ABSTRACT
RESUMEN Introducción. El primer caso de COVID-19 en el Perú fue reportado el 5 de marzo del 2020 y se declaró el aislamiento social el 16 de marzo, quedando con ello interrumpida la actividad académica en las instituciones educativas. Objetivo. Determinar la seroprevalencia y los factores de riesgo asociados a la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en estudiantes de pregrado de una facultad de medicina en una universidad pública. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo, transversal mediante una encuesta serológica a una muestra aleatoria representativa de la población de estudiantes de pregrado de ciencias de la salud, utilizando una prueba rápida para la detección de anticuerpos IgG, IgM, o ambos, mediante la toma de muestra de sangre total del pulpejo de dedo. Resultados. Para el mes de agosto del 2021, el 24,92% (IC95% 18,2-33,0) de los estudiantes de ciencias de la salud presentaron anticuerpos contra el SARS-CoV-2, de ellos el 21,2% a IgG, 2,3% a IgM y 0,8% a ambos, el 75,08% (IC95% 66,9-82,0) no presentaron anticuerpos. Conclusiones. La seroprevalencia en estudiantes no muestra diferencia con la seroprevalencia de la enfermedad en la población general. Por lo tanto, para reiniciar las actividades académicas presenciales, esta población debe ser vacunada y debe cumplir además con las medidas no farmacológicas para la prevención y el control de la pandemia como son la ventilación natural de los ambientes, el uso de medidas de protección personal- mascarillas, lavado de manos y el distanciamiento físico.
ABSTRACT Introduction. On March 5 2020, the first case of COVID-19 was reported and on March 16, order of quarantine was issued which resulted in interruption of academic activities. Objective. Determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated to SARS-CoV-2 infection in undergraduate students of the school of medicine in a public university. Methods. Descriptive cross-sectional study by means of a serology survey to a representative sample of the population of undergraduate students of a health sciences school using a rapid test to detect antibodies IgG, IGM or both in a total blood sample by digital punction. Results. On August 2021, 24,92% (IC95% 18,2-33,0) of students of health sciences tested positive for antibodies anti SARS-CoV-2, 21,2% for IgG, 2,3% for IGM and 0,8% for both; 75,08% (IC95% 66,9-82,0) tested negative antibodies. Conclusions. The seroprevalence in students was not different from the seroprevalence in general population. Therefore, in order to restart presential academic activities this population must be vaccinated and other nonpharmacological requirements should be accomplished for prevention and control of the pandemics such as natural ventilation of classrooms, use of personal protection equipment - masks, hand washing and keeping physical distancing.
ABSTRACT
Objective@#To investigate the measles antibody level among residents in Quzhou City, Zhejiang Province in 2018, so as to provide the evidence for improving the measles control strategy.@*Methods@#The permanent residents aged 0 to 59 years were randomly sampled from 10 townships ( streets ) in Kecheng District and Changshan County of Quzhou City. Residents' demographics and vaccination of measles-containing vaccine ( MCV ) were collected, and serum anti- measles IgG antibody was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA ). The positive rate, protective rate and geometric mean concentration (GMC) of anti-measles antibody were estimated. @*Results@#A total of 606 residents were tested, with a male to female ratio of 0.83∶1. The subjects had a median age ( interquartile range ) of 17.36 ( 29.07 ) years, and 399 residents ( 65.84% ) had a vaccination history of MCV. The positive rate, protective rate and GMC of anti-measles IgG antibody were 94.88%, 48.68%, and 784.51 ( 95%CI: 731.14-841.40) mIU/mL, respectively. The positive rate of anti-measles IgG antibody was higher in men than in women ( 97.08% vs. 93.07%, χ2=4.968, P=0.026 ), and the protection rate was lower in men than in women ( 44.16% vs. 52.41%, χ2=4.089, P=0.043 ). The protective rate and GMC of anti-measles IgG antibody showed a“U”-shaped distribution with age, and a low protective rate was seen in residents aged 10 to 39 years ( 23.53% to 46.67% ), which the GMC of anti-measles IgG antibody that did not reach the protective level. A total of 233 residents at age of 15 years and below had with a history of two-dose MCV vaccination, and the positive rate ( χ2trend=7.260, P=0.007 ), protective rate ( χ2trend=12.756, P<0.001 ) and GMC ( rs=-0.289, P<0.001 ) of anti-measles IgG antibody presented a tendency towards a reduction with time <1 to 11 years after vaccination of the last dose of MCV.@*Conclusions@#A high positive rate of anti-measles antibody was detected among residents in Quzhou City in 2018; however, the protection rate of anti-measles antibody was low among residents at ages of 10 to 39 years. The coverage of MCV vaccination is recommended to be improved among residents at ages of 10 to 39 years in Quzhou City.
