Article
Immunology
Ravit Bassal, Lital Keinan-Boker, Dani Cohen, Ella Mendelson, Yaniv Lustig, Victoria Indenbaum
Summary: The study investigated the seropositivity for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among adults in Israel before and after the introduction of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. They found that low socio-economic rank and certain populations were more likely to test positive between January and December 2020. After the vaccine introduction, there was a significant increase in seropositivity, followed by stable rates.
Letter
Immunology
Ekaterina Krieger, Alexander Kudryavtsev, Ekaterina Sharashova, Vitaly Postoev, Natalia Belova, Leonid Shagrov, Julia Zvedina, Oxana Drapkina, Anna Kontsevaya, Svetlana Shalnova, Tormod Brenn, Vladimir M. Shkolnikov, Rosalind M. Eggo, David A. Leon
Summary: Population-based data on coronavirus disease and the immunogenicity of the Sputnik V vaccine in Russia are limited. A survey conducted among 1,080 residents aged 40-75 in Arkhangelsk revealed that 65% of them tested positive for IgG. Among the participants, 15% were vaccinated, and of those, 97% tested positive for IgG.
EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Veronica Vieira, Ian W. Tang, Scott Bartell, Matthew Zahn, Marion Joseph Fedoruk
Summary: In October 2020, the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among firefighters in Orange County was 5.3%, with participation rate of 92.2% among 923 OCFA personnel tested. Among firefighters, 37% who self-reported a previous positive COVID-19 test did not test positive for IgG antibodies in the current survey. Work city was a significant predictor of case status.
OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Shiwani Mahajan, Rajesh Srinivasan, Carrie A. Redlich, Sara K. Huston, Kelly M. Anastasio, Lisa Cashman, Dorothy S. Massey, Andrew Dugan, Dan Witters, Jenny Marlar, Shu-Xia Li, Zhenqiu Lin, Domonique Hodge, Manas Chattopadhyay, Mark D. Adams, Charles Lee, Lokinendi Rao, Chris Stewart, Karthik Kuppusamy, Albert Ko, Harlan M. Krumholz
Summary: A study conducted in Connecticut showed that the majority of people still do not have antibodies against the new coronavirus, with variations in seroprevalence by race and ethnicity, highlighting the need for continued adherence to risk-mitigation behaviors to prevent the resurgence of COVID-19 in the region.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Anthony O. Etyang, Ruth Lucinde, Henry Karanja, Catherine Kalu, Daisy Mugo, James Nyagwange, John Gitonga, James Tuju, Perpetual Wanjiku, Angela Karani, Shadrack Mutua, Hosea Maroko, Eddy Nzomo, Eric Maitha, Evanson Kamuri, Thuranira Kaugiria, Justus Weru, Lucy B. Ochola, Nelson Kilimo, Sande Charo, Namdala Emukule, Wycliffe Moracha, David Mukabi, Rosemary Okuku, Monicah Ogutu, Barrack Angujo, Mark Otiende, Christian Bottomley, Edward Otieno, Leonard Ndwiga, Amek Nyaguara, Shirine Voller, Charles N. Agoti, David James Nokes, Lynette Isabella Ochola-Oyier, Rashid Aman, Patrick Amoth, Mercy Mwangangi, Kadondi Kasera, Wangari Ng'ang'a, Ifedayo M. O. Adetifa, E. Wangeci Kagucia, Katherine Gallagher, Sophie Uyoga, Benjamin Tsofa, Edwine Barasa, Philip Bejon, J. Anthony G. Scott, Ambrose Agweyu, George M. Warimwe
Summary: The study reveals significant regional differences in seroprevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers in Kenya, but no differences based on professional cadre.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Faisal Awartani, Nouar Mohammad Qutob, Mohammad Rajab Asia
Summary: Translation: Assessment of the seroprevalence rate among a random sample of Palestinians residing in the West Bank region of Palestine, especially among those who were not vaccinated and not diagnosed. The study found a drastic rise in seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies due to infection and vaccination, providing valuable information for assessing herd immunity and understanding the pandemic.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Mankgopo Kgatle, Rajesh Das, Ismaheel Lawal, Tebatso Boshomane, Kgomotso Mokoala, Cattleya Gaspar, Lydia Mbokazi, Nonhlanhla Nkambule, Veronique Gow, Honest Ndlovu, Yonwaba Mzizi, Joseph Chalwe, Jeaneth Diphofa, Dinah Mokobodi, Nobuhle Gxekwa, Lusanda Zongo, Tinashe Maphosa, Mariza Vorster, Sheynaz Bassa, Amouda Venkatesan, Richard Khanyile, Yunus Munga, Thomas Ebenhan, Jan Rijn Zeevaart, Mike Sathekge
