EzeRx’s Post

Did you know that improving access to water, sanitation, and hygiene; increasing childhood #vaccinations; and improving #infection prevention and control in hospitals could prevent over 750,000 deaths related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) each year? Dr. Joseph Lewnard, an associate professor of Epidemiology at the University of California, Berkeley and senior fellow at the One Health Trust, co-authored a paper in the 2024 The Lancet series on #AMR, showing how these simple measures are key in combating drug-resistant infections. Tune in to our One World, One Health #podcast as Dr. Lewnard discusses which measures are more effective in controlling the emergence and spread of #AMR. Listen here: https://ow.ly/Qq2F50T3Hi9 #handhygiene #WASH

Oropouche virus (OROV) reported in Florida. 11 travel-associated Oropouche fever cases have been reported, all had international travel. The Oropouche reported cases were found in the following Florida counties: Hillsborough (4), Lee (2), Miami-Dade (1), Orange (2), and Polk (2). The OROV is an arbovirus from the Peribunyaviridae family, primarily transmitted through the bite of Culicoides midges, particularly Culicoides paraensis. It can also be spread by mosquitoes, including the Culex quinquefasciatus species. The virus is prevalent in tropical regions of Central and South America, especially in Brazil, Peru, and Panama. Oropouche fever, the illness caused by the virus, presents with symptoms such as fever, headaches, joint and muscle pain, rash, and occasionally nausea and vomiting. Due to the similarity in symptoms, it is often mistaken for dengue fever. In 2024, a significant outbreak of Oropouche virus has affected over 8,000 people in South America and the Caribbean, with Brazil, Bolivia, and Cuba being the most impacted. The outbreak has resulted in two confirmed deaths and five cases of fetal death or birth defects. The virus, spread by biting midges and mosquitoes such as Culex quinquefasciatus, typically causes fever, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and chills. While most cases resolve within a few days, some individuals experience prolonged or recurrent symptoms. In rare instances, serious complications like meningitis or bleeding can occur. Additionally, travel-related cases have emerged in Europe, with reports of infections in Italy, Germany, and Spain, highlighting the potential for the virus to spread beyond its usual endemic regions. Public health authorities in these countries are closely monitoring the situation. #publichealth #labmedicine #microbiology #clinmicro #onehealth #globalhealth #orov #oropouche #microbes #infectiousdiseases #medicallaboratory #clinicallaboratory https://lnkd.in/gFS52HAx

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects millions of people worldwide each year, particularly during the fall and winter months. ### Types of Influenza Viruses There are four main types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B are the most common causes of seasonal flu epidemics in humans. - **Influenza A**: Known for causing pandemics, it can infect both humans and animals. - **Influenza B**: Primarily affects humans and is typically less severe than type A. - **Influenza C**: Usually causes mild illness and is less common. - **Influenza D**: Primarily affects cattle and is not known to infect humans. ### Symptoms Flu symptoms typically appear suddenly and can include: - Fever - Cough - Sore throat - Runny or stuffy nose - Muscle or body aches - Headaches - Fatigue Some individuals may experience vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children. ### Transmission The flu is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. ### Prevention Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza. The flu vaccine is updated annually to protect against the most common circulating strains. Other preventive measures include: - Practicing good hand hygiene - Avoiding close contact with sick individuals - Covering coughs and sneezes ### Treatment While most people recover without medical treatment, antiviral medications can help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms if taken early. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can also alleviate symptoms. ### Complications Influenza can lead to serious complications, especially in high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Complications may include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic health issues. ### Conclusion Influenza remains a significant public health concern due to its potential to cause seasonal epidemics and pandemics. Ongoing research and vaccination efforts are crucial in managing and reducing the impact of this illness.

