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Search Results (232)

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Keywords = pandemic preparedness and response

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27 pages, 3153 KB  
Review
Evolutionary Insight into Fatal Human Coronaviruses (hCoVs) with a Focus on Circulating SARS-CoV-2 Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs)
by Mohammad Asrar Izhari, Fahad Alghamdi, Essa Ajmi Alodeani, Ahmad A. Salem, Ahamad H. A. Almontasheri, Daifallah M. M. Dardari, Mansour A. A. Hadadi, Ahmed R. A. Gosady, Wael A. Alghamdi, Bakheet A. Alzahrani and Bandar M. A. Alzahrani
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2450; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102450 - 8 Oct 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
The breach of an interspecies barrier by RNA viruses has facilitated the emergence of lethal hCoVs, particularly SARS-CoV-2, resulting in significant socioeconomic setbacks and public health risks globally in recent years. Moreover, the high evolutionary plasticity of hCoVs has led to the continuous [...] Read more.
The breach of an interspecies barrier by RNA viruses has facilitated the emergence of lethal hCoVs, particularly SARS-CoV-2, resulting in significant socioeconomic setbacks and public health risks globally in recent years. Moreover, the high evolutionary plasticity of hCoVs has led to the continuous emergence of diverse variants, complicating clinical management and public health responses. Studying the evolutionary trajectory of hCoVs, which provides a molecular roadmap for understanding viruses’ adaptation, tissue tropism, spread, virulence, and immune evasion, is crucial for addressing the challenges of zoonotic spillover of viruses. Tracing the evolutionary trajectory of lethal hCoVs provides essential genomic insights required for risk stratification, variant/sub-variant classification, preparedness for outbreaks and pandemics, and the identification of critical viral elements for vaccine and therapeutic development. Therefore, this review examines the evolutionary landscape of the three known lethal hCoVs, presenting a focused narrative on SARS-CoV-2 variants under monitoring (VUMs) as of May 2025. Using advanced bioinformatics approaches and data visualization, the review highlights key spike protein substitutions, particularly within the receptor-binding domain (RBD), which drive transmissibility, immune escape, and potential resistance to therapeutics. The article highlights the importance of real-time genomic surveillance and intervention strategies in mitigating emerging variant/sub-variant risks within the ongoing COVID-19 landscape. Full article
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20 pages, 2817 KB  
Article
Telemedicine in Times of Crisis—A SWOT Assessment Based on Romanian Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions
by Gianina-Valentina Băcescu Ene, Corina Mărginean, Damiana-Maria Vulturar, Corina Eugenia Budin, Ruxandra-Mioara Râjnoveanu and Doina Adina Todea
Healthcare 2025, 13(19), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13192474 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 290
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Unlike previous studies that have examined telemedicine primarily in pandemic contexts, this research adopts a dual-crisis perspective, assessing perceptions during both pandemics and armed conflicts. Recent health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and armed conflicts, have exposed vulnerabilities in health [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Unlike previous studies that have examined telemedicine primarily in pandemic contexts, this research adopts a dual-crisis perspective, assessing perceptions during both pandemics and armed conflicts. Recent health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and armed conflicts, have exposed vulnerabilities in health systems and underscored the need for evidence-based strategies to enhance resilience. Telemedicine has emerged as an essential tool for ensuring continuity of care, mitigating workforce shortages, and improving access for vulnerable groups. This study examines healthcare professionals’ perceptions of telemedicine in Romania across two exceptional contexts—pandemics and armed conflict—focusing on applicability, systemic integration, and limitations. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 409 healthcare professionals. Perceptions were analyzed using a SWOT framework and descriptive statistics (percentiles, median) to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in both scenarios. Results: Perceptions of telemedicine were shaped by prior experience, with strong support for its use in both contexts. Strengths included adaptability and improved access, while weaknesses highlighted technical barriers, insufficient training, and the risk of clinical errors. Threats referred to poor coordination across facilities and cultural or language barriers. Opportunities highlighted the potential for digital infrastructure and integration into preparedness frameworks. Conclusions: Telemedicine is positioned as a strategic tool for strengthening national health resilience. Adaptive, context-sensitive policies, combined with investments in infrastructure and workforce capacity, are essential for integrating telemedicine into emergency preparedness and ensuring sustainable, inclusive responses to future crises. This dual-crisis approach represents the novelty of our study, demonstrating how telemedicine can serve as a strategic tool for resilience in both epidemiological and conflict-related emergencies. Full article
