Journal of Infectious Diseases & Case Reports
Journal of Infectious Diseases & Case Reports is an open access peer-reviewed journal from the publishers of Scientific Research and Community (SRC) which publishes articles in the form of written, video and power-point presentations from the arena of Infectious Diseases & Case Reports. The journal focuses to build up accessing the complete content of articles freely from online for reader’s perusal. Article acceptance will be in the form of research, review, case reports, analysis, magazines, editorials, opinion, communications, mini-review, short communications, picturized, book review, video type and power point presentations (PPTS). Articles can be submitted through online from https://www.onlinescientificresearch.com/submit-online or can send through an e-mail with attachment for infectiousdiseases@onlinescientificresearch.info
Assessment of Health Risks Associated with the Presence of Antibiotic-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Attiéké Consumed in Burkina Faso
Attieke, a popular food in Burkina Faso, is often produced under variable hygienic conditions, which favors the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a growing threat to the health of consumers. This study assessed the health risks associated with the presence of MRSA in attieke consumed in Burkina Faso. A survey was carried out on 300 vendors to assess their sales conditions. Of the 225 samples analyzed using standardized microbiological analysis methods, 89 strains of S. aureus were identified, of which 37% were methicillin-resistant and 76.4% were multidrug-resistant. However, 77.53% of the strains were sensitive to linezolid. The survey findings indicated that a significant proportion (57.33%) of attieke sellers lack training in proper hygiene and modern food processing techniques. Key risk factors identified included inadequate hygiene practices, suboptimal fermentation methods, and the quality of water used in production. These results highlight the urgent need for an antibiotic resistance surveillance system and better awareness of good hygiene practices. Health authorities are called upon to strengthen controls throughout the production chain and to encourage producers and consumers to adopt safer practices to reduce the risks of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Infectious Diseases & Case Reports
Maternal and Child Health Data Quality in the Volta Regional Hospital and Chereponi Government Hospital
Introduction: Reliability of reported health data in Sub-Saharan Africa is frequently undermined by issues like data completeness, discrepancies, and consistency in health management information systems (HMIS). Reliability of health data is crucial for monitoring health services, especially in maternal and child healthcare, where data inaccuracies can have serious implications for healthcare planning and outcomes. Aim: The objective of this study is to assess the quality of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) data at Volta Regional Hospital and Chereponi Government Hospital. Methods: The research evaluates the quality of maternal and child health data, focussing on three dimensions: completeness, discrepancies, and consistency. Verification factors (VFs) are calculated to assess data accuracy, with a specific focus on discrepancies in data transfer between registers and DHIS2. The study also assesses the consistency of key maternal health indicators, such as antenatal care visits (ANC1, ANC4), immunisation (Penta1, Penta3), and postnatal care. The study uses a facility-based analytical cross-sectional design with quantitative methods, analysing data from both hospitals over a five-year period (2019–2023). Results: The results show that the two facilities’ levels of data completeness varied, with Volta Regional Hospital exhibiting higher levels than Chereponi Government Hospital. Discrepancies in reported data were more noticeable in Volta Regional Hospital, probably as a result of higher patient loads. Both hospitals’ levels of data consistency over time and between related variables was found to be moderate, with specific areas for improvement being ANC data. These findings underscore the necessity of more stringent data management procedures and ongoing staff training to guarantee data reliability. Conclusion: The study concludes that better maternal and child health data quality is essential for efficient health service delivery and policy development in Ghana. The findings offer useful information for policymakers and healthcare administrators to improve the quality of health data for maternal and child healthcare in the area.
The Need for Enhancing the Antimicrobial Stewardship Practices in Long-Term Care
Antimicrobials play a crucial role in various treatments and promoting global health by contributing to and complementing chemotherapy and surgical treatments. However, besides their benefits, antimicrobials also cause consequences for the community due to their side effects/complications and drug resistance. Further, the inappropriate usage of antimicrobials in various healthcare settings in the United States is causing concern and leading federal agencies to develop antimicrobial stewardship initiatives to improve patient safety by optimizing antimicrobial usage and improving clinical outcomes. This article focuses on enhancing antimicrobial stewardship practices in Long-term care settings.
