three distinct prey intakes and time.
Results: This led to finding that Anopheles stephensi, the malaria vector, was the predator's first choice in order of preference, followed by Culex quinquefasciatus, the vector of filaria, and Aedes aegypti, the vector
of dengue. It became clear that the predator prioritized the Anopheles stephensi larvae as its primary source of food even all three of these types were present altogether.
Conclusion: The potential predator of Anopheles stephensi larvae, which is the malaria vector, is larvae Toxorhynchites splendens, a non-blodd sucking mosquito species.

How to cite this article:
Basker P. Predation Efficiency of Non-Blood
Sucking Mosquito Larvae of Toxorhynchites
splendens (Weidman) Determined by Kruskal–
Wallis One-Way Analysis of Variance by Ranks
over Immature Stages of Malaria (Anopheles
stephensi), Filariasis (Culex quinquefasciatus) and
Dengue (Aedes aegypti) Vectors. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):127-130.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202457

Prevalence of Aedes Mosquitoes During the Dengue Transmission Season in Haridwar City of Uttarakhand State, India

R K Singh, Nasreen Akhtar, Nida Siddiqui, Sangeeta Singh — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:27:51 +0000

Introduction: Dengue is an acute viral illness caused by RNA virus of the family Flaviviridae and spread by Aedes mosquitoes. Common presenting features may range from asymptomatic fever to dreaded complications such as hemorrhagic fever and shock. So that an entomological investigation was conducted in the dengue-affected regions of Haridwar city, Uttarakhand, during the dengue transmission season. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence and distribution of Aedes mosquitoes and identify high-risk areas in Haridwar city for the control of dengue disease.
Methods: Adult mosquito were collected from all selected areas of city with the help of standard collection methods. A total of 1922 mosquito were collected.
Results: Out of 1922 residential premises, commercial establishments, and public places, only 244 localities were found positive for Aedes breeding. The House Index (HI), Container Index (CI), and Breteau Index (BI) in
residential areas were 12.40, 8.08, and 20.68, respectively, while the CI in commercial and public places was 33.50. Aedes aegypti followed by Ae. albopictus and Ae. vittatus was the most dominating species and found
in peri-domestic habitats. Larvae of Ae. aegypti were collected from junk materials, cemented tanks, pots, water tanks, mud pots, discarded tyres, tree holes, desert coolers, mani plant pots, plastic containers, trays of
domestic refrigerators, and flower pots. The average Man Hour Density (MHD) of Ae. aegypti, Ae. albopictus, and Ae. vittatus in residential areas were 10.77, 6.81, and 0.52, while in commercial/ official areas, they were
4.75, 7.95, and 1.68.
Conclusion: During the study, most of the areas showing high larval indices, may be the probable reason for the persistence of dengue in the city. Five species of Aedes mosquitoes, namely Ae. aegypti, Ae. albopictus, Ae.
vittatus, Ae. pseudotaeniatus, and Ae. thomsoni, were recorded Therefore there is a urgent need of more surveillance in dengye afftected areas as well as their surroundings.The vector control and all the preventive
measures need to be directed to eliminate the Aedes mosquito breeding

How to cite this article:
Singh R K, Akhtar N, Siddiqui N, Singh S.
Prevalence of Aedes Mosquitoes During the
Dengue Transmission Season in Haridwar City
of Uttarakhand State, India. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):131-140.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202458
Singh R K, Akhtar N, Siddiqui N, Singh S.
Prevalence of Aedes Mosquitoes During the
Dengue Transmission Season in Haridwar City
of Uttarakhand State, India. J Commun Dis.
2024;56(3):131-140.

COVID-19: A Brief Retrospect

R Rajendran, S B Anusree, M S Sasi, D Sheela Devi, S N Sharma, Nupur Lal — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:38:40 +0000

A country like India, having a population of 1.3 billion with diverse topographies, conglomerate climatic conditions, vast ethnic diversities and high population density; was subjected to a litmus test when the first case of new Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was diagnosed on January 30, 2020, in Kerala in a medical student who returned from China. The Government of Kerala (Gok), following the guidance of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Govt. of India, swiftly enhanced its health and hygiene department. They implemented strict containment, isolation and other preventive measures to halt the rapid spread of the disease in the community. The Govt. of Kerala could manage the COVID-19 pandemic using the five major components-trace, quarantine,
test, isolate and treat. Kerala’s success in restraining COVID-19 relies on the stable setting up of a successfully fabricated infrastructure to support social and human development including a well-equipped public healthcare delivery system. The grass-root empowerment in all realms of life articulated with decentralised governance helped the state prompt and immediate measures to contain the disease. The Govt. of Kerala has taken several welfare measures to extend care and support to the downtrodden, especially during the lockdown period. The lessons and experiences from Kerala state highlight the importance of a robust and dedicated public health system with active community participation for the guidance and control of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kerala’s COVID-19 response serves as a yardstick for effective public health infrastructure utilisation.

