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Background: Access to essential diagnostics is crucial for primary healthcare (PHC) in low-and-middle income countries (LMICs). Many LMICs have invested in equipping PHC with point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics for infectious diseases, however there has been no similar investment to improve PHC capacities for clinical chemistry. The biochemistry gap is among the deterrents to universal health coverage. Methods: A social sciences project was conducted with the aim to understand the key PHC stakeholders' insights on the pertinence of PoC biochemistry for PHC in LMICs. Data generation was conducted between July-November 2023 in Mongolia, Nigeria and Peru. Decision-makers in healthcare delivery, healthcare professionals, and patient and community advocates were engaged using a combination of sampling techniques. Unstructured individual and group conversations, and non-participant observation were conducted. Analysis involved an inductive line-by-line coding on printed transcripts, followed by a deductive coding and theme-by-theme analysis on digitized transcripts. Results: Fifteen, 51 and 20 informants from Mongolia, Nigeria and Peru, respectively, participated. Fifty-five of the 94 informants were female. Most informants considered that PoC biochemistry in PHC would be pertinent, from a clinical and a resources-saving perspective. Those households that currently bear the burden of referrals (i.e., the poor, the bedridden, the older adults) would benefit the most from the deployment of PoC biochemistry for essential biochemistry parameters. Improved access to PoC glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid, liver and kidney profile was perceived as helpful to inform clinicians' decision-taking. The value of PoC biochemistry for the management of noncommunicable diseases (diabetes, hypertension) and infectious conditions (dengue, malaria, tuberculosis), to improve child health outcomes (severe dehydration in children with diarrhea and/or malnutrition) and to reduce preventable causes of death (dengue-related renal failure) was highlighted. Conclusions: PoC biochemistry holds potential to revert the impact that the biochemistry gap has for patient care in some LMICs' PHC settings. PoC equipment for parameters such as HbA1c, urea, creatinine or electrolytes could enhance community-level management of preventable causes of mortality, improve service delivery for patients affected by locally-prevalent infectious conditions, and improve the psychosocial and economic wellbeing of patients facing the burden of referrals to remote biochemistry-equipped centers. Trial Registration: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the effects of numerical evidence and message framing in communicating vaccine efficacy information about infectious diseases, an online experiment presented to U.S. adults different versions of a vaccination promotional message that vary by numerical vaccine efficacy evidence: (low efficacy rate: 60% vs. high efficacy rate: 95%), outcome framing (preventing disease-related infection vs. preventing disease-related severe illness), and gain vs. loss framing, using a factorial between-subjects design. While there was no significant interaction between numerical vaccine efficacy evidence and message framing, findings showed that a higher vaccine efficacy rate increased positive beliefs about vaccination and outcome framing emphasizing infection prevention increased message processing fluency. Given that infectious diseases pose higher risks for severe illness among older adults, follow-up analyses by age showed that only younger adults were sensitive to message framing where outcome framing emphasizing infection prevention increased processing fluency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) account for the highest proportion of HIV diagnoses in the United States, with daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) significantly reducing transmission risk. Since 2021, the Affordable Care Act rules have required PrEP and accompanying care visits to be free for most Americans; nevertheless, insurers have found ways to circumvent no-cost PrEP and some employers are receiving exemptions from including it in their formularies. Despite this, perceived costs and indirect expenses still hinder PrEP adoption. This study examines the differences between perceived and actual costs among GBMSM who have and have not used PrEP. We conducted a one-time online survey with 692 adults from six New England states between May 2020 and October 2021. Participants who had never used PrEP estimated its cost, while those with prior PrEP experience reported their actual expenses. Bivariate analysis and multi-variable logistic regression were used to assess the data. Results showed a 60% difference between perceived ($48) and actual ($30) median monthly costs. Higher perceived costs among nonusers were linked to race and income, while high actual costs for prior users were associated with insurance type, income, wealth, race, and self-rated consumer credit. This significant disparity in PrEP cost perceptions highlights the need for targeted outreach and messaging to improve PrEP uptake among at-risk populations who have not yet accessed it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The causal effect of successive population-wide lockdowns in response to increased COVID-19 cases on mental health has yet to be examined using robust methods. A natural experiment design underpinned by objective data can improve our understanding surrounding the definitive impact of social distancing restrictions. Methods: The study employed a natural experiment design underpinned by objective data. Health service cost for visits to general practitioners and psychologists and medication dispensing costs served as objective measures of mental health. Difference-in-difference (DID) estimators, which in this study quantify differences in spending changes between groups over time, were produced based on three comparisons: Victoria 2020 lockdown comparison, Victoria 2021 lockdown comparison, and New South Wales (NSW) 2021 lockdown comparison. Specifically, differences in public health service spending during lockdown periods and the same timeframe in 2019 for Victoria and NSW, and control groups (remaining states and territories), were compared. Results: Positive estimator values indicate that public health service spending for Victoria and NSW increased more during lockdown periods compared to control states and territories. The Victorian lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, but not the NSW lockdown of 2021, resulted in increased public spending for general practitioner mental health consults (2020 DID estimator: $8498.96 [95% CI $4012.84, $12,373.57], 2021 DID estimator: $6630.06 [95% CI $41.27, $13,267.20], all monetary values in AUD$) and short visits to psychologists (2020 DID estimator: $628.82 [95% CI $466.25, $796.00], 2021 DID estimator: $230.11 [95% CI $47.52, $373.98]). The first Victorian lockdown in 2020 and the NSW lockdown in 2021 resulted in greater spending on short visits to clinical psychologists. Spending on long visits to psychologists and clinical psychologists and medication spending did not change. Conclusions: Strict lockdowns can have an adverse impact on population mental health. The impact is particularly evident in those who have a history of previous mental health concerns but does not necessitate extra use of medications, suggesting that psychological care can address the adverse impact of the lockdowns. What is known about the topic? Previous research varied in methodology, using self-reports and healthcare data to understand COVID-19 social distancing public health measures' effects on mental health. What does this paper add? This study introduces robust, objective data via a natural experiment design, examining the impact of successive lockdowns on mental health service usage and medication expenditures in specific Australian regions. What are the implications for practitioners? Findings highlight the need for flexible mental health services that can swiftly respond to increased demands during prolonged restrictions, without necessarily increasing medication use, guiding future policy and resource allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increased risk of morbidity and mortality among older adults due to preventable infectious diseases such as influenza, shingles, pneumonia, and COVID-19, many forego receiving some, if not all, of these vaccinations. This study examines vaccination motivators and deterrents for undervaccinated older adults in North Dakota (ND). Adults aged 65+ in ND were mailed a survey (n = 901) with questions gauging vaccination behaviors and perceptions, with 132 of these indicating not receiving certain vaccinations. Further questions assessed reasons they have not been vaccinated against the following diseases: influenza, shingles, pneumonia, and COVID-19 (e.g., "Concerned about side effects", "Vaccines are dangerous", "I'm healthy and I do not need it") and what would make it more likely to get a vaccine (e.g., "More information", "Doctor recommendation", "Easy access to vaccines"). Reasons for remaining unvaccinated varied by