scholarly journals Molecular detection of viral pathogens from suspected viral hemorrhagic fever patients in Ghana

2020 ◽  
pp. 31-35
Author(s):  
Joseph HK Bonney ◽  
Theodore W Asigbee ◽  
Erasmus Kotey ◽  
Keren Attiku ◽  
Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Influenza A ◽  
Virus Disease ◽  
Health Facilities ◽  
African Countries ◽  
Case Definitions ◽  
Viral Pathogens ◽  
Standard Case ◽  
Clinical Specimens ◽  
Influenza A H1n1 ◽  
Case Based

Background: Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are infectious illnesses that can cause serious morbidity and mortality to infected persons. During the 2014 Ebola virus disease outbreak in some West African countries, Ghana revamped its surveillance system across the country to prepare, effectively respond and pre-empt any public health concerns Objective: We report on suspected VHF clinical specimens submitted to the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) from health facilities across the country for diagnosis within the period under review. This was partly to provide rapid response and to alert the health system to prevent outbreaks and its spread. Methods: From January 2017 to December 2018 clinical specimens of blood from 149 cases of suspected VHFs were collected at health facilities across the country and sent to NMIMR. Patient specimens were tested for viral pathogens including Lassa fever, Yellow fever, Dengue fever, Chikungunya, Zika, Ebola and Marburg by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. A case was however tested for influenza as the patient exhibited respiratory distress symptoms as well. Demographic and clinical information collected on a structured case-based forms were analyzed for each patient. Results: Out of the 149 clinical specimens tested, three (3) were found to be positive, with two (2) being Dengue and one (1) seasonal Influenza A H1N1. Analysis of the case-based forms revealed shortcomings with regards to standard case definitions used to enroll suspected cases. Conclusion: Our results buttress the need for a routine surveillance activity for VHFs to minimize spread and possibly forestall outbreaks. Moreover, febrile illnesses can be caused by a host of pathogens hence there is a need for enhanced diagnosis to help in patient management.

scholarly journals Substitution in position 222 of haemagglutinin of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) viruses isolated from pigs in Poland

2015 ◽  
Vol 59 (4) ◽  
pp. 451-456
Author(s):  
Andrzej Kowalczyk ◽  
Kinga Urbaniak ◽  
Iwona Markowska-Daniel ◽  
Zygmunt Pejsak
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Diversity ◽  
Amino Acids ◽  
Receptor Binding ◽  
Pandemic Influenza ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Binding Pocket ◽  
Mild Case ◽  
Clinical Specimens ◽  
Influenza A H1n1 ◽  
Viral Isolates

Abstract The aim of the study was to monitor genetic diversity and antigenic changes in the genome of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viral isolates detected during the post-pandemic period in Poland. Clinical specimens obtained from three suspected cases of influenza were analysed by sequencing. Among the differences identified in amino acids sequences, nine substitutions were located within the antigenic HA1 sites and in five residues forming receptor-binding pocket. The HA(D222G) mutation was shown in the isolate Swine/Poland/134312/12 obtained from a mild case of the disease. It must be emphasized that, in general, clinically mild cases are caused by the viruses in which that specific mutation, i.e. haemagglutinin (D222G), does not occur.

scholarly journals Knowledge, (mis-)conceptions, risk perception, and behavior change during pandemics: A scoping review of 149 studies

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 (8) ◽  
pp. 777-799
Author(s):  
Umair Majid ◽  
Aghna Wasim ◽  
Simran Bakshi ◽  
Judy Truong
Keyword(s):  
Risk Perception ◽  
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Scoping Review ◽  
Risk Perceptions ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Ebola Virus ◽  
Virus Disease ◽  
Influenza A H1n1 ◽  
And Behavior

The severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus-2 pandemic has spread rapidly and has a growing impact on individuals, communities, and healthcare systems worldwide. At the core of any pandemic response is the ability of authorities and other stakeholders to react appropriately by promoting hygiene and social distancing behaviors. Successfully reaching this goal requires both individual and collective efforts to drastically modify daily routines and activities. There is a need to clarify how knowledge and awareness of disease influence risk perception, and subsequent behavior in the context of pandemics and global outbreaks. We conducted a scoping review of 149 studies spanning different regions and populations to examine the relationships between knowledge, risk perceptions, and behavior change. We analyzed studies on five major pandemics or outbreaks in the twenty-first century: severe acute respiratory syndrome, influenza A/H1N1, Middle East respiratory syndrome, Ebola virus disease, and coronavirus disease 2019.

scholarly journals Analysis of influenza data generated by four epidemiological surveillance laboratories in Mexico, 2010–2016

