Article
Infectious Diseases
Sengaloun Phonekeo, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Manithong Vonglokham, Latsamy Siengsounthone, Anousin Homsana, Sascha Gummin, Penelope Vounatsu, Prawat Nittiyanant, Suchin Worawichawong, Wichai Aekplakorn, Peter Odermatt, Somphou Sayasone
Summary: This study assessed the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections and associated risk factors among adults in the Lao PDR. The results showed a high prevalence of infections, with different species being prevalent in different regions. Men, the Lao-Tai ethnic group, and individuals without toilet facilities at home had higher infection risks.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2023)
Article
Virology
Chantal J. Snoeck, Konstantin Evdokimov, Kinnaly Xaydalasouk, Sodaly Mongkhoune, Aurelie Sausy, Keoudomphone Vilivong, Maude Pauly, Judith M. Hubschen, Somxay Billamay, Claude P. Muller, Antony P. Black
Summary: Respiratory infections are a common reason for medical consultations in children, with human rhinoviruses being the most frequently detected pathogen in Lao children. Influenza A and B viruses combined infection is also common. The study provides recommendations for vaccination and further research.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Jordyn T. Wallenborn, Camille B. Valera, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Somphou Sayasone, Peter Odermatt, Gunther Fink
Summary: The study identified significant disparities in breastfeeding practices between large-urban, small-urban, and rural residences in Lao People's Democratic Republic. Mothers in urban areas were more likely to not comply with the World Health Organization's breastfeeding recommendations compared to mothers in rural areas, with differences largely attributed to maternal education and household wealth.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Siriphone Virachith, Mapor Lao, Magnoula Inthepphavong, Saythong Inthalath, Judith M. Huebschen, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Somphou Sayasone, Antony P. Black
Summary: This study examined the immunization, susceptibility, and exposure status of the population in Xaysomboun province to hepatitis B virus (HBV), measles, rubella, and tetanus. The findings revealed low immunization rates and high risks of HBV, measles, and tetanus infection in the province. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen vaccine coverage for these diseases.
Article
Ophthalmology
Brad Guo, Yiran Tan, Stephen Nygaard, Cesar Carrillo, Kham Od Nouansavanh, Kitar Souksamone, Robert J. Casson
Summary: The prevalence of glaucoma in the Vientiane Eye Study is relatively low compared with other studies in Asian regions. However, the study population had a lower median age, reflecting the age group of the population and rapid urbanization in Laos. Despite this, glaucoma remains a blinding disease in this population.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Md. Siddikur Rahman, Hans J. Overgaard, Chamsai Pientong, Mayfong Mayxay, Tipaya Ekalaksananan, Sirinart Aromseree, Supranee Phanthanawiboon, Sumaira Zafar, Oleg Shipin, Richard E. Paul, Sysavanh Phommachanh, Tiengkham Pongvongsa, Nanthasane Vannavong, Ubydul Haque
Summary: The study revealed significant differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding climate change and dengue among urban and rural communities and government officials in Laos and Thailand, with overall low levels of KAP observed. Urgent integrated awareness programs are needed to enhance KAP levels for climate change adaptation, mitigation, and dengue prevention in these two countries and similar dengue-endemic nations.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Shinsuke Miyano, Chansay Pathammavong, Yasunori Ichimura, Masaya Sugiyama, Kongxay Phounphenghack, Chankham Tengbriacheu, Bouaphane Khamphaphongphane, Phonethipsavanh Nouanthong, Lauren Franzel, Tae Un Yang, Hendrikus Raaijimakers, Tomomi Ota, Masafumi Funato, Kenichi Komada, Masahiko Hachiya
Summary: This study investigated the seroprevalence of chronic hepatitis B and C infections in the general population of Lao PDR, revealing differences in prevalence based on sex, age group, region, and ethnicity. Future studies should confirm these results and determine relevant measures to control the transmission of hepatitis B and C infections.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Kinnaly Xaydalasouk, Kong Sayasinh, Judith M. Hubschen, Vilaysone Khounvisith, Sommai Keomany, Claude P. Muller, Antony P. Black