Implementing Strategic Plasma Resource Self-Sufficiency through Unpaid Plasma Donations on the Global Plasma Market
The last two decades have seen a considerable increase in the pharmaceutical industry’s demand for plasma on a global scale for the production of Plasma-Derived Medicinal Products (PDMPs). It is impossible to meet the demand for fractionation plasma from unpaid voluntary donations on a global scale at the present state of manufacturing and biomedical techniques. Nevertheless, we argue that self-sufficiency in strategic plasma resources, properly construed, can be achieved through unpaid plasma donations to appropriately designed national blood donation organizations. We proceed in three short steps: (i) By first recalling why and in what sense plasma and PDMPs should be considered strategic commodities; (ii) By secondly explaining why self-sufficiency in strategic plasma products matters and in what practical sense it can be achieved; and (iii) By outlining the main characteristics that a national blood organization must meet to achieve self-sufficiency through unpaid voluntary donations
Bacillus Cereus Surgical Site Infections in Orthopedics: Case Report and Literature Review
Surgical site infections (SSIs) are defined as infections occurring up to 30 days after surgery (or up to 90 days after implants surgery) and affecting either the superficial or deep tissues and organs at the operation site. Despite improvements in infection prevention, SSIs remain a significant clinical problem in orthopedics as they are associated with substantial mortality, morbidity and can drain healthcare resources. The most isolated organisms in orthopedics are Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase- negative Staphylococci, and Gram-negative bacilli. SSIs caused by B.cereus in orthopedic surgery is rare. The organism can be introduced into the surgical site from the environment, medical equipment, or from the patient’s own endogenous flora, if proper sterile techniques are not strictly followed. This may lead to serious complications like osteomyelitis or arthritis. B.cereus is an aerobic Gram-positive, spore-forming rod, widely distributed in the environment. It produces several toxins, including a necrotizing enterotoxin, an emetic toxin, phospholipases, proteases, and hemolysins which are important pathogenic factors. Although most known to cause gastrointestinal infections, it can also cause localized infections, and systemic infections. B.cereus produces beta lactamases and hence resistant to beta lactams including third generation cephalosporins. In this context surgical prophylaxis and management of infections with antibiotics other than beta lactams must be considered. While often dismissed as a contaminant, careful consideration is needed when B.cereus is identified in a surgical site culture, especially from specimens collected aseptically. This presentation describes a case of an athlete who presented with B.cereus SSI following surgery for closed displaced mid shaft fracture of tibia and fibula sustained during a football match, and a literature review. The presentation will also highlight the microbiology, the pathogenic potential, and antimicrobial susceptibility of B.cereus to increase awareness regarding the potential pathogenicity of this organism and the correct therapeutic and prophylactic approach.
Health Risks of Recreational Tropical Swimming Pools: Microbial Infection and Vulnerability of Specific Populations
Water exercise offers a low-impact, accessible form of fitness for various individuals, especially those with physical limitations. However, exercising in recreational pools, particularly in tropical climates, presents health risks due to potential bacterial exposure, particularly for those with weakened immune systems. Tropical swimming pools, even with regular maintenance, harbor diverse bacteria due to warm temperatures and high swimmer density. This poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, individuals with HIV/AIDS, weakened immune systems, and the elderly. Common bacterial infections contracted from pools include skin rashes and ear infections from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, pneumonia from Legionella pneumophila, and abscesses and sepsis from Staphylococcus aureus. While chlorine and pH regulation are essential for pool sanitation, they do not eliminate all bacteria. Factors like swimmer load, personal hygiene, pool size, microbial diversity, and water temperature contribute to bacterial survival and transmission. Therefore, individuals with weakened immune systems should exercise with caution when using recreational pools in tropical climates.
Comprehensive Approaches for Managing MDR Gram-Negative Infections
Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven genomic analysis is transforming healthcare management by enabling precision medicine and large-scale population health monitoring. This study explores the integration of Machine Learning (ML) and cloud computing to analyze genomic data, predict disease risks, and personalize treatment strategies. ML algorithms enhance genomic sequencing by identifying genetic markers, uncovering complex patterns, and improving diagnostic accuracy. Cloud computing facilitates secure, scalable, and real-time data sharing, allowing healthcare providers and researchers to collaborate on global genomic datasets while ensuring data privacy and compliance. Additionally, AI-powered genomic insights contribute to early disease detection, targeted therapies, and public health interventions. This research highlights the benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations of AI-driven genomic analysis, emphasizing its role in revolutionizing precision medicine, optimizing healthcare workflows, and improving patient outcomes in an increasingly data-driven medical ecosystem.