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21 pages, 316 KB  
Article
Investigating Factors Associated with Employees’ Attitudes Towards Work-Related Infection Control Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study from Seven Different Companies in Germany, July–August 2021
by Esther Rind, Martina Michaelis, Michael Brosi, Jana Soeder, Anna T. Neunhoeffer, Anke Wagner and Monika A. Rieger
Healthcare 2025, 13(19), 2454; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13192454 - 27 Sep 2025
Viewed by 160
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study is part of an exploratory mixed-methods project investigating how companies and their employees in Germany dealt with adapted working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we identify predictive factors for employees’ attitudes towards the suitability of work-related technical, organisational, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study is part of an exploratory mixed-methods project investigating how companies and their employees in Germany dealt with adapted working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we identify predictive factors for employees’ attitudes towards the suitability of work-related technical, organisational, and personal SARS-CoV-2 infection control measures. Methods: In July 2021, when there was little evidence to suggest that the risk of work-related exposure to SARS-CoV-2 differed between occupations and workplaces, a standardised online and an optional paper-and-pencil survey were distributed across seven companies in southern Germany. Multivariate linear regression was used for analysis. Results: A total of 821 employees participated (average response rate: 24.5%). Most of the respondents (93%) worked in large companies, in the production industry (82%), with most of them having office jobs (82%). Around 29% reported doing most of their office work remotely during the pandemic. The perceived suitability of workplace infection control measures was rated quite high, with an overall mean score of 4.11 (SD 0.60) out of a possible 5. Workplace characteristics related to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as individual perception of SARS-CoV2 and COVID-19 in general were the most prominent predictors of attitudes towards the suitability of work-related SARS-CoV-2 infection control. For example, a higher COVID-19-specific reactance was negatively associated with attitudes towards technical (ß = −0.16), organisational (ß = −0.14), and personal (ß = −0.17) infection control measures (all p-values < 0.001). Furthermore, a higher rating of the employer’s commitment to occupational safety and health related to SARS-CoV-2, a higher individual disease perception, and a higher individual COVID-19-specific resilience had a positive association with attitudes towards the suitability of infection control measures. Finally, professional activity as well as company affiliation had statistically significant associations with employees’ attitudes towards the suitability of infection control measures. Conclusions: The results provide insight into factors relevant to pandemic prevention and control. In particular, our findings highlight the potential to implement organisational measures alongside compulsory technical occupational health measures. This could inform the development of pandemic preparedness strategies that prioritise adherence to established occupational infection control measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Health Before, During, and After COVID-19)
13 pages, 529 KB  
Review
The Experience of an Accelerated COVID-19 Immunization Campaign in Oman: A Review Within the WHO Health System Building Blocks Framework
by Thamra Al Ghafri, Lamya Al Balushi, Zainab Al Balushi, Lamees Al Kiyumi, Asma Bait Ishaq and Jannat Al Harthi
Vaccines 2025, 13(10), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13101002 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
Oman launched its COVID-19 vaccination campaign in December 2020, navigating significant public health challenges with resilience and adaptability. The country faced global vaccine shortages, community hesitancy to receive the vaccine, and diverse sociocultural and infrastructural obstacles. Despite these issues, Oman scaled up its [...] Read more.
