Acute gastroenteritis outbreak associated with multiple and rare norovirus genotypes after storm events in Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Norovirus is a major cause of acute diarrheal disease (ADD) outbreaks worldwide. In the present study, we investigated an ADD outbreak caused by norovirus in several municipalities of Santa Catarina state during the summer season, southern Brazil in 2023. As of the 10th epidemiological week of 2023, approximately 87 000 ADD cases were reported, with the capital, Florianópolis, recording the highest number of cases throughout the weeks. By using RT-qPCR and sequencing, we detected 10 different genotypes, from both genogroups (G) I and II. Some rare genotypes were also identified. Additionally, rotavirus and human adenovirus were sporadically detected among the ADD cases. Several features of the outbreak suggest that sewage-contaminated water could played a role in the surge of ADD cases. Storm events in Santa Catarina state that preceded the outbreak likely increased the discharge of contaminated wastewater and stormwater into water bodies, such as rivers and beaches during a high touristic season in the state. Climate change-induced extreme weather events, including intensified rainfall and frequent floods, can disturb healthcare and sanitation systems. Implementing public policies for effective sanitation, particularly during peak times, is crucial to maintain environmental equilibrium and counter marine pollution.

Evaluation of antibiotic utilization pattern in the treatment of acute diarrheal diseases at Debre Tabor comprehensive specialized hospital, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Background: In clinical settings all across the world, including Ethiopia, the irrational use of antibiotics to treat acute diarrhea is common. The main causes of resistance are antibiotic abuse, misuse, and underuse, and among infectious diseases, antibiotic overuse is pervasive in diarrheal infections around the world. As a result, the primary goal of this study was to evaluate antibiotic use patterns for the treatment of acute diarrheal diseases at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in North-West Ethiopia. Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the antibiotic utilization pattern used to treat acute diarrheal illness, taken from the record cards of 243 patients who received treatment for acute diarrheal illness, employing structured questions from September 1 to September 30, 2022. The results are displayed using percentages and frequency distributions in tables along with figures. Results: A total of 243 patients were involved, 134 (55.1%) of whom were male and 134 (55.1%) were under the age of five. Out of the 103 cases of acute watery diarrhea, 83 received antibiotics that were given improperly. Additionally, 88 individuals had bloody diarrhea diagnoses, but 58 of them received the currently administered antibiotics. Amoxicillin and co-trimoxazole were the most frequently prescribed medications, with 193 (79.5%) of the 243 cases of patients receiving some form of antibiotic. Conclusion: The results of the study revealed that there is inappropriate antibiotic use in acute diarrheal disease at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, which might be the cause for the overall increase in antimicrobial resistance as well as the associated costs of treatment. The finding is helpful as evidence for prescribers' inappropriate use of antibiotics for the treatment of acute diarrheal sickness.

Antibiotic utilization pattern in treatment of acute diarrheal diseases: the case of Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The vast majority of acute diarrheal diseases are self-limiting and do not require treatment on a regular basis. Empirical antibiotics should only be used to treat dysenteric and invasive bacterial diarrhea. Antibiotic misuse in the treatment of acute diarrhea is widespread in clinical practice worldwide. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine the pattern of antibiotic use for the acute diarrheal diseases at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia. METHODS: A retrospective, institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the antibiotic utilization pattern for the treatment of acute diarrheal diseases from September 1 to September 30, 2022. Data were obtained retrospectively from patient cards treated for diarrheal disorders from August 1, 2021 to August 31, 2022, using standardized questionnaires, and the analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. RESULTS: Among 332 patients in present study, 271 (81.63%) of them received nine different types of antibiotics, with the most commonly prescribed drugs were Cotrimoxazole (30.26%), Ciprofloxacin (19.19%), and Azithromycin (17.71%). Based on the presence of blood in the stools, 14.76% of the cases were invasive bacterial in nature. Antibiotics were prescribed about 2.55 times more frequently to patients under the age of 12 than to subjects 65 and older (AOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.45-3.87). Patients who received three or more medications were 2.77 times more likely to be prescribed antibiotics (AOR 2.77, 95% CI 1.84-7.56). For every unit increase in the number of drugs prescribed, the odds of prescribing antibiotics increased by 2.44 units (COR 2.44; 95% CI 2.06-4.32). CONCLUSIONS: The current study found that antibiotics were overused in both adults and children with acute diarrheal diseases at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital. The number of antibiotics prescribed was significantly associated with the patient's age and the number of medications prescribed. To reduce antibiotic overuse, health professionals have to follow the national standard treatment guidelines.

