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Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and...
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Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention

A special issue of Vaccines (ISSN 2076-393X). This special issue belongs to the section "Epidemiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2024 | Viewed by 9821

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Victor Adekanmbi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
Interests: cancer epidemiology; cancer prevention; women’s health; sexually transmitted infections; infectious diseases; prediction and mixed effects modellings; socioeconomic determinants of health

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Infectious diseases are caused by infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi and their toxic products). Examples of these communicable diseases include measles (direct or indirect transmission), malaria (transmitted by mosquitoes), and chlamydia (direct transmission through sexual contact). Many infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox, can be prevented by vaccines. Throughout the 1900s, improved sanitation and new prevention and treatment options drastically reduced the burden of infectious diseases. Immunisation and vaccination is a key preventive measure against infectious and communicable diseases and has been highly successful at reducing infections from significant diseases. The WHO itself in 2019 listed both vaccine hesitancy and multidrug-resistant organisms, together with communicable diseases (HIV, Ebola, Dengue), among its 10 current threats to global health. 

Here, we can discuss the public health, economic, and social benefits of vaccines that have been identified and studied in recent years, impacting all regions and all age groups. After learning of the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in December 2019, and its potential for global dissemination to cause COVID-19 disease was realized, we should endeavour to communicate this to the public and policy makers, for the benefit of endemic, epidemic, and pandemic diseases. In this Special Issue of Vaccines, we are inviting the submission of research articles and review articles examining current global trends in vaccination for infectious diseases.

I would like to invite the global science community to submit articles to this Special Issue. We will provide you with a fast peer-review process to ensure the timely publication of your articles.

Dr. Victor Adekanmbi
Guest Editor

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. Vaccines 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.

