Journal Description
Infectious Disease Reports
Infectious Disease Reports
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed open access journal on infectious diseases published bimonthly online by MDPI (from Volume 12 Issue 3 - 2020).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 22.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Benefits of Publishing: We aim to be a leading journal on infectious diseases and to be in the top 20 journals listed in the Journal Citation Report (JCR) in this specific category in the near future.
Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
HIV-1 Low-Frequency Variants Identified in Antiretroviral-Naïve Subjects with Virologic Failure after 12 Months of Follow-Up in Panama
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 436-444; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040044 - 01 Aug 2023
Abstract
Low-frequency mutations associated with drug resistance have been related to virologic failure in subjects with no history of pre-treatment and recent HIV diagnosis. In total, 78 antiretroviral treatment (ART)-naïve subjects with a recent HIV diagnosis were selected and followed by CD4+ T lymphocytes
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Low-frequency mutations associated with drug resistance have been related to virologic failure in subjects with no history of pre-treatment and recent HIV diagnosis. In total, 78 antiretroviral treatment (ART)-naïve subjects with a recent HIV diagnosis were selected and followed by CD4+ T lymphocytes and viral load tests to detect virologic failure. We sequenced the basal samples retrospectively using next-generation sequencing (NGS), looking for low-frequency mutations that had not been detected before using the Sanger sequencing method (SSM) and describing the response to ART. Twenty-two subjects developed virologic failure (VF), and thirteen of them had at least one drug-resistance mutation associated with Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (RTI) and Protease Inhibitors (PIs) at frequency levels ≤ 1%, not detected previously in their basal genotyping test. No resistance mutations were observed to Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs). We identified a possible cause of VF in ART-naïve subjects with low-frequency mutations detected. To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of pre-existing drug resistance for HIV-1 minority variants carried out on ART-naïve people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) by analyzing the HIV-1 pol gene using NGS in the country.
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(This article belongs to the Section HIV-AIDS)
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SARS-CoV-2 Infection Increases the Risk of Muscle Injury in Professional Male Soccer Players—A Retrospective Analysis of the Italian and Spanish Major Leagues
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 425-435; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040043 - 26 Jul 2023
Abstract
A retrospective cohort study on professional soccer players from the Serie A and LaLiga was conducted to investigate the correlation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and muscle injuries. Players were divided into two groups based on whether they contracted the SARS-CoV-2 infection (C+) or not
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A retrospective cohort study on professional soccer players from the Serie A and LaLiga was conducted to investigate the correlation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and muscle injuries. Players were divided into two groups based on whether they contracted the SARS-CoV-2 infection (C+) or not (C−) during the 2020/2021 season. In the 2019–2020 season, both championships showed a similar number of muscular injuries (MI) between C+ and C− (Serie A: p = 0.194; 95% CI: −0.044 to 0.215, LaLiga p = 0.915; 95% CI: −0.123 to 0.137). In the 2020–2021 season, C+ had a significantly higher number of MI compared to C− in both championships (Serie A: p < 0.05; 95% CI 0.731 to 1.038; LaLiga: p < 0.05; 95% CI: 0.773 to 1.054). Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that belonging to C+ in the season 2020/2021 was the variable that most strongly influenced the probability of having a muscle injury. Survival analysis revealed a hazard ratio of 3.73 (95% CI 3.018 to 4.628) and of 5.14 (95% CI 3.200 to 8.254) for Serie A and LaLiga respectively. We found an association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and increased risk of muscle injury, emphasizing the importance of carefully considering the infection in the decision-making process for returning to sport. Therefore, SARS-CoV-2 infection should be judged as a real injury requiring specific assessment and training programs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infections: Epidemiology, Diagnostics, Clinics and Evolution)
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Open AccessCase Report
Enterobius vermicularis Related Acute Appendicitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 417-424; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040042 - 10 Jul 2023
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
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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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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Infectious Diseases)
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The Detection of Mutations and Genotyping of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains Isolated from Patients in the Rural Eastern Cape Province
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 403-416; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040041 - 10 Jul 2023