2019 ◽  
Vol 147 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Fernandes-Matano ◽  
I. E. Monroy-Muñoz ◽  
M. Bermúdez de León ◽  
Y. A. Leal-Herrera ◽  
I. D. Palomec-Nava ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Influenza A ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Vaccination Status ◽  
Epidemiological Surveillance ◽  
Molecular Diagnostic ◽  
Influenza B ◽  
Surveillance Systems ◽  
Global Public Health ◽  
Case Definitions ◽  
Influenza A H1n1

AbstractThe disease caused by the influenza virus is a global public health problem due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Thus, analysis of the information generated by epidemiological surveillance systems has vital importance for health decision making. A retrospective analysis was performed using data generated by the four molecular diagnostic laboratories of the Mexican Social Security Institute between 2010 and 2016. Demographics, influenza positivity, seasonality, treatment choices and vaccination status analyses were performed for the vaccine according to its composition for each season. In all cases, both the different influenza subtypes and different age groups were considered separately. The circulation of A/H1N1pdm09 (48.7%), influenza A/H3N2 (21.1%), influenza B (12.6%), influenza A not subtyped (11%) and influenza A/H1N1 (6.6%) exhibited well-defined annual seasonality between November and March, and there were significant increases in the number of cases every 2 years. An inadequate use of oseltamivir was determined in 38% of cases, and the vaccination status in general varied between 12.1 and 18.5% depending on the season. Our results provide current information about influenza in Mexico and demonstrate the need to update both operational case definitions and medical practice guidelines to reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics and antivirals.

Prevention of Influenza in Long-Term–Care Facilities

1999 ◽  
Vol 20 (9) ◽  
pp. 629-637 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzanne F. Bradley ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Influenza B ◽  
Case Definitions ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Standard Case ◽  
Care Facilities ◽  
Influenza Outbreaks

AbstractInfluenza is a frequent cause of epidemic and endemic respiratory illness in long-term-care facilities (LTCFs), resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality. Detection of influenza outbreaks in this setting can be difficult, because the clinical presentation in older adults is atypical and other pathogens also cause influenza-like illness (ILI) during the influenza season. Use of the standard case definition for influenza has not been effective in detecting episodes in residents of LTCFs. Alternative case-definitions that reflect the atypical presentation of influenza in this population have been recommended but not validated. The use of rapid tests for the detection of influenza in conjunction with more sensitive case definitions of ILI may lead to the earlier detection of influenza outbreaks in LTCFs, earlier initiation of infection control measures, and reduction in transmission.The definition of outbreak, eg, the number of episodes of ILI or episodes of confirmed influenza A that would result in the initiation of antiviral chemoprophylaxis, remains controversial in this setting. The use of newer antivirals could limit the side effects seen in older adults in LTCFs. However, annual vaccination of residents and staff remains the most effective way to prevent the introduction of influenza A or influenza B into LTCFs. In addition, vaccination of LTCF residents reduces rates of illness and pneumonia due to influenza, as well as cardiopulmonary exacerbation, hospitalization, and death.

scholarly journals A Model Survey for Assessing 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Disease Burden in the Workplace

2011 ◽  
Vol 52 (suppl_1) ◽  
pp. S173-S176
Author(s):  
Jacqueline Gindler ◽  
Lisa A. Grohskopf ◽  
Matthew Biggerstaff ◽  
Lyn Finelli
Keyword(s):  
Pandemic Influenza ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Disease Burden ◽  
H1n1 Virus ◽  
Virus Disease ◽  
Influenza A H1n1

scholarly journals Evaluation of viral haemorrhagic fever surveillance system with focus on Ebola virus disease, Bawku municipality- Upper East Region, Ghana, 2011- 2015

2020 ◽  
Vol 54 (2) ◽  
pp. 18-25
Author(s):  
Francis Broni ◽  
Joseph Larbi ◽  
Edwin Afari ◽  
Kofi Nyarko ◽  
Donne Ameme ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surveillance System ◽  
Ebola Virus ◽  
Virus Disease ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Haemorrhagic Fever ◽  
Case Definitions ◽  
Standard Case ◽  
Viral Haemorrhagic Fever ◽  
East Region ◽  
Upper East Region

Background: We evaluated the Viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF) surveillance system from 2011 to 2015 in the Bawku Municipality, Upper East region, Ghana to determine whether the goals of the surveillance system are being met and to assess the performance of the system attributes.Design: Descriptive secondary data analysis.Setting: Bawku MunicipalityData Source: Review VHF surveillance records, interviewed community-based surveillance volunteers (CBSVs) and reviewed vital events registers. We also assessed the system attributes by reviewing records and interviewing key stakeholders involved in VHF surveillance system with focus on Ebola using checklist and semi structured questionnaire developed based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.Main outcome measure: System attributes of the VHF surveillance systemResults: Population under surveillance was 105,849. The system required detail information about suspected cases. However, it had a simple and clear standard case definitions, and was well integrated with the IDSR. There is a regular and timely flow of information. The system captured 155 suspected cases nationwide from 2011 to 2015 and all tested negative. Of these, Upper East Region reported 10 suspected cases including 4 suspected cases from Bawku Municipality.Conclusion: The VHF surveillance system achieved its objectives. However, poor data quality, inadequately trained surveillance officers, and inadequate financial support are threats to the effectiveness of the system.Keywords: Viral haemorrhagic fever, surveillance system evaluation, attributes, Bawku Municipality, GhanaFunding: This work was supported by Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (GFELTP), University of Ghana

scholarly journals Trends in Measles Cases in Bayelsa State, Nigeria: A Five-year Review of Case-based Surveillance Data (2014- 2018).