ABSTRACT
Objective@#To detect varicella-zoster virus ( VZV ) antibody levels among children aged 1 to 12 years in Lu'an City, Anhui Province, so as to provide insights into perfection of the varicella immunization strategy.@*Methods@#Children aged 1 to 12 years were recruited from Lu'an City using the stratified random sampling method from July 2018 to February 2019, and subjects' demographics were collected using questionnaires. The inoculation of varicella vaccines was retrieved through the Anhui Immunization Information Management System or review of preventive immunization certificates, and the serum VZV IgG antibody was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA ). The seroprevalence and geometric mean concentration of the VZV-IgG antibody were estimated, and the changes of serum the VZV-IgG antibody levels were analyzed at different time intervals following varicella vaccination. @*Results@#Totally 734 children were surveyed, with a mean age of ( 6.94±2.95 ) years, and the subjects included 412 boys ( 56.13% ) and 322 girls ( 43.87% ). There were 514 children ( 70.03% ) with a history of varicella vaccination, including 501 children ( 68.26% ) with one dose of varicella vaccine and 13 children ( 1.77% ) with two doses. There were 297 children ( 40.46% ) positive for VZV-IgG antibody, with seroprevalence of 40.46%, and the GMC of VZV-IgG antibody was 74.97 ( 95%CI: 65.55-85.75 ) mIU/mL. The seroprevalence of the VZV-IgG antibody were 34.55%, 42.91%, and 46.15% among the unvaccinated children and children receiving one dose and two doses of varicella vaccine, with the GMCs of 53.04, 86.31 and 114.46 mIU/mL, respectively. The mean time interval between inoculation of the last dose of varicella vaccine and blood sample collection was ( 5.21±2.79 ) years, and the lowest seroprevalene (31.48%) and GMC of the VZV-IgG antibody (49.96 mIU/mL) were found 4 years after inoculation of varicella vaccine.@*Conclusions@#The serum VZV-IgG antibody level is low among children aged 1 to 12 years in Lu'an City, and the seroprevalence of the VZV-IgG antibody is affected by age and doses of varicella vaccine. A 2-dose schedule of varicella vaccine is recommended for children.
ABSTRACT
Introducción:El COVID 19 es una enfermedad infecciosa causada por el SARS-CoV-2 que ha afectado en gran escala al Perú. No están documentados los potenciales factores clínicos y/o epidemiológicos que están relacionados a la positividad de SARS-CoV-2 en población altoandina. Determinar los factores asociados a positividad de SARS-Cov-2 en Objetivo:personas que viven en Ancash. Estudio transversal analítico. Se Material y métodos:utilizaron los registros de pacientes atendidos por sospecha de COVID-19 en un hospital público de Huaraz en marzo-mayo 2020. Se estimaron razones de prevalencia (RP) con intervalos de confianza. En el análisis de regresión simple, se estimaron razones de prevalencia e intervalos de confianza al 95%, utilizando familia de distribución Poisson, función de enlace log y varianza robusta De 903 pacientes, 13,7% pacientes Resultados:resultaron positivos a SARS-CoV-2. En la regresión simple, resultó que el sexo masculino (RP=2,98), presentar tos (RP=2,27), dificultad respiratoria (RP=2,97), diarrea (RP=2,69), malestar general (RP=1,82), odinofagia (RP=1,69) se asociaron positivamente a tener prueba SARS-CoV-2 positiva. En la regresión múltiple se mantuvo la asociación en cuatro características: ser varón (RP=2,7), presentar tos (RP=1,45), dificultad respiratoria (RP=2,15) y diarrea (RP=1,89). :En zona altoandina, los casos positivos en su Conclusiónmayoría presentan síntomas típicos. Los factores asociados a la positividad fueron el sexo masculino y la presencia de dificultad tos, respiratoria y diarrea
Background:COVID 19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has affected Peru on a large scale. Potential clinical and/or epidemiological factors that are related to the positivity of SARS-CoV-2 in the high Andean population are not documented. Objective: To determine factors associated with positivity of SARS-CoV-2 in people living in Ancash. Material and methods: Analytical transversal study. We used the records of patients treated for suspected COVID-19 in a public hospital in Huaraz in March-May 2020. Prevalence ratios (PR) with confidence intervals were estimated. In simple regression analysis, prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated, using Poisson distribution family, log-link function and robust variance. Out of 903 patients, Results: 13.7% tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. In simple regression, male (RP=2.98), cough (RP=2.27), respiratory distress (RP=2.97), diarrhea (RP=2.69), general malaise (RP=1.82), odynophagia (RP=1.69) were positively associated with having a positive SARS-CoV-2 test. In the multiple regressions, the association was maintained in four characteristics: being male (RP=2.7), having a cough (RP=1.45), respiratory distress (RP=2.15), and diarrhea (RP=1.89). Conclusion: In high Andean areas, most positive cases present typical symptoms. The factors associated with positivity were male sex and the presence of cough, respiratory difficulty and diarrhea.