vaccine. For influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, respondents were more likely to indicate they are healthy and do not need the vaccine. For shingles and COVID-19, respondents were more likely to indicate concerns about side effects. Factors reported to motivate increasing the likelihood of getting a vaccine were receiving a doctor recommendation, receiving more information, and having a vaccine provided at no cost. These results contribute to our understanding of vaccination behaviors among older adults and underscore specific issues around which to frame interventions tailored to increase vaccine uptake for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of our global healthcare system and the importance of scientific research and collaboration. Infectious diseases (IDs) continue to (re)emerge, and it will be only a matter of time before humanity faces its next pandemic. Substance use has long been postulated as a contributor to the (re)emergence, clinical course, and outcomes of IDs. Methods: This paper explores epidemiological factors, current trends for substance use disorders (SUD) and IDs, and their financial implications. A review of the current literature was supplemented with national and global statistical data. Conclusion: Gaps in evidence-based literature highlight the need for further research and a call for action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Evaluation of the impact of a hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevention program that incorporates maternal antiviral prophylaxis on mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) is limited using real-world data. Methods We analyzed data on maternal HBV screening, neonatal immunization, and post-vaccination serologic testing (PVST) for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among at-risk infants born to HBV carrier mothers from the National Immunization Information System during 2008–2022. Through linkage with the National Health Insurance Database, information on maternal antiviral therapy was obtained. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to explore MTCT risk in relation to infant–mother characteristics and prevention strategies. Results In total, 2 460 218 deliveries with maternal HBV status were screened. Between 2008 and 2022, the annual HBsAg and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seropositivity rates among native pregnant women decreased from 12.2% to 2.6% and from 2.7% to 0.4%, respectively (P for both trends <.0001). Among the 22 859 at-risk infants who underwent PVST, the MTCT rates differed between infants born to HBsAg-positive/HBeAg-negative and HBeAg-positive mothers (0.75% and 6.33%, respectively; P <.001). MTCT risk increased with maternal HBeAg positivity (odds ratio [OR], 9.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.79–12.73) and decreased with maternal antiviral prophylaxis (OR, 0.28; 95% CI,.16–.49). For infants with maternal HBeAg positivity, MTCT risk was associated with mothers born in the immunization era (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.17–1.67). Conclusions MTCT was related to maternal HBeAg positivity and effectively prevented by maternal prophylaxis in the immunized population. At-risk infants born to maternal vaccinated cohorts might possibly pose further risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the lack of infection prevention and control (IPC) infrastructure among long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in the United States; the situation in Alabama is particularly dire with LTCFs receiving some of the lowest quality ratings in the country. Alabama's LTCFs continue to be challenged by frequent staff turnover, vaccine hesitancy, and reluctance to embrace new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations such as enhanced barrier precautions. However, the American Rescue Plan of 2021 made funds available to states through a CDC Epidemiology and Laboratory (ELC) Cooperative Agreement to promote IPC system improvement, including the creation of the Alabama Nursing Home and Long-Term Care Strike Team (LTC Strike Team). In this article, we reviewed preliminary data from Alabama for the first year of the 2-year cooperative agreement cycle (2022––2023). Data included activity tracking by Infection Preventionists (IPs) and evaluations submitted voluntarily by LTCFs upon completion of trainings and/or direct services provided by the LTC Strike Team. Results indicated a significant need for IPC training among LTCFs and a high level of satisfaction with the services provided by IPs. Despite successes, it is unclear if future funding will be available to support long-term sustainability efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing for the new school year is an exciting and busy time. An important task for parents and caregivers during the back-to-school season is to ensure that their child or adolescent is up to date with their vaccines. NPs play a vital role in guiding parents and caregivers through the vaccination process, thereby ensuring that school-aged children and adolescents' health requirements are met. This article provides NPs with resources to assist in making decisions about child and adolescent immunizations. It also explores effective communication strategies to convey the benefits of vaccination to parents and caregivers, equipping NPs with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate vaccination complexities and advocate for the health and safety of school-aged children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homelessness increases the risk of acquiring an infectious disease. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify quantitative data related to infectious diseases and homelessness. We searched Google Scholar, PubMed, and SCOPUS for quantitative literature published from January 2003 through December 2022 in English from the United States and Canada. We excluded literature on vaccine-preventable diseases and HIV because these diseases were recently reviewed. Of the 250 articles that met inclusion criteria, more than half were on hepatitis C virus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Other articles were on COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, Staphylococcus aureus, group A Streptococcus, mpox (formerly monkeypox), 5 sexually transmitted infections, and gastrointestinal or vectorborne pathogens. Most studies showed higher prevalence, incidence, or measures of risk for infectious diseases among people experiencing homelessness as compared with people who are housed or the general population. Although having increased published data that quantify the infectious disease risks of homelessness is encouraging, many pathogens that are known to affect people globally who are not housed have not been evaluated in the United States or Canada. Future studies should focus on additional pathogens and factors leading to a disproportionately high incidence and prevalence of infectious diseases among people experiencing homelessness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the intricate relationship between the health literacy and the awareness of risks and prevention awareness of infection disease among prisoners. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 1350 prisoners at an L Type Closed Penal Execution Institution in Turkey, using comprehensive criteria to ensure the inclusion of a diverse participant pool. Data was collected via face-to-face interviews using the "personal information form," "health literacy scale (HLS)," and "communicable diseases risk awareness and protection Scale (CDRAPS)." Both scales exhibited high reliability. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and linear regression, were conducted to evaluate the relationships between the dimensions of these scales. The study was completed with 1031 prisoners. The participants' mean age was 38.65 with a majority being single (69.2%) and high school graduates (46.3%). A weak positive correlation (r = 0.448, P = 0.000) was observed between the CDRAPS (mean score 135.98 ± 24.00) and the HLS (mean score 89.85 ± 22.30), indicating health literacy explained a 20% variance in communicable diseases risk awareness and prevention. Furthermore, a significant relationship was established considering multiple variables including age, marital and educational status, family health personnel presence, smoking and alcohol use, and comorbidities, showing a combined effect on disease risk awareness and prevention (R2 = 0.203, β = 0.458, P = 0.000). These findings highlight the importance for governments and policy makers to implement preventive and educational programs that are focused on public health, aiming to increase prisoners' health literacy and awareness of infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraamniotic inflammation and infection complicate 2% to 5% of term deliveries. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common cause of intraamniotic infection associated with invasive neonatal disease and maternal morbidity. Universal vaginalrectal screening for GBS colonization is recommended between 36 and 37 weeks. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for individuals with positive GBS screens and other risk factors. Intravenous penicillin is the preferred antimicrobial agent. Individuals with penicillin allergies may receive cefazolin for low-risk allergies and either clindamycin or vancomycin for high-risk allergies, depending on their antimicrobial susceptibilities. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of maternal anti-GBS vaccine candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2022, 54% of 1.5 million children (age 0–14) living with HIV had access to anti-retroviral medication (ART). Adherence to ART for pregnant or breastfeeding HIV + women is critical for maintaining their personal health and to prevent mother-to-child-transmission (MTCT). For HIV + infants, adherence is essential to establish early viremic control and is contingent on caregiver administration. We conducted a scoping review to systematically identify and categorize the influences on ART adherence for pregnant or breastfeeding HIV + women and their HIV + infants. We searched databases in June 2023 and employed the Social-Ecological Model (SEM) to organize facilitators and barriers to adherence referenced in published articles. All articles published before 2016 were excluded due to updated guidelines from WHO on MTCT and ART. Our analysis included 52 articles. 50/52 took place in Africa and used cross-sectional and mixed-methods design. Barriers to adherence for pregnant or breastfeeding HIV + women included maternal education, self-efficacy, social support, and social/economic context. Barriers to infant adherence included development, nutrition, age of treatment initiation, disclosure, and ART side effects. Additional facilitators and barriers to adherence are presented at family, extra-familial, and socio-cultural SEM levels. Stigma was the most salient barrier referenced across the entire continuum of HIV care and all SEM levels. This review revealed a dearth of literature focusing on HIV + infants who are dependent on their caregivers for ART adherence and lack of a standard adherence measure. We identified multi-leveled influences on adherence impacting both the mother and infant and are amenable to public health intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While bats are tremendously important to global ecosystems, they have been and continue to be threatened by loss of habitat, food, or roosts, pollution, bat diseases, hunting and killing. Some bat species have also been implicated in the transmission of infectious disease agents to humans. While One Health efforts have been ramped up recently to educate and protect human and bat health, such initiatives have been limited by lack of adequate data on the pathways to ensure their support. For instance, data on the role of bats in supporting different components of human welfare assets would be utilized as a stepping stone to champion conservation campaigns. Unfortunately, these data are limited and efforts to synthesize existing literature have majorly focused on few components human welfare leaving other important aspects. Methods: Here, we analyze benefits associated with bats in the context of welfare economics considering all the asset components. We surveyed scientific and gray literature platforms utilizing particular keywords. We then classified these values using integrated approaches to understand different values across human welfare assets of "health," "material and immaterial assets," "security or safety" and "social or cultural or spiritual relations". Results: We found 235 papers from different countries indicating that bats play fundamental roles in supporting human welfare. These benefits were more prevalent in Asia and Africa. In terms of the use of bats to support welfare assets, bats were majorly utilized to derive material and immaterial benefits (n = 115), e.g., food and income. This was followed by their use in addressing health challenges (n = 99), e.g., treatment of ailments. There was a similarity in the benefits across different regions and countries. Conclusion: These results indicate potential opportunities for strengthening bat conservation programs. We recommend more primary studies to enhance understanding of these benefits as well as their effectiveness in deriving the perceived outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spread of viruses can be effectively reduced by the publicity of epidemic prevention. Additionally, the interaction between heterogeneous strains has a significant effect on virus evolution. Thus, we first establish an evolutionary dynamics Susceptible-Infected- Recovered (SIR) model which considers the interaction between heterogeneous strains. We utilize adaptive dynamics to investigate the evolutionary outcomes of the trade-off between transmission and virulence. Second, we perform a critical function analysis to generalize the results independent of specific trade-off assumptions and to determine the conditions for evolutionary stability and convergence stability. Last, we investigate the effects of different publicity measures on virulence evolution under two types of interactions, including the case of excess mortality alone and the coexistence of excess mortality and superinfection. Based on the general hypothesis of transmission virulence trade-off, we introduce the cost of host mobility caused by the scope and intensity of publicity. Numerical simulations present a set of evolutionary results, including continuously stable strategies, evolutionary branching points, repellers, and the Garden of Eden. Our results indicate that an excessive publicity scope and intensity can drive the epidemic evolution towards higher virulence. Both types of interactions suggest that continuously increasing the publicity scope under a low publicity intensity can effectively reduce virulence. Furthermore, the concurrent presence of excess mortality and superinfection induces the emergence of a higher virulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disease surveillance is an essential component of public health and a core function of National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs), including to better prepare and respond to infectious diseases outbreaks. Strengthening NPHIs in their efforts to establish and maintain efficient surveillance systems is an opportunity to ensure future outbreak preparedness and response; yet, guidance on how to increase and prioritise capacity building efforts is limited. This study sought to investigate approaches to capacity building and training for disease surveillance at national level and understand the potential role of NPHIs. Qualitative study. This is a qualitative study, based on a literature review and interviews undertaken between June and November 2022. Fifty seven in-depth interviews were conducted in five countries: Côte d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Madagascar, Namibia, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Participants included a range of professionals from government, NPHIs, academic institutions and the private sector. Interviews were thematically analysed. Selected countries varied in terms of their disease surveillance capacities, as well as in the structure of their surveillance systems and decision-making. Research identified shared priority areas for action at national level, identifying common challenges and opportunities: 1) capacity building, here specifically the need for a training agenda at national level to ensure sustainability and guide donor funded training offers; 2) data tools and technology-to help decision-makers select the best software tool to address countries' identified need; 3) data sharing-the need for clear data sharing standards and norms for national to international data sharing; and 4) genomic sequencing-the need for national genomic surveillance strategies and reporting guidelines. Addressing challenges and using opportunities to strengthen disease surveillance at national level is an important step to build capacity in this area and to help prevent future epidemic and pandemics globally. The findings of this study help decision-makers to identify priority areas for capacity building and understand the potential role and significance of NPHIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the solution of a mathematical model of childhood diseases with the Jumarie fractional derivative is discussed by coupling the Laplace variational iteration method (LVIM). The solution of the proposed model not only exists but is also unique. The proposed model is dimensionally balanced as well as stable. This article aims to present an analytical approximation solution for non-linear fractional-order differential equations (FDEs) with the Jumarie derivative. The model has also demonstrated relevant numerical and graphical descriptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hospital- onset bacteraemia and fungaemia (HOB) is being explored as a surveillance and quality metric. The objectives of the current study were to determine sources and preventability of HOB in hospitalised patients in the USA and to identify factors associated with perceived preventability. Methods We conducted a cross- sectional study of HOB events at 10 academic and three community hospitals using structured chart review. HOB was defined as a blood culture on or after hospital day 4 with