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Feature Papers in One Health
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Feature Papers in One Health

A special issue of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease (ISSN 2414-6366). This special issue belongs to the section "One Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2024) | Viewed by 31450

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Claire J Standley

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
Interests: infectious disease control; multisectoral collaboration; health systems; One Health; public health emergency preparedness and response; neglected tropical diseases
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Santanu Sasidharan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal 506004, India
2. Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver 2329, Canada
Interests: leishmania; molecular parasitology; computational biology; molecular biology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the establishment of Section One Health (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/tropicalmed/sectioneditors/One_Health), a feature paper collection is set up, under the leadership of Section Board Members. This collection aims to collect state-of-the-art research work and comprehensive review papers on the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control of neglected and emerging tropical diseases, with emphasis on One Health or multidisciplinary approaches.

Research articles should have a main text of around 3000 words at minimum and should have more than 30 references.

  1. Manuscripts should present an important novelty of the content and high potential impact in the relevant field of research;
  2. Manuscripts should have a high standard of English (expression, grammar, and spelling);
  3. Manuscripts should offer a proper design of the experiment, and a detailed methodology should be described to guarantee the reproducibility of the study;
  4. Manuscripts should include the reference of the approval by the ethical committee for experimental studies.

Review articles should be comprehensive. The main text of review papers should be around 4000 words at minimum and include at least two figures or tables.

  1. Manuscripts should provide syntheses of ideas and have the potential to challenge existing paradigms and create new frameworks that will advance our understanding of all aspect of the topic;
  2. Manuscripts should comprise the front matter, literature review sections, and the back matter;
  3. Systematic reviews should use the same structure as research articles and ensure they conform to the PRISMA guidelines.

Dr. Claire J Standley
Dr. Santanu Sasidharan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Published Papers (16 papers)

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18 pages, 1605 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Adoption of One Health Approaches in National Plans to Combat Health Threats: The Pilot of a One Health Conceptual Framework in Armenia
by Alessia Milano, Claudia Robbiati, Silvia Declich, Paolo Calistri, Ombretta Pediconi, Laura Amato, Lusine Paronyan, Lilit Avetisyan, Arsen Manucharyan, Georgi Avetisyan, Tigran Yesayan, Arman Gevorgyan, Tigran Markosyan and Maria Grazia Dente
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9010022 - 16 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1615
Abstract
Due to several factors, such as environmental and climate changes, the risk of health threats originating at the human–animal–environment interface, including vector-borne diseases (VBDs) and zoonoses, is increasing. Low-resource settings struggle to counter these multidimensional risks due to their already-strained health systems and [...] Read more.
Due to several factors, such as environmental and climate changes, the risk of health threats originating at the human–animal–environment interface, including vector-borne diseases (VBDs) and zoonoses, is increasing. Low-resource settings struggle to counter these multidimensional risks due to their already-strained health systems and are therefore disproportionally affected by the impact caused by these changes. Systemic approaches like One Health (OH) are sought to strengthen prevention and preparedness strategies by addressing the drivers of potential threats with a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach, considering the whole system at the human–animal–environment interface. The integration of OH in national plans can be challenging due to the lack of effective coordination and collaboration among different sectors. To support the process of knowledge coproduction about the level of OH integration in prevention and preparedness strategies against health threats in Armenia, a situation analysis was performed on Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever/virus and anthrax (identified by local stakeholders as priorities to be addressed with the OH approach), and actions to strengthen the national OH system were identified with the support of a OH conceptual framework. The study highlighted that multidisciplinary and multisectoral efforts towards prevention and preparedness against VBDs and zoonoses threats need to be strengthened in Armenia, and priority actions to integrate the OH approach were identified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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11 pages, 432 KiB  
Article
Epidemiological Profile of Urinary and Intestinal Schistosomiasis in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Seven-Year Retrospective Study
by Rafat Zrieq, Mohamed Ali Alzain, Reem M. Ali, Awfa Y. Alazzeh, Anas O. Tirawi, Rozan Attili, Tolgahan Acar and Najoua Haouas
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9010011 - 29 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1684
Abstract
Background: Despite the marked decline of schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia in recent years, it is still reported in several regions. This study investigates the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia over seven years (2014–2020). Methodology: A retrospective study was retrieved from the annual [...] Read more.