ABSTRACT
Abstract Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%-55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.
Resumo A toxoplasmose, causada pelo protozoário Toxoplasma gondii, é uma zoonose e uma das doenças parasitárias transmitidas por alimentos mais importantes em todo o mundo. A prevalência em humanos é altamente variável, sendo influenciada por hábitos culturais, condições socioeconômicas e ambientais. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência de infecção por T. gondii em humanos, no arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco, Brasil, e identificar os fatores de risco associados a essa infecção nesse contexto insular. A soroprevalência de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii nos ilhéus foi de 50,4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45,2%-55,7%). Os fatores associados à infecção encontrados foram o consumo de água do poço ou de água da chuva (Odds ratio [OR]: 2,43, p=0,020) e consumo de carne de caça (OR: 1,80, p=0,026). Este é o primeiro estudo a fornecer informações epidemiológicas da infecção por T. gondii entre os moradores da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, revelando uma considerável soroprevalência de anticorpos nessa população. Este estudo fornece informações para subsidiar a adoção de medidas de prevenção e controle em ambientes insulares.
Subject(s)
Humans , Animals , Toxoplasma , Toxoplasmosis, Animal , Brazil/epidemiology , Antibodies, Protozoan , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Cross-Sectional Studies , Risk FactorsABSTRACT
Abstract Efforts to control a zoonotic disease such as visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum can be successful if they rely on comprehensive data on animal infection. In Bahia state, Brazil, human VL is endemic, yet some areas have no epidemiological data on canine L. infantum infection and canine leishmaniasis (CanL) to date. We aimed to perform an epidemiological study describing the spatial distribution and characterizing canine L. infantum infection in two districts of the municipality of Muritiba, where human cases have occurred. Brazilian official serodiagnostic protocol (ELISA and immunochromatographic tests), PCR and clinical examination were performed in 351 owned dogs. A seroprevalence of 15.7% (55/351) was found, and L. infantum identified in 88.8% (32/36) of PCR tested samples. Spatial distribution of positive dogs indicated infection in both urban and rural districts. There was no association between seropositivity and sex or breed, but dogs older than 2 years were 3.8 times more likely to be seropositive (95% CI 1.57 - 9.18) than younger dogs. Among seropositive dogs, 80% (44/55) had clinical manifestations of CanL: 75% (33/44) presented dermatopathy, 50% (22/44) emaciation, and 29.5% (13/44) ophthalmopathy. This is the first report on canine seroprevalence and natural L. infantum infection in Muritiba, Bahia.
Resumo O sucesso dos esforços para controlar uma doença zoonótica como a leishmaniose visceral (LV), causada por Leishmania infantum, depende de dados abrangentes sobre a infecção animal. Na Bahia, Brasil, embora a LV humana seja endêmica, diversos municípios, como Muritiba, ainda não dispõem de dados epidemiológicos sobre infecção por L. infantum e leishmaniose canina (LCan). Objetivou-se realizar um estudo epidemiológico para descrever a distribuição espacial e caracterizar a infecção canina por L. infantum em dois distritos de Muritiba, onde notificam-se casos humanos. Foi aplicado o protocolo sorodiagnóstico oficial brasileiro (ELISA e imunocromatografia), PCR e exame clínico em 351 cães domiciliados. Encontrou-se uma soroprevalência de 15,7% (55/351) e positividade de 88,8% (32/36) na PCR para L. infantum. A distribuição espacial dos cães positivos indicou infecção em ambos os distritos, urbano e rural. Não houve associação entre soropositividade e sexo ou raça, mas cães com idade acima de 2 anos foram 3,8 vezes mais soropositivos (IC 95% 1,57 - 9,18). Dentre os cães soropositivos, 80% (44/55) apresentavam manifestações clínicas de LCan: 75% (33/44) apresentavam dermatopatia; 50% (22/44) emagrecimento e 29,5% (13/44) oftalmopatia. Este é o primeiro estudo a determinar a soroprevalência e confirmar a circulação natural de L. infantum e LCan em cães de Muritiba.