Malaria Therapy, Killing Mosquitoes on their Way to get Infected Blood Meals
Excluding family members and caretakers, mosquito-borne diseases affect approximately 700 million people annually, which is about one-eleventh of the global population. Among these diseases, malaria is the most severe, causing 250 million illnesses and 600,000 deaths each year. Although malaria is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, 94% of cases are concentrated in a small number of dry, semi-desert sub-Saharan countries, where some nations have infection rates affecting up to 30% of their populations. These high-density regions provide nearly ideal case studies for understanding the mechanisms of malaria transmission. Research indicates that malaria burdens tend to be lower in urban areas with community water supply systems and higher in rural areas, where people store water in their homes, creating mosquito breeding habitats. Because of inadequate rainfall to sustain surface vegetational and the absence of natural rainwater pockets for mosquito proliferation, “domestic” mosquito populations become the primary disease vectors, transmitting malaria within households. The aim of this study is to address this issue by implementing proven outdoor female mosquito control measures indoors. As a result, no live blood-seeking mosquitoes were detected; they were eliminated before they could bite, preventing malaria transmission within affected households. With no newly infected mosquitoes, the transmission cycle was effectively interrupted, halting the further spread of the disease.
Secondary Infection Rates After Mpox Exposure in Multiple Settings: A Systematic Review
Between 2022 and 2024, large number of mpox cases were reported globally, especially Europe and Americas. Additionally, from late 2023 a surge of cases has been observed in Africa. Objectives: To assess secondary infection rates after mpox exposure in multiple settings; occupational exposures among healthcare workers (HCWs), household exposures, and congregate/community exposures. Methods: We performed a systematic review that included mpox search in five electronic databases; MEDLINE, Embase, Biosis previews, CAB Abstracts, and Global Index Medicus. All study designs reporting mpox exposure data published between May 2022 and September 2024 were included. Results: A total 62 studies including 8,712 mpox exposures were included in the current analysis. The exposures included 1738 healthcare exposures, 3331 household exposures, 3643 congregate/community exposures. Out of 8,712 exposures in all settings, 239 were associated with mpox infection, with an overall secondary infection rate of 2.74%. Secondary infection rates were highest in household setting (4.02%), intermediate in congregate/community setting (2.50%), and lowest in healthcare setting (0.81%). Secondary infection rates were highest in AFRO region (8.00%), intermediate in European region (4.23%), and lowest in the American region (1.10%). Clade data were available in 17 (27.4%) studies including 2054 (23.7%) exposures. Clade 2b was the most commonly reported clade (15/17 studies). Secondary infection rates were highest with clade 1a (17.14%), intermediate with clade 2b (1.59%), and lowest with clade 1b (0.0%). Secondary infection in healthcare settings was significantly higher with percutaneous injuries than unspecified nosocomial exposures (27.8% vs 0.2%, p<0.001). Close non-sexual contact was the most frequent route of transmission in household setting (75.0%) and congregate/community setting (82.5%). Secondary infection was significantly higher with sexual contact than close non-sexual contact in both settings.
Strategies for Correcting Misinformation about Vaccination and Increasing Coverage
Vaccination is the crucial mechanism for prevention in public health. Thanks to vaccination programmes, life expectancy in the world is one of humanity’s greatest achievements. According to the WHO, vaccination can prevent between 2 and 3 million deaths per year worldwide. At the moment, many countries are facing the return of some epidemics believed to be elapsed, the reappearance of which is mainly due to a lack of vaccination coverage. In an increasingly digitalized and introverted society, misinformation is on the rise, social media pose a new challenge when it comes to maintaining confidence in immunization leading to vaccination hesitancy. The aim of this article is to correct the misinformation leading to vaccination hesitancy and suggest strategies to improve vaccination in various countries.