Oman launched its COVID-19 vaccination campaign in December 2020, navigating significant public health challenges with resilience and adaptability. The country faced global vaccine shortages, community hesitancy to receive the vaccine, and diverse sociocultural and infrastructural obstacles. Despite these issues, Oman scaled up its COVID-19 vaccination efforts, administering over 7 million doses, covering approximately 71% of the population by mid-2022. The campaign, which operated through more than 44 vaccination centers nationwide, exemplified rapid vaccine implementation, strategic prioritization, and a coordinated pandemic response. This study examined the field experience of Oman’s accelerated COVID-19 mass vaccination campaign through the World Health Organization’s Health System Building Blocks framework. The key domains addressed included (1) multi-sectoral collaboration underpinned by strong governance structures; (2) the role of primary healthcare facilities as essential first responders during health crises, and safe handling of vaccination procedures; (3) transparency and active community engagement, particularly through local leaders and social media, to address vaccine hesitancy; (4) the integration of digital health information systems to ensure unified and efficient data management; (5) building a resilient healthcare workforce by enhancing vaccination capacity and mental health support; and (6) the importance of financial alternatives. Additionally, the critical role of global and regional partnerships in vaccine production and distribution was highlighted. Drawing on Oman’s experience, this descriptive review offers context-specific lessons for enhancing health system preparedness and guiding effective responses to public health emergencies. Full article
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28 pages, 3409 KB  
Article
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Economic Development of Selected Sectors: Case Study in Slovakia II (Secondary and Tertiary Industry)
by Marcela Taušová, Beáta Stehlíková, Katarína Čulková, Samuel Cibula and Alkhalaf Ibrahim
Economies 2025, 13(9), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13090268 - 11 Sep 2025
Viewed by 505
Abstract
The study analyzes the heterogeneous impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial performance across five strategic sectors of Slovakia’s economy. Using a longitudinal dataset of 500 companies (100 per sector) spanning 2015–2022, we examine changes in profitability (ROE) and liquidity (quick ratio). The [...] Read more.
The study analyzes the heterogeneous impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial performance across five strategic sectors of Slovakia’s economy. Using a longitudinal dataset of 500 companies (100 per sector) spanning 2015–2022, we examine changes in profitability (ROE) and liquidity (quick ratio). The examination is made by multivariate analysis and crisis matrix visualization. The research reveals four distinct sectoral response patterns: (1) the automotive industry maintained exceptional profitability (>65% ROE) but with critically low liquidity; (2) tourism and gastronomy experienced severe profitability decline but preserved stable liquidity; (3) healthcare demonstrated conservative liquidity strengthening with modest profitability impacts; (4) metallurgy and hazard sectors showed moderate volatility patterns. We introduce a crisis matrix framework combining profitability and liquidity indicators for sectoral resilience assessment. The results are validated through PERMANOVA analysis addressing non-normal data distributions that are common in crisis periods. The results demonstrate the need for differentiated crisis support policies, challenging uniform approaches to economic resilience. The study provides empirical evidence for sector-specific vulnerability patterns. It can inform strategies for future crisis preparedness. This research contributes to the crisis management literature by demonstrating how sectoral characteristics determine financial resilience pathways. The results offer insights that are applicable to similar transition economies in Central and Eastern Europe. Full article
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17 pages, 1593 KB  
Article
Forecasting Upper Bounds for Daily New COVID-19 Infections Using Tolerance Limits
by Hsiuying Wang
Mathematics 2025, 13(18), 2908; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13182908 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Since then, it has evolved into a global pandemic. Forecasting the number of COVID-19 cases is a crucial task that can [...] Read more.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Since then, it has evolved into a global pandemic. Forecasting the number of COVID-19 cases is a crucial task that can greatly aid management decisions. Numerous methods have been proposed in the literature to forecast COVID-19 case numbers; however, most do not yield highly accurate results. Rather than focusing solely on predicting exact case numbers, providing robust upper bounds may offer a more practical approach to support effective decision-making and resource preparedness. This study proposes the use of tolerance interval methods to construct upper bounds for daily new COVID-19 case numbers. The tolerance limits derived from the normal, Poisson, and negative binomial distributions are compared. These methods rely either on historical data alone or on a combination of historical data and auxiliary data from other regions. The results demonstrate that the proposed methods can generate informative upper bounds for COVID-19 case counts, offering a valuable alternative to traditional forecasting models that emphasize exact number estimation. This approach can improve pandemic preparedness through better equipment planning, resource allocation, and timely response strategies. Full article