Subject(s)
Humans , Animals , Dogs , Leishmaniasis/veterinary , Leishmania infantum , Dog Diseases/diagnosis , Dog Diseases/epidemiology , Leishmaniasis, Visceral/diagnosis , Leishmaniasis, Visceral/epidemiology , Brazil/epidemiology , Antibodies, Protozoan , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Cities , Leishmaniasis, Visceral/veterinaryABSTRACT
Context: Acute viral hepatitis (AVH) is predominantly caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV), the prevalence of which varies in different geographical regions. Aims: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HAV and HEV infections in patients with AVH, the rate of HAV-HEV co-infection and the prevalence of HEV infection among pregnant women with hepatitis. Settings and Design: It was a retrospective observational study conducted over 3 years from January 2015 to December 2017, after obtaining clearance from the institutional ethics committee. Subjects and Methods: A total of 675 serum samples were collected from patients with a clinical diagnosis of AVH, between January 2015 and December 2017. The study population included outdoor and hospitalised patients between 3 and 70 years of age who presented with signs and symptoms of hepatitis. The presence of IgM anti-HAV and IgM anti-HEV antibodies in serum were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test. Results: The prevalence of HAV, HEV and HAV-HEV co-infection was found to be 6.96%, 9.63% and 2.07%, respectively. Among males, this was 7.3%, 8.8% and 2.6%, respectively and in females 6.7%, 10.2% and 1.7%, respectively. However, these differences in the prevalence rates were of no statistical significance. The prevalence of HEV infection in pregnant women with hepatitis was 9.4%. HAV and HEV infections showed a seasonal trend with predominance during summer and rainy seasons (May to September). Conclusions: A higher seroprevalence of HEV as compared to HAV together with a co-infection rate of 2.07% mandates screening for HEV in all suspected cases of acute hepatitis, particularly pregnant women in whom the outcomes of HEV infection are poor. Health and civic authorities should make necessary efforts to counter epidemic or outbreak situations, thus reducing morbidity, mortality and economic burden.
ABSTRACT
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is responsible for causing one of the most important infectious diseases of domestic and wild felids, the feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), which is an immune-mediated, systemic, progressive and fatal disease. FCoV is highly contagious, and infection is common in domestic feline populations worldwide. The present study aimed to determine the seropositivity of FCoV infection and its associated epidemiological variables (risk factors) in domiciled cats in Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil. Whole blood samples (0.5-1mL) were collected from 151 cats, and sera were extracted by centrifugation. These sera were tested by an commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of IgG anti-FCoV antibodies. The assessed risk factors were age range, breed, gender, reproductive status, outdoor access and rearing mode (living alone or in a group). The seropositivity was 64.2% (97/151). There was no statistical significance for risk factors related to breed, gender or rearing mode. There were significant differences in seropositivity (p-values ≤0.05) for age range (p=0.0157), reproductive status (p=0.0074) and outdoor access (p=0.0001). This study verified a wide dissemination of FCoV in the studied population, with a higher than expected seropositivity for indoor cats. Among the risk factors, age range, reproductive status and outdoor access presented statistically significant differences, thus helping to establish an epidemiological profile of this population.(AU)
O coronavírus felino (FCoV) é responsável por causar uma das mais importantes doenças infecciosas que acometem os felinos domésticos e selvagens, a peritonite infecciosa felina (PIF), que é uma enfermidade imunomediada, sistêmica, progressiva e fatal. O FCoV é altamente contagioso e a infecção é comum nas populações de felinos domésticos por todo o mundo. O presente estudo objetivou determinar a soropositividade da infecção pelo FCoV e correlacionar variáveis epidemiológicas (fatores de risco) de gatos domiciliados de Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil. Amostras de sangue total (0,5 a 1mL) foram colhidas de 151 gatos e os soros foram obtidos após centrifugação. Estes soros foram testados por um teste commercial de ELISA para detecção de anticorpos IgG anti-FCoV. Os fatores de risco avaliados foram faixa etária, raça, gênero, condição reprodutiva, acesso à rua e modo de criação (viver solitário ou em grupo). Observou-se uma soropositividade de 64,2% (97/151). Não houve significância estatística para os fatores de risco relacionados à raça, gênero e modo de criação. Houve significância estatística quanto a soropositividade (p-values ≤0,05) para os fatores de risco faixa etária (p=0,0157), condição reprodutiva (p=0,0074) e acesso à rua (p=0,0001). Através do presente estudo verificou-se que o FCoV está amplamente disseminado na população estudada, onde a soropositividade encontrada foi maior do que a esperada para gatos domiciliados. Dentre os fatores de risco, faixa etária, condição reprodutiva e acesso à rua apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas, contribuindo assim, para se estabelecer um perfil epidemiológico desta população.(AU)
Subject(s)
