Prevalence and characterization of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales among inpatients and outpatients in Skikda, Algeria.

INTRODUCTION: The spread of Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPEs) has become a significant concern in Algeria, with limited data available on their presence in community settings. This research investigated the resistance mechanisms of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CREs) collected from hospitals and the community in Skikda city, Algeria, between December 2020 and June 2022. METHODOLOGY: The study collected Enterobacterales strains resistant to ertapenem from inpatient and outpatient populations. An automated system was used for identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. ß-lactamase production was evaluated through phenotypic tests and confirmed by standard PCR. Lastly, the carbapenemase genes were sequenced using the Sanger method. RESULTS: 17 CRE were isolated, with 9 from inpatients and 8 from outpatients. These isolates belonged to four species: Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 8), Escherichia coli (n = 6), Enterobacter cloacae (n = 1), and Proteus mirabilis (n = 1). Of 15 CPEs, 11 were extended-spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBLs) positive, 5 were plasmid-mediated cephalosporinase (AmpC) positive, and 1 harbored all three ß-lactamases. All metallo-ß-lactamase-producing strains carried the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase gene (blaNDM), including 5 NDM-1 and 7 NDM-5 variants. The presence of blaOXA-48 and blaOXA-244 was observed in one outpatient strain each. NDM was associated with Cefotaximase Munich (CTX-M) ESBL in 8 isolates, while Cephamycinase (CMY) was detected in 3 NDM-5-producing E. coli. CONCLUSIONS: This research highlights the rising prevalence of carbapenemases NDM-1 and NDM-5 among inpatients and outpatients and supports the notion that OXA-48 is becoming increasingly widespread beyond Algerian hospitals.

Who was the first to visualize the malaria parasite?

Human malaria, an ancient tropical disease, is caused by infection with protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium and is transmitted by female mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles. Our understanding of human malaria parasites began officially in 1880 with their discovery in the blood of malaria patients by Charles Louis Alphonse Lavéran (1845-1922), a French army officer working in Algeria. A claim for priority was made by Philipp Friedrich Hermann Klencke (1813-1881) in 1843, who wrote a chapter entitled: "Marvellous parallelism between the manifestations of vertigo and the presence of animalcule vacuoles in living blood." We should not lose sight of this old controversy, which is rarely mentioned in historical reviews on malaria.

Molecular characterization and haplotypes of hydatid cyst isolates collected from humans and ruminants in Setif Province (northeast of Algeria) based on mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (mt-CO1) gene sequences.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, caused by the metacestode of Echinococcus granulosus. The disease has significant health and economic impacts worldwide, particularly in endemic areas. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hydatid cysts in ruminants (cattle and sheep) (n = 2060) from the Setif Province of Algeria using microscopy. The results showed that hydatid cysts were detected in 9.6% (198/2060) of ruminants, with a higher prevalence in cattle (16.8%; 56/333) compared to sheep (8.2%; 142/1727). Molecular techniques were used to analyze a subset of animals consisting of 30 sheep and 4 cattle. Specifically, a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (mt-CO1) gene was sequenced and compared to sequences from seven humans from the same region. The results indicated that all isolates were identified as E. granulosus sensu stricto. Haplotype analysis identified 19 E. granulosus s.s. haplotypes arranged like a star, with the dominant haplotype (Hap04) at the center. Hap04 has been assigned a total of 17 positives, including positives from sheep, cattle, and two humans. This study is noteworthy for being the first to use a molecular approach to human and ruminant echinococcosis in Setif, a significant breeding region in Algeria.

Molecular survey of flea-borne pathogens in fleas associated with carnivores from Algeria and an Artificial Neural Network-based risk analysis of flea-borne diseases.

As ectoparasites and efficient vectors of pathogens fleas constitute a source of nuisance for animals as well as a major issue for public health in Algeria. In this study, a molecular survey has been conducted to investigate the presence of pathogens in fleas infesting domestic and wild carnivores in the central north and eastern north and south of Algeria. The molecular screening that targeted Acanthocheilonema reconditum, Bartonella spp.,and Dipylidium caninum, was supplemented by a comprehensive analysis of risk factors related to flea-borne pathogens, drawing data from all documentation across multiple languages and sources from Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. In the current study, several Bartonella spp. 56/430 (13.02%) and Dipylidium caninum 3/430 (0.7%) were identified. The sequencing results revealed 5/23 (21.74%) B. clarridgeiae, 3/23 (13.04%) B. henselae, and 3/23 (13.04%) B. vinsonii. The two haplotypes, H1 and H2, of D. caninum were identified for the first time in North Africa. The results of the Artificial Neural Network risk analyses unveiled that the prevalence of pathogens and the presence of host generalist fleas as well as the vectorial competence are the most determinant risk factors of flea-borne diseases in Maghreb.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies in dairy cattle herds using bulk tank milk analysis in Kabylia area, north Algeria.

