155 results on '"Seif Al-Abri"'
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2. World Tuberculosis Day 2024 theme 'Yes! We can end TB' can be made a reality through concerted global efforts that advance detection, diagnosis, and treatment of tuberculosis infection and disease
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Delia Goletti, Seif Al-Abri, Giovanni Battista Migliori, Cecilia Lindestam Arlehamn, Pranabashis Haldar, Christopher Sundling, Christopher da Costa, Kin Wang To, Adrian R. Martineau, Eskild Petersen, Alimuddin Zumla, and Shui Shan Lee
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Tuberculosis ,End TB Strategy ,TB diagnosis ,TB treatment ,World TB Day ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2024
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3. Screening for latent tuberculosis in migrants—status quo and future challenges
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Eskild Petersen, Seif Al-Abri, Amina Al-Jardani, Ziad A. Memish, Eleni Aklillu, Francine Ntoumi, Peter Mwaba, Christian Wejse, Alimuddin Zumla, and Fatma Al-Yaquobi
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Tuberculosis ,Latent TB ,Migrants ,Prevention ,Screening ,Treatment ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Objectives: To review the evidence that migrants from tuberculosis (TB) high-incidence countries migrating to TB low-incidence countries significantly contribute to active TB cases in the counties of destination, primarily through reactivation of latent TB. Methods: This is a narrative review. The different screening programs in the countries of destination are reviewed either based on screening and preventive treatment of latent TB pre or more commonly – post arrival. Results: Screening can be performed using interferon-gamma release assays (IGRA) or tuberculin skin tests (TST). Preventive treatment of latent TB is using either monotherapy with isoniazid, or in combination with rifampicin or rifapentine. We discuss the ethical issues of preventive treatment in asymptomatic individuals and how these are addressed in different screening programs. Conclusion: Screening migrants from TB high endemic countries to TB low endemic countries is beneficial. There is a lack of standardization and agreement on screening protocols, follow up and treatment.
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- 2024
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4. The Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in Hemodialysis Patients in Oman: A National Cross-Sectional Study
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Intisar Al Shukri, Adil Al Wahaibi, Hanan Al kindi, Yaqoub Al-Maimani, Amal Al Maani, Abdullah Alqayoudhi, Mersum C. Methew, Jini Pradeesh, Raiya Al Abrawi, Abdo Debs, Nabila Mansoor, Ahmed AlRahbi, Wadha Al Balushi, Mahmood Alharrasi, Badriya Al Mamari, Magda Fakhry Soliman, Afraa Alsenaidi, Mohammed Al Alawi, Omaima Al Ismaili, Seif Al-Abri, and Amina Al-Jardani
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Hepatitis C virus ,Seroprevalence ,Dialysis unit ,Oman ,Cross-sectional ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background HCV infection in hemodialysis units is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The risk of HCV infection among dialysis patients is higher compared to the general population due to high potential blood exposures in hemodialysis settings. This study aims to assess the national HCV seroprevalence in selected dialysis units and to determine the risk factors for acquiring HCV infection. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 January to 31 March 2021. A total of 734 patients from 11 hemodialysis centers in Oman were included. Samples were tested simultaneously for HCV antibodies and HCV RNA. HCV genotyping was determined in all viremic patients. Demographic and hemodialysis center related data were gathered and their association with the positive HCV serology were explored using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results Out of 800 patients selected from 11 dialysis units for the study, 734 patients (91.8%) were included. The overall seroprevalence of HCV infection among hemodialysis patients was 5.6%. (41/734). HCV RNA was detected in 31.7% (13/41) of seropositive hemodialysis patients. The most common genotype was subtype 1a, followed by subtype 3. Variables associated with high HCV prevalence were family history of HCV and duration of dialysis. Conclusion The prevalence of infection within hemodialysis patients in Oman has significantly decreased but remained higher than the general population. Continuous monitoring and follow-up, including periodic serosurvey and linkage to care and treatment are recommended. Additionally, practice audits are recommended for identifying gaps and ensuring sustainability of best practices and further improvement.
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- 2023
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5. Enterobius vermicularis Related Acute Appendicitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
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Shabnam Chhetri, Ahmed Hamood Al Mamari, Mahmood Mausd Al Awfi, Nasser Humaid Nasser Al Khaldi, Nibras Mejbel Abed, Nenad Pandak, Faryal Khamis, Zakariya Al Balushi, Rashid Mohammed Khamis Alalawi, Sultan Al Lawati, Muna Ba’Omar, Nasser Shukaili, and Seif Al-Abri
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parasitological diseases ,Oman ,appendectomy ,appendicitis ,Enterobius vermicularis ,enterobiasis ,Other systems of medicine ,RZ201-999 - Abstract
While the debate on the association between Enterobius vermicularis (E. vermicularis) and acute appendicitis has not been settled, a few case reports of this very rare encounter are beginning to come to light. E. vermicularis is one of the most common parasitic infections around the world, and acute appendicitis, on the other hand, is also a commonly encountered condition in general surgery. However, the association between these two conditions remains controversial. Here we present a case report of a young woman with appendicitis associated with E. vermicularis.
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- 2023
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6. End of the Bedaquiline patent – a crucial development for moving forward affordable drugs, diagnostics, and vaccines for infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries
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Eskild Petersen, David S. Hui, Jean B. Nachega, Francine Ntoumi, Delia Goletti, Eleni Aklillu, Avinash Sharma, Thomas Nyirenda, Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Giovanni Satta, Christopher da Costa, Esam I. Azhar, Moses Bockarie, Seif Al-Abri, Timothy D. McHugh, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales, George M Varghese, and Alimuddin Zumla
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2023
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7. Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and viral hepatitis B: A call for renewed global focus
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Ali Elgalib, Richard Lau, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Samir Shah, Bader Al-Rawahi, Ziad A Memish, Shui Shan Lee, and Seif Al-Abri
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EMTCT ,HIV ,syphilis ,hepatitis B ,validation ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2023
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8. Genomic analysis of the emerging carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae sequence type 11 harbouring Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) in Oman
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Mohammed Al Balushi, Rajesh Kumar, Azza Al-Rashdi, Amin Ratna, Ahood Al-Jabri, Neima Al-shekaili, Ramasandhya Rani, Sara Al Sumri, Laila Al-Ghabshi, Seif Al-Abri, and Amina Al-Jardani
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Enterobacterales ,Klebsiella pneumoniae ,Whole genome sequencing ,Antimicrobial resistance ,Oman ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Background and objective: The presence of carbapenemase enzymes among Enterobacterales is the main mechanism to reduce susceptibility to a wide range of antibiotics. Carbapenemase enzymes such as the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) hydrolyse beta-lactam antibiotics group, which includes carbapenem, leads to fewer treatment options. We aim to describe the first report of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP) sequence type (ST) 11 harbouring KPC in Oman. Material and methods: Five confirmed CRKP isolates were isolated from clinical samples during the period of January 2019 till December 2019. Strains were genotyped by pulse field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for genetic relatedness. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to observe relationships with global strains using multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Antimicrobial genes, capsular loci-K-types, plasmids types and virulence genes were also identified using whole genome sequence data. Results: All five CRKP were determined to have blaKPC-2 with or without blaOX-A48 and blaNDM-2. The molecular genotyping by PFGE showed 100% similarity among the five isolates. The MLST allelic profile analysis clonally clustered our strains with SL-258, CG-11 and ST11 mainly reported from South Asia. Further molecular characterization of the capsular K-locus and O-locus genes, revealed the strains to belong to KL-47 type and OL101 type respectively. The core genome typing suggests that our strains were clonally related to Chinese strains with less than five chromosomal nucleotides differences. Conclusion: Epidemiological and molecular analyses confirmed that these KPC-producing K. pneumoniae strains are from a single clone that caused multiple nosocomial infections in one health institution. This finding highlights the importance to sustain the surveillance and infection prevention efforts and to step up active screening to prevent the spread of nosocomial infection.