Background: Despite the marked decline of schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia in recent years, it is still reported in several regions. This study investigates the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia over seven years (2014–2020). Methodology: A retrospective study was retrieved from the annual reports of the Ministry of Health. A Geographic Information System GIS, Chi-square, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Results: Out of the 4,371,481 tested, 680 cases were positive for schistosomiasis, with a cumulative incidence rate of 2.155/100,000 population. This number showed significant variation over the study period (p value < 0.001). The highest number of cases detected in 2015 was almost 2-fold (OR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.36–2.74) higher than in 2020. Both clinical forms (urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis) exist in Saudi Arabia (79.6% and 20.4% of all schistosomiasis cases, respectively). Schistosomiasis was reported in seven out of thirteen regions. Among them, Mecca has a relatively high number of cases (OR = 5.57; 95%CI: 2.49–12.47). Conversely, the Eastern Province has a low number of cases (OR = 0.09; 95%CI: 0.02–0.39) when compared to the Najran region (p value > 0.001). Regarding the distribution of schistosomiasis cases by gender and nationality, we noticed that most of the positive cases were found among males (70.6%) and expatriates (83.6%). Conclusions: The persistence of schistosomiasis and the disparity in the demographic factors underscores the imperative for intensified and integrative One Health interventions to combat this disease in Saudi Arabia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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9 pages, 1118 KiB  
Article
Molecular Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus Complex Isolated from Free-Ranging Long-Tailed Macaques at Kosumpee Forest Park, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
by Natapol Pumipuntu, Tawatchai Tanee, Penkhae Thamsenanupap, Pensri Kyes, Apichat Karaket and Randall C. Kyes
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(7), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8070374 - 20 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1125
Abstract
The Staphylococcus (S.) aureus complex, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), and S. argenteus are bacterial pathogens that are responsible for both human and animal infection. However, insights into the molecular characteristics of MRSA, MSSA, and S. [...] Read more.
The Staphylococcus (S.) aureus complex, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), and S. argenteus are bacterial pathogens that are responsible for both human and animal infection. However, insights into the molecular characteristics of MRSA, MSSA, and S. argenteus carriages in wildlife, especially in long-tailed macaques, rarely have been reported in Thailand. The objective of this study was to assess molecular characterization of MRSA, MSSA, and S. argenteus strains isolated from free-ranging long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) at Kosumpee Forest Park, Maha Sarakham, Thailand. A total of 21 secondary bacterial isolates (including 14 MRSA, 5 MSSA, and 2 S. argenteus) obtained from the buccal mucosa of 17 macaques were analysed by a Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify several virulence genes, including pvl, tst, hla, hlb clfA, spa (x-region), spa (IgG biding region), and coa. The most prevalent virulence genes were clfA, coa, and the spa IgG biding region which presented in all isolates. These data indicated that MRSA, MSSA, and S. argenteus isolates from the wild macaques at Kosumpee Forest Park possess a unique molecular profile, harbouring high numbers of virulence genes. These findings suggest that wild macaques may potentially serve as carriers for distribution of virulent staphylococcal bacteria in the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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15 pages, 6621 KiB  
Article
One Health Approach to Leptospirosis: Human–Dog Seroprevalence Associated to Socioeconomic and Environmental Risk Factors in Brazil over a 20-Year Period (2001–2020)
by Natacha Sohn-Hausner, Louise Bach Kmetiuk and Alexander Welker Biondo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(7), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8070356 - 7 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1473
Abstract
Despite being considered a neglected, re-emerging and the most widespread zoonotic disease worldwide, human-dog leptospirosis has not been subjected to One Health approach, and neither were its socioeconomic and environmental risk factors, as well as concomitant spatial analysis over time. Accordingly, notified human [...] Read more.