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27 pages, 12561 KB  
Article
Systemic and Mucosal Immune Responses Induced by Adenoviral-Vectored Consensus H5 Influenza A Vaccines in Mice and Swine
by Adthakorn Madapong, Joshua Wiggins, Jennifer DeBeauchamp, Richard J. Webby and Eric A. Weaver
Vaccines 2025, 13(9), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13090928 - 30 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1450
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The continued evolution and cross-species transmission of clade 2.3.4.4b H5Nx highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses underscores the need for broadly protective vaccines in swine, a key intermediary host. This study aimed to evaluate systemic and mucosal immune responses elicited by adenoviral-vectored [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The continued evolution and cross-species transmission of clade 2.3.4.4b H5Nx highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses underscores the need for broadly protective vaccines in swine, a key intermediary host. This study aimed to evaluate systemic and mucosal immune responses elicited by adenoviral-vectored (Ad) vaccines encoding a centralized consensus hemagglutinin antigen (H5CC) in mice and swine. Methods: We constructed H5CC-based vaccines that were delivered using replication-defective (Ad5 and Ad6) and replication-competent (Ad28 and Ad48) human adenoviral vectors. Using a serotype-switched prime-boost strategy, vaccines were delivered intramuscularly (IM) or intranasally (IN) in mice and swine. We determined humoral, mucosal, and cell-mediated immune responses by hemagglutination inhibition (HI), microneutralization assay (MNA), ELISA, and IFN-γ ELISpot. Protective efficacy was evaluated by lethal H5N1 challenge in mice. Results: All vaccine strategies and routes induced significant levels of anti-H5 immunity. Ad5/Ad6 IM immunization elicited strong systemic IgG and MNA titers and robust T cell responses. IN delivery with Ad5/Ad6 induced superior mucosal IgA levels in lungs and nasal secretion. In swine, Ad5/Ad6 IM conferred the highest MNA titer and T cell responses, while the IN route enhanced mucosal IgA. The Ad28/Ad48 vaccines induced immunity in a similar pattern as compared to the Ad5/Ad6 strategy, but to a slightly lesser degree, in general. The commercial H1/H3 swine influenza vaccine failed to elicit cross-protective immunity. All H5CC vaccinated mice survived lethal H5N1 challenge without weight loss. Conclusions: Adenoviral-vectored H5CC vaccines elicit broad, cross-clade immunity with route-dependent immune profiles. IM vaccination is optimal for systemic and cellular responses, while IN delivery enhances mucosal immunity. These findings support the advancement of adenoviral platforms for influenza control in swine and pandemic preparedness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Design and Development)
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18 pages, 252 KB  
Article
Navigating the Pandemic with GIS: An Exploratory Factor Analysis of Israel’s Municipal Response
by Shimon Fridkin, Gil Greenstein, Diana Levi and Evgenia Tamurov
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(8), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14080316 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 868
Abstract
This study examined the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in municipal responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. A structured survey of officials from 130 municipalities was conducted, with a focus on the 87 municipalities that utilized GIS. An Exploratory Factor Analysis [...] Read more.
This study examined the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in municipal responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. A structured survey of officials from 130 municipalities was conducted, with a focus on the 87 municipalities that utilized GIS. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed on the survey data from these GIS-user municipalities to identify the underlying dimensions of GIS application during the crisis. The analysis revealed that municipal GIS engagement is not a monolithic activity but is composed of three distinct, reliable, and interpretable latent factors: (1) Strategic and Operational Integration, reflecting the deep embedding of GIS into core governance and decision-making; (2) Temporal Engagement, capturing the sustained use of the system over the timeline of the pandemic’s fourth wave; and (3) Logistical Site Coordination, representing the specialized use of GIS for managing testing and vaccination sites. These findings move beyond documenting individual GIS tasks to provide an empirical, data-driven framework of how geospatial technology was operationalized. This study underscores the multidimensional nature of GIS in a public health emergency and offers a structured understanding that can inform future crisis preparedness, training, and technology implementation strategies for municipal governments. Full article
15 pages, 302 KB  
Review
Revolutionizing Veterinary Vaccines: Overcoming Cold-Chain Barriers Through Thermostable and Novel Delivery Technologies
by Rabin Raut, Roshik Shrestha, Ayush Adhikari, Arjmand Fatima and Muhammad Naeem
Appl. Microbiol. 2025, 5(3), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmicrobiol5030083 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1606
Abstract
Veterinary vaccines are essential tools for controlling infectious and zoonotic diseases, safeguarding animal welfare, and ensuring global food security. However, conventional vaccines are hindered by cold-chain dependence, thermal instability, and logistical challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review explores next-generation [...] Read more.
