A cross-sectional study of COVID-19-related knowledge, risk perceptions, and preventive practices among pharmacy students in Bangladesh

Healthcare professionals' understanding and perception of drug-related issues linked to off-label pharmacological medications used for COVID-19

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the opinions of healthcare workers regarding drug therapy problems linked to anti-infective medicines used for the treatment of COVID-19 infection in Pakistan.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to October 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire developed by the authors, having three sections: demographics, knowledge, and perception. The study was validated by research experts and pilot-tested on 30 subjects. The study included medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists from Punjab's government and private medical institutes.

RESULTS

In this study, 382 of 400 participants replied. The mean knowledge score was 9.52 (SD 2.97), showing that participants had adequate knowledge of COVID-19 pharmacological interventions. The knowledge scores were significantly higher of those who treated COVID-19 patients and were from Lahore. Many doctors considered that elderly patients and those with blood disorders were at greater risk of experiencing drug-related problems. Most pharmacists support electronic prescription systems. Many doctors thought the lack of unified treatment guidelines, multiple prescribers, and self-medication were key obstacles in managing COVID-19 patients.

CONCLUSION

Most respondents had adequate knowledge. Older patients with comorbidities are at risk of adverse effects. Self-medication, polypharmacy, and multiple prescriptions can lead to misdiagnosis and complications. Electric prescriptions, team effort, and training programs can decrease these issues.

Knowledge, attitude and practices towards SARS-CoV-2 genetic mutations and emerging variants among the population in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

The coronavirus is continuously mutating and creating new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Public awareness about SARS-CoV-2 mutation is essential for effective preventive measures. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards SARS-CoV-2 variants among the general population in Bangladesh.

DESIGN

We conducted this online survey between 9 April 2021 and 10 May 2021 using structured questionnaires to collect the information.

SETTING

We distributed the survey link among the participants from all 64 districts of Bangladesh using social media platforms.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1,090 respondents completed this survey. After careful evaluation, we excluded 18 responses due to partial or incomplete information, and 1,072 responses entered into the final analysis.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

The KAP of participants towards SARS-CoV-2 variants depends on their demographic backgrounds. Associations between demographic characteristics and the likelihood of having adequate KAP were estimated using adjusted logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 42% had a poor knowledge level, 4% had a low attitude level and 14% had a poor practice score. The average knowledge, attitude and practice score were 2.65, 4.194 and 4.464 on a scale of 5, respectively. Only 51.8% of the participants knew about mutant strains, and only 47.6% knew about the effectiveness of vaccines against new variants. The key factors associated with poor knowledge levels were educational levels, area of residence, geographic location, and concern regarding COVID-19. Sociodemographic factors for poor attitude levels were geographic location, vaccination and concern regarding COVID-19. The pivotal factors in determining poor practice scores were the residence area of people and concern regarding COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge level and positive attitude are associated with better preventive measures against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Based on these findings, we recommended several awareness programmes on SARS-CoV-2 mutations and variants for the rural population in Bangladesh to increase overall awareness levels.

The WHO has declared the end of pandemic phase of COVID-19: Way to come back in the normal life

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant global mortality and morbidity affecting millions of lives. As healthcare authorities worldwide are still paying substantial attention to COVID-19, other diseases continue to cause more deaths than COVID-19. The decreasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths indicates that the pandemic is close to the end. For effective pandemic management, healthcare facilities worldwide have established COVID-19 units and testing facilities, instituting infection prevention and control measures, and employing telehealth services. Healthcare professionals have identified some promising treatments for COVID-19; also, mass vaccinations have improved patient outcomes. Instead of COVID-19 as a pandemic, it is time to pay more attention to other diseases to lessen their impact on public health. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the end of the pandemic phase of COVID-19 considering the current COVID-19 situation and our preparedness, past pandemic experience, and long pandemic impact on social and economic life on May 5, 2023. In this article, we briefly discussed the present challenges due to COVID-19, necessary precautions, and future directions to return to life as before COVID-19.

Assessment of vaccine perception and vaccination intention of Mpox infection among the adult males in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study findings

BACKGROUND

Mpox (monkeypox) infection has become a global concern for healthcare authorities after spreading in multiple non-endemic countries. Following the sudden multi-country outbreak of Mpox, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency of international concern. We do not have any vaccines approved for the prevention of Mpox infection. Therefore, international healthcare authorities endorsed smallpox vaccines for the prevention of Mpox disease. Here we intended to perform this cross-sectional study among the adult males in Bangladesh to assess the Mpox vaccine perception and vaccination intention.