Despite being considered a neglected, re-emerging and the most widespread zoonotic disease worldwide, human-dog leptospirosis has not been subjected to One Health approach, and neither were its socioeconomic and environmental risk factors, as well as concomitant spatial analysis over time. Accordingly, notified human leptospirosis cases, incidence rate and urban hotspot areas, in addition to a systematic review of dog leptospirosis cases, were performed nationwide from 2001 to 2020 in Brazil. Data on Gross Domestic Product (GDP), flooding and study areas were also assessed and tabulated. Human–dog leptospirosis cases were simultaneously mapped with overlapping flooding areas, along with the main circulant serovars. Comparative outcome has shown that dogs may be exposed similarly to humans, becoming important sentinels and/or reservoirs for human leptospirosis in larger geographic areas. Moreover, the study herein can help in the decision and implementation of public policies in Brazil and may serve as a model for other tropical countries worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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12 pages, 280 KiB  
Article
Bacterial Coinfection and Superinfection in Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Associated Acute Respiratory Illness: Prevalence, Pathogens, Initial Antibiotic-Prescribing Patterns and Outcomes
by Phunsup Wongsurakiat, Siwadol Sunhapanit and Nisa Muangman
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(3), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8030148 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1950
Abstract
We aimed to determine the prevalence of bacterial coinfection (CoBact) and bacterial superinfection (SuperBact), the causative pathogens, the initial antibiotic-prescribing practice, and the associated clinical outcomes of hospitalized patients with respiratory syncytial virus-associated acute respiratory illness (RSV-ARI). This retrospective study included 175 adults [...] Read more.
We aimed to determine the prevalence of bacterial coinfection (CoBact) and bacterial superinfection (SuperBact), the causative pathogens, the initial antibiotic-prescribing practice, and the associated clinical outcomes of hospitalized patients with respiratory syncytial virus-associated acute respiratory illness (RSV-ARI). This retrospective study included 175 adults with RSV-ARI, virologically confirmed via RT-PCR, during the period 2014–2019. Thirty (17.1%) patients had CoBact, and 18 (10.3%) had SuperBact. The independent factors associated with CoBact were invasive mechanical ventilation (OR: 12.1, 95% CI: 4.7–31.4; p < 0.001) and neutrophilia (OR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.3–8.5; p = 0.01). The independent factors associated with SuperBact were invasive mechanical ventilation (aHR: 7.2, 95% CI: 2.4–21.1; p < 0.001) and systemic corticosteroids (aHR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2–8.1; p = 0.02). CoBact was associated with higher mortality compared to patients without CoBact (16.7% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.05). Similarly, SuperBact was associated with higher mortality compared to patients without SuperBact (38.9% vs. 3.8%, p < 0.001). The most common CoBact pathogen identified was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (30%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (23.3%). The most common SuperBact pathogen identified was Acinetobacter spp. (44.4%), followed by ESBL-positive Enterobacteriaceae (33.3%). Twenty-two (100%) pathogens were potentially drug-resistant bacteria. In patients without CoBact, there was no difference in mortality between patients who received an initial antibiotic treatment of <5 days or ≥5 days. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
8 pages, 1720 KiB  
Communication
Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of Zoonotic Hookworm in Semi-Domesticated Cats Residing in Monasteries in Bangkok, Thailand
by Pornkamol Phoosangwalthong, Ketsarin Kamyingkird, Chanya Kengradomkij, Wissanuwat Chimnoi, Peter Odermatt and Tawin Inpankaew
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8020122 - 15 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1732
Abstract
Hookworms are the most common parasitic nematodes in the genus of Ancylostoma that infect both humans and animals in subtropical and tropical South East Asia. The common hookworm species in cats is Ancylostoma ceylanicum which is emerging in Thailand. However, the genetic characterization [...] Read more.