Summary: The study in Saravan, Laos, found high risk of hepatitis B virus infection, with protective antibody seroprevalence rates of 46.3% for tetanus and 40.5% for diphtheria. Seroprevalence of anti-measles and anti-rubella antibodies increased with age. Variations in seroprevalence were observed between gender, districts, and ethnicities. Recommendations include strengthening infant vaccination programs, improving newborn vaccine coverage, and investigating regional and ethnic differences for targeted vaccination strategies.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Phouth Inthavong, Somphaivanh Chanthavong, Phounsavanh Nammanininh, Phouvong Phommachanh, Watthana Theppangna, Agnes Agunos, Jaap A. Wagenaar, Bounlom Douangngeun, Leo Loth
Summary: This study conducted surveillance on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the livestock sector in five provinces of the Lao PDR. The results showed that Escherichia coli and Salmonella from slaughtered pigs and chickens exhibited resistance to multiple classes of antimicrobials, including critically important ones in human medicine. The study evaluated a national sampling strategy and laboratory methodologies, which will inform the development of a national AMR surveillance program.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Tomomi Kitamura, Viraneth Bouakhasith, Kongxay Phounphenghack, Chansay Pathammavong, Anonh Xeuatvongsa, Akiko Kobayashi, Masataro Norizuki, Hironori Okabayashi, Shinsuke Miyano, Yoshio Mori, Makoto Takeda, Masaya Sugiyama, Masashi Mizokami, Munehito Machida, Masahiko Hachiya
Summary: This study evaluated the exposure of vaccines to suboptimal temperatures during transit from central storage to health centers in Laos. Findings showed that vaccines were exposed to temperatures above 8 degrees Celsius and below 0 degrees Celsius, with fluctuations in storage temperature. To prevent vaccine deterioration and disease outbreaks, the government should invest in technologies and approaches for consistent cold chain management.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Iacopo Aiello, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Hari Vinathan, Khamseng Philavong, Chanthaly Luangphaxay, Somphone Soukhavong, Janneke Blomberg, Frank T. Wieringa
Summary: Malnutrition remains a public health problem in Lao PDR, with 9% of children under 5 being affected. A study found that culturally acceptable RUTFs, such as the locally produced mung bean RUTF, were the most preferred and accepted by caretakers. Therefore, promoting the use of mung bean RUTFs in Laos is recommended.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Nilandone Senvanpan, Vilayouth Phimolsarnnousith, Sayaphet Rattanavong, Mayfong Mayxay, Daniel Reinharz, Amanda E. Fine, Paul F. Horwood, Philippe Dussart, Stuart D. Blacksell, Mathieu Pruvot, Paul N. Newton, Matthew T. Robinson
Summary: Wild animal trade for human consumption is a global issue involving complex interactions between various factors. This study conducted a sero-survey of market vendors in Laos to determine their exposure to bacterial pathogens. The results showed that the risk of exposure to zoonotic pathogens may be associated with the types of food sold for human consumption. Further investigation is warranted.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Sreymom Oy, Chan Hang Saing, Mengieng Ung, Marina Zahari, Inthavong Nouhak, Sothea Kim, Michiko Nagashima-Hayashi, Dyna Khuon, Virya Koy, Sovatha Mam, Somphou Sayasone, Vonthanak Saphonn, Siyan Yi
Summary: This study aims to develop, pilot, and assess the feasibility and acceptability of an infection prevention and control (IPC) intervention in Cambodia and the Lao People's Democratic Republic to reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). The study will consist of four phases, including examining IPC practices, developing interventions, piloting the interventions, and assessing their feasibility and acceptability.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Shweta Vishwas Kulkarni, Phonepadith Xangsayarath, Daovieng Douangvichith, Latsamy Siengsounthone, Khatthanaphone Phandouangsy, Ly Thi-Hai Tran, Phuc Hong Le, Thanh Cong Bui
Summary: The prevalence of second-hand smoke exposure in homes and workplaces in Lao PDR is among the highest in South-East Asia, with women experiencing higher exposure at home compared to men. Lower education levels are associated with exposure at home or in the workplace, and almost all participants reported exposure to second-hand smoke in any public places.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Olivia J. J. Carr, Keoudomphone Vilivong, Laddaphone Bounvilay, Eileen M. Dunne, Jana Y. R. Lai, Jocelyn Chan, Malisa Vongsakid, Anisone Changthongthip, C. Siladeth, Belinda Ortika, Cattram Nguyen, Mayfong Mayxay, Paul N. Newton, Kim Mulholland, Lien A. H. Do, Audrey Dubot-Peres, Catherine Satzke, David A. B. Dance, Fiona M. Russell
Summary: This study in Laos explored the association between pneumococcal nasopharyngeal density and severe pneumonia, finding a positive correlation between pneumococcal carriage density and severe pneumonia among children carrying acute respiratory infections and pneumococcal.
JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Virology
Audrey Lacroix, Nicole Vidal, Alpha K. Keita, Guillaume Thaurignac, Amandine Esteban, Helene De Nys, Ramadan Diallo, Abdoulaye Toure, Souana Goumou, Abdoul Karim Soumah, Moriba Povogui, Joel Koivogui, Jean-Louis Monemou, Raisa Raulino, Antoine Nkuba, Vincent Foulongne, Eric Delaporte, Ahidjo Ayouba, Martine Peeters
Editorial Material
Infectious Diseases
Jean-Francois Etard
LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Mamadou Saliou Kalifa Diallo, Abdoulaye Toure, Mamadou Saliou Sow, Cece Kpamou, Alpha Kabinet Keita, Bernard Taverne, Martine Peeters, Philippe Msellati, Thierno Alimou Barry, Jean-Francois Etard, Rene Ecochard, Eric Delaporte
Summary: A study tracking 802 Ebola virus disease survivors for 48 months found that while the prevalence and incidence of symptoms decreased over time, sequelae persisted 48 months post-discharge, with neurologic and abdominal symptoms being common. Early symptoms such as hemorrhage and neurologic symptoms were significantly associated with the further occurrence of ocular and musculoskeletal sequelae.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Rene Ecochard, Patient Wimba, Justin Bengehya, Philippe Bianga Katchunga, Seraphine Lugwarha, Moise Oyimangirwe, Jacques-Aime Bazeboso, Leon Tshilolo, Benjamin Longo-Mbenza, Muriel Rabilloud, Jean Iwaz, Jean-Francois Etard, Philippe Vanhems
Summary: The mortality rate of COVID-19 in South Kivu Province sharply increased in 2020, especially with a six-fold growth in suspected cases and deaths. The region lacks effective use of barrier measures such as face masks. The increase in actual mortality rates has led to an increased demand for humanitarian assistance. The situation is extremely urgent.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Audrey Lacroix, Placide Mbala Kingebeni, Simon Pierre Ndimbo Kumugo, Guy Lempu, Christelle Butel, Laetitia Serrano, Nicole Vidal, Guillaume Thaurignac, Amandine Esteban, Daniel Mukadi Bamuleka, Jacques Likofata, Eric Delaporte, Jean-Jacques Muyembe Tamfum, Ahidjo Ayouba, Martine Peeters, Steve Ahuka Mundeke
Summary: Bats play an important role in the transmission of Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), potentially serving as a reservoir host for the virus. While no viral RNA was detected in bat samples during large-scale surveys, this highlights the challenges and urgency of tracking bats as a potential source of the virus.
Article
Immunology
Antoine N. Nkuba, Sheila M. Makiala, Emilande Guichet, Paul M. Tshiminyi, Yannick M. Bazitama, Marc K. Yambayamba, Benito M. Kazenza, Tresor M. Kabeya, Elysee B. Matungulu, Lionel K. Baketana, Naomi M. Mitongo, Guillaume Thaurignac, Fabian H. Leendertz, Veerle Vanlerberghe, Raphael Pelloquin, Jean-Francois Etard, David Maman, Placide K. Mbala, Ahidjo Ayouba, Martine Peeters, Jean-Jacques T. Muyembe, Eric Delaporte, Steve M. Ahuka
Summary: In a study conducted in Kinshasa, researchers found that the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies was much higher than the reported COVID-19 cases. These findings highlight the importance of conducting serosurveys to understand the underlying infection status and implement appropriate measures.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Letter
Infectious Diseases
Jean-Francois Etard, Abdoulaye Toure, Mamadou Saliou Sow, Fabien Subtil, Ibrahima Camara, Cece Kpamou, Eric Delaporte, Rene Ecochard
JOURNAL OF INFECTION
(2021)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
M. L. Chihana, N. Conan, T. Ellman, E. Poulet, D. B. Garone, R. Ortuno, S. Wanjala, C. Masiku, J-F Etard, M-A Davies, D. Maman
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence of HIV-serodiscordant couples and the HIV cascade of care in four high-prevalence settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Findings showed low levels of HIV status awareness and viral load suppression among HIV-positive partners in serodiscordant couples, indicating a need for intensified prevention and control measures.