Factores de riesgo de enfermedad diarreica aguda en niños menores de un año

Introducción: las enfermedades diarreicas agudas son una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad de la población infantil a nivel mundial y en países en vías de desarrollo. Objetivo: identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a la diarrea aguda en niños menores de un año del municipio Bayamo. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional analítico de casos y controles, en niños menores de 1 años pertenecientes al municipio Bayamo, que ingresaron con enfermedad diarreica aguda en el Hospital Provincial Pediátrico Docente "General Milanés" en el año 2022. La muestra constituida por 246 pacientes, 82 casos y 164 controles. Se realizó el análisis univariado y multivariado: la razón de productos cruzados y el Chi cuadrado, con una confiabilidad del 95% y una probabilidad menor de 0.05. Resultados: en el análisis univariado la no lactancia materna exclusiva hasta los 6 meses fue el factor de mayor significación estadística (OR 20,695, IC 7,360-58,188 P=0,000), seguido de la desnutrición (OR 10,503 IC 3,322-33,213 P=0,000), uso previo de antimicrobiano (OR 7,798 IC 2,803-21,684 P=0,000. En el análisis multivariado el factor que mostró mayor independencia fue la no lactancia materna exclusiva hasta los 6 meses. Conclusiones: la no lactancia materna hasta los 6 meses de edad resultó ser el factor de mayor riesgo para desarrollar una enfermedad diarreica aguda, seguido de la desnutrición y uso previo de antimicrobiano.

SUMMARY Introduction: acute diarrheal diseases (ADD) are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide and in developing countries. Objective: to identify the risk factors associated with acute diarrhea in children under one year of age in the Bayamo municipality. Methods: an analytical observational study of cases and controls was carried out in children under 1 year of age belonging to the Bayamo municipality, who were admitted with acute diarrheal disease to the "General Milanés" Provincial Pediatric Teaching Hospital in 2022. The sample was made up of 246 patients, 82 cases and 164 controls. The univariate and multivariate analysis was performed: the cross-product ratio (Odd Ratio) and the Chi square, with a reliability of 95% and a probability of less than 0.05. Results: in the univariate analysis, non-exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months was the factor with the greatest statistical significance (OR 20.695, CI 7.360-58.188 P=0.000), followed by malnutrition (OR 10.503 CI 3.322-33.213 P=0.000). previous use of antimicrobial (OR 7.798 CI 2.803-21.684 P=0.000. In the multivariate analysis, the factor that showed greater independence was not exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months. Conclusions: Non-breastfeeding until 6 months of age turned out to be the highest risk factor for developing an acute diarrheal disease, followed by malnutrition and previous use of antimicrobials.

Introdução: as doenças diarreicas agudas são uma importante causa de morbidade e mortalidade em crianças em todo o mundo e em países em desenvolvimento. Objetivo: identificar os fatores de risco associados à diarreia aguda em crianças menores de um ano de idade no município de Bayamo. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo observacional, analítico, caso-controle em crianças menores de 1 ano de idade pertencentes ao município de Bayamo, que foram admitidas com doença diarreica aguda no Hospital Universitário Pediátrico Provincial "General Milanés" em 2022. A amostra foi composta por 246 pacientes, 82 casos e 164 controles. Foram realizadas análises univariada e multivariada: a razão de produtos cruzados e o Qui-quadrado, com confiabilidade de 95% e probabilidade menor que 0,05. Resultados: na análise univariada, o aleitamento materno não exclusivo até os 6 meses de idade foi o fator estatisticamente mais significativo (OR 20,695, IC 7,360-58,188, P=0,000), seguido de desnutrição (OR 10,503, IC 3,322-33,213, P=0,000), uso prévio de antimicrobianos (OR, 7,798, IC 2,803-21,684, P=0,000. Na análise multivariada, o fator que apresentou maior independência foi o aleitamento materno não exclusivo até os 6 meses. Conclusões: não amamentar até os 6 meses de idade foi o maior fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de doença diarreica aguda, seguido de desnutrição e uso prévio de antimicrobianos.

In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Rotaviral Activity and Intestinal Toxicity of a Phytotherapeutic Prototype of Achyrocline bogotensis (Kunth) DC.

Viruses represent the primary etiologic agents (70-80%) of acute diarrheal disease (ADD), and rotavirus (RV) is the most relevant one. Currently, four rotavirus vaccines are available. However, these vaccines do not protect against emerging viral strains or are not available in low-income countries. To date, there are no approved drugs available against rotavirus infection. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro anti-rotaviral activity and intestinal toxicity of a phytotherapeutic prototype obtained from Achyrocline bogotensis (Kunth) DC. (PPAb); medicinal plant that contains compounds that inhibit the rotavirus replication cycle. Virucidal and viral yield reduction effects exerted by the PPAb were evaluated by immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry. Furthermore, the toxic impact of the PPAb was evaluated in polarized human intestinal epithelial C2BBe1 cells in terms of cytotoxicity, loss of cytoplasmic membrane asymmetry, and DNA fragmentation by MTT and fluorometry. PPAb concentrations under 0.49 mg/mL exerted significant virucidal and viral yield reduction activities, and concentrations under 16 mg/mL neither reduced cell viability, produced DNA fragmentation, nor compromised the C2BBe1cell membrane stability after 24-h incubation. Based on these results, the evaluated phytotherapeutic prototype of Achyrocline bogotensis might be considered as a promising alternative to treat ADD caused by rotavirus.