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

12 pages, 2252 KiB  
Article
Anti-HBs Seroprevalence in Blood Donors from Tyrol, Austria
by Lisa Seekircher, Annelies Mühlbacher, Lena Tschiderer, Gregor A. Wachter, Manfred Astl, Harald Schennach, Anita Siller and Peter Willeit
Vaccines 2024, 12(10), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12101156 - 11 Oct 2024
Viewed by 765
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) are a marker of immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. There is uncertainty about the anti-HBs seroprevalence in the general population of Austria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in blood donors [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) are a marker of immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. There is uncertainty about the anti-HBs seroprevalence in the general population of Austria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis in blood donors from the Federal State of Tyrol in Austria (August–September 2023) to estimate anti-HBs seroprevalence and median antibody levels. Results: We enrolled 3935 blood donors (median age 47.6 years [25th–75th percentile: 33.3–56.6]; 40.7% female), who were hepatitis B surface antigen negative and had no detectable HBV-DNA. Overall seroprevalence was 51.4% (95% CI: 49.8–52.9%). Anti-HBs seropositivity decreased with higher age (p < 0.001), with 70.3% (66.1–74.3%) being seropositive among participants < 25 years of age and 30.2% (24.2–36.9%) in those aged ≥ 65 years. More females than males were seropositive (54.3% [51.8–56.7%] vs. 49.4% [47.4–51.4%]; p = 0.003). Seroprevalence was significantly higher in urban than in rural areas in participants aged 40 to <55 (p = 0.045) and ≥55 years (p = 0.001). Among 2022 seropositive participants, the overall median anti-HBs antibody level was 539.3 IU/L (25th–75th percentile: 116.3–5417.0). Furthermore, 5% of the participants had an anti-HBs antibody level between 10 and <20 IU/L, 18% between 20 and <100 IU/L, and 77% ≥100 IU/L. Conclusions: Anti-HBs seroprevalence in blood donors from Tyrol, Austria, was 51.4% between August and September 2023 and differed across age, sex, and residence area. Catch-up vaccination programs, especially targeting the elderly living in rural areas, are needed to close HBV immunity gaps. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
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26 pages, 6130 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Spatial-Temporal and Risk Factor Insights for Optimizing Livestock Anthrax Vaccination Strategies in Karnataka, India
by Jayashree Anandakumar, Kuralayanapalya Puttahonnappa Suresh, Archana Veeranagouda Patil, Chethan A. Jagadeesh, Sushma Bylaiah, Sharanagouda S. Patil and Divakar Hemadri
Vaccines 2024, 12(9), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12091081 - 22 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1362
Abstract
Anthrax, a zoonotic disease affecting both livestock and humans globally, is caused by Bacillus anthracis. The objectives of this study were the following: (1) to identify environmental risk factors for anthrax and use this information to develop an improved predictive risk map, and [...] Read more.
Anthrax, a zoonotic disease affecting both livestock and humans globally, is caused by Bacillus anthracis. The objectives of this study were the following: (1) to identify environmental risk factors for anthrax and use this information to develop an improved predictive risk map, and (2) to estimate spatial variation in basic reproduction number (Ro) and herd immunity threshold at the village level, which can be used to optimize vaccination policies within high-risk regions. Based on the anthrax incidences from 2000–2023 and vaccine administration figures between 2008 and 2022 in Karnataka, this study depicted spatiotemporal pattern analysis to derive a risk map employing machine learning algorithms and estimate Ro and herd immunity threshold for better vaccination coverage. Risk factors considered were key meteorological, remote sensing, soil, and geographical parameters. Spatial autocorrelation and SaTScan analysis revealed the presence of hotspots and clusters predominantly in the southern, central, and uppermost northern districts of Karnataka and temporal cluster distribution between June and September. Factors significantly associated with anthrax were air temperature, surface pressure, land surface temperature (LST), enhanced vegetation index (EVI), potential evapotranspiration (PET), soil temperature, soil moisture, pH, available potassium, sulphur, and boron, elevation, and proximity to waterbodies and waterways. Ensemble technique with random forest and classification tree models were used to improve the prediction accuracy of anthrax. High-risk areas are expected in villages in the southern, central, and extreme northern districts of Karnataka. The estimated Ro revealed 11 high-risk districts with Ro > 1.50 and respective herd immunity thresholds ranging from 11.24% to 55.47%, and the assessment of vaccination coverage at the 70%, 80%, and 90% vaccine efficacy levels, all serving for need-based strategic vaccine allocation. A comparison analysis of vaccinations administered and vaccination coverage estimated in this study is used to illustrate difference in the supply and vaccine force. The findings from the present study may support in planning preventive interventions, resource allocation, especially of vaccines, and other control strategies against anthrax across Karnataka, specifically focusing on predicted high-risk regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
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17 pages, 913 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Attitudes and Practices towards the Influenza Vaccine in High-Risk Adults in Poland
by Dorota Kopciuch, Karolina Hoffmann, Krzysztof Kus, Agnieszka Koligat-Seitz, Piotr Ratajczak, Elżbieta Nowakowska and Anna Paczkowska
Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030341 - 21 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1387
Abstract
This study aimed to understand Poles’ attitudes and beliefs towards influenza vaccinations in the flu season of 2022–2023, especially among individuals at risk of flu complications. The cross-sectional survey-based study was carried out on a sample of 810 respondents. The questionnaire was disseminated [...] Read more.
This study aimed to understand Poles’ attitudes and beliefs towards influenza vaccinations in the flu season of 2022–2023, especially among individuals at risk of flu complications. The cross-sectional survey-based study was carried out on a sample of 810 respondents. The questionnaire was disseminated electronically using social media and e-mail. The majority of respondents (71%) could identify “high-risk groups” recommended for influenza vaccination, and 52.01% of respondents reported receiving influenza vaccination at some point in the past, with 32.12% receiving it in the 2022–2023 flu season and 41.09% in the 2021–2022 season. The majority of respondents declaring acceptance of the vaccine for the 2022–2023 season were in the high-risk group. Only 17.28% of respondents declared receiving both influenza and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in the 2022–2023 season, with the vast majority being respondents from the “high-risk group” (p < 0.0001). Only 26.12% of respondents declared their intention to continue influenza vaccination in the future. Of those expressing the intention to get vaccinated against the influenza virus in future seasons, 46.79% were from the “high-risk group” (p = 0.0087). Results suggest the need for further interaction and education with healthcare providers and targeted informational efforts for at-risk groups regarding the benefits of flu vaccination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
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14 pages, 1790 KiB  