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Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is still a major public health concern in South Africa. Mutations in M. tuberculosis can cause varying levels of phenotypic resistance to anti-TB medications. There have been no prior studies on gene mutations and the genotyping of DR-TB in the
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Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is still a major public health concern in South Africa. Mutations in M. tuberculosis can cause varying levels of phenotypic resistance to anti-TB medications. There have been no prior studies on gene mutations and the genotyping of DR-TB in the rural Eastern Cape Province; hence, we aimed to identify DR-TB mutations, genetic diversity, and allocated lineages among patients in this area. Using Xpert® MTB/RIF, we assessed the rifampin resistance of sputum samples collected from 1157 patients suspected of having tuberculosis. GenoType MTBDR plus VER 2.0 was used for the detection of mutations causing resistance to anti-TB medications. The next step was to spoligotype 441 isolates. The most prevalent rifampin resistance-conferring mutations were in rpoB codon S531L in INH-resistant strains; the katG gene at codon S315TB and the inhA gene at codon C-15TB had the most mutations; 54.5% and 24.7%, respectively. In addition, 24.6% of strains showed mutations in both the rpoB and inhA genes, while 69.9% of strains showed mutations in both the katG and rpoB genes. Heteroresistance was seen in 17.9% of all cases in the study. According to spoligotyping analysis, Beijing families predominated. Investigation of the evolutionary lineages of M. tuberculosis isolates can be carried out using the information provided by the study’s diversity of mutations. In locations wherein these mutations have been discovered, decision-making regarding the standardization of treatment regimens or individualized treatment may be aided by the detection frequency of rpoB, katG, and inhA mutations in various study areas.
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Open AccessArticle
Predictors of Quality of Life in HIV-Infected Persons from Mozambique: The Dual Role of Schooling
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 392-402; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040040 - 10 Jul 2023
Abstract
Increasing quality of life (QoL) is both an end in itself and a means to optimize the impact of treatment in HIV-infected persons. Possibly due to cultural and social influences, the predictors of QoL vary across studies, highlighting the importance of studying specific
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Increasing quality of life (QoL) is both an end in itself and a means to optimize the impact of treatment in HIV-infected persons. Possibly due to cultural and social influences, the predictors of QoL vary across studies, highlighting the importance of studying specific populations. In the present study, we aimed to determine the sociodemographic (age, sex and schooling, or number of years at school) and psychosocial correlates (meaning in life, social support, positive and negative affects) of QoL in HIV-infected persons living in Mozambique, a country with a high prevalence of HIV but also with well-structured strategies to fight the disease. To that end, we made correlational analyses followed by regression models and examined potential mediation processes among predictors. All correlates were relevant except for sex. Meaning in life was the strongest predictor, while social support was the weakest. Schooling was both directly and indirectly related with QoL—in the latter case, it was mediated by meaning in life, social support and positive affect. Our findings suggest that investments in education may be highly rewarding to Mozambicans, and that satisfying needs for self-actualization and purpose may be more urgent than improving social connections.
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Open AccessCase Report
Intraparenchymal Lung Abscess Complicating a Primary COVID-19 Infection in a Patient with Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia: A Case Report
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 386-391; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040039 - 10 Jul 2023
Abstract
Intraparenchymal lung abscess development associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a rare complication, with only half a dozen primary cases having been reported in the literature. We present the case of a patient with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia who developed
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Intraparenchymal lung abscess development associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a rare complication, with only half a dozen primary cases having been reported in the literature. We present the case of a patient with Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia who developed a lung abscess subsequent to a primary SARS-CoV-2 infection. We present a 63-year-old male patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection and a history of Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia who developed a cavitating intraparenchymal lung abscess with an air-fluid level in his right lower lobe two weeks following admission to hospital. The patient became septic and developed acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation and intensive care. He was managed with broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and aspiration drainage, but unfortunately due to his severe clinical condition died 20 days after his initial admission. The development of a lung abscess in patients with COVID-19, although rare, can be quite compromising and even prove fatal, especially in immunocompromised patients. Clinicians should be aware of this potential complication.