How to cite this article:
Rajendran R, Anusree S B, Sasi M S, Devi D S,
Sharma S N, Lal N. COVID-19: A Brief Retrospect.
J Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):141-168.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202459

Evolving Strategies in Typhoid Prevention and Control: Recent Advancements and Future Directions

Jugal Kishore, Kanika Paruti, Deep Priya Lall — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 13:55:02 +0000

Typhoid fever remains a significant global health challenge, especially in regions lacking access to clean water and sanitation. Recent advancements in prevention and control strategies, notably the introduction of the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV), have spurred renewed efforts to combat this infectious disease. This comprehensive review explores key insights, including recommendations, hurdles, cross-country experiences and emerging trends, with a focus on India’s experience amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategies encompass a multifaceted approach, ranging from vaccination initiatives guided by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) to enhanced surveillance methodologies and targeted interventions. Despite challenges such as vaccine hesitancy and resistance to antibiotics, the integration of TCV holds promise in reducing the burden of typhoid and improving public health outcomes. As India adapts to post-pandemic dynamics, proactive measures aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure and refining disease control strategies are essential in shaping a resilient response to infectious diseases like typhoid.

How to cite this article:
Kishore J, Paruti K, Lall D P. Evolving Strategies
in Typhoid Prevention and Control: Recent
Advancements and Future Directions. J Commun
Dis. 2024;56(3):169-171.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202460

Revolutionising HIV Care: Emerging Strategies and Therapeutic Breakthroughs - A Literature Review

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:08:56 +0000

HIV-AIDS is a globally prevalent disease largely managed by the use of anti-retroviral therapy, however, during the treatment, a significant proportion of patients experience various drug-induced toxicities, thus causing failure to comply with the treatment regimen. With recent advancements in the field of medicine and HIV care many new and effective treatment modalities have surfaced and have been tested on humans giving promising results with a very significant reduction in the viral load. Given that millions of people worldwide are affected by
HIV it is crucial now more than ever to explore innovative approaches. Our review paper delves into providing strong evidence based on existing literature of new emerging drugs as well injectables that cater to the needs of the patient and help in improving adherence to therapy. Cutting-edge genetic techniques such as gene editing and monoclonal antibodies are also highlighted as methods with the potentialto eliminate HIV atits core. Asresearch advancesthe collective efforts of researchers and healthcare professionals provide hope for
a future where HIV is no longer a disease. This review emphasises the importance of research and innovation in our fight, against HIV and our pursuit of a cure.

How to cite this article:
Arun A, Nobby J M, Mohen S, Nair D S,
Rajalakshmi S, Menon L. Revolutionising HIV
Care: Emerging Strategies and Therapeutic
Breakthroughs- A Literature Review. J Commun
Dis. 2024;56(3):172-188.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202461

Adherence To Correct BCG Immunisation Technique: A Clinical Audit

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination plays a pivotal role in preventing tuberculosis and mycobacterial infections. This clinical audit explores the historical significance, diverse protective mechanisms, and the critical role of accurate administration techniques for optimising BCG’s global health benefits.
Methodology: Conducted at Sharda Hospital, the audit aimed to evaluate and enhance adherence to the correct BCG vaccination technique inneonates. Pre-training audits revealed inconsistency, prompting a one-day training program emphasising intradermal administration. Post-training audits demonstrated a significant increase in adherence from 27.7% to 87.0%. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to, with informed consent obtained for documentation.
Results: Pre-training, wheal formation occurred in only 27.7% of cases. Post-training, the rate rose to 87%, reflecting improved adherence. Newborn demographics showed term and pre-term distribution, with timely vaccinations improved in post-training assessment.
Conclusion: This clinical audit highlights the success of educational interventions in improving adherence to correct BCG vaccination techniques, emphasising the need for periodic staff training and sustained monitoring. As tuberculosis cases rise, maintaining the correct vaccination practices is imperative for better healthcare outcomes.

How to cite this article:
Swarup P, Ghuliani R, Bothra M, Upadhyay V,
Jain P, Wadhwa M. Adherence To Correct BCG
Immunisation Technique: A Clinical Audit. J
Commun Dis. 2024;56(3):189-193.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202462