METHODS

We conducted this web-based survey among the adult males in Bangladesh from September 1, 2022, to November 30, 2022, using Google Forms. We assessed the Mpox vaccine perception and vaccination intention. We performed a chi-square test to compare vaccine perception and vaccination intention levels. Also, we performed multiple logistic regression analyses to determine the association between the study parameters and the sociodemographic profile of the participants.

RESULTS

According to the present study, the Mpox vaccine perception was high among 60.54% of the respondents. Also, 60.05% of respondents showed medium vaccination intention. Mpox vaccine perception and vaccination intention were strongly associated with the sociodemographic profiles of the participants. Furthermore, we discovered a significant association between the level of education and vaccination intention among the respondents. Also, age and marital status played a role in the Mpox vaccine perception and vaccination intention.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed a significant association between sociodemographic characteristics and the Mpox vaccine perception/vaccination intention. Along with the country's long experience in mass immunization, campaigns about Covid-19 vaccines and high vaccination rates might play a role in Mpox vaccine perception and vaccination intention. We recommend more social awareness and educational communications or seminars for the target population to bring more positive changes in their attitude towards Mpox prevention.

Risk evaluation and mitigation strategies for newly detected SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BF.7 subvariant: A brief report

Mutations of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are always going on. The pathogenic characteristics of a virus are influenced by mutations in the viral genome. Therefore, the recently identified Omicron BF.7 subvariant might harm humans. Here we aimed to evaluate the potential risks of this newly detected variant and identify possible mitigation strategies. The frequent mutation associated with SARS-CoV-2 makes it more concerning compared to other viruses. The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 has unique changes in the structural amino acid. Thus, Omicron subvariants are different from other coronavirus variants in terms of viral spread, disease severity, vaccine neutralization capacity, and immunity evade. Moreover, Omicron subvariant BF.7 is an offspring of BA.4 and BA.5. Similar S glycoprotein sequences are present among BF.7, BA.4, and BA.5. There is a change in the R346T gene in the receptor binding site of Omicron BF.7 than other Omicron subvariants. This BF.7 subvariant has created a limitation in current monoclonal antibody therapy. Omicron has mutated since it emerged, and the subvariants are improving in terms of transmission as well as antibody evasion. Therefore, the healthcare authorities should pay attention to the BF.7 subvariant of Omicron. The recent upsurge may create havoc all of a sudden. Scientists and researchers across the world should monitor the nature and mutations of SARS-CoV-2 variants. Also, they should find ways to fight the current circulatory variants and any future mutations.

Internet addiction and loneliness among school-going adolescents in Bangladesh in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a cross-sectional study

Internet addiction (IA) by children and adolescents is a concern for parents. The intensity of this problem has increased in the context of COVID-19 pandemic across the world. Here we aimed to evaluate internet usage patterns, addiction to internet use, and mental health among Bangladeshi school-going adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted this cross-sectional study among 502 school-going adolescents. Pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect information related to demographics and the internet usage pattern. We assessed the prevalence of IA and loneliness using the internet addiction test (IAT) scale and UCLA-3 loneliness scale. The prevalence of IA and loneliness among Bangladeshi school-going adolescents were 88.25% and 72.51%, respectively. Individuals with English-medium education, higher classes, high economic status, mobile internet connection, online gaming habits, and living without family showed significantly higher levels of IA. Moreover, a high proportion of loneliness was observed among individuals with high financial conditions, mobile internet connection, and who watch movies on the internet. The present study findings suggest a strong association between demographics, internet usage patterns, IA, and the mental health of adolescents. These results would have practical inferences in clinical psychology, psychotherapy, and related fields. Based on this finding, the healthcare authorities and professionals can develop an inclusive interventional approach for adolescents who suffer from IA and mental health disorders.

Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies for Potential Outbreaks of Adenovirus Infection: Evidence From the Recent Incidences in West Bengal, India

Recent outbreaks of highly virulent and pathogenic viruses such as COVID-19, monkeypox, and Nipah virus have prompted global concerns. Another threat has emerged in West Bengal, India, in the form of Human Adenovirus (HAdV), particularly affecting children and immunocompromised individuals. The DNA virus HAdV can cause respiratory, liver, renal, and neurological issues. Politically unstable areas with military and medical camps and refugee communities are at risk because they spread in densely populated areas. Due to its rapid mutation and dissemination, the virus represents a global threat. Although scientists have developed vaccines for specific serotypes of HAdV, their primary application is limited to military contexts. Antiviral and immunotherapy research is continuing, but treatment choices are limited. Public awareness programs and hygiene measures are essential to preventing a global pandemic. Governments should invest in healthcare infrastructure and diagnostics, and researchers should focus on developing vaccines and therapies. The West Bengal outbreak is a clear reminder that governments, healthcare professionals, and researchers must work together to control and prevent HAdV. To effectively comprehend and address this rising viral threat, it is imperative to engage in further research and documentation.

Problematic internet use and depressive symptoms among the school-going adolescents in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study findings

Background and Aims

Problematic internet use (PIU) by children and adolescents is a concern for many parents. Several factors, including students' education level, the method of instruction, the dependence on the internet, and their intended use of the internet, could all be contributing factors to PIU and depression. Disturbed mental health may be attributed to the cancellation of physical education classes because of the COVID-19 outbreak. This study aimed to assess the association of COVID-19 pandemic with PIU and depressive symptoms in adolescent students.

Methods

We performed this cross-sectional study among 491 school-going adolescents of 10 to 16 years. Self-administered questionnaires were applied to collect sociodemographic information and the internet usage pattern of the participants. We measured the prevalence of PIU and depressive symptoms using the PIU questionnaire (PIUQ-SF-6) and patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).

Results

The estimations of the risk group for PIU and depressive symptoms among school-going adolescents were 80.04% and 77.80%, respectively. The latent profiling of PIU scores for obsession, neglect, and control sub-groups were 5.82, 6.12, and 6.35, respectively. Moreover, we observed mild, moderate, and severe depressive symptoms in 48.68%, 27.70%, and 1.43% of cases. Age, education level, medium of education, financial impression, internet connection, the device used, the purpose for internet use, and the living status of respondents were significantly associated with the PIU. Reported mental health issues was associated with education level, medium of education, financial impression, and internet connection.

Conclusion

The present study revealed an association of PIU and depressive symptoms with sociodemographic factors and internet usage patterns. Therefore, these results might have practical implications in clinical psychology, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. The healthcare professional can develop a context-specific comprehensive clinical intervention plan for children and adolescents.

Burden of COVID‐19 on health and wellbeing, education, and economy of Bangladesh

The long‐term impact of this pandemic will continue in almost all sectors of a country such as health, economic situations, education, mental health, and violence. Therefore, the authors intended to discuss the prolonged effect of COVID‐19 on the health along with wellbeing, education, and economy of Bangladesh through a mixed approach. To assess the possible scenario in health sector of Bangladesh, we conducted a short survey through online with a structured questionnaire. The impact of the pandemic is highlighted by graphical presentations and discussed the issues in light of the existing literature. It is realized that health care services and resources are always essential for predominant health conditions and fatal diseases patients. Mental health has also been impacted a lot during this pandemic. Moreover, students of only those schools located in urban areas are attended some online classes but due to the internet interruption and scarcity of devices students from rural areas cannot attend the classes and it will widen the gap between pupils from urban areas and those who live in remote rural areas. Additionally, many students terminate school. The country's youth unemployment is projected to intensify as a result of the economic effects, which would promote antisocial behavior and cause social discontent among young people. Also, the flow of remittances greatly declined in the last couple of months and a many people were jobless abroad, and the majority of them were sent back home. The demographic dividend's intended results are expected to be negatively impacted by COVID‐19's overall effect as well as sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Bangladesh. Therefore, many social services systems need strategic backup resources at community, national, and global levels if any basic system may collapse due to COVID‐19 and socio‐economic as well as geopolitical negligence in handling post‐pandemic challenges.

Lifestyle-related risk factors correlated with mental health problems: A longitudinal observational study among 686 male college students in Chongqing, China

Aim

Public concerns over the mental health problems of college students are rising. Previous research show that female tend to suffer more from mental health problems than males, with few studies focusing on males. This study sought to explore the association of lifestyle-related risk factors with the prevalence of mental health problems among male college students in China.

Methods

The lifestyle information and mental health status of 686 male college students from Chongqing, China, were assessed in 2014, and 582 of them were followed up a year later. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing demographic and lifestyle factors which include sleep quality, computer usage, sedentariness, physical activity, smoking, current alcohol, coke, coffee, and milk tea drinking, and current tea/fried food/baked food consumption. Mental health problems were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21).