Summary: The study aimed to estimate the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among solid tumour patients attending a hospital for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Using COVID-19 IgG/IgM rapid tests, the researchers found a seroprevalence of 33.2% among asymptomatic patients with solid tumours. The seroprevalence increased significantly from the second to the fourth waves, with a high percentage of asymptomatic cases. Patients with breast, gynaecologic, and prostate cancers showed higher SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
C. Bottomley, M. Otiende, S. Uyoga, K. Gallagher, E. W. Kagucia, A. O. Etyang, D. Mugo, J. Gitonga, H. Karanja, J. Nyagwange, I. M. O. Adetifa, A. Agweyu, D. J. Nokes, G. M. Warimwe, J. A. G. Scott
Summary: The authors propose a model-based alternative to estimating the proportion of the population previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, which accounts for antibody waning and spectrum bias. By comparing the mixture model analysis with the standard threshold analysis using data from several Kenyan serosurveys, it is shown that the estimates of previous infection using the mixture model are often substantially higher than those from the standard threshold analysis.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Rachid Laajaj, Camilo De los Rios, Ignacio Sarmiento-Barbieri, Danilo Aristizabal, Eduardo Behrentz, Raquel Bernal, Giancarlo Buitrago, Zulma Cucunuba, Fernando de la Hoz, Alejandro Gaviria, Luis Jorge Hernandez, Leonardo Leon, Diane Moyano, Elkin Osorio, Andrea Ramirez Varela, Silvia Restrepo, Rodrigo Rodriguez, Norbert Schady, Martha Vives, Duncan Webb
Summary: Latin America has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited estimations of infection rates available. A sentinel surveillance study in Bogota found that by March 2021, over half of the population had been infected, despite only a small fraction of cases being detected. This highlights the importance of detailed data in understanding the dynamics and impact of the pandemic.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Letter
Medicine, General & Internal
Jennifer L. Alejo, Jonathan Mitchell, Amy Chang, Teresa P. Y. Chiang, Allan B. Massie, Dorry L. Segev, Martin A. Makary
Summary: This study examines the natural immunity and long-term durability of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among unvaccinated US adults by history of COVID-19 infection through serologic testing.
JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Dagny Lorent, Rafal Nowak, Dawid Luwanski, Magdalena Pisarska-Krawczyk, Magdalena Figlerowicz, Pawel Zmora
Summary: The study on the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers showed an overall increase in infection rate after vaccination. The antibody levels were correlated with disease severity post-infection and vaccination.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
I Backhaus, D. Hermsen, J. Timm, F. Boege, N. Luebke, T. Degode, K. Goebels, N. Dragano
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 among young adults in Germany, revealing a higher seropositivity rate among individuals seeking COVID-19 information from social media, and a higher prevalence of undetected COVID-19 infections among men and those not adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Ifedayo M. O. Adetifa, Sophie Uyoga, John N. Gitonga, Daisy Mugo, Mark Otiende, James Nyagwange, Henry K. Karanja, James Tuju, Perpetual Wanjiku, Rashid Aman, Mercy Mwangangi, Patrick Amoth, Kadondi Kasera, Wangari Ng'ang'a, Charles Rombo, Christine Yegon, Khamisi Kithi, Elizabeth Odhiambo, Thomas Rotich, Irene Orgut, Sammy Kihara, Christian Bottomley, Eunice W. Kagucia, Katherine E. Gallagher, Anthony Etyang, Shirine Voller, Teresa Lambe, Daniel Wright, Edwine Barasa, Benjamin Tsofa, Philip Bejon, Lynette Ochola-Oyier, Ambrose Agweyu, J. Anthony G. Scott, George M. Warimwe
Summary: A study conducted in Kenya found that while the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among blood donors was relatively low, there was evidence of widespread transmission with low associated mortality. This suggests that although many individuals in Kenya remained susceptible to COVID-19, the virus had already spread widely throughout the country.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Anna R. Giuliano, Shari Pilon-Thomas, Michael J. Schell, Martha Abrahamsen, Jessica Y. Islam, Kimberly Isaacs-Soriano, Kayoko Kennedy, Christopher W. Dukes, Junmin Whiting, Julie Rathwell, Jonathan A. Hensel, Leslie N. Mangual, Ernst Schonbrunn, Melissa Bikowitz, Dylan Grassie, Yan Yang
Summary: This study estimated the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among residents of Hillsborough County, Florida, and found that factors related to social distancing were associated with infection rate, regardless of the time since infection.
EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kene Nwosu, Joseph Fokam, Franck Wanda, Lucien Mama, Erol Orel, Nicolas Ray, Jeanine Meke, Armel Tassegning, Desire Takou, Eric Mimbe, Beat Stoll, Josselin Guillebert, Eric Comte, Olivia Keiser, Laura Ciaffi
Summary: A sero-survey conducted in Yaounde, Cameroon revealed a 29.2% seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies among participants, with most being asymptomatic. Men, obese individuals, and those living in large households were more likely to be infected. Despite the high seroprevalence, the majority of the population had not been infected, emphasizing the importance of continued virus control measures and rapid vaccine deployment.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Jessica E. Manning, Sophana Chea, Daniel M. Parker, Jennifer A. Bohl, Sreyngim Lay, Allyson Mateja, Somnang Man, Sreynik Nhek, Aiyana Ponce, Sokunthea Sreng, Dara Kong, Soun Kimsan, Claudio Meneses, Michael P. Fay, Seila Suon, Rekol Huy, Chanthap Lon, Rithea Leang, Fabiano Oliveira
Summary: Results from a longitudinal pediatric cohort in Cambodia indicate that children with high levels of antibodies to Aedes aegypti mosquito saliva are more likely to contract dengue fever, but are less likely to show clinical symptoms.
JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jennifer A. Bohl, Sreyngim Lay, Sophana Chea, Vida Ahyong, Daniel M. Parker, Shannon Gallagher, Jonathan Fintzi, Somnang Man, Aiyana Ponce, Sokunthea Sreng, Dara Kong, Fabiano Oliveira, Katrina Kalantar, Michelle Tan, Liz Fahsbender, Jonathan Sheu, Norma Neff, Angela M. Detweiler, Christina Yek, Sokna Ly, Rathanak Sath, Chea Huch, Hok Kry, Rithea Leang, Rekol Huy, Chanthap Lon, Cristina M. Tato, Joseph L. DeRisi, Jessica E. Manning
Summary: Understanding the regional pathogen landscape and surveillance of emerging pathogens is crucial in mitigating epidemics. In this study, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was used to identify a diverse range of potential pathogens responsible for undifferentiated fevers in a periurban population in Cambodia. The study highlights the importance of early detection and coordinated surveillance in resource-scarce settings.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Werissaw Haileselassie, Mizan Habtemichael, Ruth Adam, Jemal Haidar, Randy E. David, Ayele Belachew, Abenet Tafesse Mengesha, Cristian Koepfli, Wakgari Deressa, Daniel M. Parker, Nigussie Assefa Kassaw
Summary: There is significant inequality in the use of ITNs among pregnant women in Kenya, with greater use among the better-off group and those with higher education. Pregnant women from urban settings tend to use ITNs more than rural counterparts. Regional variations in ITN use were observed across the three surveys conducted.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Pyae Linn Aung, Myat Thu Soe, Thit Lwin Oo, Kyaw Thu Aung, Kyaw Kyaw Lin, Aung Thi, Lynette Menezes, Daniel M. Parker, Liwang Cui, Myat Phone Kyaw
Summary: The study analyzed malaria data from Banmauk Township during 2016-2018, showing a high burden of malaria, especially with Plasmodium falciparum infections. Despite intensified control efforts, there was a significant increase in malaria cases in 2017. Children under 15 years old were more susceptible to malaria.