Coxiella burnetii, or Q fever agent, has notable implications for human and livestock health. Infections in cattle primarily manifest through reproductive issues where infected animals shed the bacterium in birth fluids, placental tissues, and milk, serving as potential sources of transmission. Bovine herds become reservoirs, contributing to the environmental contamination of farming areas. Comprehensive studies on the prevalence, transmission routes, and associated risk factors among cattle contribute to the development of effective control strategies, ultimately safeguarding both livestock and public health.Here we determine the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii antibodies against in dairy cattle farms from Kabylia (northern Algeria) and identify the associated risk factors. Bulk tank milk samples from 184 farms were analyzed by indirect ELISA technique, 49 of them were tested positive which corresponds to a prevalence rate of 26.63% (95% CI 20.25-33.01%). Multivariate analysis by logistic regression showed that the risk factors associated with detection of anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies are: cohabitation of cattle with small ruminants(OR = 3.74 95% CI [1.41-8.92]), exposure to prevailing winds (OR = 5.12 95% CI [2.11-13.45]), and the veterinarian visits frequency(OR = 5.67 95% CI [2.55-13.60]). These findings underscore the susceptibility of dairy cattle to Q fever in the Kabylia region, highlighting practices that pose risks. We recommend the implementation of hygienic measures and adherence to proper farming conditions to mitigate the transmission of Q fever and reduce the associated zoonotic risk.

A Survey on Trypanosoma evansi (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) Infection in Domestic Animals in a Surra Endemic Area of Southern Algeria.

Background: Trypanosoma (T.) evansi infection is endemic in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedaries) of southern Algeria. Materials and Methods: In order to assess the presence of T. evansi in other domestic animals living together with dromedary camels, a study was conducted in the wilayate of Béchar, El Bayadh, Ouargla and Tamanrasset, between 2015 and 2017. Authorisation to conduct the survey was obtained from the Direction des Services Vétérinaires (DSV, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries). A total of 190 animals were sampled, including 42 cattle (Bos taurus), 11 dogs (Canis familiaris), 44 horses (Equus caballus), 3 donkeys (Equus asinus) and 1 mule, 49 goats (Capra hircus) and 40 sheep (Ovis aries). These animals were examined by parasitological (Giemsa stained thin smear, GST), serological (card agglutination test for trypanosomosis (CATT/T. evansi), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay/Variant Surface Glycoprotein/Rode Trypanozoon antigen type 1.2 [ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2], immune trypanolysis [TL]) and molecular tests (T. evansi type A specific RoTat 1.2 PCR). Results and Conclusions: The CATT/T. evansi was positive in 10/42 cattle, 0/11 dogs, 2/48 equids, 27/49 goats and 15/40 sheep. On the other hand, 20/38 cattle, 1/9 dogs, 21/42 equids, 17/44 goats and 31/39 sheep were positive in ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2. However, no single animal was positive in TL. In addition, the T. evansi parasite could not be demonstrated by either GST or RoTat 1.2 PCR in any of the examined animals. This may suggest cross-reactions of CATT/T. evansi and ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2 with other pathogenic or commensal trypanosome species such as T. vivax or other parasites. Based on these data, in particular taking into account the high specificity of the TL for T. evansi type A, this study does not support the hypothesis that T. evansi circulates in the studied domestic animal species and that they would act as reservoirs for the parasite that causes trypanosomosis in dromedary camels.

Access to kidney transplantation for patients with end-stage renal failure in Maghreb countries: state of art and recommendations / Accès à la transplantation rénale des patients en insuffisance rénale chronique terminale dans les pays du Maghreb : état des lieux et recommandations

We present an overview of kidney transplantation activity in the Maghreb countries, based on data from the 9th Colloque France-Maghreb (Paris, May 20 and 21, 2022). For Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia, the incidence of end stage renal failure is respectively 120, 130 and 130 per million inhabitants, its prevalence 626, 900 and 833 per million inhabitants and the part of patients with a functional graft of 10.3, 1.8 et 8.5% with an annual number of transplants of 6.5, 0.8 and 8.7 per million inhabitants. Living donor transplants account for 99% of transplants in Algeria, 93% in Morocco and 80% in Tunisia. In conclusion, access to transplantation remains low in the Maghreb countries. All the modalities (living donor with enlargement of the circle of donors, deceased donors) must be further developed. Recommendations were issued to support activity.