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
NENI AWORABHI ◽  
Tamunowari Numbere ◽  
Muhammed Shakir Balogun ◽  
Aisha Usman ◽  
Rowland Utulu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Urban Areas ◽  
National Level ◽  
The State ◽  
Surveillance Data ◽  
World Health ◽  
African Region ◽  
Case Definitions ◽  
Standard Case ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Case Based

Abstract Background: Measles is a vaccine preventable, highly transmissible viral infection that affects mostly children under five years. It has been ear marked for elimination and Nigeria adopted the measles elimination strategies of the World Health Organization (WHO) African region to reduce cases and deaths. This study was done to determine trends in measles cases in Bayelsa state, to describe cases in terms of person and place, identify gaps in the case-based surveillance data collection system and identify risk factors for measles infection.Methods: We carried out a secondary data analysis of measles case-based surveillance data for the period of January 2014 to December 2018 obtained in Microsoft Excel from the State Ministry of Health. Cases were defined according to WHO standard case definitions. We calculated frequencies, proportions, estimated odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI) and multivariate analysis.Results: A total of 449 cases of measles were reported. There were 245(54.6%) males and the most affected age group was 1-4 years with 288(64.1%) cases. Of all cases, 289(9.35%) were confirmed and 70 (48.27%) had received at least one dose of measles vaccine. There was an all-year transmission with increased cases in the 4th quarter of the year. Yenegoa local government area had the highest number of cases. Timeliness of specimen reaching the laboratory and the proportion of specimens received at the laboratory with results sent to the national level timely were below WHO recommended 80% respectively. Predictors of measles infection were, age less than 5 years (AOR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.36-0.91) and residing in an urban area (AOR: 1.55, 95% CI:1.02-2.34).Conclusions: Measles infection occurred all-year round, with children less than 5 years being more affected. Measles case-based surveillance system showed high levels of case investigation with poor data quality and poor but improving indicators. Being less than 5 years was protective of measles while living in urban areas increased risk for infection. We recommended to the state government to prioritize immunization activities in the urban centers, start campaigns by the 4th quarter and continue to support measles surveillance activities and the federal government to strengthen regional laboratory capacities.

scholarly journals Zanamivir-Resistant Influenza Viruses with a Novel Neuraminidase Mutation

2009 ◽  
Vol 83 (20) ◽  
pp. 10366-10373 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aeron C. Hurt ◽  
Jessica K. Holien ◽  
Michael Parker ◽  
Anne Kelso ◽  
Ian G. Barr
Keyword(s):  
Southeast Asia ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Seasonal Influenza ◽  
Mdck Cells ◽  
The United States ◽  
Influenza Viruses ◽  
Viral Fitness ◽  
Wild Type Virus ◽  
Clinical Specimens ◽  
Influenza A H1n1

ABSTRACT The neuraminidase inhibitors zanamivir and oseltamivir are marketed for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza and have been stockpiled by many countries for use in a pandemic. Although recent surveillance has identified a striking increase in the frequency of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal influenza A (H1N1) viruses in Europe, the United States, Oceania, and South Africa, to date there have been no reports of significant zanamivir resistance among influenza A (H1N1) viruses or any other human influenza viruses. We investigated the frequency of oseltamivir and zanamivir resistance in circulating seasonal influenza A (H1N1) viruses in Australasia and Southeast Asia. Analysis of 391 influenza A (H1N1) viruses isolated between 2006 and early 2008 from Australasia and Southeast Asia revealed nine viruses (2.3%) that demonstrated markedly reduced zanamivir susceptibility and contained a previously undescribed Gln136Lys (Q136K) neuraminidase mutation. The mutation had no effect on oseltamivir susceptibility but caused approximately a 300-fold and a 70-fold reduction in zanamivir and peramivir susceptibility, respectively. The role of the Q136K mutation in conferring zanamivir resistance was confirmed using reverse genetics. Interestingly, the mutation was not detected in the primary clinical specimens from which these mutant isolates were grown, suggesting that the resistant viruses either occurred in very low proportions in the primary clinical specimens or arose during MDCK cell culture passage. Compared to susceptible influenza A (H1N1) viruses, the Q136K mutant strains displayed greater viral fitness than the wild-type virus in MDCK cells but equivalent infectivity and transmissibility in a ferret model.

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