Hookworms are the most common parasitic nematodes in the genus of Ancylostoma that infect both humans and animals in subtropical and tropical South East Asia. The common hookworm species in cats is Ancylostoma ceylanicum which is emerging in Thailand. However, the genetic characterization of hookworms in cats is outdated and insufficiently studied in Thailand. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, risk factors and genetic characterization of hookworm infection in semi-domesticated temple cats in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 500 temple cat fecal samples were collected from 43 monasteries in 24 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed by amplifying the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (cox 1) gene. The infection prevalence of hookworm in temple cats was 13.2% (66/500). The highest prevalence was 34.6% in the Bang Khun Thian district, which is located in a suburban area. The risk factor analysis revealed that cats older than one year (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.5, p < 0.05), lack of veterinary attention (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7–4.9, p < 0.001) and Bangkok zone (suburban vs. inner city; OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.6–5.4, p < 0.001) were significantly increasing hookworm infection risk. All hookworm positive samples were identified as A. ceylanicum by ITS gene. Moreover, genetic characterization of cox 1 gene in A. ceylanicum isolates indicated a mix of isolates from humans, cats and dogs. The findings show that temple cats can act as a potential source of zoonotic hookworm parasites for the human and animal population in Bangkok, Thailand. Therefore, appropriate control measures for hookworms in semi-domesticated temple cats as well as prevention measures for hookworms in pet cats and humans should be promoted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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9 pages, 1096 KiB  
Communication
Serological Detection of Toxoplasma gondii among Free-Grazing Ducks from Central and Western Thailand—A One Health Perspective on Integrated Farming
by Thi Thuy Nguyen, Ketsarin Kamyingkird, Rungrot Jam-on, Waraphon Phimpraphai, Pun Panomwan, Adrian B. Hehl and Tawin Inpankaew
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(2), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8020103 - 6 Feb 2023
Viewed by 1815
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common zoonotic parasitic diseases infecting nearly all warm-blooded animals, including poultry (geese, turkeys, chickens, and ducks). It is caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which is an obligate intracellular protozoan belonging to the Apicomplexa group. [...] Read more.
Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common zoonotic parasitic diseases infecting nearly all warm-blooded animals, including poultry (geese, turkeys, chickens, and ducks). It is caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which is an obligate intracellular protozoan belonging to the Apicomplexa group. In Thailand, duck meat production for domestic consumption and international trade is mainly bred and produced in the central and western parts of the country. Free-grazing ducks in integrated duck–rice production have significant benefits in rice cultivation, accounting for the popularity of this farming system in Thailand. However, ducks are considered particularly susceptible to consuming T. gondii oocysts from water contaminated with cat feces due to the fact of their feeding habits of free-grazing and dabbling. Hence, the prevalence of this zoonotic parasite in a large-scale integrated farming context is particularly challenging with respect to the contamination of the food chain of humans and farm animals. In the present study, we examined the overall prevalence of T. gondii infection in slaughtered free-grazing ducks originating from Central and Western Thailand, setting the stage for an in-depth One Health approach to assess and manage the risks of integrated farming practices. A representative sample size of 161 ducks was calculated using a two-stage sampling method. Specifically, serum samples were collected from 217 slaughtered free-grazing ducks originating in six provinces in Central and Western Thailand. Serum antibodies against T. gondii were detected using an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The positive control serum samples were prepared from ducks experimentally immunized with T. gondii. Sixty-eight (31.3%) of the two hundred and seventeen ducks were seropositive with T. gondii. Two groups of fattening ducks and spent layers showed similar seropositivity rates at 29% and 32.3%, with the majority of positive samples being found in the low titer. In addition, a wide distribution of positive serum samples was observed in all six provinces in the present study. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on a serological prevalence snapshot in commercially produced duck populations that have high interaction with farmed environments in Thailand, revealing a high infection pressure in areas of integrated duck–rice farming. Importantly, contaminated duck meat for commercial use, as well as offal and carcasses from slaughterhouses, completes the transmission of T. gondii from the environment into the food chain of humans and domestic animals. Hence, from a One Health perspective, it is important to clarify whether this transmission chain extends further to the wild, i.e., predator–prey cycles that are independent of duck farming or are self-contained. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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13 pages, 1995 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Geographical Variation in Plasmodium knowlesi Apical Membrane Protein 1 (PkAMA-1) on Invasion Dynamics of P. knowlesi
by Yee Ling Ng, Wenn-Chyau Lee, Yee-Ling Lau and Mun Yik Fong
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8010056 - 10 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1852
Abstract
Plasmodium knowlesi has emerged as an important zoonotic parasite that causes persistent symptomatic malaria in humans. The signs and symptoms of malaria are attributed to the blood stages of the parasites, which start from the invasion of erythrocytes by the blood stage merozoites. [...] Read more.
