Seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among schoolchildren in southern Taiwan-A 20-year longitudinal follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori infection is primarily acquired in childhood and can lead to peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer. The prevalence of H. pylori infection varies widely in different countries. The aim of this study was to explore the change of pediatric H. pylori seroprevalence in the past two decades and to investigate the risk factors for pediatric H. pylori seropositivity in southern Taiwan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study enrolled children aged 7-12 years in Tainan City in 2018 and compared the result with our previous data in 1998, 2005, and 2010. Parents of the participants were invited to fill out questionnaires, including information of personal history, family history of peptic ulcer diseases, annual household income, and source of drinking water. Blood samples were analyzed for anti-H. pylori IgG by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: A total of 391, 629, 618, and 488 elementary school students in Tainan City were enrolled in 1998, 2005, 2010, and 2018, respectively. There was a significant decline in H. pylori seroprevalence from 9.2% in 1998, 7.8% in 2005, 6.2% in 2010 to 4.7% in 2018 (p < 0.001). Neither gender difference nor age difference was found in H. pylori seropositivity in each year of enrollment. Low household income was significantly associated with pediatric H. pylori seropositivity. CONCLUSIONS: The seroprevalence of H. pylori infection among elementary schoolchildren has remarkably declined in southern Taiwan in the past two decades. Low household income was a risk factor for pediatric H. pylori seropositivity.

Seroprevalence and Shifting Endemicities of Hepatitis A Virus Infection in Two Different Geographical Areas in the Philippines.

INTRODUCTION: Infection with hepatitis A virus (HAV) is often asymptomatic in young children, but most adolescents and adults will have symptoms ranging from nausea and tiredness to acute liver failure and even death. The risk of severe disease is higher in older adults and people with pre-existing liver disease. Immunization is recommended in regions with low HAV endemicity levels, i.e., where people get infected later in life. In the Philippines, recent epidemiologic data on HAV infection are lacking. The objective of this study was to assess age-specific seroprevalence and evaluate risk factors associated with HAV seropositivity. METHODS: People from two geographic areas (urban and rural) were recruited/enrolled and stratified by age group. HAV-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were measured with a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Sociodemographic parameters, hepatitis medical history, disease knowledge, hygiene measures and sanitation were assessed via a purpose-made questionnaire. Age at midpoint of population immunity (AMPI) was estimated using Kaplan-Meier curves. Logistic regression analyses were carried out to determine factors that were statistically significantly associated (p < 0.05) with HAV seropositivity. RESULTS: Overall, 1242 participants were included in the analysis; 250/602 (41.5%) participants from urban regions and 283/640 (44.2%) participants from rural regions tested positive for HAV IgG antibodies. AMPI was 35 and 37 years for the rural and urban region, respectively. Higher education was associated with lower HAV seropositivity prevalence ratios, while not living in the same region for the last 5 years, regularly consuming street food and lack of handwashing after defecation were associated with a higher likelihood of HAV seropositivity. CONCLUSION: Results suggest that HAV endemicity is low in the Philippines. Factors associated with HAV seropositivity were traveling, consuming street food and lack of basic hygienic gestures. Immunization might be an option to protect vulnerable populations against severe hepatitis A disease.

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is transmitted via the fecal-oral route through consumption of contaminated food or water or by close contact with an infected person. In children, HAV is usually of no concern, but in adults and people with existing liver disease, HAV infection can lead to severe symptoms and even death. In areas where most people get hepatitis during childhood (high endemicity), vaccination is not required, since people acquire life-long immunity after infection. In regions with low and intermediate HAV endemicity, people may remain at risk of infection later in life and vaccination could be considered to prevent severe HAV disease and its associated complications. In the Philippines, the current endemicity level is unknown. The goal of this study was to determine the endemicity level in the Philippines and to determine risk factors for HAV infection. We measured the proportion of people (by age group) who had previously been infected with HAV. Results showed that by age of 5 years < 20% of the study population was infected by HAV. By the age of 37 years in the urban population and 35 years in the rural population, 50% of people tested positive for HAV antibodies, indicating previous infection. This means that the Philippines has low HAV endemicity. Risk factors for HAV seropositivity were traveling, regularly eating street food and not washing hands after defecation. Vaccination against HAV might be of benefit in the Philippines, especially early in life to prevent most severe outcomes in adulthood.