growth of one or more bacterial or fungal organisms. HOB events were stratified by commensal and non- commensal organisms. Medical resident physicians, infectious disease fellows or infection preventionists reviewed charts to determine HOB source, and infectious disease physicians with training in infection prevention/hospital epidemiology rated preventability from 1 to 6 (1=definitely preventable to 6=definitely not preventable) using a structured guide. Ratings of 1--3 were collectively considered 'potentially preventable' and 4--6 'potentially not preventable'. Results Among 1789 HOB events with noncommensal organisms, gastrointestinal (including neutropenic translocation) (35%) and endovascular (32%) were the most common sources. Overall, 636/1789 (36%) non- commensal and 238/320 (74%) commensal HOB events were rated potentially preventable. In logistic regression analysis among non- commensal HOB events, events attributed to intravascular catheter- related infection, indwelling urinary catheter- related infection and surgical site infection had higher odds of being rated preventable while events with neutropenia, immunosuppression, gastrointestinal sources, polymicrobial cultures and Discussion Factors identified as associated with higher or lower preventability should be used to guide inclusion, exclusion and risk adjustment for an HOB- related quality metric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antibiotic stewardship programme (ASP) is a new concept initiated by WHO, but nurses are not yet ready to adopt the program. The training and empowerment of nurses are the best strategies for enhancing their knowledge and engagement in ASP. This mixed-method study was used to assess perceived roles and barriers of nurses' involvement in ASP. An online survey was conducted among 420 clinical nurses to identify their role, and 23 individual interviews were performed among nurses and infection control practitioners to explore the barriers and recommendations to overcome the identified barriers. The majority of the nurses agreed with the sixteen identified roles in ASP, of which 'antibiotic dosing and de-escalation' (82.61%), 'IV to PO conversion of antibiotic, outpatient antibiotic therapy' (85.23%), and 'outpatient management, long-term care, readmission' of the patients (81.19%) had the lowest agreement from the participants. The major themes generated through the qualitative interviews were a lack of knowledge about ASP, poor communication between multidisciplinary teams, lack of opportunity and multidisciplinary engagement, lack of formal education and training about ASP, lack of ASP competency and defined roles in policy, role conflict or power/position, availability of resources, and lack of protected time. Nurses play an integral role in the successful implementation of antibiotic stewardship programs. The empowerment of nurses will help them to adopt the unique role in ASP. Nurses can significantly contribute to antibiotic stewardship efforts and improve patient outcomes through addressing these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of artificial intelligence(AI), platforms like ChatGPT have gained traction in different fields, including Medicine. This study aims to evaluate the potential of ChatGPT in addressing questions related to HIV prevention and to assess its accuracy, completeness, and inclusivity. A team consisting of 15 physicians, six members from HIV communities, and three experts in gender and queer studies designed an assessment of ChatGPT. Queries were categorized into five thematic groups: general HIV information, behaviors increasing HIV acquisition risk, HIV and pregnancy, HIV testing, and the prophylaxis use. A team of medical doctors was in charge of developing questions to be submitted to ChatGPT. The other members critically assessed the generated responses regarding level of expertise, accuracy, completeness, and inclusivity. The median accuracy score was 5.5 out of 6, with 88.4% of responses achieving a score ≥ 5. Completeness had a median of 3 out of 3, while the median for inclusivity was 2 out of 3. Some thematic groups, like behaviors associated with HIV transmission and prophylaxis, exhibited higher accuracy, indicating variable performance across different topics. Issues of inclusivity were identified, notably the use of outdated terms and a lack of representation for some communities. ChatGPT demonstrates significant potential in providing accurate information on HIV-related topics. However, while responses were often scientifically accurate, they sometimes lacked the socio-political context and inclusivity essential for effective health communication. This underlines the importance of aligning AI-driven platforms with contemporary health communication strategies and ensuring the balance of accuracy and inclusivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay explores the potential for literary history to be useful as a part of epidemiological sleuthing. It considers how an imperative to employ social determinants of health frameworks incites movement away from epidemiological plots, particularly the forward trajectory of the outbreak narrative and its privileging of containment as the solution to emerging infections. Instead, opportunities arise to explore how data about the history of present-day structural inequities offer better ways to combat the deleterious effects of outbreaks. Through an analysis of Harriet Wilson's novel Our Nig, this essay lays out provisional ways in which literary history and those with expertise in it may prove an untapped resource for increasing our knowledge of how to prevent disproportionate risk of disease, debility, and death for people of color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In high-resource settings, the survival of children with immunocompromise (IC) has increased and immunosuppressive therapies are increasingly being used. This study aimed to determine the clinical characteristics, performance of diagnostic tools, and outcome of IC children with tuberculosis (TB) in Europe. Methods Multicenter, matched case-control study within the Pediatric Tuberculosis Network European Trials Group, capturing TB cases <18 years diagnosed 2000–2020. Results A total of 417 TB cases were included, comprising 139 children who are IC (human immunodeficiency virus, inborn errors of immunity, drug-induced immunosuppression, and other immunocompromising conditions) and 278 non-IC children as controls. Nonrespiratory TB was more frequent among cases than controls (32.4% vs 21.2%; P =.013). Patients with IC had an increased likelihood of presenting with severe disease (57.6% vs 38.5%; P <.001; odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 2.073 [1.37–3.13]). Children with IC had higher rates of false-negative tuberculin skin test (31.9% vs 6.0%; P <.001) and QuantiFERON-TB Gold assay (30.0% vs 7.3%; P <.001) results at diagnosis. Overall, the microbiological confirmation rate was similar in IC and non-IC cases (58.3% vs 49.3%; P =.083). Although the mortality in children with IC was <1%, the rate of long-term sequelae was significantly higher than in non-IC cases (14.8% vs 6.1%; P =.004). Conclusions Children with IC and TB in Europe have increased rates of nonrespiratory TB, severe disease, and long-term sequelae. Immune-based TB tests have poor sensitivity in those children. Future research should focus on developing improved immunological TB tests that perform better in patients with IC, and determining the reasons for the increased risk of long-term sequelae, with the aim to design preventive management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The emergence of novel infectious diseases has amplified the urgent need for effective prevention strategies, especially ones targeting vulnerable populations such as children. Factors such as the high incidence of both emerging and existing infectious diseases, delays in vaccinations, and routine exposure in communal settings heighten children's susceptibility to infections. Despite this pressing need, a comprehensive exploration of research trends in this domain remains lacking. This study aims to address this gap by employing text mining and modeling techniques to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature, thereby identifying emerging research trends in infectious disease prevention among children. Methods: A cross‐sectional text mining approach was adopted, focusing on journal articles published between January 1, 2003, and August 31, 2022. These articles, related to infectious disease prevention in children, were sourced from databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE (Ovid), Scopus, and Korean RISS. The data underwent preprocessing using the Natural Language Toolkit (NLTK) in Python, with a semantic network analysis and topic modeling conducted using R software. Results: The final dataset comprised 509 journal articles extracted from multiple databases. The study began with a word frequency analysis to pinpoint relevant themes, subsequently visualized through a word cloud. Dominant terms encompassed "vaccination," "adolescent," "infant," "parent," "family," "school," "country," "household," "community," "HIV," "HPV," "COVID‐19," "influenza," and "diarrhea." The semantic analysis identified "age" as a key term across infection, control, and intervention discussions. Notably, the relationship between "hand" and "handwashing" was prominent, especially in educational contexts linked with "school" and "absence." Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling further delineated seven topics related to infectious disease prevention for children, encompassing (1) educational programs, (2) vaccination efforts, (3) family‐level responses, (4) care for immunocompromised individuals, (5) country‐specific responses, (6) school‐based strategies, and (7) persistent threats from established infectious diseases. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the indispensable role of personalized interventions tailored for various child demographics, highlighting the pivotal contributions of both parental guidance and school participation. Clinical Relevance: The study provides insights into the complex public health challenges associated with preventing and managing infectious diseases in children. The insights derived could inform the formulation of evidence‐based public health policies, steering practical interventions and fostering interdisciplinary synergy for holistic prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Global challenges arise from infectious diseases which represent significant challenges to the provision of healthcare, requiring efficient management procedures to limit transmission. Evaluating current outbreak management processes within UK healthcare services is essential for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential improvements. Objectives: This study aimed to assess infection prevention and control (IPC) practitioners' access to outbreak management (OM) data. Secondary objectives involved determining IPC practitioners' perceptions of outbreak management processes and the state of digitalisation of OM in the UK. Methods: National cross-sectional survey data were collected to evaluate current outbreak management approaches. To supplement this, information requests were sent to the 10 largest teaching and research NHS hospital trusts in England. Findings: The survey received 55 responses with 53 considered for analysis. Out of 10 NHS trusts, nine provided completed FOI responses, while one was unable to provide data. Discussion: The study offers unique insights into prevailing outbreak management practices within UK health services. Although positive perceptions surround key outbreak management stages, concerns arise, including varying confidence levels in surveillance processes' robustness, efficacy of management interventions, and communication effectiveness. Conclusions: The study highlights challenges with OM processes in the UK, including issues like poor surveillance and delayed outbreak detection. Positive practitioner perceptions contrast with concerns over data collection, follow-up, and limited digitalisation, relying on basic tools like Excel and Word, hindering retrospective learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses some of the key questions that clinicians may have as they implement the guideline recommendations by the American society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). These include recommendations that clinicians can give to patients regarding immunization against infection, the best time to vaccinate, and common safety concerns regarding vaccines in people with cancer.

Contemporary understanding of the mechanisms of disease increasingly points to examples of "genetic diseases" with an infectious component and of "infectious diseases" with a genetic component. Such blurred boundaries generate ethical, legal, and social issues and highlight historical contexts that must be examined when incorporating host genomic information into the prevention, outbreak control, and treatment of infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This systematic review aims to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors of family physicians (family medicine specialists, family doctors, family medicine assistants) in Türkiye regarding adult vaccinations. Methods: In this systematic review, data were obtained through a retrospective search of descriptive studies published in Turkish and English between 2013-2023 in the databases of " PubMed, Google Scholar, National thesis center." The PICOS method was used to determine the eligibility of included studies, and the methodological quality of the studies within the systematic review was assessed using the The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols Checklist (PRISMA) checklist flow diagram. Results: 177 selected by title for abstract analysis; among which 55 articles and theses were considered to be examined for the full-text review. As a result of the detailed examination of them, a total of 23 articles and theses were selected to be included in the study. Influenza vaccine and HPV vaccine knowledge of family doctors were higher and followed by hepatitis B. COVID-19, hepatitis B, tetanus, influenza were the mostly recommended vaccines by family doctors to adults. Conclusions: In conclusion, this systematic review emphasizes the critical role of family physicians in promoting vaccination among adult populations. By addressing knowledge gaps, addressing concerns of family doctors, promoting a culture of vaccination within the healthcare community, we can enhance vaccine uptake and ultimately contribute to improved public health outcomes and disease prevention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Masks have been widely used as a preventative tool during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, the use of masks by children has been controversial, with international guidelines recommending a risk‐based approach to national policymakers. Aims and objectives: We aimed to conduct a systematic review that explores children's experiences of mask‐wearing, drawing on an evidence base that describes mask‐wearing in different contexts including air pollution, and to prevent the spread of infectious disease. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO in June 2021, with repeat searches in August 2022 and January 2024, for primary research studies exploring children's experiences of masks. Included studies reported on participants between 4 and 14 years (inclusive), with no restrictions on language where an English translation was available. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts and reviewed full texts, with discrepancies resolved by a third reviewer. We used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool for quality appraisal and narrative synthesis to identify key findings. We also conducted stakeholder consultation (Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)) with nine children, where they submitted annotated drawings of their preferred masks to complement our review findings. Results: We screened 982 titles and abstracts and reviewed 94 full texts. 45 studies were included in the synthesis. Children's experiences of mask‐wearing were influenced by their perceived necessity, social norms around their use and parental attitudes. Challenges related to mask‐wearing were described, including difficulty reading facial expressions and physical discomfort. Children found it easier to wear masks when sitting and in cooler environments, and they benefited from unmasking during outdoor break time at school. As part of the PPI consultation, children highlighted the importance of mask design and the environmental impact of masks. Conclusion: Children's experiences of mask‐wearing were varied and context‐dependent, with several mask‐design challenges raised. Future policy on mask‐wearing needs to consider the context in which mask‐wearing would be most beneficial, and how local adaptations to policy can respond to children's needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, an optimistic belief prevailed worldwide that the protracted struggle against infectious diseases had ended. However, COVID-19 later emerged as a truly global phenomenon with a considerably higher fatality rate than that of other infectious diseases. To date, no country has been unaffected by this virus. COVID-19 has tested the resilience of healthcare systems and the deployment of response forces globally. This circumstance underscores the relevance of assessing past experiences in combating infectious diseases and eradicating certain dangerous infections. This article attempts to uncover the challenges encountered in implementing imperial and Soviet government policies related to epidemic control in Kazakhstan. It analyses the major epidemics in Kazakhstan, measures taken against them, and initial steps toward vaccinating the population. In pre-revolutionary Kazakhstan, infectious disease control was episodic owing to limited resources and insufficient well-trained and experienced doctors, paramedics, and nurses. Despite the post-civil war complexities of rebuilding the economy, the Soviet Union has prioritised the prevention of epidemics. Infectious diseases, such as typhus, typhoid fever, cholera, smallpox, and dysentery that spread via the digestive tract have presented the greatest challenge. The government has funded vaccination programs and adopted sanitation measures to prevent the transmission