Veterinary vaccines are essential tools for controlling infectious and zoonotic diseases, safeguarding animal welfare, and ensuring global food security. However, conventional vaccines are hindered by cold-chain dependence, thermal instability, and logistical challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review explores next-generation veterinary vaccines, emphasizing innovations in thermostability and delivery platforms to overcome these barriers. Recent advances in vaccine drying technologies, such as lyophilization and spray drying, have improved antigen stability and storage resilience, facilitating effective immunization in remote settings. Additionally, novel delivery systems, including nanoparticle-based formulations, microneedles, and mucosal routes (intranasal, aerosol, and oral), enhance vaccine efficacy, targeting immune responses at mucosal surfaces while minimizing invasiveness and cost. These approaches reduce reliance on cold-chain logistics, improve vaccine uptake, and enable large-scale deployment in field conditions. The integration of thermostable formulations with innovative delivery technologies offers scalable solutions to immunize livestock and aquatic species against major pathogens. Moreover, these strategies contribute significantly to One Health objectives by mitigating zoonotic spillovers, reducing antibiotic reliance, and supporting sustainable development through improved animal productivity. The emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in vaccine design—facilitating epitope prediction, formulation optimization, and rapid diagnostics—further accelerates vaccine innovation, particularly in resource-constrained environments. Collectively, the convergence of thermostability, advanced delivery systems, and AI-driven tools represents a transformative shift in veterinary vaccinology, with profound implications for public health, food systems, and global pandemic preparedness. Full article
16 pages, 1212 KB  
Article
“Encyclopaedia Cloacae”—Mapping Wastewaters from Pathogen A to Z
by Aurora Hirvonen, Sara Comero, Simona Tavazzi, Giulio Mariani, Caterina Cacciatori, Roberta Maffettone, Francesco Pierannunzi, Giulia Panzarella, Luis Bausa-Lopez, Sorin Sion, Tanja Casado Poblador, Natalia Głowacka, Davey L. Jones, Mauro Petrillo, Antonio Marchini, Maddalena Querci, Bernd Manfred Gawlik and on behalf of the Encyclopaedia Cloacae Collaborators
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1900; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081900 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1031
Abstract
The Encyclopaedia Cloacae is a novel and centralised digital platform designed to support and advance wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) by cataloguing pathogens detectable in wastewater and their relevance to public health surveillance. The platform is hosted on the EU Wastewater Observatory for Public Health [...] Read more.
The Encyclopaedia Cloacae is a novel and centralised digital platform designed to support and advance wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) by cataloguing pathogens detectable in wastewater and their relevance to public health surveillance. The platform is hosted on the EU Wastewater Observatory for Public Health (EU4S) website, where it is populated with peer-reviewed research through a structured workflow under harmonised criteria which address the presence of pathogens in human excreta, detectability in wastewater, and integration into public health systems. This tri-criteria approach ensures that the database is both scientifically robust and operationally actionable. Complemented by the Visualising the Invisible dashboard, the platform offers geospatial insights into global WBE research activity. By consolidating peer-reviewed evidence on pathogen detectability in wastewater and human excreta, the Encyclopaedia Cloacae enables early detection of infectious diseases, whether already known or newly emerging. The continuously updated repository and geospatial dashboards help to identify surveillance gaps and research hotspots, to support timely public health responses, enhance pandemic preparedness, and strengthen global health security. In addition, it supports One Health strategies, connecting the health of humans, animals, and the shared environment. This article outlines the platform’s architecture, data curation methodology, and future directions, including automation and expansion to encompass broader health determinants such as antimicrobial resistance and chemical hazards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Employing Wastewater)
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22 pages, 977 KB  
Viewpoint
Fast-Tracking Vaccine Manufacturing: CEPI’s Rapid Response Framework for the 100 Days Mission
by June Kim, Ramin Sabet-Azad, Dimki Patel, Gene Malin, Syed Hassan Askary and Anna Särnefält
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080849 - 11 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1651
Abstract
CEPI (the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation)’s CMC rapid response framework is developed to support accelerated vaccine development, manufacturing, and roll-out for various outbreak scenarios to achieve the 100 Days Mission. The framework outlines coordinated deliverables across five functional areas: manufacturing processes, formulation, [...] Read more.