Animals , Cats , Cats , Feline Infectious Peritonitis/epidemiology , Coronavirus Infections/veterinary , Coronavirus, FelineABSTRACT
Objective To ascertain the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in different genders, ages, and ethnic populations of three border regions in Yunnan Province, China, in order to provide the basic data for prevention and control of toxoplasmosis in these areas. Methods A total of 561 serum samples were collected from the local hospitals of three border regions of Yunnan Province (222 serum samples from China-Vietnam border region, 170 serum samples from China-Laos border region, and 169 serum samples from China-Myanmar border region) from November 2015 to May 2016. The detection of IgG antibodies of T. gondii was performed by ELISA. Results In total, 44 (7.84%) of the 561 serum samples were anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive. The positive rates were 8.56% (19/222), 8.82% (15/170) and 5.92% (10/169) in China-Vietnam, China-Laos, and China-Myanmar border regions, respectively. The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rates were 5.63%(16/284) in Han, 10.96% (8/73) in Hani, 13.70% (10/73) in Dai, 4.17% (2/48) in Miao, 11.11% (1/9) in Lahu, 7.69% (1/13) in Jinuo, 12.00% (3/25) in Yao, and 11.11% (3/27) in Yi, respectively. The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rate in minorities was 10.11%, which was higher than that in Han significantly (χ2 = 3.884, P < 0.05), and the positive rate in Dai was higher than that in Han significantly (χ2 = 5.594, P < 0.05). The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rate in the 11-20-year age group was 23.53% (4/17), which was higher than that in the 0–10 [4.23% (3/71)] (χ2 = 4.593, P < 0.05) and 31–40-year groups [4.00% (3/75)] (χ2 = 4.997, P < 0.05). Conclusions There are different degrees of T. gondii infection in the human population in the border areas in Yunnan Province, and the risk of infection in ethnic minorities is higher than that in Han nationality. The prevention and control of toxoplasmosis should focus on the minority population.
ABSTRACT
Objective To ascertain the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in different genders, ages, and ethnic populations of three border regions in Yunnan Province, China, in order to provide the basic data for prevention and control of toxoplasmosis in these areas. Methods A total of 561 serum samples were collected from the local hospitals of three border regions of Yunnan Province (222 serum samples from China-Vietnam border region, 170 serum samples from China-Laos border region, and 169 serum samples from China-Myanmar border region) from November 2015 to May 2016. The detection of IgG antibodies of T. gondii was performed by ELISA. Results In total, 44 (7.84%) of the 561 serum samples were anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive. The positive rates were 8.56% (19/222), 8.82% (15/170) and 5.92% (10/169) in China-Vietnam, China-Laos, and China-Myanmar border regions, respectively. The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rates were 5.63%(16/284) in Han, 10.96% (8/73) in Hani, 13.70% (10/73) in Dai, 4.17% (2/48) in Miao, 11.11% (1/9) in Lahu, 7.69% (1/13) in Jinuo, 12.00% (3/25) in Yao, and 11.11% (3/27) in Yi, respectively. The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rate in minorities was 10.11%, which was higher than that in Han significantly (χ2 = 3.884, P < 0.05), and the positive rate in Dai was higher than that in Han significantly (χ2 = 5.594, P < 0.05). The anti-Toxoplasma IgG positive rate in the 11-20-year age group was 23.53% (4/17), which was higher than that in the 0–10 [4.23% (3/71)] (χ2 = 4.593, P < 0.05) and 31–40-year groups [4.00% (3/75)] (χ2 = 4.997, P < 0.05). Conclusions There are different degrees of T. gondii infection in the human population in the border areas in Yunnan Province, and the risk of infection in ethnic minorities is higher than that in Han nationality. The prevention and control of toxoplasmosis should focus on the minority population.
ABSTRACT
Objective To understand the current epidemic and immunity status of hepatitis B virus in Ma’anshan City, and to compare the prevention and control effect after the adjustment of hepatitis B vaccine immunization strategy. Methods Multi-stage random sampling method was used to select 10 investigation points in the whole city, a random sample of 3 460 people under 60 years old was included according to urban and rural stratification. questionnaires and blood were collected from the subjects, and domestic enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for hepatitis B immunoglobulins detection. Results The total positive rate of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B virus surface antibody (HBsAb) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was 3.32%, 51.21% and 29.16% respectively. The positive rate of HBsAb in urban area was higher than that in rural area ( 2=28.204, P<0.001). The positive rate of HBsAb was significantly different between the medical and nursing staff and other occupational groups ( 2=22.772, P<0.001). The difference of HBsAb positive rate before and after HepB vaccine content adjustment was statistically significant ( 2=90.331, P<0.001). The rate of HepB decreased with age ( 2trend=1 984.342, P<0.001). Conclusions Since HepB was incorporated into the immunization program, hepatitis B prevention and control in school-age children has achieved remarkable results. More attention should be paid on the low positive rate of HBsAb in students and the low immunization rate of HepB in adults.