of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While vaccines have reduced the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases, vaccine hesitancy threatens the re-emergence of childhood infectious diseases. Purpose: This randomized controlled study evaluated an online vaccine education program to advance vaccine acceptance among middle-school students. Methodology: Study participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group who viewed the VEP videos or to a comparison group who viewed a science-based video unrelated to vaccines. Results: Knowledge scores improved in both groups and more favorable shifts in vaccine-related beliefs and attitudes occurred in the intervention than in the comparison group. Conclusions: This program can be feasibly delivered via an online platform to middle school students, resulting in shifts in vaccine-related knowledge, beliefs and attitudes. Implications: Delivering evidence-based content to instruct about vaccine effectiveness and safety is an area in which school nurses have demonstrated an important role as a resource for patient education to promote vaccine advocacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the daily responsibilities of the Infection Prevention Department (IPD) have been exacerbated by heightened regulatory and licensing requirements, increasing demands from medical staff and patients, and an expanded scope of work. Consequently, infection preventionists (IPs) have struggled to find the bandwidth to effectively implement patient quality care improvement projects. The increased demand for infection prevention and control (IPAC) responsibilities has made it challenging to fill open IP positions. To address this need, a collaborative Modified Work Program (MWP) between the IPD and Human Resource Department at a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center has proven effective. Modified Staff for Infection Prevention (MSFIP) have been utilized to support IPD daily responsibilities with the potential development of future IPs. Methods: Injured staff were placed on modified duty by the MWP, and the IPD was contacted. An IP interviewed the MSFIP to design appropriate and accommodated responsibilities. Several tools were provided, including helpful guides, daily task lists, links, forms, agency contact information, and references. The MSFIP was granted temporary data security access to electronic medical records used by IPs. Initially, MSFIPs required orientation and shadowing by IPs. Later, MSFIP with longer recovery periods trained new MSFIP. Results: Trained MSFIPs independently managed simple IP daily tasks, allowing IPs to continue and initiate quality improvement projects. Catheter-associated urinary tract infections remained low. All MSFIP expressed a better appreciation of IP work, and several expressed interest in becoming IPs, potentially addressing the replacement of retiring IPs. Conclusion: A well-developed program for MSFIP offers several benefits. IPs should consider using MSFIPs if an MWP exists in their facility, or work on developing one in collaboration with their human resources department. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to understand the relationships between depression, post-traumatic stress, job demands, and social and organizational support among nurses working at general hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the factors influencing depression. Methods: Data were collected from 240 nurses using a self-reported questionnaire between April 28 and May 7, 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, an independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé's test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and multiple regression. Results: The mean scores for depression and post-traumatic stress were 15.49 and 17.90, respectively. Approximately 43% nurses experienced depression. Depression was positively related to job demands and post-traumatic stress and negatively related to social and organizational support. Multiple regression showed that post-traumatic stress (β=.33, p<.001), social support (β=-.30, p<.001), and job demands (β=.21, p<.001) explained 26.4% of the variance for nurses' depression. Conclusion: These findings indicate that efforts are needed to mitigate depression and post traumatic stress among nurses, even after the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs that can enhance social support and reduce post-traumatic stress and job demands are needed to prevent and decrease depression. In particular, hospitals and the government must prepare for national disasters, such as new infectious diseases, to reduce job demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residents of long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable to communicable diseases. Low-cost interventions to increase air exchange rates (AERs) may be useful in reducing the transmission of airborne communicable diseases between long-term care residents and staff. In this study, carbon dioxide gas was used as a tracer to evaluate the AER associated with the implementation of low-cost ventilation interventions. Under baseline conditions with the room's door closed, the mean AER was 0.67 ACH; while baseline conditions with the door open had a significantly higher mean AER of 3.87 ACH (p < 0.001). Subsequently opening a window with the door open increased mean AER by 1.49 ACH (p = 0.012) and adding a fan in the window further increased mean AER by 1.87 ACH (p < 0.001). Regression analyses indicated that the flow rate of air entering through the window, both passively and through the use of a fan, was significantly associated with an increase in AER (p < 0.001). These results indicate that low-cost interventions that pull outside air into resident rooms were effective in improving the air exchange rates in these facilities. While implementation of these interventions is dependent on facility rules and isolation requirements of residents with airborne communicable diseases, these interventions remain viable options for long-term care facilities to improve resident room ventilation without requiring costly ventilation system upgrades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of infectious diseases saw numerous exciting advances in 2023. Trials of new antibiotics and treatment regimens sought to address rising rates of antimicrobial resistance. Other studies focused on the most appropriate use of currently available treatments, balancing the dual goals of providing effective treatment and impactful antimicrobial stewardship. Improvements in disease prevention were made through trials of both new vaccines and new chemoprophylaxis approaches. Concerning trends this year included increasing rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections, medical tourism-associated cases of fungal meningitis, and the return of locally acquired malaria to the United States. This review covers some of these notable trials and clinical developments in infectious diseases in the past year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To map the current evidence about the health concerns and the potential solutions related to the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. Design: A scoping review was applied. Papers published in English between 2012 and 2023 were included but non‐human research and sources without any related data were excluded. Data charting and extraction were used to map the current evidence. Results: The total of 36 papers were included with the total number of pilgrims of 17,075,887. The majority of studies were published in the Asia Pacific region (36.11%) as original articles (88.89%). The health concerns were grouped into five main aspects. There were 7603 deaths recorded or about 44 incidences of deaths per 100,000 pilgrims during the pilgrimage. There were recorded 11,018; 6178; 3393; and 17,810 cases for communicable diseases; non‐communicable diseases; injuries and trauma; and health services (i.e., cardiac catheterization) and vaccination, respectively. Conclusion: Relating to the five health concerns, this study identified the top seven issues in each category (i.e., hypertension, influenza vaccination), except for the death record. Moreover, there were three solutions (for general health, non‐ and communicable‐diseases) presented. Stakeholders could use this evidence to improve healthcare quality particularly related to the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Meaningful research creates evidence for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practice. Aim: To establish Infection Prevention Society (IPS) members' research priorities to support future research projects. Methods: A mixed methods convergent parallel design incorporating a cross-sectional survey of IPS members (2022–2023), and focus group findings from the IPS Consultative Committee, (October 2022). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim, entered into NVivo 12, and analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Findings/Results: 132 IPS members responded to the survey, including 120 (90.9%) nurses. The three most prevalent priorities were: Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (n = 84, 16.1%); IPC Training and Education (n = 77, 14.8%); and IPC Evidence-based Guidelines (n = 76, 14.6%). Analysis of the focus group transcripts identified six emergent themes 'Patient Centred Care', 'Training and Education', 'IPC Role and Identity', 'IPC Leadership', 'IPC is Everyone's Responsibility', and 'Research Activity'. Triangulation of findings demonstrated concordance between quantitative and qualitative findings with Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (QIPS) and Training and Education identified as priority research areas. Discussion: This study highlights the necessity of developing support systems and incorporating research priorities in QIPS, as well as Training and Education. The findings of this study align with the recommended core competencies and components for effective infection prevention and control programs, making them relevant to QIPS initiatives. The outcomes of the study will serve as a valuable resource to guide the IPS Research and Development Committee in delivering practical support to IPS members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural disasters present a significant and growing threat to the well-being of children. Every year 175 million children globally are expected to be affected by natural disasters, including floods, cyclones, droughts, heatwaves, severe storms, and earthquakes. In emergencies, children of all age groups, especially those under 5, are the most affected part of the community, with child mortality rates 2-70 times higher than average. Clean water, sanitation and hygiene measures, vaccination to prevent infectious diseases, providing psychological support to vulnerable children in an age-appropriate approach, and paying particular attention to children with special needs are extremely important. Healthcare personnel and families should have adequate information and preparation to do what is necessary before, during, and after emergencies to minimize the negative effects on children. In this review, we aim to discuss the effects of emergencies on children and the prevention methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two public health reports from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine published in 1988 and 2003 by the Institute of Medicine continue to resonate. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a robust and adequately funded public health system that has political and public support as well as strong connections to health care and other sectors. However, a spate of recent assessments of the nation's public health infrastructure shows continuing gaps in funding, workforce, capacity, and other dimensions. There are reasons for optimism and opportunities for progress in public health in the third decade of the 21st century. There is great promise in cross-sector partnerships and in embracing the "public" in public health by building power with communities in health improvement efforts and in decision-making. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(5):495–500. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307584) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite mounting attention in recent years, health threats posed by antimicrobial resistance are not new. Antimicrobial resistance has dogged infectious disease treatment processes since the first modern antimicrobials were discovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the intricate relationships between diseases is critical for both prevention and recovery. However, there is a lack of suitable methodologies for exploring the precedence relationships within multiple censored time-to-event data, resulting in decreased analytical accuracy. This study introduces the Censored Event Precedence Analysis (CEPA), which is a nonparametric Bayesian approach suitable for understanding the precedence relationships in censored multivariate events. CEPA aims to analyze the precedence relationships between events to predict subsequent occurrences effectively. We applied CEPA to neonatal data from the National Health Insurance Service, identifying the precedence relationships among the seven most commonly diagnosed diseases categorized by the International Classification of Diseases. This analysis revealed a typical diagnostic sequence, starting with respiratory diseases, followed by skin, infectious, digestive, ear, eye, and injury-related diseases. Furthermore, simulation studies were conducted to demonstrate CEPA suitability for censored multivariate datasets compared to traditional models. The performance accuracy reached 76% for uniform distribution and 65% for exponential distribution, showing superior performance in all four tested environments. Therefore, the statistical approach based on CEPA enhances our understanding of disease interrelationships beyond competitive methodologies. By identifying disease precedence with CEPA, we can preempt subsequent disease occurrences and propose a healthcare system based on these relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) antiviral therapy early in the pandemic were to prevent severe disease, hospitalization, and death. As these outcomes have become infrequent in the age of widespread population immunity, the objectives have shifted. For the general population, COVID-19–directed antiviral therapy should decrease symptom severity and duration and minimize infectiousness, and for immunocompromised individuals, antiviral therapy should reduce severe outcomes and persistent infection. The increased recognition of virologic rebound following ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir (NMV/r) and the lack of randomized controlled trial data showing benefit of antiviral therapy for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection for standard-risk, vaccinated individuals remain major knowledge gaps. Here, we review data for selected antiviral agents and immunomodulators currently available or in late-stage clinical trials for use in outpatients. We do not review antibody products, convalescent plasma, systemic corticosteroids, IL-6 inhibitors, Janus kinase inhibitors, or agents that lack Food and Drug Administration approval or emergency use authorization or are not appropriate for outpatients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nursing home (NH) residents' vulnerability to COVID‐19 underscores the importance of infection preventionists (IPs) within NHs. Our study aimed to determine whether training and credentialing of NH IPs were associated with resident COVID‐19 deaths. Methods: This retrospective observational study utilized data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Healthcare Safety Network NH COVID‐19 Module and USAFacts, from May 2020 to February 2021, linked to a 2018 national NH survey. We categorized IP personnel training and credentialing into four groups: (1) LPN without training; (2) RN/advanced clinician without training; (3) LPN with training; and (4) RN/advanced clinician with training. Multivariable linear regression models of facility‐level weekly deaths per 1000 residents as a function of facility characteristics, and county‐level COVID‐19 burden (i.e., weekly cases or deaths per 10,000 population) were estimated. Results: Our study included 857 NHs (weighted n = 14,840) across 489 counties and 50 states. Most NHs had over 100 beds, were for profit, part of chain organizations, and located in urban areas. Approximately 53% of NH IPs had infection control training and 82% were RNs/advanced clinicians. Compared with NHs employing IPs who were LPNs without training, NHs employing IPs who were RNs/advanced clinicians without training had lower weekly COVID‐19 death rates (−1.04 deaths per 1000 residents; 95% CI −1.90, −0.18), and NHs employing IPs who were LPNs with training had lower COVID‐19 death rates (−1.09 deaths per 1000 residents; 95% CI −2.07, −0.11) in adjusted models. Conclusions: NHs with LPN IPs without training in infection control had higher death rates than NHs with LPN IPs with training in infection control, or NHs with RN/advanced clinicians in the IP role, regardless of IP training. IP training of RN/advanced clinician IPs was not associated with death rates. These findings suggest that efforts to standardize and improve IP training may be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: People who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk for infectious disease transmission, including hepatitis C and HIV. Understanding trends in injection risk behaviors and syringe service program (SSP) use over time can help improve infectious disease prevention and other harm reduction services. Methods: Using National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System data from Baltimore, Maryland, we examined changes in receptive sharing of (1) syringes, (2) injection equipment, (3) syringes to divide drugs; and (4) receipt of syringes from SSPs among PWID from 2009 to 2018 (n = 518 in 2009, n = 638 in 2012, n = 586 in 2015, and n = 575 in 2018) using unadjusted and adjusted logistic models calculated across time for the total sample. Results: The conditional probability of receptive sharing of syringes and receipt of syringes from SSPs remained relatively stable, while receptive sharing of injection equipment and receptive sharing of syringes to divide drugs dropped substantially after 2009. White race and