Acute Diarrhoeal Disease in Children Aged 6 Months to 24 Months: An In-Hospital Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Diarrheal disease comes second among the causes of death in children under 5 years of old. We are well aware that this common disease is preventable and treatable. But the practice of preventive strategies is not as efficient as it should be. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To determine the frequency of acute diarrheal disease in children aged 6 months to 24 months attending the immunization clinic of Lourdes Hospital, Kochi, Kerala. 2. To assess the associated factors and practices involved with acute diarrheal disease in the study group. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was done in children above 6 months attending immunization clinic in Lourdes hospital during the period from 1st October 2017 to 31st March 2019. After receiving their informed consent, a pretested, semistructured, and validated questionnaire was given to the mothers/caregivers to gather data on socio-demographic characteristics and practices. In order to assess the prevalence of diarrhea, details of the diarrheal episode after the 6 months of age were included in the questionnaire. To eliminate repeats, caution was taken not to include previously recorded data on the diarrheal episode. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The proportion of children with diarrhea in the study population was 38.7% which was high compared with other studies in the same age group. Many of the practices associated were found faulty and needing rectification which is a Family Physician's area of expertise. The study concludes that there is a need for identifying novel risk factors for diarrhea and educating the caregivers regarding the prevention of diarrhea. Primary Care Physicians/Family Physicians can play an effective role in educating the caregivers.

Outbreak investigation of foodborne illness among political rally attendees, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, India.

In July 2015, we investigated a foodborne illness outbreak in Sithalikuppam and Verupachi villages, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, among the political rally attendees to determine the risk factors for illness. We conducted a retrospective cohort study, calculated risk ratio for the food exposures, and cultured stool specimens. Of 55 rally attendees, we identified 36 (65%) case patients; 32 (89%) had diarrhea and 20 (56%) had vomiting. Median incubation period was 14 h. Eighty-nine percent (32/36) of those who ate lemon rice at dinner had illness compared to 21% (4/19) of those who did not (RR 4.2). Of the six nonattendees who ate leftovers on July 25, all ate only lemon rice and became ill. Stool cultures were negative for Salmonella, Shigella, and Vibrio species. Lemon rice was probably contaminated with enterotoxins such as from Bacillus cereus. Our findings highlighted need for community food safety education and importance of thorough outbreak investigations.

Probióticos y prebióticos: rol en la terapéutica de la enfermedad diarreica aguda infantil / Probiotics and prebiotics: its role in childhood acute diarrheal disease therapy

RESUMEN: La enfermedad diarreica aguda infantil (EDAI), constituye un problema de salud pública, representando la 2ª causa de morbimortalidad infantil en menores de 5 años, en el Ecuador. La hidratación oral y parenteral en los niños hospitalizados bajo normas de administración de conformidad con el grado de deshidratación y pérdida de peso, así como medidas preventivas como la vacunación obligatoria contra el rotavirus, han contribuido a disminuir, pero no a solucionar este problema de salud infantil. Múltiples factores contribuyen para que no se resuelva: socioeconómicos, educacionales, el destete temprano y malas prácticas alimenticias, entre otros. Últimos estudios han propuesto la utilización de probióticos que contribuyan a disminuir el problema sugieriendo el usode Saccharomyces boulardii (SB), asociado a un prebiótico; lo que permitiría acortar el tiempo de tratamiento de una EDAI; por lo que la simbiosis entre SB y un prebiótico denominado fructooligosacárido (FOS), podría ser una alternativa para reducir costos y complicaciones. Una alternativa para medir el curso clínico de una EDAI en infantes es la escala BITTS, de reciente creación y fácil aplicación por clínicos. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue resumir la evidencia existente respecto del rol de losprobióticos y prebióticos en la terapéutica de de la EDAI.

SUMMARY: In Ecuador childhood acute diarrheal disease (CADD) constitutes a serious public health problem, representing the 2nd cause of infant morbidity and mortality in children under 5 years of age. Oral and parenteral hydration in hospitalized children, with standard treatments according to their degree of dehydration and weight loss, as well as preventive measures such as mandatory vaccination against rotavirus, have contributed to a decrease. Nevertheless, this childhood disease has still not been resolved. There are multiple contributing factors involved that prevent complete eradication of the disease Among these are socio-economic problems, education, early weaning and poor feeding practices, all of which continue to affect infants. Recent studies have proposed the use of probiotics that help reduce the problem and it has been suggested that Saccharomyces boulardii (SB), associated with a prebiotic, would reduce the treatment time of an CADD. Therefore, the symbiosis between the SB probiotic and a prebiotic called fructo- oligosaccharide (FOS) could be an alternative to reduce complications and reduce costs. An alternative to measure the clinical course of an CADD in infants is the BITTS scale, which was recently created and can easily be applied by clinicians. The aim of this manuscript was to summarize the existing evidence regarding the role of PROBIOTICS and prebiotics in the treatment of CADD.