In 2020, the world was challenged by a single pathogen with consequent outcomes, resulting to loss of lives and #economicloss. The culprit was #coronavirus, specifically severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2). Panic ensued as the virus spread. As COVID-19 ravaged the world, I found myself in the heart of the response effort. Each day came with new challenges and unprecedented situations. One morning, as I reviewed the latest data on infection rates and emerging variants, I reflected on how pathogens mutate, infectious diseases are like moving targets, always evolving, always adapting. This experience reinforced a critical lesson for me: in the battle against infectious diseases, our strategies must be as dynamic and adaptable as the pathogens we face. I went into history and revisited the story of the #influenzavirus. Each year, it mutated just enough to challenge our immune systems anew, necessitating annual updates to our flu vaccines. Similarly, COVID-19 variants have taught us the hard way that static approaches won’t suffice. Only innovative approaches stand the variant evolution. During the pandemic, I witnessed firsthand the power of innovation. From rapid #vaccine development to advanced #genomic sequencing, these #innovations were not just breakthroughs; they were lifelines. This experience underscored the need for continuous #investment in #research and #technology. Global collaboration became more necessary. Reflecting on the global cooperation during the pandemic, I recall virtual meetings with experts from different corners of the world, sharing data and strategies. This global teamwork was a testament to the idea that infectious diseases do not recognize borders, and neither should our response. I remember training about 625 frontline workers on #IPC early into the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene and mask-wearing https://lnkd.in/d2a3NeGE. The impact was panic reduction among workers. As we navigated the ever-changing landscape of #COVID-19, policies were developed. From lockdown measures to vaccination drives, we learned the importance of being flexible and responsive to new information. These experiences have solidified my belief that in the fight against infectious diseases, we must remain vigilant, innovative, and collaborative. We must continue to educate and empower our communities, and our policies must evolve with the science. As we move forward, let’s remember these lessons and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in infectious disease prevention and control. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient world. What other lessons did you learn from COVID-19? #InfectiousDiseases #PublicHealth #HealthcareInnovation #GlobalHealth #Epidemiology #HealthCare #Pandemic #Epidemic

Chikungunya is a potentially trip-disrupting viral infection transmitted by daytime biting mosquitoes. It can lead to prolonged severe joint inflammation or arthritis lasting months to years, though it is rarely fatal. It was the cause of a huge outbreak in the Western Hemisphere in 2014-2015, and sporadic outbreaks in the Indian Ocean, South and Southeast Asia, and South America continue to occur. GeoSentinel, a multi-site, multi-country global network of specialized tropical medicine clinics, recently published a study of data on chikungunya in travelers and migrants: https://lnkd.in/ec6ip2dM This analysis found that most travelers acquired their infection in the Caribbean during the large-scale outbreak there in 2014-2015, but it also showed that chikungunya remains a threat to travelers, especially in India and neighboring countries and Southeast Asia. As the United States and many countries in Europe now or soon will have an effective vaccine for the prevention of this potentially debilitating mosquito-borne viral infection, individual travelers have an additional option for self-protection beyond anti-mosquito measures alone. Thanks to the work of the GeoSentinel network and support from the GeoSentinel Foundation, healthcare providers have a better understanding of where this threat exists and can provide education and vaccination to travelers who may be impacted by this infection. #Healthcare #MedicalScience #TravelMedicine #TravelHealth

If you have not heard, get enlightened here... CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MARBURG VIRUS DISEASE (MVD) Marburg virus is a highly infectious and deadly virus that belongs to the Filoviridae family, which also includes the Ebola virus. It is known to cause Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe and often fatal illness in humans and nonhuman primates. The virus was first identified in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, as well as in Belgrade, Serbia, linked to laboratory work with African green monkeys imported from Uganda. KEY CHARACTERISTICS Transmission Marburg virus is transmitted to humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals, such as fruit bats, which are considered natural hosts of the virus. It can also spread through contaminated surfaces and materials. Symptoms The incubation period for Marburg virus disease typically ranges from 2 to 21 days. Initial symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches, which can progress to more severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and internal and external bleeding. Mortality Rate The mortality rate for Marburg virus disease can be very high, ranging from 23% to 90% in past outbreaks, depending on the virus strain and the quality of medical care available. Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis is made through laboratory tests that detect the virus or antibodies. There is no specific antiviral treatment for Marburg virus disease, and management primarily focuses on supportive care, including hydration and symptomatic treatment. Prevention Preventive measures include avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, and implementing strict infection control measures in healthcare settings. Vaccines are under development, but as of now, there is no licensed vaccine for Marburg virus. OUTBREAKS Marburg virus outbreaks have occurred sporadically in Africa, with notable outbreaks in Uganda, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Public health responses are critical in controlling outbreaks and preventing further transmission. If you have specific questions or need more detailed information about Marburg virus, feel free to ask! #wohorwrites #wohor #PublicHealthEducation #MarburgVirus