daily injection frequency were positively associated with sharing syringes and injection equipment and negatively associated with SSP use over time. In 2015, there was a notable shift such that women were twice as likely as men to receive syringes from SSPs and less likely than men to report the use of shared syringes or equipment. Conclusion: Findings indicate overall steady or decreasing trends in injection risk and steady trends in SSP usage over time, with some notable improvements among women and indications of shifting drug market patterns. Injection-related risk behaviors remain high among White PWID and may require targeted outreach and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global significant rise in the number of sick individuals and fatalities has made the ongoing struggle against the severe and lethal COVID-19 pandemic a global effort. There are several ongoing therapies for COVID-19, and more are being developed. However, selecting the best therapy option for COVID-19 patients is still needed. Patients may easily choose from the available COVID-19 therapies using the multi-criteria decision-making method. As a result, the present study provides an MCDM method that is created to determine COVID-19 therapies. Probabilistic Hesitant Fuzzy Set numbers, values, and ambiguity are introduced. Theorems and characteristics of PHFS numbers are also investigated in depth. The Complex Proportional Assessment technique is used, based on the PHFS, for dealing with ambiguity issues. This study uses ten criteria and three treatment methods: antibacterial medication and plasma treatment, vaccinations, as well as quarantine and inhouse isolation. The study results reveal that quarantine and isolation at home mark the most effective treatment, followed by vaccinations with antibiotics and plasma therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preschool education institutions, where children have close contact and social interactions, can serve as potential environments for the transmission of infectious diseases. This issue poses a significant health concern, impacting both individual and public well-being. Thus, the present research set out to determine the prevalence of infectious diseases in preschool children and the views of parents and teachers on the prevention of infectious diseases. The study employed a mixed-method approach and involved 397 parents and 46 preschool teachers. The study was survey-based via in-person interviews. The results revealed that after they started school (almost in 5 months), children with a mean age of 4.7 ± 0.5 years experienced illness approximately 3.5 ± 2.0 times, of whom 91.5% used antibiotics. The prevalence of infectious diseases was found to be associated with the child's being born at term, maternal education level, and the public/private status of preschool institutions. The presence of a sick child in the classroom elicits negative emotions from both teachers and parents. They recommend that studies on education, safety, hygiene, school health, health screenings, regulation of the learning environment, legal regulations, and school exclusion policies be carried out to prevent infectious diseases. When children with infectious diseases come to school, nearly half of the teachers admit them to the classroom due to various reasons and pressures. Parents request teachers to monitor medication, control sweating, and use a nebulizer for their sick children. Some of the teachers meet these requests, but they claim that the educational process is negatively affected. At preschool education institutions, the risk factors of infectious diseases have a complex structure and can be influenced by variables related to teachers, children, parents and the institution itself. Infectious diseases not only pose a threat to health but also impact teachers' and parents' emotions, teacher–child relationships, and the overall atmosphere within schools and classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective response to and rapid and reliable detection of infectious disease outbreaks require successful coordination of countries' border policies early on. As threats from diseases are highly salient to the public, researchers agree that a better understanding of domestic politics is crucial. This article investigates a key piece of this question: public demands for border closures. Our experiments in the United Kingdom and the United States show that a greater pandemic threat mildly increases support for border closures, but the World Health Organization's (WHO) guidance against border closures and reminders about international legal obligations to follow the guidance substantially weaken support for border closures. However, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, many countries flouted WHO's recommendations and restricted their borders. Examining media attention suggests people's lack of knowledge of the WHO guidance as a crucial reason for those border closures. Our study produces insights into the design of effective global health governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The prevalence of odontogenic infections remains one of the highest in the world. If untreated, odontogenic infections can break through the limitation, disseminate to other organs or spaces, and cause high mortality rates. However, it is still difficult to rapidly target limited or disseminated infections in clinical practice. The type of disseminated odontogenic infections and the responsible bacteria have not been described in detail. Methods: Search databases (e.g., PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase) for reports published from 2018.1 to 2022.9. Use search strategies: ("odontogenic infections" OR "pulpitis" OR "periapical lesions" OR "periodontal diseases") AND ("disseminated infections" OR "complication"). Results: Fourteen different types of disseminated odontogenic infections, most of which are polymicrobial infections, can spread through the body either direct or through hematogenous diffusion. Multiple microbial infections can be more invasive in the transmission of infection. Secondary infections are commonly associated with bacteria like Fusobacterium spp., Streptococcus spp., Peptostreptococcus spp., Prevotella spp., and Staphylococcus spp. Antibiotics with broad-spectrum activity are fundamental as first-line antimicrobial agents based on the microorganisms isolated from disseminated infections. Conclusion: This review elaborates on the epidemiology, microorganisms, risk factors, and dissemination routes, and provides evidence-based opinions on the diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and prevention of odontogenic infections for dentists and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to describe the design and evaluation of a pilot leadership development programme for infection prevention and control (IPAC) professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. The programme's aim was to improve IPAC knowledge and capacity in the health-care system by developing the leadership skills and capacities of novice and advanced Infection Control Professionals (ICPs), to respond flexibly, and competently, in their expanding and ever-changing roles. Design/methodology/approach: The leadership programme was piloted with seven nurses, who were part of a clinical nursing team in New South Wales, Australia, over a 12-month period between 2021 and 2022. The programme was designed using a leadership development framework underpinned by transformational leadership theory, practice development approaches and collaborative and experiential learning. These principles were applied during programme design, with components adapted to learners' interests and regular opportunities provided for collaboration in active learning and critical reflection on workplace experiences. Findings: The authors' evaluation suggests that the programme was feasible, acceptable and considered to be effective by this cohort. Moreover, participants valued the opportunities to engage in active and experience-based learning with peers, and with the support of senior and experienced ICPs. The action learning sets were well-received and allowed participants to critically reflect on and learn from one another's experiences. The mentoring programme allowed them to apply their developing leadership skills to real workplace challenges that they face. Research limitations/implications: Despite a small sample size, the authors' results provide empirical evidence about the effectiveness of using a practice development approach for strengthening ICP leadership capacity. The success of this pilot study has paved the way for a bigger second cohort of participants in the programme, for which further evaluation will be conducted. Practical implications: The success of this leadership programme reflects both the need for leadership development in the IPAC professions and the applicability of this approach, with appropriate facilitation, for other professions and organizations. Originality/value: ICP leadership programmes have not been previously reported in the literature. This pilot study builds on the growing interest in IPAC leadership to foster health system responsiveness and change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]