Evaluation of Antibiotic Utilization Pattern During Acute Diarrheal Disease at Chefa-Robit Health Center, Kemissie, North East Amhara, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Despite the fact that the majority of the acute diarrheal diseases are viral in origin and self-limited, routine and injudicious antibiotic treatment is a common practice globally and more prevalent in Africa. Indeed, the irrational use of antibiotics has a detrimental effect on the issue of antibiotics resistance and associated healthcare costs. Accordingly, a health center-based cross-sectional study is mandatory and was conducted due to the common malpractice of antibiotics use. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic use pattern in the treatment of acute diarrheal disease in Chefa-robit health center, Kemissie, Northeastern Ethiopia. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the antibiotic utilization pattern for the treatment of acute diarrheal disease. Data was collected from 230 patients' record cards treated for acute diarrheal disease from January 2018 to December 2018 using structured questionnaires. The finding is presented using frequency distribution and percentages in tables as well as figures. RESULTS: Among the 230 patients, 49.60% were males and the rest were females. From the total, 172 of them were with watery type of diarrhea and 132 of them were prescribed antibiotics inappropriately out of which 77 were under 5 years. In addition, 27 patients were diagnosed with mucoid diarrhea and only eight of them were treated with antibiotics whereas 31 patients were with bloody type of diarrhea and 10 of them were not treated with antibiotics. Of the 230 cases, 161 (70%) patients received different types of antibiotics, and co-trimoxazole, amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin were the most prescribed antibiotics. CONCLUSION: The study revealed that there is a high level of inappropriate antibiotics use which may fuel the increased antimicrobial resistance and associated costs nationally as well as globally.

Prevalence of diarrheal diseases among schools with and without water, sanitation and hygiene programs in rural communities of north-eastern Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Diarrheal diseases are a significant cause of morbidity among school-aged children due to inadequate sanitation, lack of access to potable water and poor hygiene practices. Although the incidence of these illnesses can be reduced through improved water quality and the introduction of sanitation and hygiene programs in schools, there is limited evidence to demonstrate the impact of interventions in schools in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence and associated factors of diarrheal diseases in school-aged children between schools in Habru District, north-eastern Ethiopia that adopted water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions and those that did not. METHODS: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 640 randomly selected school children (160 from schools that adopted WASH interventions and 480 from schools that did not). Trained data collectors used a pre-tested structured questionnaire and an observational checklist to collect the data. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were computed to present the prevalence of diarrheal disease. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with diarrheal disease. RESULTS: The overall 2-week prevalence of diarrhea among school children was 30.5%. In WASH-implementing schools, the prevalence was 21.9%, significantly lower than in non-WASH-implementing schools (33.3%). In non-WASH-implementing schools, the odds of diarrheal diseases among students were significantly decreased in those students who used a clean school latrine, self-reported latrine utilization at home and were aware of the causes of diarrhea. Similarly, among students in WASH-implementing schools, self-reported latrine utilization at home, personal hygiene inspection and awareness of the causes of diarrhea were factors associated with decreasing odds of diarrhea occurrence. CONCLUSION: This study identified a high prevalence of a diarrheal disease among children in schools with no WASH interventions compared with schools that do have WASH interventions. This provides strong evidence for strengthening WASH programs in all rural schools to reduce the burden of diarrheal diseases.

Assessing 3 Outbreak Detection Algorithms in an Electronic Syndromic Surveillance System in a Resource-Limited Setting.

We evaluated the performance of X-bar chart, exponentially weighted moving average, and C3 cumulative sums aberration detection algorithms for acute diarrheal disease syndromic surveillance at naval sites in Peru during 2007-2011. The 3 algorithms' detection sensitivity was 100%, specificity was 97%-99%, and positive predictive value was 27%-46%.

Prevalence and associated factors of acute diarrhea among under-five children in Kamashi district, western Ethiopia: community-based study.

