Immunoglobulin-E Mediated Chlorhexidine Hypersensitivity among Healthcare Workers

Objective: With a wide spectrum antimicrobial activity that is not affected by body fluids and blood, chlorhexidine is a particularly useful disinfectant widely used in healthcare settings. Given the importance of disinfectant usage by healthcare workers to prevent nosocomial infections, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study aims to evaluate the prevalence of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated sensitivity in healthcare workers. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted through a questionnaire and immunoassay for chlorhexidine- specific IgE in healthcare workers in a large teaching hospital in London, UK. The prevalence of IgE-mediated chlorhexidine hypersensitivity was determined along with potential determinants. Results: With a 77.7% response rate, the study showed that 4 out of 233 participants were positive for chlorhexidine-specific IgE, with an overall prevalence of 1.72% (95% Confidence Interval: 0.05% to 3.39%). All the positive cases belonged to occupationally exposed healthcare workers. In this group, the prevalence rate was 2.82% (95% Confidence Interval: 0.1% to 5.54%). Conclusion: Chlorhexidine is a potential allergen and an under-reported cause of anaphylaxis in patient-care and occupational settings. The results suggest that chlorhexidine has a relatively safe profile for healthcare workers in occupational settings, but a higher prevalence of chlorhexidine hypersensitivity cannot be ruled out. Sensitized healthcare workers must be advised to avoid further exposure to prevent potentially serious IgE-mediated allergic symptoms. Further studies are recommended to determine if any change in disinfection guidelines and protocols is warranted.

Socio-Cultural Factors Affecting Pregnancy Outcomes in the Dangme West District of Ghana

Background: Improvement in maternal healthcare services is crucial among nations as women are more vulnerable during pregnancy, especially in developing countries with poor health systems. This study assessed the socio-cultural factors that affect pregnancy outcomes in the Dangme West District of Ghana. Methods: Qualitative methods were employed using the Dangme West District. Data was collected using key informant interviews involving health professionals in the area of maternal health care and focus group discussions with women attending antenatal clinic in the district. Results: Findings from the study indicate that most women in the district attend antenatal clinics. They prefer delivering with Traditional Birth Attendants or in prayer camps to preserve their family tradition of not using health facilities during childbirth. Pregnancy outcomes are highly influenced by cultural traditions, with pregnant women avoiding nutritious foodstuffs such as eggs, certain types of fish, fatty meat, and some vegetables due to their beliefs, a situation resulting in pregnancy-related complications such as anaemia, premature delivery, and low birth weight. Key factors affecting maternal health outcomes include poverty, poor infrastructure in the district, nutrition, religious beliefs, illiteracy, and attitude of health professionals. Conclusions: This study reveals a range of socio-cultural factors that impact directly on maternal health outcomes and which need to be targeted through appropriate public health actions.