Plasmodium knowlesi has emerged as an important zoonotic parasite that causes persistent symptomatic malaria in humans. The signs and symptoms of malaria are attributed to the blood stages of the parasites, which start from the invasion of erythrocytes by the blood stage merozoites. The apical membrane protein 1 (AMA-1) plays an important role in the invasion. In this study, we constructed and expressed recombinant PkAMA-1 domain II (PkAMA-1-DII) representing the predominant haplotypes from Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo and raised specific antibodies against the recombinant proteins in rabbits. Despite the minor amino acid sequence variation, antibodies raised against haplotypes from Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo demonstrated different invasion inhibition (46.81% and 39.45%, respectively) to P. knowlesi A1-H.1, a reference strain derived from Peninsular Malaysia. Here, we demonstrated how a minor variation in a conserved parasite protein could cast a significant impact on parasite invasion biology, suggesting a complex host-switching of P. knowlesi from different locations. This may challenge the implementation of a standardized One Health approach against the transmission of knowlesi malaria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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11 pages, 531 KiB  
Article
Potential Nosocomial Infections by the Zika and Chikungunya Viruses in Public Health Facilities in the Metropolitan Area of Recife, Brazil
by Larissa Krokovsky, Duschinka Ribeiro Duarte Guedes, Fabiana Cristina Fulco Santos, Kamila Gaudêncio da Silva Sales, Daniela Anastácio Bandeira, Claudenice Ramos Pontes, Walter Soares Leal, Constância Flávia Junqueira Ayres and Marcelo Henrique Santos Paiva
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(11), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7110351 - 4 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1619
Abstract
Since 2015, the Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses gained notoriety for their impact in public health in many parts of the globe, including Brazil. In Recife, the capital of Pernambuco State, the introduction of ZIKV impacted human population tremendously, owing to the increase [...] Read more.
Since 2015, the Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses gained notoriety for their impact in public health in many parts of the globe, including Brazil. In Recife, the capital of Pernambuco State, the introduction of ZIKV impacted human population tremendously, owing to the increase in the number of neurological cases, such as the Guillain–Barré and congenital Zika disorders. Later, Recife was considered to be the epicenter for ZIKV epidemics in Brazil. For arboviral diseases, there are some risk factors, such as climate changes, low socioeconomic conditions, and the high densities of vectors populations, that favor the broad and rapid dispersion of these three viruses in the city. Therefore, continuous arbovirus surveillance provides an important tool for detecting these arboviruses and predicting new outbreaks. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the circulation of DENV, ZIKV, and CHIKV by RT-qPCR in mosquitoes collected in health care units from the metropolitan area of Recife (MAR), during 2018. A total of 2321 female mosquitoes (357 pools) belonging to two species, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus, were collected from 18 different healthcare units, distributed in five cities from the MAR. Twenty-three pools were positive for ZIKV, out of which, seventeen were of C. quinquefasciatus and six were of A. aegypti. Positive pools were collected in 11/18 health care units screened, with Cq values ranging from 30.0 to 37.4 and viral loads varying from 1.88 × 107 to 2.14 × 109 RNA copies/mL. Nosocomial Aedes- and Culex-borne transmission of arbovirus are widely ignored by surveillance and vector control programs, even though healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are considered a serious threat to patient safety worldwide. Although the results presented here concern only the epidemiological scenario from 2018 in MAR, the potential of hospital-acquired transmission through mosquito bites is being overlooked by public health authorities. It is, therefore, of the ultimate importance to establish specific control programs for these locations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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15 pages, 2101 KiB  
Article
Existing Policies/Guidelines on the Environmental Dimension of Antimicrobial Resistance in India: An Insight into the Key Facets through Review and SWOT Analysis
by Falguni Debnath, Debjit Chakraborty, Sandip Giri, Shatabdi Saha, Soume Pyne, Raja Chakraverty, Agniva Majumdar, Alok Kumar Deb, Vishal Diwan, Rajesh Bhatia and Shanta Dutta
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(11), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7110336 - 29 Oct 2022
Viewed by 2683