BACKGROUND: Diarrheal diseases are the second major cause of death among under-five children globally. It kills about 2.5 million people each year, with 60-70% of them being children under 5 years of age. It is also the second leading cause of morbidity in Ethiopia, with Benishangul Gumuz region bearing burden the highest with 169/1000 under five. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of acute diarrhea among under 5 years of age children in Kamashi district, western Ethiopia, 2018. METHOD: A community based cross-sectional study design was used. A two-stage systematic random sampling technique was used to select 8 kebeles and 717 study units. Binary logistic regression model to identify the association between dependent and independent variables. RESULTS: The prevalence of acute diarrhea was 14.5% (95% CI: (12.3, 17.3%)). Poor latrine hygiene (AOR = 11.48, 95%CI: 5.64-23.35)), had no handwashing facilities near latrines (AOR = 7.07, 95%CI:3.84-13.03), poor handwashing practice at a critical time (AOR = 5.92, 95%CI: 2.58-13.70), who stored water at home in Jerricans (AOR = 8.6, 95%CI: 1.51-48.84) and complementary feeding before 6 months (AOR = 6.49, 95%CI: 2.01-20.96) had a significant association with acute diarrhea. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of acute diarrhea was still high. Latrine cleanness, availability of handwashing facilities around latrine, hand washing practice at the critical time for handwashing, storage of water by "Jerrican" and time of initiation of supplementary food were the determinant factors of diarrheal diseases.

Características sociodemográficas y clínico-epidemiológicas de los pacientes adultos ingresados por diarrea del viajero en la Clínica Internacional Trinidad, 2015-2017 / Sociodemographic and clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients admitted for traveler's diarrhea to Trinidad International Clinic, 2015-2017

Introducción: La diarrea del viajero es causa frecuente de hospitalización en turistas internacionales. Objetivo: Describir las características sociodemográficas y clínico-epidemiológicas de los pacientes adultos ingresados por diarrea del viajero en la Clínica Internacional de Trinidad durante los años 2015 al 2017. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de los 699 pacientes adultos con diarrea del viajero que requirieron de ingreso en el periodo de estudio. Se revisaron sus historias clínicas para analizar la frecuencia en que estuvieron presentes algunas variables sociodemográficas y clínico-epidemiológicas. Para analizar los datos se utilizó la estadística descriptiva con distribución de frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: El grupo etario entre 19 y 40 años tuvo un 60,52 por ciento de pacientes afectados; el 58,23 por ciento en el sexo femenino, con una incidencia mayor en los meses de julio (12,88 por ciento) y febrero (12,44 por ciento). Los viajeros procedentes de países europeos representaron el 76,97 por ciento ; el 74,96 por ciento se hospedó en casas particulares. El 1,85 por ciento de los afectados presentaba antecedentes de enfermedad gastrointestinal; el 76,11 por ciento requirió de 1 a 6 h de observación, con deshidratación leve (59,66 por ciento) y moderada (21,75 por ciento). El vómito y las náuseas se presentaron en el 58,37 por ciento de los pacientes y en el 60,73 por ciento la causa no fue precisada. Conclusiones: Las variables sociodemográficas y clínico-epidemiológicas seleccionadas permitieron describir características de los pacientes adultos ingresados por diarrea del viajero. Se recomienda profundizar en el estudio para contribuir a su prevención y optimizar la atención(AU)

Introduction: Traveler's diarrhea is a frequent cause of hospitalization of international tourists. Objective: Describe the sociodemographic and clinical-epidemiological characteristics of adult patients admitted for traveler's diarrhea to Trinidad International Clinic in the period 2015-2017. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted of the 699 adult patients with traveler's diarrhea who required hospitalization in the study period. The patients' medical records were reviewed to analyze the frequency of some sociodemographic and clinical-epidemiological variables. Data analysis was based on descriptive statistics with frequency and percentage distribution. Results: 60.52 percent of the patients affected were in the 19-40 years age group, 58.23 percent were female, and the highest incidence was observed in the months of July (12.88 percent) and February (12.4 4 percent ). Travelers from European countries represented 76.97 percent, and 74.96 percent were staying in private dwellings. Of the patients affected, 1.85 percent had a history of gastrointestinal disease; 76.11percent required 1-6 hours of observation; dehydration was mild in 59.66 percent and moderate in 21.75 percent. Vomiting and nausea were present in 58.37 percent of the patients; in 60.73 percent the cause was not determined. Conclusions: The sociodemographic and clinical-epidemiological variables selected made it possible to characterize the adult patients admitted for traveler's diarrhea. Further research is recommended to contribute to the prevention this disease. Further research is recommended to contribute to the prevention this disease and optimize care(AU)

A community-wide acute diarrheal disease outbreak associated with drinking contaminated water from shallow bore-wells in a tribal village, India, 2017.