Infectious Disease Genomic Surveillance to Limit Outbreaks
Dr. Rachel Spurbeck is a Senior Genomics Research Scientist at Battelle Memorial Institute who leads exposure health efforts in biosurveillance, diagnostics and therapeutics. She initiated the microbial metagenomic sequencing program for the National Ecological Observatory Network, which catalogues the microbial communities from soil and water from 81 sites across the United States. She led wastewater-based epidemiology efforts tracking the COVID-19 pandemic and other pathogens of significance to public health in the state of Ohio and has developed laboratory methods to accurately identify pathogens in environmental and clinical samples. Methods she has developed enable virome sequencing in vector organisms to identify vector-borne diseases in endemic and invasive mosquitoes. She is currently the genomics lead for a program identifying pathogens in permafrost samples from Alaska and comparing the organisms identified to soil, ground and surface water samples.
Social Phenomena Emerge from the Collective Behaviours of Individual Decision-Makers
The last two decades have seen a considerable increase in the pharmaceutical industry’s demand for plasma on a global scale for the production of plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs). It is impossible to meet the demand for fractionation plasma from unpaid voluntary donations on a global scale at the present state of manufacturing and biomedical techniques. Nevertheless, we argue that self-sufficiency in strategic plasma resources, properly construed, can be achieved through unpaid plasma donations to appropriately designed national blood donation organizations. We proceed in three short steps: (i) by first recalling why and in what sense plasma and PDMPs should be considered strategic commodities; (ii) by secondly explaining why self-sufficiency in strategic plasma products matters and in what practical sense it can be achieved; and (iii) by outlining the main characteristics that a national blood organization must meet to achieve self-sufficiency through unpaid voluntary donations.
Gastroenteritis Impact on General Health and Proper Approach
This implies that the root cause of each phenomenon lies within the specific system structure – the set of rules and variables that govern the behavior of each type of decision-maker. Agent-based modeling, an entirely bottom-up approach, enables us to construct artificial societies that mirror this principle. In these models, the cause of a macro-level phenomenon is expressed in terms of the model’s structure: the set of factors essential for reproducing the phenomenon’s key characteristics. Through systematic computer experiments, we can identify these crucial factors and, consequently, uncover the underlying causal mechanisms of the phenomenon’s emergence. I term this approach “mechanism-oriented agent-based modeling” and propose it as a valuable scientific methodology for investigating the causes of various social phenomena. This methodology’s applicability extends beyond social systems. In biological systems, such as the human body, disease and recovery are driven by the roles and interactions of individual components. This presentation outlines the principles and procedures of mechanism-oriented agent-based modeling. To illustrate its application, I present a pandemic model that simulates infection and recovery processes at the individual level, incorporating heterogeneity in immunity and antibody levels. My analysis revealed that the most critical factor in pandemic convergence is the immune-boosting effect of fever.
Factors Associated with the Consumption of Psychoactive Substances among Drivers of Vehicles on National Highway No. 1 of the Kinshasa-Kisantu Section
Context and Objective: The consumption of psychoactive substances (PAS) is worrying in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It constitutes a real public health problem. Determining the factors associated with PAS consumption among vehicle drivers on National Road No. 1 of the Kinshasa-Kisantu section was the main objective. Methods: The quality-of-life scale (SF-12), perceived stress (PSS), anxiety-depression (HADS) and cognitive performance (MMTF) scales were used in a cross-sectional and analytical study conducted from November 2, 2020 to January 30, 2021 with 70 drivers. Sampling was non- probability and convenience. The variables of interest were sociodemographic and clinical. Univariate analysis and logistic regression made it possible to identify the associated and determining factors of SPA consumption. Results: The average age was 37.39 ± 8.6 years, all male, between 31 and 40 years old (54.3%), with secondary education (80%), single (52.9%), with a monthly income ≥ $250 (60%), having less than 5 dependents (67.1%), attending traditional churches (48.6%), consuming mainly beer (71.4%). They had a pathological level of stress (75.7%), anxiodepressive syndrome (40%), mild intellectual deterioration (60%), moderate (12.9%) and poor quality of life (60%). The factors associated with SPA consumption are: young age (ORa: 2.25CI95%: 1.47-4.03), singleness (ORa: 1.58CI95%: 1.09-3.23), pathological stress (ORa: 1.22CI95%: 1.05-1.71), anxiety-depression (ORa: 2.27CI95%: 1.63-8.15), neurocognitive disorders (ORa: 1.729CI95%: 1.36-8.31) and poor quality of life (ORa: 3.70CI95%: 4.89-6.21). Conclusion: The consumption of psychoactive substances among vehicle drivers on national road no. 1 of the Kinshasa-Kisantu section is worrying. It is associated with young age, single status, pathological stress, anxiety-depression, neurocognitive disorders and poor quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Infectious Diseases & Case Reports
A Case of a Man Living with HIV-1 Infection Co-Infected with Schistosomiasis
Human Schistosomiasis is a chronic tropical infection caused by the species Schistosoma Mansoni, Schistosoma Haematobium or Schistosoma Japonicum which alternatively reproduces sexually and asexually within a suitable host [1]. Schistosomiasis remains a global concern with 240 million cases reported globally and is primarily concentrated in the sub-Saharan African regions [2]. As this causes 200,000 deaths annually, it is important to consider Schistosomiasis as underlying diagnosis in migrants living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection who presents with disparate symptoms and signs [3].