Brucellosis in camel, small ruminants, and Somali pastoralists in Eastern Ethiopia: a One Health approach.

Brucellosis is a neglected bacterial zoonotic disease with economic and public health importance in pastoral communities of sub-Saharan Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to April 2022, to estimate the prevalence and identify the associated risk factors causing brucellosis in animals and associated with occupational diseases in humans from three selected districts of "the Somali Pastoral region," Eastern Ethiopia. In this study, 1,000 serum samples were screened for anti-Brucella spp. antibodies using Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and further confirmed using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). A structured questionnaire was used to collect the biodata of tested animals and animal attendants to test the association between explanatory and outcome variables. The overall animal level prevalence was 5% (95% CI, 6.1-7.2.0) in small ruminants, 2.9% (95% CI, 1.5-4.9) in camels, and 2.0% (95% CI, 0.2-3.7) in occupationally linked humans. Herd size and herd history of retained fetal membranes were risk factors associated with Brucella spp. seropositivity in animals (p < 0.05). Disposing of retained fetal membranes was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with Brucella spp. seropositivity in humans. Evidence of brucellosis in various livestock species and associated seropositivity in humans indicates the need for a coordinated One Health approach, considering sociocultural dynamics of pastoral communities in controlling brucellosis to safe guard public health and increase livestock productivity.

Risk of infection with arboviruses in a healthy population in Pakistan based on seroprevalence.

Infectious diseases caused by arboviruses are a public health concern in Pakistan. However, the studies on data prevalence and threats posed by arboviruses are limited. This study investigated the seroprevalence of arboviruses in a healthy population in Pakistan, including severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Tamdy virus (TAMV), and Karshi virus (KSIV) based on a newly established luciferase immunoprecipitation system (LIPS) assays, and Zika virus (ZIKV) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Neutralizing activities against these arboviruses were further examined from the antibody positive samples. The results showed that the seroprevalence of SFTSV, CCHFV, TAMV, KSIV, and ZIKV was 17.37%, 7.58%, 4.41%, 1.10%, and 6.48%, respectively, and neutralizing to SFTSV (1.79%), CCHFV (2.62%), and ZIKV (0.69%) were identified, as well as to the SFTSV-related Guertu virus (GTV, 0.83%). Risk factors associated with the incidence of exposure and levels of antibody response were analysed. Moreover, co-exposure to different arboviruses was demonstrated, as thirty-seven individuals were having antibodies to multiple viruses and thirteen showed neutralizing activity. Males, individuals aged ≤ 40 years, and outdoor workers had high risk of exposure to arboviruses. All these results reveal the substantial risks of infection with arboviruses in Pakistan, and indicate the threat from co-exposure to multiple arboviruses. The findings raise the need for further epidemiologic investigation in expanded regions and populations and the necessity to improve health surveillance in Pakistan.

Prevalence of long COVID symptoms in Haryana, India: a cross-sectional follow-up study.

Background: Emerging research indicates growing concern over long COVID globally, although there have been limited studies that estimate population burden. We aimed to estimate the burden of long COVID in three districts of Haryana, India, using an opportunity to link a seroprevalence study to follow-up survey of symptoms associated with long COVID. Methods: We used a population-based seroprevalence survey for COVID-19 conducted in September 2021 across Haryana, India. Adults from three purposively selected districts (Rohtak, Gurugram, and Jhajjar) were eligible to participate; 2205 of 3213 consented to participate in a survey on health status. Trained investigators administered a structured questionnaire that included demographic characteristics, self-reported symptoms of illness in the last six months before the survey, mental health, and history of COVID-19. Findings: Unadjusted regression estimates indicated positive correlations between symptomatic complaints and COVID-19 exposure, suggesting lingering effects of COVID-19 in this population. The overall physical morbidity index was higher among those who tested positive for COVID-19, as was the incidence of new cases. However, both morbidity and incidence became statistically insignificant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Cough emerged as the only statistically significant individual persistent symptom. Sex-stratified analyses indicated significant estimates only for physical morbidity in women. Interpretation: This study is one of the first from India that uses a large population-based sample to examine longer term repercussions of COVID infections. The burden of long COVID should primarily be addressed in clinical settings, where specialised treatment for individual cases continues to evolve. Our analyses also provide insight into the size and nature of studies required to assess the population-level burden of long COVID. Funding: This paper was produced under the auspices of the Lancet COVID 19 Commission India Task Force, which was supported financially by the Reliance Foundation. The Lancet COVID 19 Commission was set up in July 2020 and submitted its final report by October 2022. This report by the India Task Force was prepared during the same period.