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(This article belongs to the Section Viral Infections)
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Open AccessCase Report
Severe Typhoid Fever Complicated by Superior Mesenteric and Splenic Vein Thrombosis
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 377-385; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040038 - 08 Jul 2023
Abstract
Typhoid fever (Typhoid or enteric fever) is still the most common bacterial bloodstream infection worldwide, caused by Salmonella typhi. The transmission route is indirect through passive vehicles such as contaminated water or food. Main clinical findings are a fever lasting more than
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Typhoid fever (Typhoid or enteric fever) is still the most common bacterial bloodstream infection worldwide, caused by Salmonella typhi. The transmission route is indirect through passive vehicles such as contaminated water or food. Main clinical findings are a fever lasting more than three days, abdominal symptoms, leukocytosis, and anemia. Typhoid can cause a wide range of multi-organ complications. We report a particularly severe form of this infection complicated by superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein thrombosis, an extremely uncommon manifestation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Ecosystem Change, Infectious Diseases Transmission and Early Warning)
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Open AccessOpinion
The Medical Community’s Role in Communication Strategies during Health Crises—Perspective from European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS)
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 370-376; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040037 - 03 Jul 2023
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic was complicated by the spread of false information leading to what became widely called an “infodemic”. The present opinion paper was written by an ad hoc international team united under the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS) umbrella and reflects
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The COVID-19 pandemic was complicated by the spread of false information leading to what became widely called an “infodemic”. The present opinion paper was written by an ad hoc international team united under the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS) umbrella and reflects the organizations’ effort to contribute to the resolution of these issues, by highlighting and reflecting on them and by suggesting the medical community’s necessary activities resulting in the formulation of effective future communication strategies. The importance of physicians’ and other health workers’ role and mission as educators and leaders in communities in critical situations should be reassessed and upgraded. We need to equip future doctors with strong and sustainable leadership and communication skills through relevant undergraduate and postgraduate education programs, in order that compliance with preventive medical advice is increased. To avoid possible politically and otherwise biased communication in health crises of the future, European nations should establish independent advisory bodies providing evidence-based advice and participate in communication campaigns. Medical and other health professional organizations should build organizational and personal capacities of their members to enable them to reliably inform and adequately educate governments, populations, civic society, employers’ and employees’ organizations, schools and universities, and other stakeholders.
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Open AccessArticle
La Crosse Virus Circulation in Virginia, Assessed via Serosurveillance in Wildlife Species
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 360-369; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040036 - 30 Jun 2023
Abstract
Mosquito-borne La Crosse virus (LACV; family: Peribunyaviridae) is the leading cause of pediatric arboviral encephalitis in the United States, with clinical cases generally centered in the Midwest and Appalachian regions. Incidence of LACV cases in Appalachian states has increased, such that the
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Mosquito-borne La Crosse virus (LACV; family: Peribunyaviridae) is the leading cause of pediatric arboviral encephalitis in the United States, with clinical cases generally centered in the Midwest and Appalachian regions. Incidence of LACV cases in Appalachian states has increased, such that the region currently represents the majority of reported LACV cases in the USA. The amount of reported LACV cases from Virginia, however, is minimal compared to neighboring states such as North Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee, and non-Appalachian regions of Virginia are understudied. Here we examine the hypothesis that LACV is circulating widely in Virginia, despite a low clinical case report rate, and that the virus is circulating in areas not associated with LACV disease. In this study, we screened local mammalian wildlife in northwestern counties of Virginia using passive surveillance via patients submitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers. Blood sera (527 samples; 9 species, 8 genera) collected between October 2019 and December 2022 were screened for neutralizing antibodies against LACV, indicating prior exposure to the virus. We found an overall LACV seroprevalence of 1.90% among all wild mammals examined and reveal evidence of LACV exposure in several wild species not generally associated with LACV, including eastern cottontails and red foxes, along with established reservoirs, eastern gray squirrels, although there was no serological evidence in chipmunks. These data indicate the circulation of LACV in Virginia outside of Appalachian counties, however, at a lower rate than reported for endemic areas within the state and in other states.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonotic Viruses Responsible for Encephalitis: New Advanced Research)
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Open AccessCase Report
Anaplasma phagocytophilum Encephalitis: A Case Report and Literature Review of Neurologic Manifestations of Anaplasmosis
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(4), 354-359; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15040035 - 29 Jun 2023
Abstract
Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular, Gram-negative pathogen, causative agent of Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA). HGA usually manifests as a non-specific febrile illness, accompanied by evidence of leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, and an alteration in liver enzymes. Neurologic manifestations of anaplasmosis are rare and rarely
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Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular, Gram-negative pathogen, causative agent of Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis (HGA). HGA usually manifests as a non-specific febrile illness, accompanied by evidence of leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, and an alteration in liver enzymes. Neurologic manifestations of anaplasmosis are rare and rarely reported. We describe a 62-year-old man who developed encephalitis due to an Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. The patient favorably responded to intravenous doxycycline and recovered without neurological sequela. In the tick endemic area, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for tick-borne diseases in patients presenting with neurological deficits. A prompt diagnosis and treatment lead to improvements in morbidity and mortality.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Genotypic Determination of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamases and Carbapenemase Production in Clinical Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Southwest Nigeria
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 339-353; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030034 - 20 Jun 2023
Abstract
Introduction: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major pathogen implicated in healthcare-associated infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae isolates are a public health concern. This study investigated the existence of some ESBL and carbapenemase genes among clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae in Southwest
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Introduction: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major pathogen implicated in healthcare-associated infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae isolates are a public health concern. This study investigated the existence of some ESBL and carbapenemase genes among clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae in Southwest Nigeria and additionally determined their circulating clones. Materials and Methods: Various clinical samples from 420 patients from seven tertiary hospitals within Southwestern Nigeria were processed between February 2018 and July 2019. These samples were cultured on blood agar and MacConkey agar, and the isolated bacteria were identified by Microbact GNB 12E. All K. pneumoniae were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the 16s rRNA gene. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was done on these isolates, and the PCR was used to evaluate the common ESBL-encoding genes and carbapenem resistance genes. Genotyping was performed using multi-locus sequencing typing (MLST). Results: The overall prevalence of K. pneumoniae in Southwestern Nigeria was 30.5%. The AST revealed high resistance rates to tetracyclines (67.2%), oxacillin (61.7%), ampicillin (60.2%), ciprofloxacin (58.6%), chloramphenicol (56.3%), and lowest resistance to meropenem (43.0%). All isolates were susceptible to polymyxin B. The most prevalent ESBL gene was the TEM gene (47.7%), followed by CTX-M (43.8%), SHV (39.8%), OXA (27.3%), CTX-M-15 (19.5%), CTX-M-2 (11.1%), and CTX-M-9 (10.9%). Among the carbapenemase genes studied, the VIM gene (43.0%) was most detected, followed by OXA-48 (28.9%), IMP (22.7%), NDM (17.2%), KPC (13.3%), CMY (11.7%), and FOX (9.4%). GIM and SPM genes were not detected. MLST identified six different sequence types (STs) in this study. The most dominant ST was ST307 (50%, 5/10), while ST258, ST11, ST147, ST15, and ST321 had (10%, 1/10) each. Conclusion: High antimicrobial resistance in K. pneumoniae is a clear and present danger for managing infections in Nigeria. Additionally, the dominance of a successful international ST307 clone highlights the importance of ensuring that genomic surveillance remains a priority in the hospital environment in Nigeria.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Ecosystem Change, Infectious Diseases Transmission and Early Warning)
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Open AccessCase Report
Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis Due to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a Previously Healthy Young Patient without a Drug Abuse History: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 327-338; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030033 - 12 Jun 2023
Abstract
Right-sided infective endocarditis due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is strongly associated with intravenous drug abuse, congenital heart disease, or previous medical treatment and is rare in healthy patients without a history of drug abuse. Here, we present a case of an 18-year-old
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Right-sided infective endocarditis due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is strongly associated with intravenous drug abuse, congenital heart disease, or previous medical treatment and is rare in healthy patients without a history of drug abuse. Here, we present a case of an 18-year-old male with no drug abuse history and no medical burden who was diagnosed with MRSA tricuspid valve endocarditis. Due to initial symptoms which indicated community-acquired pneumonia and radiological finding of interstitial lesions, empiric therapy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin was started. After the detection of Gram-positive cocci in clusters in several blood culture sets, endocarditis was suspected, and flucloxacillin was added to the initial therapy. As soon as methicillin resistance was detected, the treatment was switched to vancomycin. Transesophageal echocardiography established the diagnosis of right-sided infective endocarditis. A toxicological analysis of hair was carried out, and no presence of narcotic drugs was found. After six weeks of therapy, the patient was fully recovered. Exceptionally, tricuspid valve endocarditis can be diagnosed in previously healthy people who are not drug addicts. As the clinical presentation commonly resembles a respiratory infection, a misdiagnosis is possible. Although MRSA rarely causes community-acquired infections in Europe, clinicians should be aware of this possibility.