BACKGROUND: In 2016, India reported 709 acute diarrheal disease (ADD) outbreaks (> 25% of all outbreaks). Tribal populations are at higher risk with 27% not having accessibility to safe drinking water and 75% households not having toilets. On June 26, 2017 Pedda-Gujjul-Thanda, a tribal village reported an acute diarrheal disease (ADD) outbreak. We investigated to describe the epidemiology, identify risk factors, and provide evidence-based recommendations. METHODS: We defined a case as ≥3 loose stools within 24 h in Pedda-Gujjul-Thanda residents from June 24-30, 2017. We identified cases by reviewing hospital records and house-to-house survey. We conducted a retrospective cohort study and collected stool samples for culture. We assessed drinking water supply and sanitation practices and tested water samples for faecal-contamination. RESULTS: We identified 191 cases (65% females) with median age 36 years (range 4-80 years) and no deaths. The attack-rate (AR) was 37% (191/512). Downhill colonies (located on slope of hilly terrains of the village) reported higher ARs (56%[136/243], p < 0.001) than others (20%[55/269]). Symptoms included diarrhea (100%), fever (17%), vomiting (16%) and abdominal pain (13%). Drinking water from five shallow bore-wells located in downhill colonies was significantly associated with illness (RR = 4.6, 95%CI = 3.4-6.1 and population attributable fraction 61%). In multi-variate analysis, drinking water from the shallow bore-wells located in downhill colonies (aOR = 7.9, [95% CI =4.7-13.2]), illiteracy (aOR =6, [95% CI = 3.6-10.1]), good hand-washing practice (aOR = 0.4, [95%CI = 0.2-0.7]) and household water treatment (aOR = 0.3, [95%CI = 0.2-0.5]) were significantly associated with illness. Two stool cultures were negative for Vibrio cholerae. Heavy rainfall was reported from June 22-24. Five of six water samples collected from shallow bore-wells located in downhill colonies were positive for faecal contamination. CONCLUSION: An ADD outbreak with high attack rate in a remote tribal village was associated with drinking water from shallow downhill bore-wells, likely contaminated via runoff from open defecation areas after heavy rains. Based on our recommendations, immediate public health actions including repair of leakages at contaminated water sources and alternative supply of purified canned drinking water to families, and as long-term public health measures construction of house-hold latrines and piped-water supply initiated.

Prevalencia de patógenos causantes de enfermedad diarreica aguda en el área Metropolitana de Asunción y Central

Introducción: Las enfermedades diarreicas agudas (EDA) constituyen un problema de salud pública y son una de las causas más importantes de mortalidad y morbilidad en niños a nivel mundial. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de enteropatógenos causantes de EDA en el área metropolitana de Asunción y Central. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transverso. Se analizaron 743 muestras de heces diarreicas, en las cuales se investigó la presencia de Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli diarreigénicas y Rotavirus, utilizando técnicas de referencia. Resultados: En el 31,2% (232/743) de las muestras fue posible identificar al menos uno de los patógenos entéricos investigados, siendo las E. coli diarreigénicas fueron las bacterias identificadas con mayor frecuencia, seguido por Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. y en último lugar, Salmonella spp. Conclusión: La población más afectada corresponde a niños menores de 5 años. El principal patógeno identificado como agente causal de diarreas fueron las E. coli diarreigénicas en primer lugar, seguido por Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. y Salmonella spp. En algunas muestras se detectaron más de un patógeno entérico, encontrando incluso casos de coinfección con hasta cuatro patógenos diferentes.

Introduction: Acute diarrheal diseases (ADD) constitute a public health problem and are one of the most important causes of mortality and morbidity in children worldwide. Objective: To determine the prevalence of enteropathogens causing ADD in the metropolitan area of ​​Asunción and Central. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. 743 samples of diarrheic feces were analyzed, in which the presence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli diarreigenic and Rotavirus was investigated, using reference techniques. Results: In 31.2% (232/743) of the samples it was possible to identify at least one of the enteric pathogens investigated, being the diarrhenetic E. coli were the most frequently identified bacteria, followed by Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. and lastly, Salmonella spp. Conclusion: The most affected population corresponds to children under 5 years of age. The main pathogen identified as the causative agent of diarrhea was diarrigenic E. coli, followed by Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. and Salmonella spp. In some samples more than one enteric pathogen was detected, even finding cases of coinfection with up to four different pathogens.

Impact assessment of India's Swachh Bharat Mission - Clean India Campaign on acute diarrheal disease outbreaks: Yes, there is a positive change.