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- 2022
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9. Genomic and geospatial epidemiology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Oman: first national insight using whole genome sequencing
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Amina Al-Jardani, Fatma Al Yaquobi, Chamila Adikaram, Adil Al Wahaibi, Laila Al-Balushi, Samiya Al-Zadjali, Bader Al Abri, Khalsa Al-Thuhli, and Seif Al-Abri
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Tuberculosis ,Mycobacterium tuberculosis ,Whole genome sequencing ,Molecular epidemiology ,Oman ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
ABSTRACT: Objectives: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is a global public health issue. Although Oman reduced the burden of tuberculosis (TB) by 85% in under 25 years, the annual incidence rate remains stagnant. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is used to investigate the transmission dynamics of MTB complex. This study aimed to resolve traditional genotype clusters and exploring the geospatial distribution to understand the epidemiology of TB in Oman. Methods: Confirmed cases with spoligotyping clusters were randomly selected. WGS of 70 isolates were selected for final analysis. Correlation of epidemiological and geospatial data was conducted. Results: A total of 233 cases were registered in 2021; 169 had confirmed growth, with an incidence rate of 5.2/100,000 population for 2021. A total of 70 genomes were analyzed, and five large clusters and three medium clusters were identified. The lineages L1, L2, L3, and L4 and several sublineages belonging to the Indo-Oceanic family and East African Indian family were identified as predominant in Oman. There were no multidrug-resistant cases identified. Conclusion: There is a considerable genetic variation among the strains in Oman. This predominance could be linked with the high percentage of non-national population, which represents different countries and frequent traveling to high TB burden countries. WGS combined with geospatial investigations of MTB are required to better understand the disease transmission in Oman, which will support TB elimination efforts.
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- 2023
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10. World Tuberculosis Day 2023 theme 'Yes! We Can End TB!'
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Delia Goletti, Seif Al-Abri, Giovanni Battista Migliori, Rhea Coler, Catherine Wei Min Ong, Susanna Maria Roberta Esposito, Marina Tadolini, Alberto Matteelli, Daniela Cirillo, Elisa Nemes, Alimuddin Zumla, and Eskild Petersen
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2023
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11. The impact of the hand hygiene role model project on improving healthcare workers’ compliance: A quasi-experimental observational study
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Amal Al-Maani, Adil Al Wahaibi, Najla Al-Zadjali, Jabir Al-Sooti, Maryam AlHinai, Amal Al Badawi, Afaf Al Saidi, Noora AlZadjali, Waleed Elshoubary, Khalid Al-Harthi, and Seif Al-Abri
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Hand hygiene ,Healthcare workers ,Hospitals ,Intervention ,Nurses ,Oman ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Background: The World Health Organization (WHO)’s multimodal strategy for improving hand hygiene (HH) compliance was endorsed in 2009 and was implemented by every hospital in Oman. There was variation in adherence to the practice even within the same facility and in sustaining improvement after the intervention. Objectives: Evaluate the impact of national HH role model project on health care worker's immediate and long term compliance with HH practices. Material and methods: A pretest–posttest quasi-experimental observational study was conducted in four hospitals, including 16 (medical/surgical/psychiatry) departments. The study consisted of four phases: Baseline assessment, intervention, three-month post-intervention assessment, and follow-up assessment after 15 months for sustainability. The intervention (role model in hand hygiene) consisted of four components: Leadership involvement as a role model for HH, posting HH messages with photos of role model leaders, a weekly selection of staff as HH role models, and conducting HH education and training from the focal point of each ward/department. Results: There were 5796 observations recorded during the study for Moments 1 and 4 of HH. HCWs’ overall compliance rate significantly increased from a baseline of 52.6% before the intervention to 74.1% after three months from the intervention, and 70.0% on follow-up after more than one year (p 60%) after 15 months from the start of the intervention. The likelihood of improvement in HH compliance with the intervention remained low for the moment before patient contact (AOR, 0.34; 95% CI = 0.27–0.44) during the weekend (AOR, 0.44; 95% CI = 0.32–0.59) in the psychiatry wards (AOR, 0.22; 95% CI = 0.15–0.34) and by the non-medical and nursing professions (AOR, 0.99; 95% CI = 0.61–1.66). Conclusions: Implementation of a role model as a behavioral intervention, in addition to the WHO’s multimodal strategy, successfully improved and sustained HCWs’ HH compliance rates. Understanding healthcare culture in the context of the driving factors of behavioral changes and regular follow-ups are essential to sustain adherence to safe HH practices.
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- 2022
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12. Emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern Omicron (B.1.1.529) - highlights Africa's research capabilities, but exposes major knowledge gaps, inequities of vaccine distribution, inadequacies in global COVID-19 response and control efforts
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Eskild Petersen, Francine Ntoumi, David S Hui, Aisha Abubakar, Laura D. Kramer, Christina Obiero, Paul Anantharajah Tambyah, Lucille Blumberg, Richard Yapi, Seif Al-Abri, Tatiana de Castro Abreu Pinto, Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Najmul Haider, Danny Asogun, Thirumalaisamy P. Velavan, Nathan Kapata, Matthew Bates, Rashid Ansumana, Chiara Montaldo, Luchenga Mucheleng'anga, John Tembo, Peter Mwaba, Cordelia M. Himwaze, Muzamil Mahdi Abdel Hamid, Sayoki Mfinanga, Leonard Mboera, Tajudeen Raj, Eleni Aklillu, Francisco Veas, Sarah Edwards, Pontiano Kaleebu, Timothy D. McHugh, Jeremiah Chakaya, Thomas Nyirenda, Moses Bockarie, Peter S Nyasulu, Christian Wejse, Jean-Jacques Muyembe-Tamfum, Esam I. Azhar, Markus Maeurer, Jean B. Nachega, Richard Kock, Giuseppe Ippolito, and Alimuddin Zumla
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2022
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13. The role of children and adolescents in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 virus within family clusters: A large population study from Oman
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Abdullah Alqayoudhi, Abdullah Al Manji, Sulien Al khalili, Amal Al Maani, Hanan Alkindi, Fatma Alyaquobi, Bader Al Rawahi, Amina Al-Jardani, Adil Al Wahaibi, and Seif Al-Abri
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COVID-19 ,Infection ,Children ,National study clinical features ,Outcome ,Outbreaks ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Background: In Oman, many extended families tend to live in one household. Some families can include 20–30 individuals with the majority of them being children. This study investigates the role of children in spreading SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19 within family clusters in Oman. Methods: This retrospective study includes data of 1026 SARS-CoV-2 positive children (≤18 years) collected from the national surveillance database for COVID-19 between 1 February 2020 and 30 May 2020. Results: We included 1026 patients. Most, 842 were Omani (82%), 52% male, and 28.5% asymptomatic. Close to the half of symptomatic 419 (40%), patients presented with fever associated with other respiratory symptoms. Fifty pediatric patients were index cases who transmitted the virus to 107 patients in total (86 adults and 21 children) with a mode of 1. There is no statistical significance of all studied risk factors in the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus including age, gender, and cycle threshold (CT) value. Conclusions: According to this study, children are not to be considered a significant driver of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Oman.