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(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Diseases)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Mpox: Fifty-Nine Consecutive Cases from a Mexican Public Hospital; Just the Tip of the STIs Iceberg
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 319-326; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030032 - 12 Jun 2023
Abstract
Monkeypox (Mpox) is a zoonotic viral infection endemic to Africa, which has caused a global outbreak since April 2022. The global Mpox outbreak is related to Clade IIb. The disease has primarily affected men who have sex with men. Skin lesions are concentrated
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Monkeypox (Mpox) is a zoonotic viral infection endemic to Africa, which has caused a global outbreak since April 2022. The global Mpox outbreak is related to Clade IIb. The disease has primarily affected men who have sex with men. Skin lesions are concentrated in the genital area, with lymphadenopathy as well as concurrent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is an observational study of adult patients with a recent development of skin lesions and systemic symptoms, which could not be explained by other diseases present. Fifty-nine PCR-positive patients with prominent skin lesions in the genital area (77.9%), inguinal lymphadenopathy (49.1%), and fever (83.0%) were included. Twenty-five (42.3%) were known to be living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and 14 of the HIV-naïve subjects (51.9%) were found to be positive during workup, totaling 39 (66.1%) patients with HIV. Eighteen patients (30.5%) had concurrent syphilis infections. It is worrisome that Mpox is present in large metropolitan areas of Mexico, but the underlying growth of cases of HIV infection and other STIs has not been well studied and should be evaluated in all at-risk adults and their contacts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Human Monkeypox Research)
Open AccessBrief Report
Khosta: A Genetic and Structural Point of View of the Forgotten Virus
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 307-318; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030031 - 01 Jun 2023
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Bats are well-known to be natural reservoirs of various zoonotic coronaviruses, which have caused outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2002 and 2019, respectively. In late 2020, two new Sarbecoviruses were found in Russia, isolated in Rhinolophus
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Bats are well-known to be natural reservoirs of various zoonotic coronaviruses, which have caused outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2002 and 2019, respectively. In late 2020, two new Sarbecoviruses were found in Russia, isolated in Rhinolophus bats, i.e., Khosta-1 in R. ferrumequinum and Khosta-2 in R. hipposideros. The potential danger associated with these new species of Sarbecovirus is that Khosta-2 has been found to interact with the same entry receptor as SARS-CoV-2. Our multidisciplinary approach in this study demonstrates that Khosta-1 and -2 currently appear to be not dangerous with low risk of spillover, as confirmed by prevalence data and by phylogenomic reconstruction. In addition, the interaction between Khosta-1 and -2 with ACE2 appears weak, and furin cleavage sites are absent. While the possibility of a spillover event cannot be entirely excluded, it is currently highly unlikely. This research further emphasizes the importance of assessing the zoonotic potential of widely distributed batborne CoV in order to monitor changes in genomic composition of viruses and prevent spillover events (if any).