A Case of Chikungunya with Multi-Organ Involvement - Could it be ‘Expanded Chikungunya Syndrome?’
Chikungunya fever is an arboviral disease that commonly presents with sudden fever, rash and arthralgia or arthritis. It is generally self-limiting, while the fever is gone chronic musculoskeletal symptoms may persist for a long time. However, multi-organ involvement remains uncommon and poorly described. We report the case of a 30-year-old man who developed high-grade fever, arthritis, skin rashes and marked weakness. Laboratory investigations revealed leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, markedly elevated hepatic transaminases, and renal impairment with proteinuria and hematuria. Serological tests for dengue were negative whereas chikungunya IgM was positive. This case demonstrates how chikungunya fever though usually known for fever and joint pain, may sometimes significantly involve organs like the liver, kidneys and skin. As with time disease evolves we may be witnessing multi-system chikungunya that can be potentially labeled as expanded chikungunya syndrome.
Triple Parasitic Infestation in an Immunocompromised Patient: A Rare Entity
Parasitic infections are common in immunocompromised individual, especially in HIV patients affecting the gastrointestinal tract causing severe & chronic diarrhoea. A HIV positive male patient presented to gastroenterology OPD with on and off complaints of loose stools and altered bowel habits since last one month. His CD4 cell counts were normal since last one-year record. On examination of his stool sample, larva of Strongyloides spp., oocysts of Cryptosporidium parvum and Cystoisospora belli were found. Treatment was initiated for triple parasitic infection and discharged when repeat sample
Computational Analysis of Anion Transporter Proteins Revealed Rv3679 and Rv2397c as Potential Drug Targets for MycobacteriumTuberculosis
Tuberculosis is still a serious, life-threatening disease all throughout the world. One of the greatest therapeutic challenges is the treatment of multidrugresistant tuberculosis. The prevalence of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) poses a danger to the ability of conventional control strategies to stem the global TB epidemic. Drug resistance in TB is primarily a result of poor prescribing practices, noncompliance with treatment regimens, erratic drug supply, and subpar drug quality. The cell wall composition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis makes it many times less permeable to chemotherapeutic drugs, the current vaccination only provides modest protection against the disease. The cell membrane, which is made up of proteins from the ATP binding cassette family, allows Mycobacterium tuberculosis to quickly alter its cellular membrane to adapt to an unfavourable environment. A greater understanding of such transport proteins may lead to earlier detection and more effective therapeutic drug targets. A thorough computational analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis anion transporter proteins was conducted. Bioinformatics tools were used to predict its physiochemical properties, secondary structure, functional analysis, protein-protein interaction, subcellular localization, and molecular docking was also carried out. From the selected proteins, Rv3679 and Rv2397c exhibited best results and can be considered as potential drug targets.