Nous présentons un état des lieux de l'activité de transplantation rénale dans les pays du Maghreb à partir des données du 9e Colloque France-Maghreb (Paris, 20 et 21 mai 2022). Pour l'Algérie, le Maroc et la Tunisie, l'incidence de l'insuffisance rénale chronique terminale est respectivement de 120, 130 et 130 par million d'habitants, sa prévalence de 626, 900 et 833 par million d'habitants et la part des patients porteurs d'un greffon fonctionnel est de 10,3, 1,8 et 8,5 % avec un nombre annuel de transplantations de 6,5, 0,9 et 7,7 par million d'habitants. La transplantation avec donneur vivant représente 99 % des transplantations en Algérie, 93 % au Maroc et 80 % en Tunisie. En conclusion, l'accès à la transplantation reste faible dans les pays du Maghreb. Toutes les modalités (donneur vivant avec élargissement du cercle des donneurs, donneurs décédés) doivent être développées. Des recommandations ont été émises pour soutenir cette activité.

Molecular detection and MST genotyping of Coxiella burnetii in ruminants and stray dogs and cats in Northern Algeria.

Aiming at identifying the reservoir and contamination sources of Coxiella burnetii in Northern Algeria, we investigated the molecular presence of the bacterium in 599 samples (blood, placenta, liver, spleen, and uterus) collected from cattle, sheep, dogs and cats. Our qPCR results showed that 15/344 (4.36%) blood samples and six/255 (2.35%) organ specimens were positive for C. burnetii. In cattle, three (4%) blood and liver samples were positive. In sheep, one blood (1.19%) and 3 (8.57%) placenta samples were positive. At the Algiers dog pound, 8 (10%) and 3 (5%) blood samples were qPCR positivein dogs and cats, respectively. In addition, MST genotyping showed that MST 33 was present in cattle and sheep, MST 20 in cattle,andMST 21 in dogs and cats.

Excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Algeria: The case of Oran Province / Surmortalité pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 en Algérie : le cas de la wilaya d'Oran

Objective: This study aimed to estimate excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Oran between March 2020 and December 2022. Method: Monthly all-cause data used to estimate excess mortality were modeled against the pre-pandemic period (January 2011-February 2020). Excess mortality between March 2020 and December 2022 was estimated using a quasi-Poisson regression. Analyses were stratified by age group. Results: From March 2020 to December 2022, there was a 30% excess mortality rate, corresponding to an average of 112 monthly excess deaths. Observed numbers of deaths were higher than expected for the age groups 20­39, 40­59, 60­79, and 80 and above. The age group 0­19 did not show excess mortality. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a significant increase in all-cause mortality in Oran. Our results highlight the importance of monitoring all-cause excess mortality as an indicator of the disease burden in situations such as the current pandemic.

Objectif: Cette étude avait pour objectif d'estimer la surmortalité pendant la pandémie de la COVID-19 à Oran entre mars 2020 et décembre 2022. Méthodes: Les données mensuelles toutes causes confondues utilisées pour estimer la surmortalité ont été modélisées par rapport à la période pré-pandémique (janvier 2011 à février 2020). La surmortalité entre mars 2020 et décembre 2022 a été estimée à l'aide d'une régression de quasi-Poisson. Les analyses ont été stratifiées par groupes d'âge. Résultats: De mars 2020 à décembre 2022, le taux de surmortalité était de 30 %, correspondant à une moyenne de 112 décès excédentaires mensuels. Le nombre de décès observés était plus élevé que prévu pour les groupes d'âge 20-39 ans, 40-59 ans, 60-79 ans et 80 ans et plus. Le groupe d'âge 0-19 ans n'a pas montré de surmortalité. Conclusion: La pandémie de COVID-19 a été associée à une augmentation significative de la mortalité toutes causes confondues à Oran. Nos résultats mettent en évidence l'importance de surveiller la surmortalité toutes causes confondues en tant qu'indicateur de la charge de morbidité dans des situations telles que la pandémie actuelle.