Gn protein expressed in plants for diagnosis of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus.

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) causes the highly fatal disease in humans. To facilitate diagnosis, the native form of subunit glycoprotein (Gn), a prime target for potential vaccines and therapies, was produced in Nicotiana benthamiana using a Bamboo mosaic virus-based vector system. By fusion with secretory signal tags, SSExt, derived from the extension protein, and the (SP)10 motif, the yield of the recombinant Gn (rGn) was remarkably increased to approximately 7 mg/kg infiltrated leaves. Ultimately, an rGn-based ELISA was successfully established for the detection of SFTSV-specific antibodies in serum samples from naturally infected monkeys. As validated with the reference method, the specificity and sensitivity of rGn-ELISA were 94% and 96%, respectively. In conclusion, utilizing well-suited fusion tags facilitates rGn production and purification in substantial quantities while preserving its antigenic properties. The rGn-ELISA, characterized by its commendable sensitivity and specificity could serve as a viable alternative diagnostic method for assessing SFTSV seroprevalence. KEY POINTS: • SFTSV Gn, fused with secretory signal tags, was expressed by the BaMV-based vector. • The plant fusion tags increased expression levels and eased the purification of rGn. • The rGn-ELISA was established and validated; its specificity and sensitivity > 94%.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever outbreak in Northern Senegal in 2022: Prevalence of the virus in livestock and ticks, associated risk factors and epidemiological implications.

OBJECTIVE: Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe zoonotic arboviral disease that occurs widely in Eastern and Western Europe, Asia and Africa. The disease is becoming of growing public health importance in Senegal. However, analysis of tick infestation, CCHF virus (CCHFV) circulation extent and risk factors during ongoing outbreak are scarce. A thorough outbreak investigation was carried out during a CCHF outbreak in Podor (Northern Senegal) in August 2022. METHODS: Ticks and blood samples were collected from animals (cattle, goats and sheep) randomly selected from confirmed CCHF human cases houses, neighbourhoods and surrounding villages. Blood samples were tested for CCHFV antibodies using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Tick samples were screened for CCHFV RNA by RT-PCR. RESULTS: Overall, tick infestation rate (TIR) and CCHFV seroprevalence of livestock were 52.12% (95% confidence interval (CI): 45.54%-58.64%) and 43.28% (95% CI: 36.33%-50.44%), respectively. The TIRs were 87.7% in cattle, 57.6% in sheep and 20.0% in goats. These rates were significantly associated with location, host species and tick control (p < 0.001) but not with animal age and sex (p > 0.7). CCHFV seroprevalence was 80.4% (95% CI: 67.57%-89.77%) in cattle, 35.4% (95% CI: 25.00%-47.01%) in sheep and 21.2% (95% CI: 12.11%-33.02%) in goats. Age, sex, location, animal host and presence of ticks were significantly associated to the presence of antibodies. The 950 ticks collected included among other species, Hyalomma impeltatum (48.84%) and H. rufipes (10.21%). Five pools of Hyalomma ssp. were found CCHFV RT-PCR positive. These infected ticks included 0.86% (4/464) of H. impeltatum collected on cattle and sheep and 1.03% (1/97) of H. rufipes collected on a sheep. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first report on the extend of tick infestation and CCHFV infection in livestock during an outbreak in Senegal. The results highlight the risk of human infections and the importance of strengthening vector, animal and human surveillance as well as tick control measures in this area to prevent CCHF infections in humans.

SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in Nova Scotia blood donors.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence monitors cumulative infection rates irrespective of case testing protocols. We aimed to describe Nova Scotia blood donor seroprevalence in relation to public health policy and reported data over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic (May 2020 to August 2022). Methods: Monthly random Nova Scotia blood donation samples (24,258 in total) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection antibodies (anti-nucleocapsid) from May 2020 to August 2022, and vaccination antibodies (anti-spike) from January 2021 to August 2022. Multivariable logistic regression for infection antibodies and vaccination antibodies separately with month, age, sex, and racialization identified independent predictors. The provincial nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)-positive case rate over the pandemic was calculated from publicly available data. Results: Anti-N seroprevalence was 3.8% in January 2022, increasing to 50.8% in August 2022. The general population COVID-19 case rate was 3.5% in January 2022, increasing to 12.5% in August 2022. The percentage of NAAT-positive samples in public health laboratories increased from 1% in November 2021 to a peak of 30.7% in April 2022 with decreasing numbers of tests performed. Higher proportions of younger donors as well as Black, Indigenous, and racialized blood donors were more likely to have infection antibodies (p < 0.01). Vaccination antibodies increased to 100% over 2021, initially in older donors (60+ years), and followed by progressively younger age groups. Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 infection rates were relatively low in Nova Scotia until the more contagious Omicron variant dominated, after which about half of Nova Scotia donors had been infected despite most adults being vaccinated (although severity was much lower in vaccinated individuals). Most COVID-19 cases were detected by NAAT until Omicron arrived. When NAAT testing priorities focused on high-risk individuals, infection rates were better reflected by seroprevalence.

Historique: La séroprévalence du SRAS-CoV-2 permet de surveiller les taux d'infection cumulatifs, quels que soient les protocoles de dépistage des cas. Les chercheurs voulaient décrire la séroprévalence chez les donneurs de sang néo-écossais par rapport aux politiques sanitaires et aux données déclarées tout au long de la pandémie de COVID-19 (mai 2020 à août 2022). Méthodologie: Les chercheurs ont mesuré les anticorps à l'infection par le SRAS-CoV-2 (antinucléocapsidiques) de manière aléatoire tous les mois dans des échantillons de dons de sang de la Nouvelle-Écosse (pour un total de 24 258) entre mai 2020 et août 2022, de même que les anticorps aux vaccins (antispiculaires) (entre janvier 2021 et août 2022). La régression logistique multivariable effectuée séparément pour les anticorps contre l'infection et les anticorps aux vaccins, par rapport au mois, à l'âge, au genre et à la race, ont permis d'établir les prédicteurs indépendants. Les chercheurs ont calculé le taux de cas provinciaux positifs aux tests d'amplification des acides nucléiques (TAAN) à partir des données publiques tout au long de la pandémie. Résultats: La séroprévalence anti-N, qui s'élevait à 3,8 % en janvier 2022, était passée à 50,8 % en août 2022. Le taux de cas de COVID-19 dans la population générale se situait à 3,5 % en janvier 2022 et était monté à 12,5 % en août 2022. Le pourcentage d'échantillons positifs au TAAN dans les laboratoires de santé publique est passé de 1 % en novembre 2021 à un pic de 30,7 % en avril 2022, conjointement à une diminution du nombre de tests effectués. De plus fortes proportions de donneurs plus jeunes et de donneurs noirs, autochtones et racisés étaient susceptibles de posséder des anticorps contre l'infection (p < 0,01). Les anticorps attribuables à la vaccination ont atteint 100 % en 2021, d'abord chez les donneurs plus âgés (de plus de 60 ans), puis dans les tranches d'âges progressivement plus jeunes. Conclusions: Les taux d'infection par le SRAS-CoV-2 sont demeurés relativement faibles en Nouvelle-Écosse jusqu'à la domination du variant Omicron plus contagieux, puis environ la moitié des donneurs néo-écossais ont été infectés, même si la plupart des adultes étaient vaccinés (la gravité de la maladie était toutefois beaucoup plus faible chez les personnes vaccinées). La plupart des cas de COVID-19 ont été dépistés par TAAN jusqu'à l'apparition du variant Omicron. Lorsque les priorités de dépistage par TAAN ont été limitées aux personnes à haut risque, les taux d'infection étaient mieux reflétés par la séroprévalence.

Histoplasma seropositivity and environmental risk factors for exposure in a general population in Upper River Region, The Gambia: A cross-sectional study.