CEPI (the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation)’s CMC rapid response framework is developed to support accelerated vaccine development, manufacturing, and roll-out for various outbreak scenarios to achieve the 100 Days Mission. The framework outlines coordinated deliverables across five functional areas: manufacturing processes, formulation, analytics, supply chain, and facilities. It could serve as a tool to streamline CMC and the related activities for rapid vaccine development, identify areas for improvement and innovation, and assess preparedness for the outbreak response. The framework emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation during interpandemic periods as the foundation for the 100 Days Mission and for gaining the confidence of health authorities and the public in vaccines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccines and Vaccinations in the Pandemic Period)
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13 pages, 603 KB  
Article
Adapting Ophthalmology Practices in Puerto Rico During COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
by Surafuale Hailu, Andrea N. Ponce, Juliana Charak, Hiram Jimenez and Luma Al-Attar
Epidemiologia 2025, 6(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/epidemiologia6030042 - 6 Aug 2025
Viewed by 540
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic caused pronounced disorder in healthcare delivery globally, including ophthalmology. Our study explores how ophthalmologists in Puerto Rico (PR) altered their practices during the pandemic, confronting obstacles such as resource shortages, evolving public health mandates, and unique socio-economic and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic caused pronounced disorder in healthcare delivery globally, including ophthalmology. Our study explores how ophthalmologists in Puerto Rico (PR) altered their practices during the pandemic, confronting obstacles such as resource shortages, evolving public health mandates, and unique socio-economic and geographic constraints. The study aims to enhance preparedness for future public health crises. Methods: We conducted descriptive analyses on four online surveys distributed at crucial time points of the pandemic (March 2020, May 2020, August 2020, August 2021) to all practicing ophthalmologists in PR (N ≈ 200), capturing data on closures, patient volume, personal protective equipment (PPE) access, telemedicine use, and financial relief. Results: Survey responses ranged from 41% (n = 81) to 56% (n = 111). By March 2020, 22% (24/111) of respondents closed their offices. By May 2020, 20% (19/93) of respondents maintained a closed office, while 89% (64/72) of open offices reported seeing less than 25% of their usual patient volume. Access to PPE was a challenge, with 59% (65/111) reporting difficulty obtaining N95 masks in March 2020. Telemedicine usage increased initially, peaking in May 2020 and declining in July 2020. By August 2021, all respondents were fully vaccinated and most practices returned to pre-pandemic levels. Overall, 86% (70/81) of respondents found the surveys to be useful for navigating practice changes during the pandemic. Conclusions: PR ophthalmologists showed adaptability during the COVID-19 pandemic to maintain care given limited resources. Guidelines from professional organizations and real time surveys play an important role in future crisis preparedness. Full article
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21 pages, 471 KB  
Review
Role and Contribution of Serological Surveillance in Animals and Exposed Humans to the Study of Zoonotic Influenza Disease Epidemiology: A Scoping Review
by Rebecca Badra, Wenqing Zhang, John S. L. Tam, Richard Webby, Sylvie van der Werf, Sergejs Nikisins, Ann Cullinane, Saad Gharaibeh, Richard Njouom, Malik Peiris, Ghazi Kayali and Jean-Michel Heraud
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080739 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1084
Abstract
Background: Zoonotic influenza viruses pose a significant and evolving public health threat. In response to the recent rise in H5N1 cross-species transmission, the World Health Organization (WHO) R&D Blueprint for Epidemics consultations have prioritized strengthening surveillance, candidate vaccines, diagnostics, and pandemic preparedness. Serological [...] Read more.