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a multidimensional phenomenon. The environment acts as a mixing pot of drug-resistant bacteria from many sources such as pharmaceutical, biomedical, veterinary, and agricultural sectors. In this study, we analysed the existing AMR-related policies/guidelines/legislations in India in the above [...] Read more.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a multidimensional phenomenon. The environment acts as a mixing pot of drug-resistant bacteria from many sources such as pharmaceutical, biomedical, veterinary, and agricultural sectors. In this study, we analysed the existing AMR-related policies/guidelines/legislations in India in the above domains and how the current practices are being guided by them. Methods: We used a convergent parallel mix method design. Quantitative data were collected through a review of policies/guidelines/legislations in the said domains and analysed using the SWOT tool parallelly supported by key informant interviews of domain-specific stakeholders. Results: Altogether, 19 existing AMR policies/guidelines/legislations were identified. The existence of few policies/guidelines in each domain indicated the evolving environment for policy interventions. However, the lack of capacity among farmers, inadequate provision for structured capacity building, high cost of alternatives to antimicrobials, and lack of provision of incentivisation in case of crop failure were identified as the major weaknesses prevalent across the domains. Opportunities for policy refinements/the introduction of new policies are ample. However, easy access to antimicrobials and injudicious use imposes threats to AMR containment in all sectors. Conclusions: Despite having a few policies for the containment of AMR, their implementation witnesses challenge due to the lack of collaborative approaches, the existence of policies disjointed from ground reality, infrastructural issues, and the lack of capacity and resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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12 pages, 1644 KiB  
Article
Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Survey in Humans, Ticks, and Livestock in Agnam (Northeastern Senegal) from February 2021 to March 2022
by Moufid Mhamadi, Aminata Badji, Idrissa Dieng, Alioune Gaye, El Hadji Ndiaye, Mignane Ndiaye, Moundhir Mhamadi, Cheikh Talibouya Touré, Mouhamed Rassoul Mbaye, Mamadou Aliou Barry, Oumar Ndiaye, Babacar Faye, Fatimata Amadou Ba, Boly Diop, Mamadou Ndiaye, Mathioro Fall, Samba Niang Sagne, Gamou Fall, Cheikh Loucoubar, Hugues Fausther-Bovendo, Amadou Alpha Sall, Gary Kobinger, Ousmane Faye, Mawlouth Diallo and Oumar Fayeadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(10), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7100324 - 21 Oct 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1741
Abstract
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in Asia, Europe, and Africa. In Senegal, sporadic cases of CCHFV have been reported since 1960. Bordering Mauritania in northeastern Senegal, Agnam is an arid area in the region of Matam where CCHFV is endemic, which [...] Read more.
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in Asia, Europe, and Africa. In Senegal, sporadic cases of CCHFV have been reported since 1960. Bordering Mauritania in northeastern Senegal, Agnam is an arid area in the region of Matam where CCHFV is endemic, which harbors a pastoralist community. Given the drought conditions of Agnam, inhabitants are in constant movement with their animals in search of pasture, which brings them into contact with pathogens such as arboviruses. To identify CCHFV in this area, we established a One Health site in order to analyze animal livestock, ticks and human samples collected over a one-year period by qRT-PCR and ELISA. Our analysis showed one (1/364) patient carried anti-CCHFV IgM and thirty-seven carried anti-CCHFV IgG (37/364). In livestock, anti-CCHFV IgG was detected in 13 (38.24%) of 34 sentinel sheep. The risk of CCHFV infection increased significatively with age in humans (p-value = 0.00117) and sheep (p-value = 1.18 × 10−11). Additional risk factors for CCHFV infection in sheep were dry seasons (p-value = 0.004) and time of exposure (p-value = 0.007). Furthermore, we detected a total of three samples with CCHFV RNA within Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi and Rhipicephalus guilhoni tick species. Our results highlighted the usefulness of a One Health survey of CCHFV in pastoral communities at risk of arboviruses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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10 pages, 246 KiB  
Article
Community Health Nurses’ Perspective on the Introduced Rational Drug Use Policy in Primary Care Settings in Thailand: A Descriptive Qualitative Study
by Sophaphan Intahphuak, Thaworn Lorga and Worawan Tipwareerom
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(10), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7100304 - 16 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1804
Abstract
Background: To address the problems related to drug resistance and medication safety, the rational drug use (RDU) policy has been implemented in Thailand since 2014. Theoretically, the policy was supposed to bring drastic changes to the way clinicians prescribe medications and its impacts [...] Read more.