SAMJ SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Bernard Taverne, Gabriele Laborde-Balen, Khaly Diaw, Madjiguene Gueye, Ndeye-Ngone Have, Jean-Francois Etard, Khoudia Sow
Summary: A national health coverage system named CMU has been developed in Senegal since 2013, but its impact on out-of-pocket expenses for people living with HIV remains unknown. A study was conducted to assess the impact of this system on health expenses for PLHIV, with findings showing that the average OOP amount for routine consultation is 11 euros for adults and children, and 32.5 euros for MSM, indicating limited effectiveness of the system in providing free healthcare for PLHIV as recommended by WHO.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Mamadou Saliou Kalifa Diallo, Ahidjo Ayouba, Alpha Kabinet Keita, Guillaume Thaurignac, Mamadou Saliou Sow, Cece Kpamou, Thierno Alimou Barry, Philippe Msellati, Jean-Francois Etard, Martine Peeters, Rene Ecochard, Eric Delaporte, Abdouloye Toure
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the humoral antibody response and cross reactivity of antibodies between different Ebolaviruses in survivors of Ebola virus disease. Results showed a significant decrease in EBOV antibodies over time, with antibodies against nucleoproteins decreasing more rapidly. Some survivors exhibited an antibody wax-and-wane pattern.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Muriel Rabilloud, Benjamin Riche, Jean Francois Etard, Mad-Helenie Elsensohn, Nicolas Voirin, Thomas Benet, Jean Iwaz, Rene Ecochard, Philippe Vanhems
Summary: This study investigated the role of SARS-CoV-2 virus spread in nearby population in introducing COVID-19 outbreaks in nursing homes. The results showed a strong correlation between the outbreak in nursing homes and the external pressure of the disease, highlighting the importance of controlling virus spread in surrounding populations to prevent outbreaks in nursing homes.
Article
Virology
Martine Peeters, Maeliss Champagne, Innocent Ndong Bass, Souana Goumou, Simon-Pierre Ndimbo Kumugo, Audrey Lacroix, Amandine Esteban, Dowbiss Meta Djomsi, Abdoul Karim Soumah, Placide Mbala Kingebeni, Flaubert Auguste Mba Djonzo, Guy Lempu, Guillaume Thaurignac, Eitel Mpoudi Ngole, Charles Kouanfack, Daniel Mukadi Bamuleka, Jacques Likofata, Jean-Jacques Muyembe Tamfum, Helene De Nys, Julien Capelle, Abdoulaye Toure, Eric Delaporte, Alpha Kabinet Keita, Steve Ahuka Mundeke, Ahidjo Ayouba
Summary: The seroprevalence of orthoebolaviruses was studied in bats from Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Guinea. The results showed that frugivorous bats had a higher seroprevalence compared to insectivorous bats. Gender and age had a minor impact on seroprevalence, but subadult bats had a higher seroprevalence. Further research is needed to determine the birthing pulses of bats and to detect viral RNA in order to understand the genetic diversity of filoviruses in bats and their potential pathogenicity to humans.
Article
Tropical Medicine
Patient Mijiriro Wimba, Jacques-Aime Bazeboso, Philippe Bianga Katchunga, Leon Tshilolo, Benjamin Longo-Mbenza, Muriel Rabilloud, Philippe Vanhems, Jean Iwaz, Jean-Francois Etard, Rene Ecochard
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH
(2020)
Meeting Abstract
Rheumatology
Y. M. Pers, A. Dubois, T. A. Barry, M. D. Sall, L. March, M. S. Sow, A. K. Keita, B. Taverne, J. F. Etard, A. Toure, M. Barry, E. Delaporte
ANNALS OF THE RHEUMATIC DISEASES
(2020)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Jean-Francois Etard, Philippe Vanhems, Laetitia Atlani-Duault, Rene Ecochard