Background: Zoonotic influenza viruses pose a significant and evolving public health threat. In response to the recent rise in H5N1 cross-species transmission, the World Health Organization (WHO) R&D Blueprint for Epidemics consultations have prioritized strengthening surveillance, candidate vaccines, diagnostics, and pandemic preparedness. Serological surveillance plays a pivotal role by providing insights into the prevalence and transmission dynamics of influenza viruses. Objective: This scoping review aimed to map the global research landscape on serological surveillance of zoonotic influenza in animals and exposed humans between 2017, the date of the last WHO public health research agenda for influenza review, and 2024, as well as to identify methodological advancements. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed for English-language peer-reviewed articles published between January 2017 and March 2024. Studies were included if they reported serological surveillance in wild or domestic animals or occupationally exposed human populations, or novel methodologies and their technical limitations and implementation challenges. Results: Out of 7490 screened records, 90 studies from 33 countries, covering 25 animal species, were included. Seroprevalence studies were in domestic poultry and swine. Surveillance in companion animals, wild mammals, and at the human–animal interface was limited. Emerging serological methods included multiplex and nanobody-based assays, though implementation barriers remain. Conclusions: The review is limited by its restriction to one database and English-language articles, lack of quality appraisal, and significant heterogeneity among the included studies. Serological surveillance is a critical but underutilized tool in zoonotic influenza monitoring. Greater integration of serological surveillance into One Health frameworks, especially in high-risk regions and populations, is needed to support early detection and pandemic preparedness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emerging Pathogens)
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16 pages, 777 KB  
Communication
The Platform Readiness Dashboard: A Tool for Evaluating Vaccine Platform Suitability for a Rapid Response to Epidemic and Pandemic Threats
by Ramin Sabet-Azad, Catherine Hoath, Nicole Bézay and Anna Särnefält
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080793 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1697
Abstract
Rapid vaccine availability is essential for effective epidemic and pandemic response. Building on the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) 100 Days Mission, which aims to have new vaccines ready for initial authorization and manufacturing at scale within 100 days of recognition of [...] Read more.
Rapid vaccine availability is essential for effective epidemic and pandemic response. Building on the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) 100 Days Mission, which aims to have new vaccines ready for initial authorization and manufacturing at scale within 100 days of recognition of a pandemic pathogen, the CEPI has developed a Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) Rapid Response Framework to define technical and logistical CMC requirements to enable rapid vaccine availability. Central to this framework is the availability of adaptable vaccine platforms that can be readily tailored to emerging pathogens. To support strategic decision-making and identify gaps in platform capabilities, CEPI has created the Platform Readiness Dashboard. This tool provides a structured, multi-dimensional initial assessment of platform maturity across six key categories: Adaptability, Compatibility, Suitability, Regulatory, Manufacturing, and Facility Readiness. Each category includes specific technical and operational considerations scored using a color-coded system to reflect outbreak response readiness level. This Dashboard aims to enable vaccine developers, manufacturers, funders, and outbreak response teams to evaluate platform strengths and limitations at any given time, informing funding, preparedness and response activities. By offering a dynamic view of essential platform readiness indicators, the dashboard can communicate progress supporting faster responses to future health emergencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Estimating Vaccines' Value and Impact)
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14 pages, 347 KB  
Review
Is Ghana Prepared for Another Arboviral Outbreak? Evaluating the 2024 Dengue Fever Outbreak in the Context of Past Yellow Fever, Influenza, and COVID-19 Outbreaks
by Godfred Amoah Appiah, Jerry John Babason, Anthony Yaw Dziworshie, Abigail Abankwa and Joseph Humphrey Kofi Bonney
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(7), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10070196 - 15 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2349
Abstract
Arboviruses are a growing concern in many nations. Several reports of arboviral outbreaks have been recorded globally in the past decade alone. Repeated arboviral outbreaks in developing countries have consistently highlighted vulnerabilities in disease surveillance and response systems, exposing critical gaps in early [...] Read more.
Arboviruses are a growing concern in many nations. Several reports of arboviral outbreaks have been recorded globally in the past decade alone. Repeated arboviral outbreaks in developing countries have consistently highlighted vulnerabilities in disease surveillance and response systems, exposing critical gaps in early detection, contact tracing, and resource allocation. The 2024 Dengue fever outbreak in Ghana, which recorded 205 confirmed cases out of 1410 suspected cases, underscored the urgent need to evaluate the country’s preparedness for arboviral outbreaks, given the detection of competent vectors in the country. A retrospective analysis of Ghana’s 2009–2013 pandemic influenza response plan revealed significant deficiencies in emergency preparedness, raising concerns about the country’s ability to manage emerging arboviral threats. This review assessed Ghana’s current arboviral outbreak response and preparedness by examining (a) the effectiveness of vector control measures, (b) the role of early warning systems in mitigating outbreaks, (c) laboratory support and diagnostic capabilities, and (d) community engagement strategies. It highlights the successes made in previous outbreaks and sheds light on several gaps in Ghana’s outbreak response efforts. This review also provides recommendations that can be implemented in many countries across Africa as they brace themselves for any arboviral outbreak. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases and Public Health Challenges)
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