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- 2021
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14. Predictors of late presentation and advanced HIV disease among people living with HIV in Oman (2000–2019)
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Ali Elgalib, Samir Shah, Adil Al-Wahaibi, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maha Al-Fouri, Richard Lau, Hanan Al-Kindi, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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HIV/AIDS ,Late presentation ,Oman ,Advanced HIV ,Predictors ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background The aim of this study was to determine the proportions and predictors of late presentation (LP) and advanced HIV disease (AD) in Oman. LP and AD were defined as presenting with a baseline CD4 count of
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- 2021
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15. Delamanid-containing regimens and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
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Mohammad Javad Nasiri, Moein Zangiabadian, Erfan Arabpour, Sirus Amini, Farima Khalili, Rosella Centis, Lia D'Ambrosio, Justin T. Denholm, H. Simon Schaaf, Martin van den Boom, Xhevat Kurhasani, Margareth Pretti Dalcolmo, Seif Al-Abri, Jeremiah Chakaya, Jan-Willem Alffenaar, Onno Akkerman, Denise Rossato Silva, Marcela Muňoz-Torrico, Barbara Seaworth, Emanuele Pontali, Laura Saderi, Simon Tiberi, Alimuddin Zumla, Giovanni Battista Migliori, and Giovanni Sotgiu
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TB ,MDR-TB ,delamanid ,bedaquiline ,effectiveness ,safety ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Introduction: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a life-threatening condition needing long poly-chemotherapy regimens. As no systematic reviews/meta-analysis is available to comprehensively evaluate the role of delamanid (DLM), we evaluated its effectiveness and safety. Methods: We reviewed the relevant scientific literature published up to January 20, 2022. The pooled success treatment rate with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was assessed using a random-effect model. We assessed studies for quality and bias, and considered P0.05). The overall pooled treatment success rate in DLM and bedaquiline-containing regimens was 75.2% (95% CI 68.1-81.1) with no evidence of publication bias (Begg's test; P >0.05). In experimental studies the pooled treatment success rate of DLM-containing regimens was 72.5 (95% CI 44.2-89.8, P 0.05). Conclusions: In MDR-TB patients receiving DLM, culture conversion and treatment success rates were high despite extensive resistance with limited adverse events.
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- 2022
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16. Assessing Oman's knowledge, attitude and practice regarding tuberculosis: a cross-sectional study that calls for action
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Sulien Al Khalili, Fatma Al Yaquobi, Bader Al Abri, Khalsa Al Thuhli, Sabria Al Marshoudi, Bader Al Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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Attitude ,awareness ,knowledge ,Oman ,practice ,tuberculosis ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health issue. Elimination mandates collaboration between decision makers, practitioners and the community. Few studies address the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) from countries with low incidence. Aim: Assess KAP regarding TB in Oman. Method: A cross-sectional survey based on validated questionnaire conducted via phone on randomly selected participants. Results: A total of 1048 participants completed the questionnaire. Males accounted for 63% (n=664) of respondents, Omanis 76% (n=796) and 18–39-year-olds 50% (n=527). The overall knowledge was fair (53%), overall attitude scored good and fair (46%) equally and a good score (78%) for overall practice. While female gender associated with higher knowledge (53.9%, n=201), males showed higher attitude and practice, (48.5%, n=322) and (80.3%, n=533) respectively. Omani nationality correlated with higher knowledge (49.1%, n= 391) and attitude (46.9%, n=373) whereas non-Omani nationality correlated with higher practice (85.3%, n=214). Literacy was associated with higher knowledge (73.3%, n=11) and attitude (60%, n=9). Conclusion: Despite efforts by the Ministry of Health, more must be done to raise TB knowledge to encourage preferable attitudes and practice. Interventions to improve KAP are required to speed up disease reduction rate. Utilization of different resources, especially digital platforms, for knowledge dissemination should consider community diversity, including the presence of expatriates.
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- 2022
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17. World TB Day 2022: Revamping and Reshaping Global TB Control Programs by Advancing Lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic
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Eskild Petersen, Seif Al-Abri, Jeremiah Chakaya, Delia Goletti, Liubov Parolina, Christian Wejse, Luchenga Adam Mucheleng'anga, Sulien Al Khalili, Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Pascalina Chanda-Kapata, Mohammad Javad Nasiri, Patrick S Lungu, Markus Maeurer, Simon Tiberi, Francine Ntoumi, Giovanni Battista-Migliori, and Alimuddin Zumla
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2022
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18. The role of supporting services in driving SARS-CoV-2 transmission within healthcare settings: A multicenter seroprevalence study
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Amal Al-Maani, Adil Al Wahaibi, Jabir Al-Sooti, Bader Al Abri, Intisar Al Shukri, Elham AlRisi, Laila Al Abri, Khalid AlDaghari, Mahmood Al Subhi, Salima AlMaqbali, Salim AlBurtamani, Asma AlAbri, Ahmed Al Salami, Iman Al-Beloushi, Najla Al-Zadjali, Abdullah Alqayoudhi, Hanan Al-Kindi, Khalifa Al Shaqsi, Amina Al-Jardani, and Seif Al-Abri
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SARS-CoV-2 ,COVID-19 ,Healthcare workers ,Community ,Serosurvey ,Infection ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in healthcare workers (HCWs) based on risk of exposure to COVID-19 patients. Method: This was a SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence cross-sectional study in risk-stratified HCWs randomly selected from three main district hospitals in Oman. Results: 1078 HCWs were included, with an overall SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence of 21%. The seropositivity rates in low-, variable-, and high-risk groups were 29%, 18%, and 17%, respectively (p-value < 0.001). The study found higher positivity in males (crude odds ratio [COR] 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28–2.3), and workers residing in high-prevalence areas (COR 2.09, 95% CI 1.42–3.07). Compared with doctors, workers from supporting services, administration staff, and nurses were more likely to test positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (COR 9.81, 95% CI 5.26–18.27; 2.37, 95% CI 1.23–4.58; 2.08 95% CI 1.14–3.81). The overall rate of previously undetected infection was 12%, with higher values in low-risk HCWs. High district prevalence was a driving factor for seropositivity in the low-risk group (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.36, 95% CI 1.0–5.59). Conclusion: Low-risk supporting services workers can drive SARS-CoV-2 transmission in hospitals. More attention and innovation within this area will enhance the safety of health care during epidemics/pandemics.