BACKGROUND: Enough evidence exists to attribute the occurrence of diarrheal disease outbreaks due to open defecation practice and unsafe sanitation methods. Open defecation enables pathogens such as virus, bacteria, and protozoa to infect humans by means of fecal-oral transmission methods through contaminated fluids, water, and fomites. To curb the malefic effects of open defecation, the Indian government had initiated pro sanitation program namely Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in 2014. SBM became the world's largest toilet-building initiative. More than 95 million toilets have been built across rural and urban India since the launch of this mission. This articulation summarizes the trend analysis of acute diarrheal disease (ADD) outbreaks over a 9-year period with emphasis on changes due to the building of toilets under the clean India campaign. METHODS: Weekly ADD outbreaks data from national-level Integrated Disease Surveillance Program between 2010 and 2018 were used for trend analysis along with the number of toilets constructed in rural areas under SBM from the year 2014. RESULTS: ADD outbreaks were analyzed from 2010 to 2018. The number of ADD outbreaks per year during the past 2 years (i.e., 2017 and 2018) of SBM regime was lesser than in any year during the investigation period. Seasonal variations during the months of May, June, July, and August account for 55%-60% of ADD outbreaks in any of the years; but for 2018, the total outbreaks were 46%, which is significantly lower than that of regular range of outbreaks in the peak season. CONCLUSION: The recent pattern of ADD outbreaks exhibits a declining rate.

Detección molecular de Escherichia coli diarreogénica en pacientes pediátricos con síndrome diarreico agudo en Paraguay / Molecular detection of diarrheogenic Escherichia coli in pediatric patients with acute diarrheal syndrome in Paraguay

La Escherichia coli diarreogénica (ECD) se ha clasificado con base en criterios clínicos, epidemiológicos y moleculares en cinco grupos, cada uno con factores de virulencia específicos. El objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia de ECD en pacientes pediátricos con enfermedad diarreica aguda del Laboratorio Central de Salud Publica en el periodo 2012- 2015. Se procesaron muestras de heces con síndrome diarreico agudo, provenientes de pacientes pediátricos, en los cuales se buscó algún gen de virulencia ECD utilizando métodos convencionales de siembra y screening molecular, mediante PCR múltiple con cebadores diseñados específicamente para amplificar los genes de virulencia elt, est, eae, stx, ipaH y aggR. Del total de muestras analizadas, 13% (180/1379) de las muestras presentó algún factor de virulencia compatible con algún patotipo ECD con mayor predominio en niños de 1 a 3 años. La frecuencia de los distintos patotipos fue la siguiente: 61 (34%) ETEC, 40 (22%) EAEC, 41 (23%) EPEC, 27 (15%) EIEC, 7 (4%) STEC y 3 (2%) ETEC/EAEC, 1 (0.5%) ETEC/EAEC/EIEC. El porcentaje de E. coli diarreogénicas detectado tiene similitud con lo reportado en otros países de la región, lo que nos indica que estos patógenos son parte importante de la etiología de la enfermedad diarreica aguda infecciosa en la población infantil en nuestro país. Se debe destacar que para el diagnóstico de las diferentes categorías ECD, es necesario disponer de un procedimiento diagnóstico específico dirigido a la detección de los factores de virulencia utilizando métodos moleculares o métodos inmunológicos.

Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) has been classified based on clinical, epidemiological and molecular criteria in five groups, each with specific virulence factors. The objective was to determine the prevalence of DEC in pediatric patients with acute diarrheal disease of the Central Laboratory of Public Health in the 2012-2015 period. A total of 1447 fecal samples of acute diarrheal syndrome from pediatric patients were processed in which a DEC virulence gene was searched using conventional screening and molecular screening methods with multiple PCR primers specifically designed to amplify virulence genes, st, lt, eae, stx, ipaH and aggR. From the total of analyzed samples, 13% (180/1379) of the samples presented some virulence factor compatible with a DEC pathogen type with greater predominance in children from 1 to 3 years. The frequency of the different pathogen types was as follows: 61 (34%) ETEC, 40 (22%) EAEC, 41 (23%) EPEC, 27 (15%) EIEC, 7 (4%) STEC and 3 (2% ETEC/EAEC, 1 (0.5%) ETEC/EAEC/EIEC. The percentage of DEC detected is similar to that reported in other countries of the region, which indicates that these pathogens are an important part of the etiology of acute infectious diarrheal disease in children in our country. It should be noted that for the diagnosis of different DEC categories, it is necessary to have a specific diagnostic procedure aimed at the detection of virulence factors using molecular methods or immunodiagnostic methods.

Enfermedad diarreica aguda por rotavirus en pacientes ingresados en un servicio de gastroenterología pediátrica / Acute diarrheal disease caused by rotavirus in patients admitted in a pediatric gastroenterology service

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y transversal de 72 pacientes menores de 18 meses de edad con enfermedad diarreica aguda por rotavirus de tipo A, quienes fueron ingresados en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Infantil Docente Sur "Dr. Antonio María Béguez César" de Santiago de Cuba, durante el período comprendido de marzo del 2012 a diciembre del 2013, con vistas a caracterizarles según algunas variables clínicas, epidemiológicas y terapéuticas. En el análisis estadístico se aplicaron el cálculo porcentual y la prueba de la Χ² (con un nivel de significación igual a 0,05), que revelaron un predominio del grupo etario de 12-18 meses, de los estilos de vida regular y malo, así como de la procedencia rural y la lactancia artificial. Asimismo fueron más frecuentes el cuadro sintomático de diarrea, vómito y fiebre, y la complicación deficiencia transitoria de la enzima lactasa.

A descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional study of 72 patients younger than 18 months of age with acute diarrheal disease caused by type A rotavirus who were admitted in the Gastroenterology Service of "Dr. Antonio María Béguez Caesar" Southern Teaching Pediatric Hospital in Santiago de Cuba was carried out, during the period of March, 2012 to December, 2013, with the aim characterizing them according to some clinical, epidemic and therapeutic variables. In the statistical analysis the percentage calculation and the Chi square test were applied (with a significance level similar to 0,05), that revealed a prevalence of the age group 12-18 months, of the lifestyles middle and poor, as well as of the rural origin and artificial nursing. Also the symptomatic pattern of diarrhea, vomit and fever, and the complication of transitory deficiency of the enzyme lactase were most frequent.

The role of human adenoviruses type 41 in acute diarrheal disease in Minas Gerais after rotavirus vaccination

Abstract Human adenovirus species F (HAdV-F) type 40 and 41 are commonly associated with acute diarrheal disease (ADD) across the world. Despite being the largest state in southeastern Brazil and having the second largest number of inhabitants, there is no information in the State of Minas Gerais regarding the role of HAdV-F in the etiology of ADD. This study was performed to determine the prevalence, to verify the epidemiological aspects of infection, and to characterize the strains of human adenoviruses (HAdV) detected. A total of 377 diarrheal fecal samples were obtained between January 2007 and August 2011 from inpatient and outpatient children of age ranging from 0 to 12 years. All samples were previously tested for rotavirus, norovirus, and astrovirus, and 314 of 377 were negative. The viral DNA was extracted, amplified using the polymerase chain reaction and the HAdV-positive samples were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-square test (p < 0.05), considering two conditions: the total of samples tested (377) and the total of negative samples for the remaining viruses tested (314). The overall prevalence of HAdV was 12.47% (47/377); and in 76.60% (36/47) of the positive samples, this virus was the only infectious agent detected. The phylogenetic analysis of partial sequences of 32 positive samples revealed that they all clustered with the HAdV-F type 41. The statistical analysis showed that there was no correlation between the onset of the HAdV infection and the origin of the samples (inpatients or outpatients) in the two conditions tested: the total of samples tested (p = 0.598) and the total of negative samples for the remaining viruses tested (p = 0.614). There was a significant association in the occurrence of infection in children aged 0–12 months for the condition 1 (p = 0.030) as well as condition 2 (p = 0.019). The occurrence of infections due to HAdV did not coincide with a pattern of seasonal distribution. These data indicate the significant involvement of HAdV-F type 41 in the etiology of ADD in Minas Gerais, which demonstrates the importance of other viral agents in the development of the disease after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine immunization.

The role of human adenoviruses type 41 in acute diarrheal disease in Minas Gerais after rotavirus vaccination.

Human adenovirus species F (HAdV-F) type 40 and 41 are commonly associated with acute diarrheal disease (ADD) across the world. Despite being the largest state in southeastern Brazil and having the second largest number of inhabitants, there is no information in the State of Minas Gerais regarding the role of HAdV-F in the etiology of ADD. This study was performed to determine the prevalence, to verify the epidemiological aspects of infection, and to characterize the strains of human adenoviruses (HAdV) detected. A total of 377 diarrheal fecal samples were obtained between January 2007 and August 2011 from inpatient and outpatient children of age ranging from 0 to 12 years. All samples were previously tested for rotavirus, norovirus, and astrovirus, and 314 of 377 were negative. The viral DNA was extracted, amplified using the polymerase chain reaction and the HAdV-positive samples were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-square test (p<0.05), considering two conditions: the total of samples tested (377) and the total of negative samples for the remaining viruses tested (314). The overall prevalence of HAdV was 12.47% (47/377); and in 76.60% (36/47) of the positive samples, this virus was the only infectious agent detected. The phylogenetic analysis of partial sequences of 32 positive samples revealed that they all clustered with the HAdV-F type 41. The statistical analysis showed that there was no correlation between the onset of the HAdV infection and the origin of the samples (inpatients or outpatients) in the two conditions tested: the total of samples tested (p=0.598) and the total of negative samples for the remaining viruses tested (p=0.614). There was a significant association in the occurrence of infection in children aged 0-12 months for the condition 1 (p=0.030) as well as condition 2 (p=0.019). The occurrence of infections due to HAdV did not coincide with a pattern of seasonal distribution. These data indicate the significant involvement of HAdV-F type 41 in the etiology of ADD in Minas Gerais, which demonstrates the importance of other viral agents in the development of the disease after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine immunization.