Prevalence and socio-economic determinants of consanguineous marriages in Algeria according to Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2019 data (MICS6).

Consanguineous marriage is still a customary social phenomenon in Arab-Muslim communities. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of consanguineous marriages in the Algerian population and to identify the socio-economic determinants associated with the practice of this form of union. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study included data for 21141 ever-married women aged 15-49 years, from the MICS6 Algeria (Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey database), conducted in 2019. Using a logistic regression model, we assessed the influence of socio-economic and geographical determinants on the practice of consanguineous marriages. The prevalence of consanguinity was 23.0% (95% CI: 22.4-23.6). According to multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, low level of education, early age at marriage (15-19; 20-30 years), rural area of residence, all geographical regions except the north-western territorial programming space, economic activity, and the lowest wealth index were the main determinants that assist in the prevalence of high rates of consanguineous marriages in Algeria. Considering these explanatory variables could help national health policy decision-makers to create and implement national preventive action plans that are intended alter behaviors attitudes toward preference of consanguineous marriages and, thus, reduce the burden of genetic disorders or congenital abnormalities associated with consanguinity.

Characterisation of field tropical Theileriosis and associated risk factors in two bioclimatic areas of Algeria.

Tropical theileriosis (TT) is a tick-borne disease caused by Theileria annulata and commonly infects cattle in tropical and subtropical regions, including Algeria. It is a significant obstacle to cattle breeding programs established to improve production in Algeria. The present investigation aimed to estimate the current molecular prevalence, risk factors, and genetic characterisation of T. annulata in two bioclimatic areas of Algeria. In a cross-sectional study, 679 blood samples (629 from healthy cattle selected on farms and 50 from diseased cattle identified by veterinarians) were collected from the humid (n = 307+50) and semi-arid (n = 322) areas and screened by blood smear examination followed by polymerase chain reaction targeting cytochrome oxidase subunit 3 (cox III) mitochondrial and the 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) genes for Theileria spp. Seventy-six positive samples (56 clinically healthy and 20 with clinical signs) for Theileria spp. were confirmed to be T. annulata by the merozoïtes surface antigen-1 (Tams1) gene showing a rate of 8.9 % in clinically healthy and 40.0 % in suspected cattle. Among the 307 bloods samples collected from healthy cattle in the humid area, 25 cattle (8.1 %) were positive for T. annulata. Of the 322 healthy cattle from the semi-arid site, 31 (9.6 %) were carriers of T. annulata DNA. In subclinical population, demographic and environmental parameters analysis indicated that T. annulata infection was higher in adult crossbred cattle raised in the intensive and semi-intensive system (P<0.001). The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, breed, farming system, and bioclimatic area are potential risk factors for T. annulata infection in cattle (P<0.05). Multiple alignments of cox III sequences of T. annulata showed high heterogeneity with 25 polymorphic sites (nucleotide diversity π = 0.02402), resulting in two haplotypes with a low genetic diversity index (Hd) of 0.533. The 18S rRNA sequence alignment revealed only one T. annulata genotype with 100 % identity to the strains isolated from cattle and ticks in Mediterranean and Asian countries. Our preliminary results will serve as a basis for further studies on the genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of T. annulata.

Knowledge, awareness and practice regarding cystic echinococcosis in Algeria: A cross-sectional survey among the general population.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasitic zoonotic disease with a widespread occurrence, particularly in developing countries. Known as a neglected disease, it is highly prevalent in Algeria with a significant public health concern and substantial financial losses. The objectives of this study was to explore knowledge and awareness and practice of the Algerian population regarding this disease. A cross-sectional online-based survey was conducted between July 15 and September 25, 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire targeting all Algerian people of more than 18 years of age. Out of the total respondents, 87.7% have ever heard of CE with livestock rearing connection (OR:2.550, CI 95% OR: 1.108-5.870) and educational level (OR:3.826, CI 95% OR: 1.599-9.156) as the main factors associated with the level of awareness. Regarding their knowledge, results showed dispersing notions about the disease. The majority (84.8%) were aware of the zonnotic nature of the disease while only 49.6% knew that CE is caused by parasitic disease. Also, 83.3% were knowledgeable of the role of contaminated offal in the contamination of dogs which are considered as the main source of contamination of humans (65.19%). Regarding their practices, even home slaughtering was common (92.96%), some positive attitudes were prevalent where most of the participants declared washing vegetable before consumption (97.41%) and washing their hands after touching a dog (91.11%). Also, 68.29% among the dog owners declared that deworming their pets. This study has revealed that despite the high level of awareness and some positive attitudes, the level of knowledge about CE among the Algerian public has shown some gaps related to the epidemiology of the disease. These results could be helpful for the awareness campaigns programmers in their missions through focusing their efforts on raising the level of knowledge for the items that have shown a lack of understand which will be of great importance in the strategy of CE elimination.