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- 2021
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19. Effects of COVID-19 on mortality: A 5-year population-based study in Oman
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Adil Al Wahaibi, Amal Al-Maani, Fatma Alyaquobi, Khalid Al Harthy, Amina Al-Jardani, Bader Al Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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COVID-19 ,Pandemic ,Retrospective studies ,Non-communicable diseases ,Communicable diseases ,Oman ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Background: Mortality surveillance provides a crucial method for monitoring disease activity. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause excess mortality both directly and indirectly by increasing deaths from other diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on mortality in Oman. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective analysis of mortality data from 1 January 2015 to 16 August 2020 was undertaken. Baseline mortality estimated using the Farrington flexible model and excess mortality were calculated for the pandemic period (16 March–16 August 2020) according to cause of death, place of death and age group. Results: During the pandemic period, there was a 15% [95% confidence interval (CI) 14–17] increase in all-cause mortality from baseline. When classifying by cause, there was a 9% (95% CI 5–12) increase in deaths due to respiratory diseases, a 2% (95% CI 1–4) increase in deaths due to infectious diseases and a 9% (95% CI 8–11) increase in unclassified deaths. In terms of place of death, 12% (95% CI 11–14) of excess mortality occurred in hospitals and 7% (95% CI 5–8) occurred in homes during the pandemic period. Patients aged >60 years recorded a 15% (95% CI 13–16) increase in all-cause mortality during this period. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a 15% increase in all-cause mortality in Oman, mainly as a result of deaths from COVID-19. However, unclassified deaths, deaths due to respiratory diseases and deaths due to infectious diseases have also increased, enforcing the need for a holistic approach and appropriate coordination of health services during such health crises.
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- 2021
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20. Infectious diseases threats at the Arba'een – a neglected but one of the largest annually recurring mass gathering religious events
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Shuja Shafi, Esam Azhar, Seif Al-Abri, Avinash Sharma, Nizar Merali, Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq, Sherif A El-Kafrawy, Alimuddin Zumla, and Shui Shan Lee
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Mass gathering ,Infectious diseases outbreaks ,Religious events ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2022
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21. COVID-19–We urgently need to start developing an exit strategy
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Eskild Petersen, Sean Wasserman, Shui-Shan Lee, Unyeong Go, Allison H. Holmes, Seif Al-Abri, Susan McLellan, Lucille Blumberg, and Paul Tambyah
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this perspective is to review the options countries have to exit the draconian “lockdowns” in a carefully staged manner. Methods: Experts from different countries experiencing Corona Virus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) reviewed evidence and country-specific approaches and the results of their interventions. Results: Three factors are essential: 1. Reintroduction from countries with ongoing community transmission; 2. The need for extensive testing capacity and widespread community testing, and 3. An adequate supply of personal protective equipment, PPE, to protect health care workers. Discussed at length are lifting physical distancing, how to open manufacturing and construction, logistics, and the opening of higher educational institutions and schools. The use of electronic surveillance is considered. Conclusion: Each country should decide on the best path forward. However, we can learn from each other, and the approaches are, in reality, very similar.
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- 2020
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22. First report of human infection with avian influenza A(H9N2) virus in Oman: The need for a One Health approach
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Zayid K. Almayahi, Hanan Al Kindi, C. Todd Davies, Bader Al-Rawahi, Amina Al-Jardani, Fatma Al-Yaqoubi, Yunho Jang, Joyce Jones, John R. Barnes, William Davis, Shu Bo, Brian Lynch, David E. Wentworth, Zaina Al-Maskari, Amal Al Maani, and Seif Al-Abri
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Following the detection of the first human case of avian influenza A subtype H9N2 in 1998, more than 40 cases were diagnosed worldwide. However, the spread of the virus has been more remarkable and significant in global poultry populations, causing notable economic losses despite its low pathogenicity. Many surveillance studies and activities conducted in several countries have shown the predominance of this virus subtype. We present the case of a 14-month-old female in Oman with an A(H9N2) virus infection. This is the first human case of A(H9N2) reported from Oman and the Gulf Cooperation Countries, and Oman is the second country outside of southern and eastern Asia to report a case (cases have also been detected in Egypt). The patient had bronchial asthma and presented with a high-grade temperature and symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection that necessitated admission to a high dependency unit in a tertiary care hospital. It is of urgency that a multisector One Health approach be established to combat the threat of avian influenza at the animal–human interface. In addition to enhancements of surveillance and control in poultry, there is a need to develop screening and preventive programs for high-risk occupations. Keywords: Avian influenza A, One Health, A(H9N2), Virus infection, Oman
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- 2020
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23. The cascade of HIV care in Oman, 2015–2018: A population-based study from the Middle East
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Ali Elgalib, Samir Shah, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maha Al-Fouri, Richard Lau, Hanan Al-Kindi, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the cascade of HIV care in Oman in 2018 and the longitudinal change in each step from 2015 to 2018. Methods: Population-based data on all diagnosed people living with HIV reported to the National AIDS Programme in 1984–2018 were used. Results: As of December 31, 2018, the estimated number of people living with HIV in Oman was 3030; 1532 (50.6%) were aware of their infection. Of the diagnosed patients, 95.9% were linked to care, 85.8% were retained in care, and 84.3% were on ART. The proportions of patients with viral suppression out of all people with HIV, the diagnosed persons, and those on ART were 37.3%, 73.7%, and 87.5%, respectively. The proportion of patients linked to care increased from 72.6% in 2015 to 95.6% in 2018 (p
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- 2020
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24. Challenges and Opportunities for Public Health Service in Oman From the COVID-19 Pandemic: Learning Lessons for a Better Future
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Sulien Al Khalili, Amal Al Maani, Adil Al Wahaibi, Fatma Al Yaquobi, Amina Al-Jardani, Khalid Al Harthi, Abdullah Alqayoudhi, Abdullah Al Manji, Bader Al Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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COVID-19 ,Oman ,public health ,disease surveillance ,One Health ,health care system ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Despite the apparent challenges inflicted by COVID-19 globally, the pandemic provided an opportunity to utilize and expand existing public health capacities for a more adaptive and resilient system during and after each wave of the disease. This paper provides a narrative review of Oman's public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic from January 2020 to July 2021, and the challenges it faced for a more rapid and efficient response. The review demonstrates that the three main pillars influencing the direction of the pandemic and aiding the control are Oman's unified governmental leadership, the move to expand the capacity of the health care system at all levels, and community partnership in all stages of the response including the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. The opportunities identified during response stages in the harmonization of the multisectoral response, streamlining communication channels, addressing vulnerable communities (dormitories, residences at border regions), and providing professional technical leadership provide an excellent precursor for expediting the transformation of Oman's health care system to one with a multisectoral holistic approach. Some of the major challenges faced are the shortage of the public health cadre, lack of a fully integrated digital platform for surveillance, and the scarcity of experts in risk communication and community engagement. A future health system where the center for diseases surveillance and control acts as a nucleus for multisectoral expertise and leadership, which includes community representatives, is crucial to attain optimum health. The destruction inflicted by this prolong COVID-19 pandemic at all levels of human life had valued the importance of investing on preventive and preparedness strategies.