Article
Improving Vaccine Assessment Pathways and Decision Making in the Polish Immunization Program
by Marcin Czech, Ewa Augustynowicz, Michał Byliniak, Teresa Jackowska, Mikołaj Konstanty, Ernest Kuchar, Agnieszka Mastalerz-Migas, Maciej Niewada, Aneta Nitsch-Osuch, Iwona Paradowska-Stankiewicz, Jarosław Pinkas, Jakub Szulc and Jacek Wysocki
Vaccines 2024, 12(3), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12030286 - 9 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1907
Abstract
This study examines the vaccine market access pathway in Poland to evaluate its efficiency and propose recommendations for its improvement. The research spans a comprehensive analysis of the vaccine assessment process, ranging from pre-registration to sustainability, encompassing critical components such as national immunization [...] Read more.
This study examines the vaccine market access pathway in Poland to evaluate its efficiency and propose recommendations for its improvement. The research spans a comprehensive analysis of the vaccine assessment process, ranging from pre-registration to sustainability, encompassing critical components such as national immunization technical advisory groups (NITAGs), health technology assessments, resource evaluations, and decision making. This investigation utilizes a multi-phase approach. Initial desk research aimed to collect accumulated evidence about each step of the vaccine access pathway. This constituted the background for an expert panel discussion (n = 13) and a final online questionnaire (n = 12), evaluating the timeframes, inclusiveness, transparency, and consistency of the elements of the process. Poland is a late adopter of new vaccines. The country faces budget constraints and lacks a formalized framework for the inclusion of vaccines into the national immunization program. Notably, NITAGs play a crucial role, yet their limited resources and dependence on public health stakeholders diminish their impact. A formal and well-supported advisory body may become a foundation for decision-making processes. The health technology assessment conducted by the national agency is recognized for its timeliness and transparency, though the absence of fiscal analyses in vaccine assessments is identified as a gap that limits the understanding of the value of vaccinations. Resources are key drivers of decision making, and recent changes in legislation offer increased flexibility in financing vaccines. Challenges in the procurement process include a limited consideration of non-acquisition costs and an increased absence of a documented general strategy for immunization program development in Poland, pointing to a need for strategic planning. In conclusion, this study recommends the establishment of a robust NITAG with enhanced resources, incorporating fiscal analyses, transparent resource allocation, and strategic planning for immunization program development. Addressing these recommendations is crucial for optimizing Poland’s vaccine market access pathway, ensuring timely and efficient population-wide vaccine access. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
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15 pages, 310 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
by Ignacio Hernández-García, Joana Rodríguez-Montolio, Monserrath Almeida-Zurita, Dionisio Cheli-Gracia, Belén del Moral Sahuquillo, Carlos Aibar-Remón and Moisés Garcés-Redondo
Vaccines 2024, 12(2), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12020126 - 26 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1340
Abstract
Our objective was to know the COVID-19 vaccination coverage in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and its factors associated. A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Patients seen at the MS unit of the University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza between 2017 and 2021 were [...] Read more.
Our objective was to know the COVID-19 vaccination coverage in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and its factors associated. A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Patients seen at the MS unit of the University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza between 2017 and 2021 were included. Variables were obtained by reviewing the specialized and primary care records. Associations between receiving COVID-19 full primo-vaccination, as well as one booster dose since autumn 2022, and the other variables were analyzed using bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression models. Of the 359 included patients, 90.3% received the COVID-19 full primo-vaccination. Having been born in Spain (aOR = 3.40) and having received the 2020–2021 influenza vaccine (aOR = 6.77) were associated with receiving the COVID-19 full primo-vaccination. Vaccination with a COVID-19 booster dose was detected in 141 patients (39.3%). Sex (man) (aOR = 2.36), age (60 years or over) (aOR = 6.82), type of MS (Primary Progressive/Secondary Progressive) (aOR = 3.94), and having received the 2022–2023 influenza vaccine (aOR = 27.54) were associated with receiving such a booster dose. The COVID-19 booster dose was administered at the same time as the 2022–2023 influenza vaccine in 57.8% (67/116) of the patients vaccinated with both vaccines. The COVID-19 full primo-vaccination coverage is higher than in other countries. However, the decrease in vaccination coverage with the booster dose makes it necessary to develop strategies to improve it that are not limited to administering the flu vaccine together with the COVID-19 booster dose. Such strategies should be in focus, especially for women under 60 years of age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
13 pages, 234 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Long COVID Symptoms among U.S. Adults, 2022
by Kimberly H. Nguyen, Yingjun Bao, Julie Mortazavi, Jennifer D. Allen, Patricia O. Chocano-Bedoya and Laura Corlin
Vaccines 2024, 12(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12010099 - 18 Jan 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2371
Abstract
Long COVID and its symptoms have not been examined in different subpopulations of U.S. adults. Using the 2022 BRFSS (n = 445,132), we assessed long COVID and each symptom by sociodemographic characteristics and health-related variables. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to examine factors [...] Read more.
Long COVID and its symptoms have not been examined in different subpopulations of U.S. adults. Using the 2022 BRFSS (n = 445,132), we assessed long COVID and each symptom by sociodemographic characteristics and health-related variables. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to examine factors associated with long COVID and the individual symptoms. Prevalence differences were conducted to examine differences in long COVID by vaccination status. Overall, more than one in five adults who ever had COVID-19 reported symptoms consistent with long COVID (21.8%). The most common symptom was tiredness or fatigue (26.2%), followed by difficulty breathing or shortness of breath (18.9%), and loss of taste or smell (17.0%). Long COVID was more common among adults under 65 years, women, American Indian or Alaska Native or other/multi race group, smokers, and people with a disability, depression, overweight or obesity compared to their respective counterparts. The prevalence of long COVID was higher among unvaccinated adults (25.6%) than vaccinated adults (21.6%) overall, and for 20 of 32 subgroups assessed. These findings underscore the benefits of vaccination, the importance of early treatment, and the need to better inform health care resource allocation and support services for those experiencing long COVID. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases: Importance for Public Health, Epidemiology, Promoting Factors, and Vaccines Prevention)
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