Welfare evaluation of dairy cows reared in the East of Algeria.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the welfare status of dairy cows raised in local conditions through health criteria. Important health problems have been identified as well as their effect on the milk yield. One hundred seven farms in eastern Algeria were visited. Data on health, productivity, and management practices were collected. Clinical examination of 1210 dairy cows was conducted to assess health scores. The relationship between herd health and milk yield was investigated using multiple linear regression models. The average milk yield per cow was 16.1 kg/day, and the average prevalence of thin cows (body condition score ≤ 2) was 35.1%. The cow dirtiness was a sign of poor facility hygiene, with 24.3% of cows had dirty udders, 44.5% had dirty flanks/upper legs, and 59.6% had dirty hind legs. The mean prevalence of clinical lameness (locomotion score ≥ 3) and severe lameness (locomotion score ≥ 4) were 24.7% and 8.7%, respectively. The prevalence of hocks, knees, and neck injuries (score > 1) with wound and/or swelling ranged from 0 to 46.2%, 0 to 71.4%, and 0 to 14.3%, respectively. The clinical examination showed a percentage of cows with mastitis of 15.4%, diarrhea of 6.9%, cough of 3.2%, nasal discharge of 7.5%, and ocular discharge of 1.8%. Thus, the milk yield had associated with severe lameness, mastitis, thinness, and dystocia. In conclusion, the welfare indicators in this study reflect the serious health problems in dairy farming which influence the expression of the cow genetic potential.

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry identification and antifungal susceptibility testing of yeasts causing vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) in Tebessa (Northeastern Algeria).

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) alongside with antifungal resistance are becoming a major clinical problem in recent years. A prospective study aimed to evaluate the diversity of yeast strains associated with VVC in Tebessa city (northeastern Algeria) and investigate their susceptibility patterns. Over two months, yeasts were isolated on chromogenic medium from twenty-nine non-pregnant women with symptomatic VVC. The isolates were characterized with MALDI-TOF MS and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed for nine antifungal drugs using SensititreTM YeastOneTM YO10. Twenty-nine non-duplicate yeasts were recovered and the mass spectrometry profiles showed reliable scores of which four genera and five different species were identified. Candida albicans accounted for 65.5 % (n = 19) of the total number of isolates, followed by C. glabrata with 20.7% (n = 6). For the remaining non-albicans Candida (NCA) species, Kluyveromyces marxianus with 6.9% (n = 2), Pichia kudriavzevii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae with one isolate each. The antifungal susceptibilities showed wild type MICs of C. albicans to amphotericin B, azoles and echinocandins. In addition, four C. albicans isolates were resistant to flucytosine. For C. glabrata isolates, 100% non-WT phenotype was found for both posaconazole and itraconazole. For the very first time, the obtained outcomes bring out new data concerning the epidemiology of yeasts causing VVC in Algeria and their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles.

Equine influenza outbreak in Eastern of Algeria in 2021: The first introduction of Florida Clade 1 to Maghreb area.

We have performed an equine influenza (EI) serological study of the equine population in Algeria by testing 298 serum samples collected between February and August 2021 from 5 provinces. The results were obtained performing an NP-ELISA. Our results revealed that 49.3% (147/298) samples positive for antibodies to EI (H3N8). During this study and after a gap of one decade an outbreak of EI was reported in Algeria in the first week of March 2021. The disease was confirmed by virus detection from the nasal swabs (n = 39) by qRT-PCR and by identifying 5 EI seroconversion. The virus sequences were identified as H3N8 by sequencing the haemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes. Alignment of HA1 amino acid sequence confirmed that viruses belong to Clade 1 of the Florida sublineage in the American lineage. This study indicate the first detection of FC1 strain of EIV in Maghreb area.

Molecular detection and associated risk factors of Anaplasma marginale, A. ovis and A. platys in sheep from Algeria with evidence of the absence of A. phagocytophilum.