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- 2021
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25. World Tuberculosis Day 2021 Theme — ‘The Clock is Ticking’ — and the world is running out of time to deliver the United Nations General Assembly commitments to End TB due to the COVID-19 pandemic
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Alimuddin Zumla, Jeremiah Chakaya, Mishal Khan, Razia Fatima, Christian Wejse, Seif Al-Abri, Greg J. Fox, Jean Nachega, Nathan Kapata, Michael Knipper, Miriam Orcutt, Lara Goscé, Ibrahim Abubakar, Tumaini Joseph Nagu, Ferdinand Mugusi, Alice Kizny Gordon, Sivakumar Shanmugam, Nathan Lloyd Bachmann, Connie Lam, Vitali Sintchenko, Frauke Rudolf, Farhana Amanullah, Richard Kock, Najmul Haider, Marc Lipman, Michael King, Markus Maeurer, Delia Goletti, Linda Petrone, Aashifa Yaqoob, Simon Tiberi, Lucica Ditiu, Suvanand Sahu, Ben Marais, Assiya Marat Issayeva, and Eskild Petersen
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2021
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26. COVID-19 vaccines under the International Health Regulations – We must use the WHO International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis
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Eskild Petersen, Daniel Lucey, Lucille Blumberg, Laura D. Kramer, Seif Al-Abri, Shui Shan Lee, Tatiana de Castro Abreu Pinto, Christina W. Obiero, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales, Richard Yapi, Aisha Abubakar, Paul Anantharajah Tambyah, Allison Holmes, and Lin H. Chen
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2021
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27. Serotype distribution and antibiotic resistance among invasive Streptococcus pneumoniae from Oman post 13-valent vaccine introduction
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Amina Al-Jardani, Azza Al Rashdi, Aisha Al Jaaidi, Mohamed Al Bulushi, Sara Al Mahrouqi, Seif Al-Abri, Amal Al-Maani, and Rajesh Kumar
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the serotype distribution and drug susceptibility patterns in pneumococcal isolates recovered from patients with invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Methods: All invasive pneumococcal isolates received between June 2014 and June 2016 were included in the study as part of a national laboratory-based IPD surveillance program. Isolates recovered from clinical specimens of normally sterile body sites were included. Results: A total of 41 different serotypes were identified among the 132 pneumococcal isolates included in this study. The most prevalent serotypes/serogroups were 12 (8.3%), 15 (8.3%), 19 F (7.6%), 3 (6.1%), and 19A (6.1%);. It was observed that overall vaccine coverage rates for pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV), PCV7, PCV10 and PCV13 were 15.9%, 24.2% and 37.1% respectively. 56.8% (n = 75) of the isolates were non-susceptible to at least one antibiotic and 40.9% (n = 54) of the isolates were resistant to PEN (M). 18.9% (n = 25) of the isolates were multi-drug resistant (MDR).The case fatality rate was 15.9%. Conclusion: Our study results call for broader vaccine coverage, emphasizes the need to introduce the conjugate pneumococcal vaccine for the high risk adult population and stress the importance of continuous surveillance of serotypes and antimicrobial resistance to guide vaccine development and antimicrobial stewardship activities. Keywords: Streptococcus pneumoniae, IPD, Serotype, Antibiotic resistance, Oman, Vaccination
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- 2019
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28. The Future Importance of Travel Health in the Middle East: Oman’s opportunity to enhance its services
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Seif Al-Abri, Said Al-Lamki, Eskild Petersen, and Ahmed Al-Mandhari
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Medicine - Abstract
EDITORIAL
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- 2020
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29. The Epidemiology of HIV in Oman, 1984–2018: A Nationwide Study from the Middle East
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Ali Elgalib, Samir Shah, Adil Al-Wahaibi, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maha Al-Fouri, Richard Lau, Hanan Al-Kindi, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
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HIV/AIDS ,epidemiology ,Oman ,Middle East ,late HIV diagnosis ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
We used population-based data on all diagnosed people living with Human Immunodeficiency (HIV) reported to the National AIDS Programme in 1984–2018 to describe the HIV epidemiology in Oman. A total of 3060 Omanis were diagnosed with HIV from 1984 to 2018. The proportions of new infections attributed to sexual contact accounted for 56.3% (376/668) in 1984–1996 compared with 80.7% (630/780) in 2013–2018. Of 1417 patients with a documented CD4 count at the entry of care, 45.3% had a baseline CD4 count of
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- 2020
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30. HIV viral suppression in Oman: Encouraging progress toward achieving the United Nations ‘third 90’
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Ali Elgalib, Samir Shah, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maha Al-Fouri, Halima Al-Sawafi, Jalila Al-Noumani, Adil Al-Baloushi, Saad Al-Alawi, Salma Al-Badi, Zainab Mohammed, Jokha Al-Ghafri, Asma Suleimani, Huda Al-Mashani, Jyothish Raju, Saada Al-Riyami, Muna Al-Shukri, Abdul Wahab, Bilal Hussain, Khalifa Al-Naabi, Anantha Narayan, Noreen Oliveros, George Prasad, Ahmed Hussein, Rajeev Kashyp, Khalid Al-Shardi, Ahmed Nada, Shakil Akhwand, Bina Kamble, Kawthar Al-Aamri, Suad Al-Mukhaini, Hanan Al-Kindi, Faryal Khamis, Amal Al-Maani, Idris Al-Abaidani, and Seif Al-Abri
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HIV ,Viral suppression ,Oman ,UNAIDS target ,Retention in care ,Middle East ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Abstract
Objective: To assess the impact of capacity-building interventions introduced by the Oman National AIDS Programme on the quality of HIV care in the country. Methods: HIV viral load (VL) suppression and loss to follow-up (LTFU) rates were calculated for the period before (in December 2015; n = 1098) and after (in June 2017; n = 1185) the introduction of the interventions: training, support, and care pathway development. Three HIV VL cuts-offs at last measurement in the year of interest were used to define VL suppression. Results: In the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, rates of VL
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- 2018
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31. Screening for Tuberculosis in Migrants: A Survey by the Global Tuberculosis Network
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Lia D’Ambrosio, Rosella Centis, Claudia C. Dobler, Simon Tiberi, Alberto Matteelli, Justin Denholm, Dominik Zenner, Seif Al-Abri, Fatma Alyaquobi, Marcos Abdo Arbex, Evgeny Belilovskiy, François-Xavier Blanc, Sergey Borisov, Anna Cristina C. Carvalho, Jeremiah Muhwa Chakaya, Nicola Cocco, Luigi Ruffo Codecasa, Margareth Pretti Dalcolmo, Keertan Dheda, Anh Tuan Dinh-Xuan, Susanna R. Esposito, José-María García-García, Yang Li, Selene Manga, Valentina Marchese, Marcela Muñoz Torrico, Emanuele Pontali, Adrián Rendon, Denise Rossato Silva, Rupak Singla, Ivan Solovic, Giovanni Sotgiu, Martin van den Boom, Nguyen Viet Nhung, Jean-Pierre Zellweger, and Giovanni Battista Migliori
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TB ,migration ,COVID-19 ,TB infection management ,prevention ,infection control ,Therapeutics. Pharmacology ,RM1-950 - Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) does not respect borders, and migration confounds global TB control and elimination. Systematic screening of immigrants from TB high burden settings and—to a lesser degree TB infection (TBI)—is recommended in most countries with a low incidence of TB. The aim of the study was to evaluate the views of a diverse group of international health professionals on TB management among migrants. Participants expressed their level of agreement using a six-point Likert scale with different statements in an online survey available in English, French, Mandarin, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian. The survey consisted of eight sections, covering TB and TBI screening and treatment in migrants. A total of 1055 respondents from 80 countries and territories participated between November 2019 and April 2020. The largest professional groups were pulmonologists (16.8%), other clinicians (30.4%), and nurses (11.8%). Participants generally supported infection control and TB surveillance established practices (administrative interventions, personal protection, etc.), while they disagreed on how to diagnose and manage both TB and TBI, particularly on which TBI regimens to use and when patients should be hospitalised. The results of this first knowledge, attitude and practice study on TB screening and treatment in migrants will inform public health policy and educational resources.