Robust surveillance of Histoplasma species is warranted in endemic regions, including investigation of community-level transmission dynamics. This cross-sectional study explored anti-Histoplasma antibody seroprevalence and risk factors for exposure in a general population in Upper River Region (URR), The Gambia. Study participants were recruited (December 2022-March 2023) by random household sampling across 12 Enumeration Areas (EAs) of URR. A questionnaire and clinical examination were performed; exploring demographic, clinical and environmental risk factors for Histoplasma exposure. One venous blood sample per participant was subject to IMMY Latex Agglutination Histoplasma test to determine presence of a recent IgM response to Histoplasma. Seropositivity risk factors were explored by multi-level, multivariable logistic regression analysis. The study population (n = 298) aged 5-83 years, demonstrated a positively skewed age distribution and comprised 55.4% females. An apparent seroprevalence of 18.8% (n = 56/298, 95% CI 14.5-23.7%) was measured using the LAT. A multivariable model demonstrated increased odds of Histoplasma seropositivity amongst female participants (OR = 2.41 95% CI 1.14-5.10); and participants reporting involvement in animal manure management (OR = 4.21 95% CI 1.38-12.90), and management of domestic animals inside the compound at night during the dry season (OR = 10.72 95% CI 2.02-56.83). Increasing age (OR = 0.96 95% CI 0.93-0.98) was associated with decreased odds of seropositivity. Clustering at EA level was responsible for 17.2% of seropositivity variance. The study indicates frequent recent Histoplasma exposure and presents plausible demographic and environmental risk factors for seropositivity. Histoplasma spp. characterisation at this human-animal-environment interface is warranted, to determine public health implications of environmental reservoirs in The Gambia. The study was supported by Wellcome Trust (206,638/Z/17/Z to CES) and a University of Liverpool-funded PhD studentship (to TRC).

Seroprevalence of brucellosis antibodies and associated risk factors among the hospitalized patient, Aleppo, Syria: a hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Introduction and importance: Brucellosis is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world, especially in developing countries. Recent reports show that Syria is among the top ten countries where brucellosis is most prevalent. The purpose of this study is to estimate the seroprevalence of brucellosis antibodies among the hospitalized patients, in one of the largest hospitals in northern Syria. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the hospitalized patients. The authors used a questionnaire to collect sociodemographic and brucellosis-related data from the patients. The authors also collected blood samples from these patients to be screened for brucellosis antibodies using Wright Coombs Agglutination and 2-mercaptoethanol tests, during the period from November 2021 and March 2022. Results: Among the 776 patients who were recruited in the study, the seroprevalence of brucellosis antibodies was 13.1% (n=776). The highest prevalence was among the female sex (16.7%, n=298), middle aged group 12-40 years (24.1%, n=116), and patients with history of brucellosis (30.1%, n=53). Among the positive samples, the findings of 2-mercaptoethanol tests show that (14.7%, n=102) were positive (presence of IgG Antibodies), and (75.5%, n=102) were negative. Conclusion: This study is the first to describe the epidemiology of brucellosis in northern Syria. It clearly shows high rates of positivity, which reflects immense challenges facing the public health sector in Syria. The best next step in light of this crisis is to raise awareness among population about brucellosis and its risk factor.

Seroprevalence and molecular detection of foot and mouth disease virus in cattle in selected districts of Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious, endemic, and acute viral cattle ailment that causes major economic damage in Ethiopia. Although several serotypes of the FMD virus have been detected in Ethiopia, there is no documented information about the disease's current serostatus and serotypes circulating in the Wolaita zone. Thus, from March to December 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate FMDV seroprevalence, molecular detection, and serotype identification in three Wolaita Zone sites. A multistage sample procedure was used to choose three peasant associations from each study region, namely Wolaita Sodo, Offa district, and Boloso sore district. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to pick 384 cattle from the population for the seroprevalence research, and 10 epithelial tissue samples were purposefully taken from outbreak individuals for molecular detection of FMDV. The sera were examined using 3ABC FMD NSP Competition ELISA to find antibodies against FMDV non-structural proteins, whereas epithelial tissue samples were analyzed for molecular detection using real-time RT-PCR, and sandwich ELISA was used to determine the circulating serotypes. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to evaluate the associated risk variables. The total seroprevalence of FMD in cattle was 46.88% (95% CI 41.86-51.88), with Wolaita Sodo Town having the highest seroprevalence (63.28%). As a consequence, multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that animal age, herd size, and interaction with wildlife were all substantially related to FMD seroprevalence (p < 0.05). During molecular detection, only SAT-2 serotypes were found in 10 tissue samples. Thus, investigating FMD outbreaks and identifying serotypes and risk factors for seropositivity are critical steps in developing effective control and prevention strategies based on the kind of circulating serotype. Moreover, further research for animal species other than cattle was encouraged.