Background: To address the problems related to drug resistance and medication safety, the rational drug use (RDU) policy has been implemented in Thailand since 2014. Theoretically, the policy was supposed to bring drastic changes to the way clinicians prescribe medications and its impacts on clinical practice, however, it has not yet been investigated. The study aimed to describe the experience of community health nurses with regard to the impact of RDU policy implementation on their practices. Methods: Focus group interviews and in-depth interviews with community nurses were conducted. Thematic analysis was performed. Results: Five themes emerged from the analysis, namely, (1) a welcome opportunity, (2) RDU as the quality of healthcare, (3) multidisciplinary collaboration, (4) reinventing productive interactions between nurses and patients, and (5) challenges over control of medications prescribed or purchased elsewhere. Conclusions: Implementing RDU in primary care provides opportunities for protecting individual patients and public health as well as safeguarding against professional prescription error. This can be made possible by adopting a systemic approach to changes. Additional educational and organizational support will optimize health professionals’ contribution to the implementation and hence optimal outcomes of this important policy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
13 pages, 1854 KiB  
Article
Epidemiology of Community-Acquired Respiratory Tract Infections in Patients Admitted at the Emergency Departments
by Mariana Helou, Ahmad Mahdi, Ziad Daoud, Jacques Mokhbat, Anna Farra, Elma Nassar, Ralph Nehme, Edmond Abboud, Khalil Masri and Rola Husni
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(9), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7090233 - 8 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2849
Abstract
Objectives: Community-acquired respiratory infections (CARTIs) are responsible for serious morbidities worldwide. Identifying the aetiology can decrease the use of unnecessary antimicrobial therapy. In this study, we intend to determine the pathogenic agents responsible for respiratory infections in patients presenting to the emergency department [...] Read more.
Objectives: Community-acquired respiratory infections (CARTIs) are responsible for serious morbidities worldwide. Identifying the aetiology can decrease the use of unnecessary antimicrobial therapy. In this study, we intend to determine the pathogenic agents responsible for respiratory infections in patients presenting to the emergency department of several Lebanese hospitals. Methods: A total of 100 patients presenting to the emergency departments of four Lebanese hospitals and identified as having CARTIs between September 2017 and September 2018 were recruited. Specimens of upper and lower respiratory tract samples were collected. Pathogens were detected by a multiplex polymerase chain reaction respiratory panel. Results: Of 100 specimens, 84 contained at least one pathogen. Many patients were detected with ≥2 pathogens. The total number of pathogens from these 84 patients was 163. Of these pathogens, 36 (22%) were human rhinovirus, 28 (17%) were Streptococcus pneumoniae, 16 (10%) were metapneumovirus, 16 (10%) were influenza A virus, and other pathogens were detected with lower percentages. As expected, the highest occurrence of pathogens was observed between December and March. Respiratory syncytial virus accounted for 2% of the cases and only correlated to paediatric patients. Conclusion: CARTI epidemiology is important and understudied in Lebanon. This study offers the first Lebanese data about CARTI pathogens. Viruses were the most common aetiologies of CARTIs. Thus, a different approach must be used for the empirical management of CARTI. Rapid testing might be useful in identifying patients who need antibiotic therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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Review

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10 pages, 690 KiB  
Review
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Emergence in Southeastern Mexico: The Case of the State of Yucatan
by Elsy B. Canché-Pool, Jesús A. Panti-May, Hugo A. Ruiz-Piña, Marco Torres-Castro, Francisco J. Escobedo-Ortegón, Paulino Tamay-Segovia, Selene Blum-Domínguez, Jimmy R. Torres-Castro and Enrique Reyes-Novelo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(12), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7120444 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2062
Abstract
Environmental changes triggered by deforestation, urban expansion and climate change are present-day drivers of the emergence and reemergence of leishmaniasis. This review describes the current epidemiological scenario and the feasible influence of environmental changes on disease occurrence in the state of Yucatan, Mexico. [...] Read more.