ABSTRACT
Objective • To investigate the seroprevalence of Toxocara canis (T. canis) from preschool children in Yangpu District of Shanghai, and to evaluate the environmental contamination with T. canis eggs in public areas. Methods • A cross-sectional study was performed. A total of 789 children from 7 kindergartens in Yangpu District of Shanghai were asked to fill up a questionnaire. Serum samples of 605 children were tested by using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of specific IgG antibody against T. canis. Sixty-seven soil samples and 69 fecal samples of dogs were collected from the neighborhood close to the kindergartens. DNAs were then extracted from all samples and amplified by PCR targeting T. canis ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS-2) gene fragments. Results • 1.0% of the serum samples were positive for IgG against T. canis. The positive rates of T. canis DNA in the soil and feces were 4.5% and 27.5%, respectively. More than 90.0% of the children had good habits of hand washing and their parents were aware of dog-related diseases and prevention. 6.8% of the children kept dogs at home and 77.8% of the dogs received anthelmintic treatment. 83.5% of the children reported stray dogs in the neighborhood but only 2.0% had regular contact with stray dogs. Conclusion • Seroprevalence of T. canis specific IgG was low among preschool children in this area. Good hygienic habits and prevention consciousness may be the main reasons for this result. But the high environmental contamination of T. canis eggs makes it necessary to prompt preventive public health measures which will play an important role in the prevention and treatment of ocular toxocariasis.
ABSTRACT
Abstract Neosporosis is one of the major parasitic diseases that causes reproductive problems, making it a limitation for optimal efficiency in livestock. The aim of the present study was to conduct a seroepidemiological survey for bubaline neosporosis and to analyse associated factors associated with N. caninum infection in female water buffaloes in the State of Pernambuco, northeast Brazil. The prevalence of N. caninum infection in the bubaline herds examined was 35.4% (122/345; 95% CI: 30.4%-40.7%), at least 1 Neospora-positive animal was found in each farm. Associated factors for N. caninum infection identified in this study were exclusive pasture feeding (OR: 5.91, p <0.001) and purchase of animals of free fair and from reputable sellers (OR: 1.85; p =0.045). In this survey, we document the occurrence of neosporosis in female water buffaloes. Associated factors should be controlled in order to reduce the risk of N. caninum infection in these herds.
Resumo A neosporose é uma das principais doenças parasitárias que causa problemas reprodutivos, torna-se possível limitar para a máxima eficiência na pecuária. Objetivou-se com este estudo realizar um inquérito soroepidemiológico e analisar os fatores associados à infecção por N. caninum em fêmeas bubalinas no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Observou-se uma prevalência de 35,4% (122/345; IC 95%: 30,4%-40,7%) para infecção por N. caninum e 100% das propriedades possuíam ao menos um animal positivo. Os fatores associados à infecção por N. caninum neste estudo foram alimentação exclusiva a pasto (OR: 5,91; p<0,001) e aquisição de animais de feiras livres e criadores conhecidos (OR: 1,85; p=0,045). Registra-se a ocorrência da infecção por N. caninum em fêmeas bubalinas e os fatores associados que precisam ser corrigidos para reduzir o risco de infecção nesses rebanhos.
Subject(s)
Animals , Female , Cattle , Buffaloes/parasitology , Antibodies, Protozoan/blood , Cattle Diseases/epidemiology , Coccidiosis/veterinary , Neospora/immunology , Brazil/epidemiology , Cattle Diseases/diagnosis , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Prevalence , Coccidiosis/diagnosis , Coccidiosis/epidemiology , Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect , FarmsABSTRACT
Abstract The aim of this study were to detect antibodies anti-Leishmania spp. and anti-Trypanosoma cruzi in two different populations of domestic cats (Felis catus domesticus) from North Paraná referred for surgical castration and to determine which characteristics of the animals studied may be associated with seropositivity. Serum samples from 679 cats were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) in series. Associations between age, sex, race, year of care and animal group were verified using the simple logistic regression. Percentage of 8.5% (58/679) of cats were positive for Leishmania spp. and 7.6% (51/673) for T. cruzi by the tests ELISA and IFAT. Animals collected by non-governmental animal protection organizations presented more seropositivity for Leishmania spp. (p<0.0001). Results shown that Leishmania spp. and T. cruzi are present in domestic cats in the northern part of the state of Paraná, as well as, owners of non-governmental animal protection organizations may be more exposed to leishmaniasis when compared to other animal owners evaluated in the present study.