S. Aureus Subcutaneous Infection with Aggregated Bacteria
Staphylocooccal infections are common and can engage several tissues and organs of the body. Some decades ago we had antibiotics which were effective and commonly used against S. aureus infections, i e penicillin V, G and isoxazolylpenicillins, but resistance occurred with time. Also with full sensitivity, some staphylococcal infections were a challenge to treat, such as heart valvular infection, skeletal infection etc. Mostly, skin and soft tissue infections responded well to antibiotic treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Automated Antiseptic Lavage and Suctioning of Oral, Oropharyngeal, and Subglottic Secretions (Vapcare) AmongVentilated Patients with COVID-19 Developing VentilatorAssociated Events During Hospitalization: A Prospective RandomizedOpen Blinded End-Point Study
Background: Globally, invasive mechanical ventilation is one of the many methods relied on by intensivists to treat patients diagnosed with COVID-19. In this population, substandard oral care and secretion management permit the colonization of pathogens in the oral cavity and aspiration of these microbeladen secretions is the leading cause of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study was conducted to analyze the effects of VapCare, an automated and intelligent secretion clearance and oral hygiene management system for VAP prevention, compared to the manual process. Design: A single-center, prospective, randomized, open-blinded, end-point study was conducted on invasively ventilated patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Setting: A tertiary care facility that is National Accreditation Board for Hospitals accredited in Bangalore, India. Participants: Twelve adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 via RT-PCR, antigen, computed tomography scan, or any other approved method intubated for at least 48 hours were recruited from the medical intensive care unit. Intervention: Patients were given (n=6) or not given (n=6) the VapCare medical device along with the current standard of care. Results: Six patients were assigned to the control group (Cx) that received manual suctioning, and six were assigned to the treatment group (Tx) that received VapCare. 3(50%) of the patients in the Cx experienced a ventilator-associated condition (VAC), and 2(33%) of the patients received a confirmed diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). There was no incidence of VAC or VAP in the Tx. With an outlier (subject two) excluded, the average cost of antibiotics per patient in the Tx was 32% less at 68,319 INR, while the average cost in the Cx was 100,783 INR. Clearance of secretions was almost 2x in the Tx compared to the Cx. The amount collected from the subglottic region (from where aspirations into the lungs can occur) was lower in the Tx (6.5 ml) when compared to the Cx (7.4 ml), showing that VapCare effectively clears secretions before they reach the subglottic region. Conclusion: VapCare can reduce VAP incidence in invasively ventilated patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Antibiotic costs were also reduced by 32% in the Tx compared to the Cx. This study also allows us to hypothesize that automated suctioning can reduce the amount of secretions that can reach the subglottic region and, therefore, potentially reduce the chance of aspiration and, subsequently, VAP.
High Association between Gallstones and Incidence of Cirrhosis in Chinese Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Background: Multiple previous studies have reported that patients with cirrhosis have a higher incidence of gallstone disease, we aimed to investigate the reverse association, that is, whether CHB patients with gallstones are more likely to develop liver cirrhosis. Methods: This was a historical cohort study. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to reduce baseline bias. The 5-year estimated cumulative incidences (Kaplan-Meier) and risks of liver cirrhosis (Cox proportional hazard model) were calculated. Results: 492 patients with non-cirrhotic adult CHB between January 2014 and December 2019 were finally analyzed after PSM. 60 patients developed cirrhosis during the 3.99 years median follow-up period. Both the annual rates (4.46 cases per 100 person-years versus 1.57 cases per 100 person-years) and the 5-year estimated cumulative incidence of cirrhosis (16.7% vs. 5.7%) were significantly higher among CHB patients with gallstones versus those without gallstones (p<0.001) In addition, CHB patients with gallstones were 2.69 times more likely to develop cirrhosis (95% CI, 1.49-4.84, P= 0.001) than patients without gallstones at baseline. Conclusion: Like the elderly and high viral load, gallstone was also the independent predictor of liver cirrhosis in CHB patients. However, the study couldn’t identify whether early cholecystectomy will benefit CHB patients with gallstones.