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Open AccessCase Report
Intrafamilial Transmission of Pneumococcal Acute Spontaneous Peritonitis
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 299-306; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030030 - 30 May 2023
Abstract
Streptococcus pneumonia (S. pneumoniae, Pneumococcus) is a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. The most common presentations of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children include bacteremic pneumonia, meningitis, and septicemia. However, pneumococcal acute spontaneous peritonitis is a highly uncommon—and
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Streptococcus pneumonia (S. pneumoniae, Pneumococcus) is a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. The most common presentations of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children include bacteremic pneumonia, meningitis, and septicemia. However, pneumococcal acute spontaneous peritonitis is a highly uncommon—and potentially life-threatening—presentation of invasive pneumococcal disease and should be considered in cases of abdominal sepsis. To our knowledge, we report the first case of intrafamilial transmission of pneumococcal peritonitis in two previously healthy children.
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(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Diseases)
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Open AccessBrief Report
SARS-CoV CH.1.1 Variant: Genomic and Structural Insight
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 292-298; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030029 - 24 May 2023
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In early February 2023, the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, also known as “Kraken”, accounted for more than 44% of new COVID-19 cases worldwide, whereas a relatively new Omicron subvariant named CH.1.1, deemed “Orthrus”, accounted for less than 6% of new COVID-19 cases during the
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In early February 2023, the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, also known as “Kraken”, accounted for more than 44% of new COVID-19 cases worldwide, whereas a relatively new Omicron subvariant named CH.1.1, deemed “Orthrus”, accounted for less than 6% of new COVID-19 cases during the subsequent weeks. This emerging variant carries a mutation, L452R, previously observed in the highly pathogenic Delta and the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 variants, necessitating a shift to active surveillance to assure adequate preparedness for likely future epidemic peaks. We provide a preliminary understanding of the global distribution of this emerging SARS-CoV-2 variant by combining genomic data with structural molecular modeling. In addition, we shield light on the number of specific point mutations in this lineage that may have functional significance, thereby increasing the risk of disease severity, vaccine resistance, and increased transmission. This variant shared about 73% of the mutations with Omicron-like strains. Our homology modeling analysis revealed that CH.1.1 may have a weakened interaction with ACE2 and that its electrostatic potential surface appears to be more positive than that of the reference ancestral virus. Finally, our phylogenetic analysis revealed that this likely-emerging variant was already cryptically circulating in European countries prior to its first detection, highlighting the importance of having access to whole genome sequences for detecting and controlling emerging viral strains.
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Open AccessArticle
COVID-19 and Clostridioides difficile Coinfection Outcomes among Hospitalized Patients in the United States: An Insight from National Inpatient Database
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 279-291; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030028 - 19 May 2023
Abstract
The incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has been increasing compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. The COVID-19 infection and CDI relationship can be affected by gut dysbiosis and poor antibiotic stewardship. As the COVID-19 pandemic transitions into an endemic stage, it has become
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The incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has been increasing compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. The COVID-19 infection and CDI relationship can be affected by gut dysbiosis and poor antibiotic stewardship. As the COVID-19 pandemic transitions into an endemic stage, it has become increasingly important to further characterize how concurrent infection with both conditions can impact patient outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study utilizing the 2020 NIS Healthcare Cost Utilization Project (HCUP) database with a total of 1,659,040 patients, with 10,710 (0.6%) of those patients with concurrent CDI. We found that patients with concurrent COVID-19 and CDI had worse outcomes compared to patients without CDI including higher in-hospital mortality (23% vs. 13.4%, aOR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.12–1.5, p = 0.01), rates of in-hospital complications such as ileus (2.7% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001), septic shock (21.0% vs. 7.2%, aOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 2.1–2.6, p < 0.001), length of stay (15.1 days vs. 8 days, p < 0.001) and overall cost of hospitalization (USD 196,012 vs. USD 91,162, p < 0.001). Patients with concurrent COVID-19 and CDI had increased morbidity and mortality, and added significant preventable burden on the healthcare system. Optimizing hand hygiene and antibiotic stewardship during in-hospital admissions can help to reduce worse outcomes in this population, and more efforts should be directly made to reduce CDI in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection.