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- 2021
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32. Answer to Paredes et al. commenting on 'COVID-19 vaccines under the International Health Regulations — We must use the WHO International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis'
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Eskild Petersen, Daniel Lucey, Lucille Blumberg, Laura D. Kramer, Seif Al-Abri, Shui Shan Lee, Tatiana de Castro Abreu Pinto, Christina W. Obiero, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales, Richard Yapi, Aisha Abubakar, Paul Anantharajah Tambyah, Allison Holmes, and Lin H. Chen
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2021
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33. Human rabies importation to the Middle East: An emerging threat?
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Philippe Gautret, Seif Al-Abri, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Ziad A. Memish
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2021
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34. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) toward the COVID-19 Vaccine in Oman: A Pre-Campaign Cross-Sectional Study
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Sabria Al-Marshoudi, Haleema Al-Balushi, Adil Al-Wahaibi, Sulien Al-Khalili, Amal Al-Maani, Noura Al-Farsi, Adhari Al-Jahwari, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maryam Al-Shaibi, Mahfoodh Al-Msharfi, Ahlam Al-Ismaili, Hood Al-Buloshi, Bader Al-Rawahi, Khalifa Al-Barwani, and Seif Al-Abri
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COVID-19 ,Oman ,vaccines ,knowledge ,attitude ,practice ,Medicine - Abstract
Oman is globally acknowledged for its well-structured immunization program with high vaccination coverage. The massive spread of misinformation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the easy access to various media channels, may affect acceptance of a vaccine, despite the inherent trust in the local system. This cross-sectional study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) in Oman toward COVID-19 vaccines. It included 3000 randomly selected adults answering a structured questionnaire via telephone. Participants were 66.7% Omani, 76% male, and 83.7% without comorbidities. Their mean age was 38.27 years (SD ± 10.45). Knowledge of COVID-19′s symptoms, mode of transmission, and attitudes toward the disease was adequate; 88.4% had heard of the vaccine, 59.3% would advise others to take it, 56.8% would take it themselves, and 47.5% would take a second dose. Males (CI = 2.37, OR = (2.00–2.81)) and Omani (CI = 1.956, OR = (4.595–2.397)) were more willing to be vaccinated. The history of chronic disease, source of vaccine knowledge, and education level were factors that affected the willingness to accept the vaccine. The Omani community’s willingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine can be enhanced by utilizing social media and community influencers to spread awareness about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy.
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- 2021
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35. Epidemiology and outcome of tuberculosis in immunocompromised patients
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Abdul Massiah Metry, Issa Al Salmi, Seif Al-Abri, Faisal Al Ismaili, Yaqoub Al Mahrouqi, Alan Hola, and Faissal A. M. Shaheen
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Medicine - Abstract
The United States Renal Data System showed 1.2% and 1.6% incidences of tuberculosis (TB) in patients on peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis (HD), respectively. Kidney transplant (KTX) patients have higher rates. We studied the epidemiology and outcome of TB in patients with kidney dysfunction in a tertiary care hospital in the past decade. We examined data of patients with TB with and without kidney dysfunction from 2006 to 2015 through an electronic system. Statistical analysis was completed using Stata software, Chicago, IL, USA. We found 581 patients with active TB of whom 37 had renal dysfunction including chronic kidney disease, HD, and KTX. No difference was found in the prevalence, age, or gender predilection. The age ranged from 1 to 95 with a mean (standard deviation) of 38.6 (21.1) years. The incidence of TB is 3 per 100,000. The number of patients per year with active TB ranges from 52 to 128 and 3 to 4 in the general population and kidney dysfunction group, respectively. Sixty-five percent of patients with kidney dysfunction had pulmonary TB, 5% had pleurisy, and 30% had extrapulmonary TB. Eighty-four percent of patients with kidney dysfunction completed the course of treatment with 16% treatment failure and 0.4% developed multidrug-resistant TB; 8% were lost to follow-up and 8% died during the treatment period. This study showed no gender predilection for TB in the general population and immunocompromised. Duration of symptoms before diagnosis of TB was shorter in kidney dysfunction patients in comparison to the general population. TB cultures were the most positive tests whereas bronchoalveolar lavage and skin test were the least positive for detecting TB in the kidney dysfunction group. Improvement in registries and screening is required to enhance the capturing rate and detection among this group, as well as providing accurate data to health authorities and the public about the magnitude, future trends, treatments, and outcomes regarding TB in kidney dysfunction.
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- 2017
36. Epidemiology of Meningitis in Oman—Implications for Future Surveillance
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Padmamohan J. Kurup, Seif Al-Abri, Salim Al-Mahrooqi, Amina Al-Jardani, Shyam Bawikar, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Idris Al-Abaidani
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Haemophilus influenzae ,Lumbar puncture ,Meningitis ,Neisseria meningitides ,Oman ,Streptococcus pneumoniae ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to understand the epidemiology of meningitis cases admitted to hospitals in Oman and to identify any changing microbial patterns from the introduction of the new vaccines. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all cases of meningitis reported through a national surveillance system. Meningitis is a notifiable disease. Results: Of a total of 581 cases of meningitis from the period between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2013, 15% (88) were confirmed to be bacterial in origin and 7.2% (42/581) viral. In 50.9% (296) of patients with suspected pyogenic meningitis, no specific bacterial pathogen were identified, and in 26% of cases (151) a cerebrospinal fluid study could not be undertaken. Among 88 cases with confirmed bacterial pathogens the organisms identified were Streptococcus pneumoniae (65.9%), Neisseria meningitides (18.2%), Haemophilus influenzae (6.8%), and other organisms (9.1%). The peak incidence was in children
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- 2018
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37. The Spectrum of Bacille Calmette–Guérin Diseases in Children—A Decade of Data from Neonatal Vaccination Settings
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Noora Al Busaidi, Prakash KP, Amina Al-Jardani, Nashat Al-Sukaiti, Salem Al Tamemi, Bader Al-Rawahi, Zaid Al Hinai, Fatma Alyaquobi, Seif Al-Abri, and Amal Al-Maani
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BCG ,vaccine-related disease ,children ,abscess ,lymphadenitis ,immunodeficiency ,Medicine - Abstract
In this paper, we present a multicentre record-based descriptive study used to estimate the incidence and characterize the spectrum of confirmed bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine-related disease among children in Oman. This study included all children (age ≤ 14 years) who had culture and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed BCG disease from January 2006 to December 2018, as identified from Central Public Health Laboratory data and International Classification of Diseases coding of an electronic patient information system. In total, 88 children confirmed to have BCG disease were included in the study, making an average incidence of 9.2 cases per 100,000 vaccinated neonates. The males comprised 65.9%, Omanis 93.2%, and the median age of presentation was 4 months in children with BCG disease. The most common type of disease was BCG abscesses (72.4%). Children with immunodeficiency and those presenting within 6 months were found to have a more severe and disseminated disease. In total, 28 children had immunodeficiency. The age of presentation and type of BCG disease was significantly associated with immunodeficiency status. The majority of cases required therapy (both medical and surgical) and recovered well. The incidence of laboratory-confirmed BCG vaccine-related disease was low in Oman supporting continuing the use of the BCG vaccination practice at birth.