Global and regional seroprevalence of coxiellosis in small ruminants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Coxiellosis is a neglected zoonosis for occupationally exposed people in many parts of the world. Sheep and goats are two important small ruminants that act as reservoirs for human contamination; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the epidemiological aspects of coxiellosis in sheep and goats at regional and global levels. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available articles on seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep and goats and estimate the overall seroprevalence in different regions. METHODS: A systematic search strategy was performed in five electronic repositories for articles published until December 2021. Relevant data were extracted from the selected articles based on the inclusion criteria. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to analyse the data. Results are presented as the prevalence of seropositivity as a percentage and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep was 17.38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.59%-19.17%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in sheep ranged from 15.04% (95% CI: 7.68%-22.40%) to 19.14% (95% CI: 15.51%-22.77%), depending on region. The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in goats was 22.60% (95% CI: 19.54%-25.66%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in goats ranged from 6.33% (95% CI: 2.96%-9.71%) to 55.13% (95% CI: 49.61%-60.65%), depending on the region. The prevalence estimates also varied significantly in both sheep and goats depending on age, sex, and rearing systems of the animals (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Seroprevalence of coxiellosis in both sheep and goats is considerable. Routine monitoring of the sheep and goat populations is needed to prevent spillover infection in other livestock and humans.

Exploring the path to polio eradication: insights from consecutive seroprevalence surveys among Pakistani children.

Introduction: After trivalent oral poliovirus vaccine (tOPV) cessation, Pakistan has maintained immunity to type 2 poliovirus by administering inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) in routine immunization, alongside monovalent OPV type 2 (mOPV2) and IPV in supplementary immunization activities (SIAs). This study assesses the change in poliovirus type 2 immunity after tOPV withdrawal and due to SIAs with mOPV2 and IPV among children aged 6-11 months. Methods: Three cross-sectional sequential serological surveys were conducted in 12 polio high-risk areas of Pakistan. 25 clusters from each geographical stratum were selected utilizing probability proportional to size. Results: Seroprevalence of type 2 poliovirus was 49%, with significant variation observed among surveyed areas; <30% in Pishin, >80% in Killa Abdullah, Mardan & Swabi, and Rawalpindi. SIAs with IPV improved immunity from 38 to 57% in Karachi and 60 to 88% in Khyber. SIAs with IPV following mOPV2 improved immunity from 62 to 65% in Killa Abdullah, and combined mOPV2 and IPV SIAs in Pishin improved immunity from 28 to 89%. Results also reflected that immunity rates for serotypes 1 and 3 were consistently above 90% during all three phases and across all geographical areas. Conclusion: The study findings highlight the importance of implementing effective vaccination strategies to prevent the re-emergence of poliovirus. Moreover, the results provide crucial information for policymakers working toward achieving global polio eradication.

Characterization of genital chlamydia trachomatis infection among women attending infertility and gynecology clinics in Hunan, China.

BACKGROUND: Genital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is a major public health issue worldwide. It can lead to cervicitis, urethritis, and infertility. This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of genital C. trachomatis infection among women attending to the infertility and gynecology clinics. METHODS: Endocervical swabs were collected from 8,221 women for C. trachomatis nucleotide screening and genotyping, while serum samples were collected for C. trachomatis pgp3 antibody determination using luciferase immunosorbent assays. RESULTS: High C. trachomatis DNA prevalence (3.76%) and seroprevalence (47.46%) rates were found, with genotype E (27.5%) being the most prevalent. C. trachomatis omp1 sense mutation was associated with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) (odds ratio [OR] = 6.033, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.219-39.185, p = 0.045). No significant differences in C. trachomatis seroprevalence rates were observed between women with detectable C. trachomatis DNA in the infertility and routine physical examination groups (86.67% vs. 95%, p > 0.05); however, among women with negative C. trachomatis DNA, the former group had a markedly higher seroprevalence than the latter group (56.74% vs. 20.17%, p < 0.001). C. trachomatis DNA, but not pgp3 antibody, was significantly associated with CIN (OR = 4.087, 95% CI = 2.284-7.315, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results revealed a high prevalence, particularly seroprevalence, of C. trachomatis among women with infertility. Furthermore, we found an association between C. trachomatis omp1 sense mutations and CIN. Therefore, C. trachomatis serves as a risk factor for CIN.

High seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in the Free State province of South Africa.

The seroepidemiology of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in South Africa is limited. We investigated anti-HEV IgM and IgG, in residual hepatitis A, B, and C negative serology specimens, at our public sector Free State (FS) laboratory. Of 299 specimens (01 May-31 October 2020), 182/299 (60.9%) had anti-HEV IgG and 1/299 (0.33%) had anti-HEV IgM. High HEV seroprevalence across different age groups suggests a different epidemiology in the FS, necessitating further research. Contribution: The need for HEV research in South Africa is highlighted. Clinicians should consider HEV in their differential diagnosis of patients with hepatitis.

Transdisciplinary research before, during and after COVID-19 vaccination in Chile: a virtuoso collaboration with future perspectives.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented numerous challenges that required immediate attention to mitigate its devastating consequences on a local and global scale. In March 2020, the Chilean government, along with health and science authorities, implemented a strategy aimed at generating relevant evidence to inform effective public health decisions. One of the key strengths of this strategy was the active involvement of the scientific community, employing transdisciplinary approaches to address critical questions and support political decision-making. The strategy promoted collaborations between the government, public and private institutions, and transdisciplinary academic groups throughout each phase of the pandemic. By focusing on pressing problems and questions, this approach formed the foundation of this report which reflects the collaborative effort throughout the pandemic of individuals from the Instituto de Sistemas Complejos de Ingeniería (ISCI), the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile, government authorities and industry. Early in the pandemic, it became crucial to gather evidence on how to minimize the impact of infection and disease while awaiting the availability of vaccines. This included studying the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, assessing the impact of quarantines on people's mobility, implementing strategies for widespread SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and exploring pool testing for large populations. The urgent need to reduce disease severity and transmission posed a significant challenge, as it was essential to prevent overwhelming healthcare systems. Studies were conducted to predict ICU bed requirements at the local level using mathematical models. Additionally, novel approaches, such as using cellphone mobility-based technology to actively identify infected individuals, and to optimize population sampling, were explored following the first wave of the pandemic. Chile took early action in addressing vaccination through a high-level scientific board, before vaccines became available. Studies conducted during this period included population-based immunologic evaluations of different vaccines, which helped build confidence in the population and supported the need for booster doses and potential vaccination of children. These studies and collaborations, which will be discussed here, have provided valuable insights and will inform future approaches in a post-pandemic world. Importantly, highly conservative estimates indicate that 3,000 lives and more than 300 million USD were saved by this academic-public-private collaborative effort.

Leishmania Infection in Wild Lagomorphs and Domestic Dogs in North-East Spain.

Leishmania infantum is a zoonotic protozoan parasite distributed worldwide that is transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. Dogs are the main reservoir for human infections. However, in recent years, the capacity of lagomorphs to contribute to Leishmania transmission has been confirmed. The present study aimed to assess Leishmania spp. exposure and infection in lagomorphs and sympatric domestic dogs in NE Spain. Sera from European hares, European rabbits, and rural dogs were tested for antibodies against L. infantum using an in-house indirect ELISA. PCR analysis targeting Leishmania spp. was performed in spleens from L. europaeus. Antibodies against Leishmania spp. were detected in all the species analyzed. Total sample prevalence was significantly higher in O. cuniculus (27.9%) than in L. europaeus (2.0%). Results of the PCR were all negative. The present study expands knowledge about Leishmania infections in free-ranging lagomorphs in the Iberian Peninsula, suggesting a more important role of O. cuniculus in the study area. Given the strong correlation between lagomorph densities and human leishmaniasis outbreaks in Spain, the high rabbit and human densities in NE Spain, and the high Leishmania spp. seroprevalence in rabbits, it becomes imperative to establish surveillance programs for lagomorphs in this region.

Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 Humoral Response Following Vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (Covishield™) and/or Sinopharm, BBIBP-CorV (Vero cell™).

BACKGROUND: Billions of doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been introducing in the world to prevent pandemic COVID-19. Higher efficacy but limited data are available for its longevity. We aimed to find out the IgG Anti-SARS Cov-2 antibody level among frontline healthcare workers after two doses of vaccines. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried among 170 HCPs of Seti Provincial Hospital of western Nepal, who were more than 18 years, and had taken two doses of either one of COVID 19 vaccine. All those participants, who were on leave during the data collection tenure (1st February 2022 to 28th February 2022) and/or did not consent to participate were excluded. Mindray SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD IgG assay kit based on CLIA method, was used whose target antigen is S-RBD (spike protein of receptor binding domain) antigen. The IgG immunoglobulin is detected and cut off value ≥10 AU/ml is considered positive. RESULTS: Based on the recommended cut off, the antibody was present in more than 90% across both groups of vaccinee i.e. the positive antibody titer at a mean duration of 7.31 months was 93.53% overall (93.75% and 93.44% in Vero cell™ and Covishield™ vaccinees respectively). There were 3.92 times high odds of high antibody titer (≥250 AU/ml) in Covishield™ group (OR: 3.92, 95% CI: 1.86-8.26, P-value: <0.001) than in Vero cell™ group of vaccinee. Similarly, there were significant difference of high titer of antibody across groups with more than six months of elapse of vaccination (OR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.06-4.49, P-value: <0.001) than with less than six months of elapse of vaccination. CONCLUSIONS: The humoral response was higher among HCPs who received two-doses vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (Covishield™) and/or Sinopharm, BBIBP-CorV (Vero cell™) vaccine, and among those with six or more months of elapse of vaccination. The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 following two-doses vaccination among HCPs was more than nine-tenths.

Seroprevalence of visceral leishmaniasis among pregnant women in Jahrom city in Fars province, southern Iran.

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a public health issue in endemic countries with poor sanitation facilities. In this study, the seroprevalence rate and associated risk factors of VL were investigated during September 2020 to February 2021 in pregnant women referred to Ostad Mottahari and Peymanieh hospitals in Jahrom county, Fars province, southern Iran. Material and methods: A total of 220 serum samples of pregnant women were assessed for the presence of Anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies by direct agglutination antigen (DAT). The associated risk factors were obtained using questionnaires. Results: The overall seroprevalence of VL in pregnant women was 12.72% (28/220). Considering the antibody titer, titer 1:1600 was detected in 23 samples, titer 1:3200 in 4 samples, and titer 1:6400 in one sample. All 5 women with titer >3200 had mild fever. As such, there was a statistically significant difference regarding the age (≥39 years old with p-value: 0.01). Conclusions: We recommend an appropriate health education program for pregnant women and serological screening of VL before pregnancy in endemic cities. Moreover, we believed a need for more epidemiological studies for better understand the status of VL in pregnant women.

Detection of Leishmania infantum Antibodies in Stray Dogs from Nonendemic Areas in Bulgaria.

Background: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic protozoan infection which is endemic in parts of Europe. Dogs are commonly affected by Leishmania infantum and are regarded as the main reservoir for humans' infection. Sporadic human cases are reported annually, mainly from the endemic south part of Bulgaria. However, no recent data on canine leishmaniasis geographical distribution in Bulgaria have been published. The aim of this study was to investigate the current seroprevalence rate of L. infantum in stray dogs from areas where this infection was not previously reported. Results: The estimated overall seroprevalence rate was 8.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.6-14.0) with no significant difference between the two examined districts [χ2 (1, N = 90) = 0.32, p = 0.69]. In Sofia, the seropositivity was 7.2% (95% CI: 0.9-13.5) and in Sofia (stolitsa) 11.0% (95% CI: 0-23.0). No association between sex and serological status [χ2 (1, N = 90) = 1.83, p = 0.27] and age and seropositivity [χ2 (2, N = 90) = 1.98, p = 0.52] was detected. High levels of antibodies (fourfold increase from the assay's cut-off) were observed in half of the positive dogs.