Anaplasma species are obligate intracellular rickettsial pathogens that cause significant diseases in animals and humans. Despite their importance, limited information on Anaplasma infections in Algeria has been published thus far. This study aimed to assess the infection rate, characterize Anaplasma species, and identify associated risk factors in selected sheep farms across Oum El Bouaghi region in Algeria. In 2018, we collected 417 blood samples from sheep (Ovis aries) and performed molecular characterization of Anaplasma species infecting these animals. This characterization involved the use of 16S rRNA, msp2, rpoB, and msp5 genes, which were analyzed through nested PCR, qPCR, cPCR, DNA sequencing, and subsequent phylogenetic analysis. Our findings revealed infection rates of 12.7 % for Anaplasma species detected, with Anaplasma ovis at 10.8 %, Anaplasma marginale at 1.7 %, and Anaplasma platys at 0.2 %. Interestingly, all tested animals were found negative for Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Statistical analyses, including the Chi-square test and Fisher exact test, failed to establish any significant relationships (p > 0.05) between A. ovis and A. platys infections and variables such as age, sex, sampling season, and tick infestation level. However, A. marginale infection exhibited a significant association with age (p < 0.05), with a higher incidence observed in lambs (5.2 %) compared to other age groups. Remarkably, this study represents the first molecular detection of A. platys and A. marginale in Algerian sheep. These findings suggest that Algerian sheep may serve as potential reservoirs for these pathogens. This research contributes valuable insights into the prevalence and characteristics of Anaplasma infections in Algerian sheep populations, emphasizing the need for further investigation and enhanced surveillance to better understand and manage these diseases.

[Hydatid cyst sampling by FTA Card method for characterizing Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato in Algeria. Preliminary results]. / Prélèvement des kystes hydatiques par la méthode FTA Card pour la caractérisation moléculaire d'Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato en Algérie. Résultats préliminaires.

Introduction and objectives: Cystic echinococcosis is highly endemic in Algeria and constitutes a major socio-economic problem. Typing the species of the Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato complex circulating in cattle requires the use of a hydatid cyst sampling method adapted to difficult field conditions (high heat and humidity, long transport time). The FTA Card method currently constitutes an effective means of preserving biological samples before their molecular analysis. In the present study, the FTA Card method was used in the collection of hydatid cysts to identify the species of E. granulosus sensu lato circulating in ruminants (intermediate hosts) in eastern Algeria. Material and methods: A PCR was carried out for 41 samples of hydatid cysts taken from six slaughterhouses in eastern Algeria, targeting the cox1 mitochondrial gene. PCR products were visualized by electrophoresis in a 1% agarose gel. Results and conclusion: The results of the molecular analysis of all hydatid cyst samples confirmed the presence of E. granulosus sensu stricto in sheep, cattle and camels. The ubiquitous nature of the G1 genotype has been demonstrated. The use of FTA Card sampling is an efficient and simple method to obtain a biological sample in order to characterize the species of E. granulosus sensu lato in Algeria. The good preservation of the DNA in this matrix will make it easier to obtain new molecular data from difficult regions. The identification of the species of the E. granulosus sensu lato complex involved in the biological cycle is an essential prerequisite for the implementation of control measures, since different host species participate in their evolutionary cycle. The characterization of E. granulosus genotypes is essential to define an appropriate control strategy against cystic echinococcosis.

Sex-specific-evaluation of metabolic syndrome prevalence in Algeria: insights from the 2016-2017 non-communicable diseases risk factors survey.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a core driver of cardiovascular diseases (CVD); however, to date, gender differences in MetS prevalence and its components have not been assessed in the Algerian adult general population. This study aimed to determine the gender differences in MetS prevalence and its components, in the general population of Algeria. Secondary analysis was performed on data from the Algerian 2016-2017 non-communicable disease risk factor survey. MetS was determined according to the harmonized Joint Interim Statement criteria. A Poisson regression model based on Generalised Estimating Equations was used to estimate the adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) for the sex-specific factors associated with MetS. Overall, the prevalence of MetS was 34.0% (95% CI 32.4-35.6). MetS prevalence in women and men was 39.1% (95% CI 37.0-41.3) and 29.1% (95% CI 27.2-31.2), respectively. The most frequent triad was the clustering of abdominal obesity with low HDL-cholesterol and high blood pressure among women (8.9%; 95% CI [8.0-10.0]) and low HDL-cholesterol with high blood pressure and hyperglycaemia among men (5.2%; 95% CI [4.3-6.3]). Increasing age (aPR 3.21 [2.35-4.39] in men and aPR 3.47 [2.86-4.22] in women), cohabitation (aPR 1.14 [1.05-1.24]), women residing in urban areas (aPR 1.13 [1.01-1.26]), men with higher educational levels (aPR 1.39 [1.14-1.70]), and men with insufficient physical activity (aPR 1.16 [1.05-1.30]) were associated with higher risk of MetS. In this population-based study, one in three Algerian adults had MetS, and key components including abdominal obesity, low HDL-cholesterol, and high blood pressure, are very common, especially in women. Reinforcing interventions for weight management targeting married women living in urban areas and improving sufficient physical activity in men with higher socioeconomic status could provide maximal health gains and stem the CVD epidemic in Algeria.