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Open AccessArticle
Human Papillomavirus Prevalence and Associated Factors in Indigenous Women in Ecuador: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study
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Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 267-278; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030027 - 18 May 2023
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Cervical cancer (CC) is the second leading cause of death from malignancy in women in Ecuador. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main causative agent of CC. Although several studies have been conducted on HPV detection in Ecuador, there are limited data on indigenous
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Cervical cancer (CC) is the second leading cause of death from malignancy in women in Ecuador. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main causative agent of CC. Although several studies have been conducted on HPV detection in Ecuador, there are limited data on indigenous women. This cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the prevalence of HPV and associated factors in women from the indigenous communities of Quilloac, Saraguro and Sevilla Don Bosco. The study included 396 sexually active women belonging to the aforementioned ethnicities. A validated questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data, and real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests were used to detect HPV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These communities are located in the southern region of Ecuador and face geographical and cultural barriers to accessing health services. The results showed that 28.35% of women tested positive for both types of HPV, 23.48% for high-risk (HR) HPV, and 10.35% for low-risk (LR) HPV. Statistically significant associations were found between HR HPV and having more than three sexual partners (OR 1.99, CI 1.03–3.85) and Chlamydia trachomatis infection (OR 2.54, CI 1.08–5.99). This study suggests that HPV infection and other sexually transmitted pathogens are common among indigenous women, highlighting the need for control measures and timely diagnosis in this population.
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Open AccessArticle
Positive Status Disclosure and Sexual Risk Behavior Changes among People Living with HIV in the Northern Region of Ghana
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 255-266; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030026 - 12 May 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Objective: To investigate sexual behavior changes adopted by People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLHIV) on Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Northern Region of Ghana. Methods: We employed a cross-sectional survey with a questionnaire to collect data from 900 clients from 9 major
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Objective: To investigate sexual behavior changes adopted by People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLHIV) on Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Northern Region of Ghana. Methods: We employed a cross-sectional survey with a questionnaire to collect data from 900 clients from 9 major ART centers within the region. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were applied to the data. Results: More than 50% of PLHIV on ART use condoms, reduce sexual partners, practice abstinence, reduce unprotected sex with married/regular partners, and avoid casual sex. Fear of others getting to know patients’ HIV-positive status (χ2 = 7.916, p = 0.005), stigma (χ2 = 5.201, p = 0.023), and fear of loss of family support (χ2 = 4.211, p = 0.040) significantly predict non-disclosure of HIV-positive status among the participants. Change in sexual behavior is influenced by the following: “to avoid spreading the disease to others” (R2 = 0.043, F (1, 898) = 40.237, p < 0.0005), “to avoid contracting other STIs” (R2 = 0.010, F (1, 898) = 8.937, p < 0.0005), “to live long” (R2 = 0.038, F (1, 898) = 35.816, p < 0.0005), “to hide HIV-positive status” (R2 = 0.038, F (1, 898) = 35.587, p < 0.0005), “to achieve good results from ART treatment” (R2 = 0.005, F (1, 898) = 4. 282, p < 0.05), and “to live a Godly life” (R2 = 0.023, F (1, 898) = 20. 880, p < 0.0005). Conclusions: High self-disclosure rate of HIV-positive status was identified, with participants disclosing to their spouses or parents. Reasons for disclosure and non-disclosure differed from person to person.
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(This article belongs to the Section HIV-AIDS)
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Modulation of the Gut Microbiota to Control Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)—A Narrative Review with a Focus on Faecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT)
by
, , , , , , and
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 238-254; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr15030025 - 09 May 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, causing a substantial burden to the global healthcare system. AMR in Gram-negative organisms is particularly concerning due to a dramatic rise in infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL and
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, causing a substantial burden to the global healthcare system. AMR in Gram-negative organisms is particularly concerning due to a dramatic rise in infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL and CPE). These pathogens have limited treatment options and are associated with poor clinical outcomes, including high mortality rates. The microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract acts as a major reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes (the resistome), and the environment facilitates intra and inter-species transfer of mobile genetic elements carrying these resistance genes. As colonisation often precedes infection, strategies to manipulate the resistome to limit endogenous infections with AMR organisms, as well as prevent transmission to others, is a worthwhile pursuit. This narrative review presents existing evidence on how manipulation of the gut microbiota can be exploited to therapeutically restore colonisation resistance using a number of methods, including diet, probiotics, bacteriophages and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
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(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Diseases)
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