Resumo O objetivo desse estudo foi detectar a presença de anticorpos IgG anti-Leishmania spp. e anti-Trypanosoma cruzi em duas populações de gatos domésticos (Felis catus domesticus) do Norte do Paraná encaminhados para castração cirúrgica e determinar quais as características dos animais estudados que podem estar associadas à soropositividade. Amostras de soro de 679 gatos foram analisadas utilizando-se os testes imunoenzimático (ELISA) e a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), em série. Associações entre idade, sexo, raça, ano de atendimento e grupo animal foram verificadas usando regressão logística simples. Um percentual de 8,5% (58/679) dos gatos apresentou positividade para Leishmania spp. e 7,6% (51/673) para T. cruzi pelos testes ELISA e RIFI. Gatos mantidos em organizações não governamentais de proteção animal apresentaram maior sororeatividade para Leishmania spp. (p<0.0001). As sorologias reativas para Leishmania spp. e Trypanosoma cruzi mostram que esses agentes estão presentes em gatos domésticos na parte norte do estado do Paraná, bem como, os proprietários de organizações não governamentais de proteção animal podem estar mais expostos à leishmaniose quando comparados com outros proprietários de animais avaliados no presente estudo.
Subject(s)
Animals , Male , Female , Trypanosoma cruzi/immunology , Antibodies, Protozoan/blood , Cat Diseases/parasitology , Cat Diseases/blood , Leishmaniasis/veterinary , Cats/parasitology , Chagas Disease/veterinary , Leishmania/immunology , Brazil/epidemiology , Cat Diseases/epidemiology , Leishmaniasis/blood , Leishmaniasis/epidemiology , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Chagas Disease/blood , Chagas Disease/epidemiology , Risk AssessmentABSTRACT
BACKGROUND Chagas disease in the Brazilian Amazon Region was previously regarded as an enzootic disease of wild animals. More recently, in situations where humans have penetrated the wild ecotope or where triatomines and/or wild animals (marsupials) have invaded human homes resulting in disease transmission, Chagas disease has come to be regarded as an anthropozoonosis. We found that the highest incidence of infection due to Trypanosoma cruzi and Chagas disease occurred among piassaba fibre gatherers and their families. OBJECTIVES Considering the results of previous surveys, we conducted a new survey of piassaba gatherers and their families in the creeks of the Aracá, Curuduri, Demini, Ererê and Padauiri rivers, which are tributaries on the left bank of the Negro River, in the municipality of Barcelos; Barcelos-Caurés highway; Negro River in Santa Isabel of the Negro River; and Marié River, on the right bank of the Negro River. METHODS A questionnaire was applied to 482 piassaba gatherers and their families who accompanied them. We collected 5-mL blood samples (with permission from each subject), separated the serum, and performed serological tests using indirect immunofluorescence and conventional and recombinant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). We performed brief clinical examination and electrocardiograms. Only 273 subjects attended our field base for detailed clinical examination and electrocardiogram. FINDINGS AND MAIN CONCLUSIONS The questionnaire revealed that 100% of the 482 patients recognised the triatomine Rhodnius brethesi, which they had seen in the piassaba plantation and 81% in their field huts. A total of 79% of subjects had previously been bitten by this vector and 21% did not know. The 25 subjects seropositive for T. cruzi infection (5.2%) stated that they had been bitten more than 10 times by this insect. Of the 273 subjects who underwent electrocardiogram, 22% showed conditions that were possibly attributable to Chagas disease or other cardiovascular disease.
Subject(s)
Humans , Chagas Disease/diagnosis , Chagas Disease/prevention & control , Chagas Disease/transmission , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Amazonian EcosystemABSTRACT
Objective:To determine Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) as a cause of morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients by ELISA method and to investigate toxoplasmosis-associated risk factors.Methods:This cross sectional study was conducted with 385 patients with HIV/AIDS referred to the behavior disease consultation center in Kermanshah, Iran between May 2012 and June 2013. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies were measured by using the ELISA method. Also, the relationship between the infection and age, gender, education, occupation, antiretroviral status, CD4+ cell counts and some other factors of the patients were assessed. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:Among the HIV-positive patients, 40.8% (157/358) and 2.6% (10/358) patients were positive for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. The mean CD4+ count in the patients with HIV was 327 cells/μL. A significant correlation was observed between the toxoplasmosis infections with the age group (P<0.05). Nevertheless, no statistically significant difference was found between gender, living area, educational level, occupational, marital status, antiretroviral status, prophylaxis, CD4+ cell count and toxoplasmosis.Conclusions:This study revealed that the patients with HIV infection were at the high risk of developing toxoplasmosis disease especially those patients who do not receive antiretroviral therapy and prophylaxis. The development and use of the effectiveness-based guidelines for controlling and the prevention reactivation of the latent T. gondii infection is required.