Atypical hemolytic and uremic syndrome in Algeria: diagnostic difficulties and therapeutic constraints / Syndrome hémolytique et urémique atypique en Algérie : difficultés diagnostiques et contraintes thérapeutiques

Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) is a systemic disease due to dysregulation of the alternate complement pathway, mortality is estimated at 10% and more than 50% of patients progress to end-stage renal disease. The aim of this study was to summarize the clinical data and biological results as well as the evolution and management of patients with aHUS seen over a period of four years in one specialized department in Algeria. Our study was observational and longitudinal. The inclusion criteria were: the clinical-biological triad of aHUS and age ≤ 16 years. The type of treatment, the presence of complement mutation or anti-complement factor autoantibodies were not eligibility conditions. On inclusion and every six months, demographic data, clinical and biological history and results after treatment were collected prospectively. Our workforce consisted of 21 children with aHUS. Thirteen patients benefited from a complement study; among them, 7 had complement abnormalities. Eleven children had familial HUS; among them 8 died and 6 were less than one year old. Plasma exchanges were performed in two children. Six patients received eculizumab, with an average age of 3.6 years. After the acute phase, 9 children recovered their kidney function, one child had developed a chronic kidney disease (CKD), and 11 died, among them 8 belong to aHUS families. Fifty percent of deaths occurred in the first 3 months. At 2 years of evolution, out of 7 children having reached this stage, five had renal sequelae and four of them had CKD. The severe prognosis of this disease makes early diagnosis and treatment essential.

Le syndrome hémolytique et urémique atypique (SHUa) est une maladie systémique due à une dérégulation de la voie alterne du complément. La mortalité est estimée à 10 % et plus de 50 % des patients évoluent vers l'insuffisance rénale terminale. Le but de la présente étude était de résumer les données cliniques et les résultats biologiques ainsi que l'évolution et la prise en charge des patients atteints de SHUa vus sur une durée de quatre ans dans un service spécialisé en Algérie. Notre étude était observationnelle et longitudinale. Les critères d'inclusion étaient : la triade clinico-biologique du SHUa et l'âge ≤ 16 ans. Le type de traitement, la présence de mutation du complément ou d'auto-anticorps anti-facteur du complément ne constituaient pas des conditions d'éligibilité. À l'inclusion et tous les six mois, les données démographiques, l'histoire clinique, biologique et les résultats après traitement étaient collectés prospectivement. Notre effectif était formé de 21 enfants avec SHUa. Treize patients ont bénéficié d'une étude du complément ; parmi eux sept avaient des anomalies du complément. Onze enfants avaient un SHU familial ; parmi eux huit sont décédés et six avaient moins d'un an. Des échanges plasmatiques ont été réalisés chez deux enfants. Six patients ont bénéficié d'éculizumab, avec un âge moyen de 3,6 ans. Après la phase aiguë, neuf enfants avaient récupéré leur fonction rénale, un enfant avait gardé une insuffisance rénale chronique (IRC), et 11 enfants étaient décédés dont huit appartenaient à des familles de SHUa. Cinquante pourcent des décès étaient survenus durant les trois premiers mois. À deux ans d'évolution, sur sept enfants ayant atteint ce stade, cinq avaient des séquelles rénales et quatre d'entre eux étaient en IRC. Le pronostic sévère de cette maladie rend la précocité du diagnostic et de la prise en charge primordiales.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Seropositivity among Dromedary Camels, Algeria, 2020-2021.

Serosurvey results for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus antibodies in dromedary camels in Algeria indicate that the pathogen is circulating endemically in desertic areas, despite the hostile environment. Thus, dromedaries are suitable sentinels for detecting human risk for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in desertic areas.