Antimicrobial Sensitivity of Bacterial Species Isolated from Blood, Respiratory and Pus Samples
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) will result in the deaths of 10 million people per year by 2050 unless action is taken to prevent this emerging crisis. To develop effective therapeutic strategies to fight infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, it is critical to monitor the trend in the evolving resistance pattern over time. Objective: The present study deals with the assessment of microbial profiles of blood, respiratory as well as pus samples and their antimicrobial sensitivity against commonly used antimicrobial drugs in a tertiary healthcare setting. Materials and Methods: Between January and June 2023, blood, respiratory, and pus samples were obtained from both the outpatient and inpatient departments and transferred to the microbiological laboratory for further investigation. All samples were tested in appropriate culture conditions, and pure bacterial isolates were evaluated for antimicrobial sensitivity to a variety of antimicrobial medicines. Results: A total of 84% of samples were collected from the IPD while the rest were collected from the OPD of different departments. In respiratory and blood samples, Klebsiella and Salmonella Spp., respectively, were recorded as the dominant microbial isolates. The antimicrobial sensitivity pattern analysis of respiratory samples revealed that Klebsilla spp. and pseudomonas have maximum sensitivity against imipenem, while Candida spp. showed higher sensitivity against fluconazole and Gram-positive cocci showed good sensitivity against linezolid. Moreover, in blood samples, Salmonella Spp. was found sensitive to all tested drugs, on the other hand, Pseudomonas spp. showed good sensitivity against piperacillin/tazobactam while E. coli had maximum sensitivity to ertapenem. In the case of Gram-Positive Cocci, vancomycin was found as the most sensitive drug. In pus sample analysis, E. coli was found the dominant bacterial isolate followed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas spp., methicillin resistant staph aureus(MRSA). in both IPD samples while in the case of OPD isolates, Pseudomonas spp. was dominated. In the case of E. coli, imipenem has higher sensitivity in both IPD and OPD isolates. Pseudomonas spp. were found to have good sensitivity for ceftazidime. Gram-Positive Cocci, was only recorded from IPD samples with maximum sensitivity against vancomycin. Conclusion: The increasing trend of resistance has serious consequences for humans, hence, to detect changes in sensitivity patterns, regular surveillance of IPD, OPD (if possible) and ICU should be conducted by infection control doctors and nurses working in close collaboration at regular intervals.
Infectious Diseases in Radiology: The Crucial Role of Radiographer
This case report aims to underscore the significance of radiographer education in the realm of infectious diseases within the field of radiology. The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases poses a considerable challenge to healthcare professionals, particularly those working in radiology departments. This report discusses a case study that highlights the importance of thorough radiographer training to effectively manage patients with infectious diseases, safeguarding both healthcare providers and patients
Antimicrobial Sensitivity Pattern Analysis of Bacterial Species Isolated from Urine Samples
Background: Antimicrobial resistance is a significant global health issue. In order to apply efficient control measures to stop the rapid spread of drug resistance, it is vital to comprehend the sensitivity pattern of antibiotics in various types of therapeutically relevant samples. Objective: The present study was carried out to evaluate the distribution of microbial isolates in urine samples and antimicrobial sensitivity in an Indian healthcare setting. Materials and methods: The urine samples were collected from the both outpatient Department (OPD) and the inpatient department (IPD) between January to June 2023 and transferred to the microbiology laboratory for further investigation. All samples were analysed in specific culture media and pure bacterial isolates were subjected for the evaluation of antimicrobial sensitivity of a range of antimicrobial drugs. Results: A total of 6732 samples were collected and processed out of which only 918 (14%) samples were found positive for microbial growth. In positive samples, a total of 84% of samples were collected from IPD while the rest were collected from the OPD of different departments. In urine samples, Escherichia coli was found as the predominated microbial isolates. The antimicrobial sensitivity pattern analysis of urine samples revealed that E. coli has high sensitivity against amikacin and Klebsiella spp. have maximum sensitivity against nitrofurantoin, Pseudomonas spp. have good sensitivity against piperacillin/tazobactam and Candida spp. has sensitivity against flucytosine. Conclusion: The present study concluded that urine samples have similar microbial patterns in IPD and OPD settings and suggest the best antimicrobial drug to improve treatment modalities in a specific geographical region.
Onchocerca volvulus is a spirurid nematode from the Superfamily Filarial diseases, family Onchocerciadae. We report a family member from Saudi Arabia with Onchocerciasis from Dammam City.We report a family member from Saudi Arabia with Onchocerciasis from Dammam City. Ocular lesions, ranging from sclerosing keratitis to optic nerve atrophy, increase the incidence of Blindness among patients.Knowledge about tropical diseases in non-tropical countries is essential to early diagnosis and treatment.