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- 2021
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38. Characteristics, Risk Factors, and Survival Analysis of Candida auris Cases: Results of One-Year National Surveillance Data from Oman
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Azza Al-Rashdi, Amal Al-Maani, Adil Al-Wahaibi, Abdullah Alqayoudhi, Amina Al-Jardani, and Seif Al-Abri
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candida ,C. auris ,survival ,risk factors ,fatality rate ,resistance ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Background: Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging healthcare-associated pathogen resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to report data from the national C. auris surveillance system for 2019 and conduct a survival analysis of the reported cohort. Methods: a retrospective analysis was conducted for all C. auris cases reported nationally to the Oman Antimicrobial Surveillance System (OMASS) in 2019, and isolates were sent to the Central Public Health Laboratories (CPHL). Clinical and demographic data were obtained through the E-Surveillance reporting system and the Electronic System (NEHR Al-Shifa) at CPHL. Statistical analysis was done using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard models. Results: One hundred and twenty-nine isolates of C. auris were grown from 108 inpatients; 87% were isolated from clinical samples, of which blood was the most common (38.9%). Forty (37%) were ≥65 years of age, 72 (66.7%) were males, and 85 (78.7%) were Omani nationals. Of the total isolates, 43.5% were considered as colonization; 56.5% were considered infection, of which 61.8% of them were candidemia. At least one risk factor was present in 98.1% of patients. The mean time from admission to infection was 1.7 months (SD = 2.8), and the mean length of hospital stay was 3.5 months (SD = 4). Totals of 94.8% and 96.1% of the isolates were non-susceptible to fluconazole and amphotericin, respectively. The variables found to be significantly associated with longer survival post C. auris diagnosis (p < 0.05) were age < 65 years, absence of comorbidities, length of stay < 3 months, colonization, and absence of candidemia. The infection fatality rate was 52.5%. Conclusion: Including C. auris in an ongoing antimicrobial surveillance program provides important data for the comprehensive management of this growing public health threat. The current study shows health care outbreaks of C. auris are ongoing, with 52.5% infection fatality, although our isolates remained sensitive to Echinocandins in vitro.
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- 2021
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39. Latent Tuberculosis in Health Care Workers Exposed to Active Tuberculosis in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman
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Faryal Khamis, Adil Al-Lawati, Ibrahim Al-Zakwani, Seif Al-Abri, Jaleelah Al-Naamani, Harith Al-Harthi, Amina Al-Jardani, and Aliya Al-Harthi
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prevalence ,Latent ,Tuberculosis ,Health Personnel ,Tuberculin Test ,Interferon-gamma Release Assays ,Oman ,Medicine - Abstract
Objectives: Data on the prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in healthcare workers (HCW) in Oman and the Arabian Gulf is scarce. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of latent tuberculosis (LTB) among HCW exposed to active TB in one of the tertiary care hospitals in Muscat. Methods: Exposed HCW were screened for LTB from January to June 2012 using skin tuberculin and serum interferon tests. Candidates were followed-up for a total of nine months. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Results: A total of 371 exposed HCW were involved in the study. The incidence of LTB in exposed HCW was 33.2% (n = 123). Almost 54% (66/123) of the HCW started treatment and only 42.4% (28/66) completed the full nine-month treatment course. Conclusions: The high prevalence of LTBI in exposed HCW merits further evaluation of the screening and treatment programs in the country. Future countrywide studies are warranted to provide more precise statistics on the prevalence and management of this public health issue.
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- 2016
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40. Patterns of Antimicrobial Prescribing in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman
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Abdulrahman Al-Yamani, Faryal Khamis, Ibrahim Al-Zakwani, Hamed Al-Noomani, Jaleela Al-Noomani, and Seif Al-Abri
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Antimicrobial agents ,Anti-Bacterial Agents ,Inappropriate Prescribing ,Oman ,Arabs ,Medicine - Abstract
Objectives: Antimicrobial stewardship programs have been designed to measure and improve the use of antimicrobials to achieve optimal clinical outcomes and reduce bacterial resistance. The aim of this study was to review patterns of antimicrobial prescribing for hospitalized patients in the acute care setting and assess the appropriateness of antimicrobial use among prescribers in a tertiary care hospital in Oman. Methods: We conducted a retrospective audit of the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing in patients admitted to acute care settings in a tertiary care hospital in Oman over a four-week period (1 November to 28 November 2012). The data of all discharged patients were retrieved from the department databases. Patient records and prescriptions were reviewed by an infectious disease consultant. The rationality of antimicrobial use was evaluated, analyzed, and judged based on local standard guidelines and the experience of the evaluating consultant. Results: There were 178 patients discharged from acute medical teams over the study period. Sixty-four percent of the patients received a total of 287 antimicrobial agents during admission. The average number of antimicrobials prescribed per patient in those prescribed antimicrobials was 2.5±1.1. The most commonly prescribed antimicrobial agent was piperacillin/tazobactam. Most patients had infections from gram-negative organisms, and high rates of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing organisms were observed. Cultures were obtained before antimicrobial initiation in 25% of patients. Variability in antimicrobial selection for common infections was observed. Conclusions: National guidelines for the management of common infections are needed to minimize the overuse and misuse of antimicrobial agents in tertiary care hospitals. A large surveillance study on antimicrobial prescribing appropriateness in different hospital settings is warranted.
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- 2016
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41. Tuberculosis elimination: where are we now?
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Alberto Matteelli, Adrian Rendon, Simon Tiberi, Seif Al-Abri, Constantia Voniatis, Anna Cristina C. Carvalho, Rosella Centis, Lia D'Ambrosio, Dina Visca, Antonio Spanevello, and Giovanni Battista Migliori
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Diseases of the respiratory system ,RC705-779 - Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) still represents a major public health issue in spite of the significant impact of the efforts made by the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners to improve its control. In 2014 WHO launched a new global strategy (End TB) with a vision of a world free of TB, and a 2035 goal of TB elimination (defined as less than one incident case per million). The aim of this article is to summarise the theoretical bases of the End TB Strategy and to analyse progresses and persistent obstacles on the way to TB elimination. The evolution of the WHO recommended strategies of TB control (Directly Observed Therapy, Short Course (DOTS), Stop TB and End TB) are described and the concept of TB elimination is discussed. Furthermore, the eight core activities recently proposed by WHO as the milestones to achieve TB elimination are discussed in detail. Finally, the recently published experiences of Cyprus and Oman on their way towards TB elimination are described, together with the regional experience of Latin America. New prevention, diagnostic and treatment tools are also necessary to increase the speed of the present TB incidence decline.