ABSTRACT
Objective@#To study serum HCV antibody (anti-HCV) with geographic distribution characteristics in Zhejiang Province.@*Methods@#A stratified random cluster sampling method was used. Serum samples of the surveyed population were collected from selected hospitals, anti-HCV antibodies were examined, then hepatitis C infection rates among different genders, regions and age groups were analyzed. The anti-HCV rate was compared using the χ 2 test.@*Results@#The average anti-HCV positive rate in Zhejiang Province was 0.24% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.16% ~ 0.32%]. The antibody positive rate in the plain area was 0.32% (95% CI: 0.19% ~ 0.45%), which was significantly higher than the coastal islands 0.05%(95% CI: 0.00% ~ 0.12%, χ 2 = 7.638, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between plain area and hilly area 0.22% (95% CI: 0.03% - 0.41%). There was no statistically significant difference in anti-HCV positive rates between males and females (χ 2 = 2.238, P = 0.135). The highest positive rate of anti-HCV (0.93%) was in the population aged 56-60 years and the lowest in the population aged less than 20 years. Anti-HCV positive rate of all age groups in 2017 was lower than that of 2006 seroepidemiological study of hepatitis C.@*Conclusion@#Zhejiang Province is a region with low anti-HCV positive rate and the disease prevalence further reduced than 10 years ago. The positive rate of anti-HCV in plain areas is higher than islands. Middle-aged and elderly people are the age group with high prevalence, and the anti-HCV positive rate in people under 20 years old is exceptionally low. Gender differences in anti-HCV positive rate have little effect.
ABSTRACT
Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the HCV seroprevalence in the general population visiting the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University. Methods Between January 2013 and December 2015, a total of 160, 239 subjects were screened for the presence of anti-HCV antibodies in blood serum. Anti-HCV antibodies in serum samples were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) . The results of anti-HCV were analyzed in the features of year, sex and age. Results The HCV seroprevalence in the general population from 2013 to 2015 was 1.11% , 1.04% and 0.91% , respectively, which was significantly higher in men than in women (1.30% vs. 0.91%,P＜0.05) . The highest HCV seroprevalence occurred in aged 31-65 years. Conclusions The analysis of the data suggests that the features of HCV-positive including year, sex and age could be beneficial for formulating scientific strategy and intervention measures of HCV infection and liver cirrhosis, liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma caused by HCV in Kunming.
ABSTRACT
Objective This cross sectional study was designed to estimate the intensity and duration of DTP by analyzing serum anti-Bordetella pertussis toxin (PT) IgG antibodies among children in Shanghai. The results may provide scientific evidence for developing vaccination protocol and assessing vaccination effect. Methods Blood samples were obtained from 372 children (0-18 years of age) in Shanghai. The serum level of anti-PT IgG was determined by commercial ELISA kits. Anti-PT IgG level ≥30 IU/mL was defined as positive if no pertussis vaccine was vaccinated in the past year, which indicates recent contact with Bordetella pertussis. Anti-PT IgG level ≥100 IU/mL suggests an acute infection. Results The mean concentration of anti-PT IgG antibody was 16.21 IU/mL in the 372 subjects. Serum anti-PT IgG was positive (≥30 IU/mL) in 42 (11.29％) children. The highest positive rate was found in the age group of ＜3 years old (18.60％), followed by the age group of 10-12 years old (11.43％), and the lowest positive rate in the age group of 3-5 years old (7.46％). The mean level of anti-PT IgG antibody was 21.82 IU/mL in the age group of ＜3 years old, 21.16 IU/mL in the age group of 10-12 years old, and the lowest (9.74 IU/mL) in the age group of 6-9 years old. Conclusions Atypical B. pertussis infection is prevalent among younger children in Shanghai. Booster dose of pertussis vaccine may be useful in reducing the incidence of pertussis in children.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) as a cause of morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients by ELISA method and to investigate toxoplasmosis-associated risk factors. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted with 385 patients with HIV/AIDS referred to the behavior disease consultation center in Kermanshah, Iran between May 2012 and June 2013. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies were measured by using the ELISA method. Also, the relationship between the infection and age, gender, education, occupation, antiretroviral status, CD4+ cell counts and some other factors of the patients were assessed. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the HIV-positive patients, 40.8% (157/358) and 2.6% (10/358) patients were positive for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. The mean CD4+ count in the patients with HIV was 327 cells/µL. A significant correlation was observed between the toxoplasmosis infections with the age group (P<0.05). Nevertheless, no statistically significant difference was found between gender, living area, educational level, occupational, marital status, antiretroviral status, prophylaxis, CD4+ cell count and toxoplasmosis. Conclusions: This study revealed that the patients with HIV infection were at the high risk of developing toxoplasmosis disease especially those patients who do not receive antiretroviral therapy and prophylaxis. The development and use of the effectiveness-based guidelines for controlling and the prevention reactivation of the latent T. gondii infection is required.