Impact of Preventive Measures Against Covid-19 on the Prevalence of Infectious Diseases Among the Population of The Republic ofKazakhstan
Aim: To study the impact of COVID-19 preventive measures on airborne and fecal-oral infectious diseases in Kazakhstan Materials and Research Methods: We used comparative data from the Study of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control of Infectious Morbidity in the Population of the Kazakhstan for 2019-2020. In this case, there are infectious diseases transmitted mainly by airborne droplets among the entire population (children, adolescents and adults) and diseases with fecal-oral transmission. Results: The total number of cases detected was 1,239,635. Thus, the percentage change in the total number of cases from 2019 to 2020 was - (+) 5.6%. In 2019, 596,216 cases of infectious diseases transmitted by airborne droplets were detected, and in 2020 - 631,407, i.e. 35,191 more were revealed (+5.9%). ARVI and influenza account for the largest proportion in this group, and the incidence has increased in these groups. At the same time, exacerbations of diseases transmitted by the fecal-oral route: from 2019 to 2020, diseases occurred in 1,716 (-38.8%) cases. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a useful effective COVID-19 prevention measure for several other infectious diseases in Kazakhstan during the pandemic. However, special attention should be paid to the increase in the incidence of ARVI and influenza in Kazakhstan. Possible exceptions, according to the authors, are ignoring the high incidence of influenza and ARVI in 2020 compared to 2019, since special attention was focused on COVID-19. The next hypothesis is the impact of COVID-19 on influenza immunization in the country - restrictive measures have reduced the number of influenza vaccinated.
Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections among in-School Adolescents in a Selected School in the Rural Area of Ikeduru, ImoState
Introduction: This study investigated the knowledge of sexually transmitted infections among in-school adolescents in the rural area of Ikeduru Imo State. The study also identified the extent to which the adolescents are aware of the mode of STIs transmission. Materials and Method: A total sample of 278 students in Senior Secondary classes was used for the study. Cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted for the study. Administered questionnaire comprising open-ended and closed-ended questions served as instrument for data collection. Results: Results obtained showed that majority of the respondents, 220 (79.1%) are aware of STIs yet 43(15.5%) do not have knowledge of types of STIs. Further finding showed that 130(46.8%) of the respondents identified HIV/AIDS as the main type of STIs individuals are exposed to. A good number of the respondents 152 (54.7%), had the view that STIs are transmitted by having sexual activity with fellow students who are infected. The respondents’ main knowledge of the complications of STIs 62(22.3) was infertility. However, the popular reason 87(31.3%) of the respondents had for preventing STIs was to avoid pregnancy. Conclusion: The fact that a good number of the in-school adolescents had poor knowledge of different types of STIs as well as the mode of transmission underscores the need for health workers to intensify sex education to in-school adolescents in the rural areas.
A Complex Conundrum: Investigating Auto-Brewery Syndrome as a Rare and Misdiagnosed Condition
Auto brewery syndrome (ABS) is a rare medical condition in which the gastrointestinal system produces alcohol that is absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to chronic intoxication without the consumption of alcohol. A 23-year-old female was referred to our clinic with symptoms including headache, nausea, altered mental state, and loss of coordination. She had a significant medical history for psychiatric illness, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. She had been turned down by numerous specialists before being diagnosed with ABS once consulting with an infectious disease physician, through breathalyzer test results and IV Micafungin treatment. This case highlights the importance of considering ABS as a possible diagnosis for patients with unexplained chronic intoxication and underscores the need for further research and standardization of diagnostic tests.
Pediatric Acute Otitis Media Complicated by Group a Streptococcus Pyogenes Meningitis: A Clinical Case Report
Background: Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) is a known cause of invasive infections, but meningitis resulting from S. pyogenes is rare. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for improved patient outcomes, particularly in pediatric cases where complications can arise rapidly. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 7.5-year-old girl who was initially diagnosed with acute otitis media (AOM), which later deteriorated to S. pyogenes meningitis. The patient initially presented with otalgia, headache, and fever, which rapidly progressed to include meningeal signs. Laboratory tests, including cerebrospinal fluid analysis and cranial imaging, confirmed the diagnosis of acute meningitis. Intravenous antibiotic treatment with a combination of Ceftriaxone, Vancomycin, and Dexamethasone, followed by adjustments based on culture results, led to significant clinical improvement and partial recovery of hearing function.
New Frontiers for Communication between Radiographers and Paediatric Patients with Infectious Disease during Chest X-RayProcedures
The communication between radiographers and paediatric patients with infectious disease during chest x-ray procedures is crucial to ensure the quality of healthcare services provided. Children aged between 5 to 8 years old with infectious diseases can be particularly challenging to communicate with during chest x-ray procedures, as they may not fully understand the purpose of the procedure, feel anxious or scared, or find it difficult to remain still. Therefore, the purpose of this research article is to explore new frontiers for communication between radiographers and paediatric patients with infectious disease aged between 5 to 8 years old during chest x-ray procedures.