BMC INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Jade D. Rae, Suphak Nosten, Ladda Kajeechiwa, Jacher Wiladphaingern, Daniel M. Parker, Jordi Landier, Aung Myint Thu, Hsa Dah, Aye Be, Win Cho Cho, K. Nyaw Paw, Eh Shee Paw, Paw Bway Shee, Christ Poe, Chit Nu, Baw Nyaw, Julie A. Simpson, Angela Devine, Richard J. Maude, Ku Ler Moo, Myo Chit Min, May Myo Thwin, Saw Win Tun, Francois H. Nosten
Summary: This paper describes the surveillance activities used by the malaria elimination task force (METF) programme in eastern Myanmar and analyzes the data collected. The findings show that despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the military coup, the malaria posts in the program remained accessible and contributed to a significant reduction in Plasmodium falciparum incidence.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Jetsumon Sattabongkot, Liwang Cui, Sirasate Bantuchai, Sadudee Chotirat, Jaranit Kaewkungwal, Amnat Khamsiriwatchara, Kirakorn Kiattibutr, Myat Phone Kyaw, Saranath Lawpoolsri, Nay Yi Yi Linn, Lynette Menezes, Jun Miao, Wang Nguitragool, Daniel Parker, Pathomporn Prikchoo, Wanlapa Roobsoong, Patiwat Sa-angchai, Yudthana Samung, Jeeraphat Sirichaisinthop, Patchara Sriwichai, Kritsana Suk-uam, Suwich Thammapalo, Baomin Wang, Daibin Zhong
Summary: The malaria landscape in the Greater Mekong Subregion has experienced significant changes and challenges. In response to these challenges, the Southeast Asian International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research has established a research network, implemented disease and vector surveillance systems, and developed new diagnostics and antimalarials.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Sayambhu Saita, Wanlapa Roobsoong, Patthanasak Khammaneechan, Phnom Sukchan, Saranath Lawpoolsri, Jetsumon Sattabongkot, Liwang Cui, Kamolnetr Okanurak, Suparat Phuanukoonnon, Daniel M. Parker
Summary: The study investigated the acceptability of mass drug administration (MDA) with primaquine (PQ) in malaria endemic villages in southern Thailand. The results showed that males and farmers were most likely to participate in the MDA, and approximately 71% of those who agreed to participate actually followed through with participation. Concerns about PQ-related side effects were one of the main factors affecting participant adherence to the MDA. The findings of this study can be used to improve future implementation of similar programs.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Yan Zhao, Pyae Linn Aung, Shishao Ruan, Kyawt Mon Win, Zifang Wu, Than Naing Soe, Myat Thu Soe, Yaming Cao, Jetsumon Sattabongkot, Myat Phone Kyaw, Liwang Cui, Lynette Menezes, Daniel M. M. Parker
Summary: This study assessed the spatio-temporal dynamics and environmental predictors of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria in Myanmar. The results showed a significant reduction in malaria incidence in Myanmar from 2011 to 2017, with higher incidence concentrated along international borders. The findings can guide effective disease control measures in Myanmar.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Daniel M. Parker, Catalina Medina, Jennifer Bohl, Chanthap Lon, Sophana Chea, Sreyngim Lay, Dara Kong, Sreynik Nhek, Somnang Man, Johannes S. P. Doehl, Rithea Leang, Hok Kry, Huy Rekol, Fabiano Oliveira, Volodymyr M. Minin, Jessica E. Manning
Summary: In this study, a comprehensive geostatistical analysis was conducted to assess exposure to Aedes mosquito bites among a pediatric cohort in a peri-urban setting endemic to dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses. The study found that hotspots of exposure to Ae. aegypti salivary gland extract (SGE) were relatively small and stable, and demographic and environmental factors were more predictive of exposure than commonly used entomological indices. Targeted house-or neighborhood-focused interventions may be appropriate for vector control in this setting.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Maia C. Tarnas, Carly Ching, Joleah B. Lamb, Daniel M. Parker, Muhammad H. Zaman