What is mpox and why is a PHEIC (public health emergency of international concern) declared by WHO again? 1. What is mpox? Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was a rare viral disease caused by the mpox virus. It's usually found in Central and West Africa but has now become more common since the 2022 outbreak and has been reported in multiple parts of the world. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. Anogenital lesions may also occur in transmissions related to sexual activity. 2. What is the significance of Clade I mpox? Clade I mpox is a strain of the virus that's more easily transmissible and has a higher mortality rate (up to ~1- 10%) compared to Clade II (around 1%). Clade II is the strain currently circulating globally, but Clade I has been on the rise in several Central African countries (https://lnkd.in/gsuTUbZt.), and Sweden has seen one imported case with travel from Central Africa (https://lnkd.in/gjYdk437) We have not seen any cases of Clade I mpox in Singapore yet - Singapore has had 10 cases of Clade II mpox since January 2024, 32 in 2023 and 18 in 2022. 3. Why did the WHO declare a PHEIC (Public Health Emergency of International Concern) again in 2024? The WHO declared a PHEIC in 2022 due to the rapid spread of mpox globally. Although cases declined, the virus continued to spread, and the WHO renewed the declaration in 2024 to maintain global vigilance and coordination to contain the outbreak. 4. How is mpox spread? Mpox spreads through: - Direct contact with infected bodily fluids (blood, saliva, etc.) - Touching contaminated surfaces or objects - Close contact with an infected person (skin-to-skin, face-to-face) - Infected animals (in endemic areas) 5. What preventative measures can one take? To prevent mpox: - Practice good hygiene (wash hands frequently) - Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms - Avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces or objects - Wear protective gear (masks, gloves) if caring for an infected person -The MVA-BN (JYNNEOS), a third-generation smallpox vaccine, is currently available in Singapore as Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for persons who have been identified to be close contacts of confirmed mpox cases, as well as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for persons at higher risk of being infected with mpox based on epidemiological factors in the 2022 outbreak. In line with international recommendations, mass population-wide vaccination is currently not recommended as a preventive strategy for mpox, as the risk to the general public remains low with disease transmission predominantly via close physical or prolonged contact. Members of the public, including persons travelling to areas affected by mpox, are advised to take the recommended precautionary measures such as avoiding high-risk sexual activities and practising good personal hygiene. (https://lnkd.in/gJxi8CGd) For more info on mpox : https://lnkd.in/gvrUyTSH

NO MPOX OUTBREAK IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA The Papua New Guinea National Department of Health (NDOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO), wishes to address misinformation surrounding the spread of Mpox or Monkeypox in the country. It is important to clarify that at this stage, there is no confirmed outbreak of Mpox in Papua New Guinea. The NDOH is closely collaborating with WHO and other papers to enhance surveillance and response capabilities, secure medical supplies, and resources for testing, including vaccines, should they become available. Efforts are being made to ensure that there is timely communication and support to communities across the country. The spread of misinformation can cause unnecessary panic and hinder public health efforts. We urge all citizens to rely on information from official sources and avoid sharing verified news or rumors. The government and health authorities are committed to providing regular updates and ensuring that the public has access to accurate information about pox and other concerning health issues. The NDOH recognizes the concern of the public and is working diligently with WHO to monitor the situation. However, in the absence of definitive treatment and limited availability of vaccines, basic prevention remains the strongest defense against the potential spread of mpox. Health authorities strongly urge the public to take the following preventive measures to protect themselves and their communities: 1. Maintain Personal Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers can help reduce the risk of infection. 2. Avoid Close Contact: Refrain from close contact with individuals showing mpox, such as skin lesions, fever, headache, and muscle aches. 3. Use Protective Gear: When caring for someone suspected of having pox, wearing gloves and a mask is highly recommended. 4. Stay Informed: Follow updates and guidelines from official government channels to ensure accurate information. Avoid spreading rumors or unverified news. 5. Report suspected cases to health authorities: Report any suspected cases to the nearest health center in your location as soon as possible. Mpox is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a viral infection ich can spread between people, mainly through sexual contact and/or close contact, and occasionally from the environment to people through items and surfaces that have been touched by a person with mpox. Common symptoms of mpox include a rash which, may last for 2-4 weeks. This may start with, or be followed by, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands (lymph nodes). The rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital, and/or anal regions. #healthiseverybodysbusiness #mpox #PNG #nompoxoutbreak

Seasonal #influenza (#flu), is an acute #respiratory #infection affecting around a billion people annually, with 3-5 million severe cases and 290,000 to 650,000 #deaths. Most recover without #treatment, but it poses significant risks, especially in #developing countries. #Symptoms typically start 1–4 days after infection and last about a week. Understanding and mitigating the spread of influenza is essential for #globalhealth. Let's stay informed and proactive in combating this common yet potentially severe #illness. #PublicHealth #GlobalHealth #pandemic #seasonalflu #virus #viruses #virology #beprepared #fluvaccine #RTI #URTI #LRT #respiratorytractinfection #InfluenzaAwareness #fluseason National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) Department of Health South Africa source: World Health Organization