Environmental changes triggered by deforestation, urban expansion and climate change are present-day drivers of the emergence and reemergence of leishmaniasis. This review describes the current epidemiological scenario and the feasible influence of environmental changes on disease occurrence in the state of Yucatan, Mexico. Relevant literature was accessed through different databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google, and Mexican official morbidity databases. Recent LCL autochthonous cases, potential vector sandflies and mammal hosts/reservoirs also have been reported in several localities of Yucatan without previous historical records of the disease. The impact of deforestation, urban expansion and projections on climate change have been documented. The current evidence of the relationships between the components of the transmission cycle, the disease occurrence, and the environmental changes on the leishmaniasis emergence in the state shows the need for strength and an update to the intervention and control strategies through a One Health perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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10 pages, 1216 KiB  
Review
One Health: An Effective and Ethical Approach to Leptospirosis Control in Australia
by Hong Tham Pham and Minh-Hoang Tran
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2022, 7(11), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7110389 - 21 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1865
Abstract
The increasing concerns over emerging infectious diseases and potential pandemics led to the formation of One Health, a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to address the risks from human–animal–ecosystem interactions. This multi-sectoral approach is specifically important in Australia, a biodiverse country with unique flora, fauna, [...] Read more.
The increasing concerns over emerging infectious diseases and potential pandemics led to the formation of One Health, a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to address the risks from human–animal–ecosystem interactions. This multi-sectoral approach is specifically important in Australia, a biodiverse country with unique flora, fauna, and many infectious diseases, including leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is a relatively rare but potentially fatal zoonosis, with an attributed mortality of around 60,000 deaths per year worldwide. In recent years, sporadic cases and alarming outbreaks of leptospirosis have been notified in many states and territories of Australia, noteworthily in 2018 and 2019. The sudden outbreaks in these two years have raised a question about the possibility of a more severe menace or a potential threat to both humans and animals. Amid the fight against leptospirosis, One Health has been shown to be an excellent and ideal framework, especially in Australia, the country that has taken the lead in zoonosis control using this approach. In this review, the focus will be put on the effectiveness and ethics of One Health in leptospirosis control under the Australian setting to further advocate the implementation of this framework for many other infectious diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

11 pages, 1314 KiB  
Protocol
One Health Surveillance System in Gujarat, India: A Health Policy and Systems Research Protocol for Exploring the Cross-Sectoral Collaborations to Detect Emerging Threats at the Human-Animal–Environment Interface
by Sandul Yasobant, Deepak Saxena, Ravina Tadvi and Zahiruddin Quazi Syed
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(9), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8090428 - 29 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1465
Abstract
The close interaction between humans, animals and the ecosystem has been a reason for the emergence and re-emergence of zoonotic diseases worldwide. Zoonoses are estimated to be responsible for 2.5 billion human illnesses and 2.7 million deaths worldwide. Gujarat is a western state [...] Read more.
The close interaction between humans, animals and the ecosystem has been a reason for the emergence and re-emergence of zoonotic diseases worldwide. Zoonoses are estimated to be responsible for 2.5 billion human illnesses and 2.7 million deaths worldwide. Gujarat is a western state in India with more than 65 million people and 26 million livestock, and includes surveillance systems for humans and animals; however, more evidence is needed on joint collaborative activities and their effect on the early warning response for zoonoses. Thus, this study aims to investigate sectoral collaborations for early warning and response systems for emerging and re-emerging zoonoses, aiming to develop a One Health surveillance (OHS) system in Gujarat, India. This case study uses policy content analysis followed by qualitative and quantitative data collection among state- and district-level surveillance actors to provide insight into the current cross-sectoral collaborations among surveillance actors. It helps identify triggers and documents factors helpful in strengthening cross-sectoral collaborations among these systems and facilitates the establishment of an OHS system in Gujarat, India. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in One Health)
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