Summary: Health care for forcibly displaced persons should adopt a new data-driven and holistic approach that takes into account the built environment, social factors, and the bidirectional relationship between the changing ecosystem and residents. This approach recognizes the emergence of new diseases, dynamic demographics, and degrading environments around displaced communities. It envisions refugee and internally displaced camps as dynamic, complex ecosystems that are altered by spatial and temporal factors, and emphasizes the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical approaches to provide dignity for those who are forcibly displaced.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Werissaw Haileselassie, Abebe Ejigu, Tesfahun Alemu, Sale Workneh, Mizan Habtemichael, Randy E. David, Kidane Lelisa, Wakgari Deressa, Guiyun Yan, Daniel M. Parker, Behailu Taye
Summary: Despite progress in controlling malaria in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia still faces a significant burden of the disease. This study examines the transmission of malaria across an international border and assesses the impact of climatic factors. The findings highlight the importance of informed interventions to address the ongoing public health challenge.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Pyae Linn Aung, Myat Thu Soe, Than Naing Soe, Thit Lwin Oo, Kyawt Mon Win, Liwang Cui, Myat Phone Kyaw, Jetsumon Sattabongkot, Kamolnetr Okanurak, Daniel M. Parker
Summary: Targeted mass primaquine treatment (TPT) could be effective in eliminating vivax malaria in Myanmar by 2030. This study examined the factors that hindered the coverage of a TPT campaign in a malarious township in northern Myanmar. The findings revealed that farmers and gold miners, males, and individuals aged 15 to 45 years had higher rates of non-participation in TPT, with reasons including occupational and educational obligations. To improve community participation, strategies such as increasing community awareness and engagement should be implemented, along with considerations of inclusion criteria.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Chelsea R. Baker, Ivan Barilar, Leonardo S. de Araujo, Anne W. Rimoin, Daniel M. Parker, Rosanna Boyd, James L. Tobias, Patrick K. Moonan, Eleanor S. Click, Alyssa Finlay, John E. Oeltmann, Vladimir N. Minin, Chawangwa Modongo, Nicola M. Zetola, Stefan Niemann, Sanghyuk S. Shin
Summary: Combining genomic and geospatial data is valuable for understanding tuberculosis transmission in high-burden settings. A study in Gaborone, Botswana utilized whole-genome sequencing to determine the spatial distribution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates. The study identified clusters indicating recent transmission and outbreaks based on single-nucleotide polymorphisms and geospatial data. Targeted interventions in small geographic areas identified using integrated genomic and geospatial data could help interrupt tuberculosis transmission during outbreaks.
EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Werissaw Haileselassie, Ruth Adam, Mizan Habtemichael, Randy E. E. David, Nabel Solomon, Salle Workineh, Jemal Haider, Ayele Belachew, Wakgari Deressa, Guiyun Yan, Nigussie Assefa Kassaw, Daniel M. M. Parker
Summary: Despite global investments in malaria eradication, widespread malaria control among pregnant women has not been achieved in many African countries. One explanation is the inconsistent use of ITNs by pregnant women. Data from four African countries with high malaria burden showed an increasing trend in ITN utilization by pregnant women over time, but there was significant inequality among population groups. Tailored cost-effective interventions are needed to improve ITN utilization among pregnant women.
ARCHIVES OF PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Maia C. Tarnas, Najwa Al-Dheeb, Muhammad H. Zaman, Daniel M. Parker
Summary: The study found that air raids significantly influenced the burden of cholera in Yemen, even after controlling for other relevant factors. Measurement of this relationship further reveals that the cholera outbreak is primarily a result of human action rather than a natural occurrence, highlighting the devastating effects of conflict on health.
LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH
(2023)