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- 2018
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42. Four cases of nontravel-related leptospirosis in Oman: A call for action
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Idris Al Abaidani, Salem Al Kathery, Satish L Ghugey, Mohhamad Baqi, Khalid Al-Mashikhi, and Seif Al-Abri
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Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Published
- 2016
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43. Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever presenting as Acute Abdomen
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Hanaa Al-Araimi, Amal Al-Jabri, Arshad Mehmoud, and Seif Al-Abri
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dengue ,haemorrhagic fever ,acute abdomen ,case report ,oman ,Medicine - Abstract
We describe a case of a 38 year-old Sri Lankan female who was referred to the surgeon on call with a picture of acute abdomen. She presented with a three-day history of fever, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhoea; however, the physical examination was not consistent with acute abdomen. Her platelet count was 22 x109/L. A diagnosis of dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) was made and dengue serology was positive. Dengue epidemics have been associated with a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms and signs, including acute abdomen. Acute abdomen in patients with DHF makes the diagnosis and management challenging.
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- 2011
44. Tricuspid valve endocarditis in an intravenous drug abuser masquerading as pulmonary tuberculosis
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Prashanth Panduranga, Mohammed Al-Mukhaini, Kadhim Sulaiman, and Seif Al-Abri
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Intravenous Drug Abuse ,Infective endocarditis ,Right-sided Endocarditis ,Staphylococcus aureus ,Septic Pulmonary Emboli ,Tricuspid valve endocarditis ,Diseases of the circulatory (Cardiovascular) system ,RC666-701 - Abstract
Intravenous drug abuse contributes to considerable illness burden in developed and developing countries. Tricuspid valve endocarditis (TVE) is rare in Middle East countries, though many reports of it in intravenous drug abusers are found in other countries. We describe a case of TVE mimicking pulmonary tuberculosis in a 33-year-old man with a history of intravenous heroin use.
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- 2010
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45. HIV in the MENA Region: Cultural and Political Challenges
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Seif Al-Abri and Jacques E. Mokhbat
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Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 - Published
- 2016
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46. Native Valve Endocarditis Caused by Coagulase Negative Staphylococci; an Appeal to Start Outpatient Antimicrobial Therapy: An Unusual Case Report
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Seif Al-Abri, Jalila Al-Lawati, and Nada Al-Tamtami
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Coagulase negative Staphylococcus ,CoNS ,native valve endocarditis ,NVE ,Outpatient antimicrobial therapy ,OPAT ,Medicine - Abstract
Coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS) were a rare cause of native valve endocarditis. However, they are emerging as an important cause of native valve endocarditis (NVE) in both community and healthcare settings. We describe a 64 yrs. old male who developed mitral valve endocarditis caused by coagulase negative staphylococci. There were no predisposing conditions or underlying cardiac disease that could have been the risk factor for the development of native valve infection. The patient had good recovery after six weeks of treatment with anti-staphylococcal antibiotics.
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- 2011
47. A second local dengue fever outbreak: A field experience from Muscat Governorate in Oman, 2022
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Lamya Al Balushi, Maryam Al Kalbani, Asim Al Manji, Mohammed Amin, Zainab Al Balushi, Nada Al Barwani, Adil Al Wahaibi, Abdullah Al Manji, Hanan Al Kindi, Eskild Petersen, Thamra Al Ghafri, and Seif Al-Abri
- Subjects
Antibody-dependent enhancement ,Aedes aegypti ,Mosquito ,Oman ,Muscat ,Seroprevalence ,Outbreak ,Dengue fever - Abstract
Background: Dengue fever is an infectious disease of global health concern. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology and field experience of a locally transmitted outbreak of dengue fever in Muscat Governorate, Oman from mid-March to mid-April 2022, and the multi-sectoral approach to control the outbreak. Methods: Data were collected from an electronic e-notification system, active surveillance and contact investigations. Results: Of 250 suspected and probable cases, 169 were confirmed as dengue fever with DENV-2 serotype. Of these, 108 (63.9%) were male and 94 (55.6%) were Omani. The mean age was 39 years (standard deviation 13 years). Fever was the most common symptom and occurred in 100% of cases. Haemorrhagic manifestations occurred in 10% (n=17) of cases. Hospitalization was required for 93 cases (55.1%). The field investigation included 3444 houses and other suspected sites. Breeding sites for Aedes aegypti were identified in 565 (18.5%) sites visited. Interventions to control the outbreak included environmental and entomological assessment of the affected houses and surrounding areas (400 m radius of each house). Conclusion: Outbreaks are expected to continue, with the possibility of severe cases due to antibody-dependent enhancement. More data are required to understand the genetics, geographical spread and behaviour of A. aegypti in Oman.
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- 2023
48. Considerations for unblinding individual study participants during vaccine trials
- Author
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Neal Halsey, Stephen Evans, Mathuram Santosham, Adam Hacker, Kathryn M. Edwards, Rebecca E. Chandler, Matthew Z. Dudley, Cornelia L. Dekker, Seif Al-Abri, Narendra Arora, Jim Buttery, Alex Dodoo, Juhani Eskola, Ulrich Heininger, Youngmee Jee, Najwa Khuri, Stephen Obaro, Walt Orenstein, Punnee Pitisuttithum, Marco Safadi, Cynthia G. Whitney, and Steve Black
- Subjects
Infectious Diseases ,General Veterinary ,General Immunology and Microbiology ,Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health ,Molecular Medicine - Published
- 2023
49. Genitourinary Symptoms Associated with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman
- Author
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Samir S. Shah, Ali Elgalib, Alyazi Al-Saadi, Ahad Al-Balushi, Zakariya Al-Muharrmi, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Seif Al-Abri, Richard Lau, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Maha Al-Fouri
- Subjects
medicine.medical_specialty ,Chlamydia ,business.industry ,Retrospective cohort study ,General Medicine ,urologic and male genital diseases ,medicine.disease ,medicine.disease_cause ,Tertiary referral hospital ,female genital diseases and pregnancy complications ,Internal medicine ,medicine ,Neisseria gonorrhoeae ,Dysuria ,Vaginal bleeding ,medicine.symptom ,Prospective cohort study ,Chlamydia trachomatis ,business - Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the pattern of clinical presentations associated with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted between 2015 and 2020 and included patients attending Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman, who were tested for these infections using nucleic acid amplification. Results: A total of 408 women and 89 men were included. A total of 11 infections were identified in women (n = 11, 2.7%) and 14 in men (n = 14, 15.7%). Chlamydia accounted for almost all infections in women (n = 10, 90.9%), commonly presenting with lower abdominal pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding. In men, urethral discharge/dysuria syndrome was the most common presentation and chlamydia was identified in eight men and gonorrhoea in six; a majority of all infections were seen in patients ≤35 years old. Conclusion: The relative prevalence of two common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among patients with genitourinary symptoms at a tertiary referral hospital have been described. The pattern of their presentations will inform the design of prospective studies to improve surveillance and guide public health policy in Oman. This study highlights the need for a multi-sectoral approach involving all providers to enable comprehensive STI surveillance. Keywords: Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Chlamydia trachomatis; Neisseria gonorrhoeae; Oman.
- Published
- 2022
50. Recent Increase in HIV cases in Oman
- Author
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Ali Elgalib, Samir Shah, Zeyana Al-Habsi, Maha Al-Fouri, Richard Lau, Bader Al-Rawahi, and Seif Al-Abri
- Subjects
General Medicine - Abstract
NONE
- Published
- 2023
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