Results

Univariate analyses indicated that age, sleep latency, sleep duration, computer usage time, milk tea drinking, and fried food consumption were potential risk factors for mental health problems (p's < 0.05). Multivariate analysis further revealed that, either at baseline or during follow-up, participants with (i) more computer usage time were at a higher risk of having depression symptoms (p's < 0.05) and (ii) a higher frequency of fried food consumption were associated with a higher risk of having depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms (p's < 0.05). Additionally, the cross-lagged analysis showed that (i) computer usage time in 2014 is positively correlated with depression status (β = 0.106, p < 0.05) but not anxiety (β = 0.047, p > 0.05) and stress (β = 0.019, p > 0.05) status a year later and (ii) fried food consumption in 2014 is positively correlated with depression (β = 0.129, p < 0.01), anxiety (β = 0.168, p < 0.001), and stress (β = 0.113, p < 0.01) status a year later.

Conclusions

Computer usage time and fried food consumption were lifestyle-related risk factors for mental health problems in male college students in Chongqing, China. These results might emphasize further preventive strategies for mental health problems, especially in male college students.

Lifestyles of Palestinians during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

Background: Although the COVID-19 epidemic was linked to movement limitations and a sense of risk among the general public, changes in lifestyle and mental health were not examined among Palestinians. The study aimed to investigate changes in a group of Palestinians' lifestyles and mental health. Methodology: A translated questionnaire about demographics, mental health difficulties, and lifestyle choices was created using Google Forms and distributed over social media and academic platforms. SPSS 21 was used to analyze the data. Results: The participants' mean age was 25 9 years, 67% were women, and 47% were city dwellers. About 82% had a bachelor's degree. Infection with COVID-19 was present in 13% of study group, COVID-19 infection caused the death of a relative in 13% of study group, and commitment to limits was present in 14% of study group. Negative emotions like despair, hopelessness, and worry were extremely common. Despite eating a few fruits and vegetables and drinking a lot of soft beverages, study participants were generally active. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a negative impact on lifestyle and mental well-being.

Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Subvariants: Challenges and Opportunities in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has become the most devastating pandemic of the 21st century since its appearance in December 2019. Like other RNA viruses, continuous mutation is common for coronavirus to create several variants and subvariants. The main reason behind this mutation and evolvement of SARS-CoV-2 was its structural spike (S) glycoprotein. Coronavirus has become a threat to global public health due to its high mutation capability and antibody neutralizing capacity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are 5 major variants of concern (VOC) are Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529). Recently, different Omicron subvariants have gained worldwide dominance, such as BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4, and BA.5. However, there is a discernible drop in this symptomatic sickness globally due to the success of numerous monoclonal antibodies and vaccinations. Here we also discussed the currently dominant Omicron subvariants and the effectiveness of antiviral agents and vaccines. Based on the available data and our knowledge, we can suggest that the global healthcare organizations can decide on the declaration of the end of the pandemic phase of COVID-19 soon; however, the covid-19 will continue.

Prevalence and associated risk factors for mental health problems among female university students during COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study findings from Dhaka, Bangladesh

The COVID-19 pandemic has tremendously affected the physical and mental health of people at all levels worldwide. The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and contributing factors for mental health problems among female university students in the urban area of Bangladesh. We conducted this online cross-sectional study among 451 female university students. Here we assessed the symptomatic prevalence of common mental health problems among the participants. The prevalence rate of loneliness, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among female university students in Bangladesh was 55.88%, 69.18%, and 45.23%, respectively. Also, we noticed that mild, moderate, and severe symptoms of loneliness, generalized anxiety, and depression were 36.90%, 40.48%, and 22.62%; 48.08%, 22.44%, and 29.48%; and 37.31%, 26.87%, and 35.52%; respectively. According to the present study results, marital status, financial condition, education level, and family structure (nuclear/joint) are potential contributing factors to mental health problems among female university students living in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the academic performance and emotional well-being of students in Bangladesh. Also, the closure of university classes for a long time in Bangladesh was responsible for the poor mental health of students. Promoting good mental health has become a vital public health concern during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Female university students residing in urban areas in Bangladesh are more prone to developing mental health problems during any crisis. Therefore, the healthcare authorities of Bangladesh should promote the good mental health of students during and after the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Keeping in touch with students to support them psychologically and mentally during the pandemic is crucial for promoting their good mental health.

Prevalence and associated factors for elevated fear and depressive symptoms among the private service holders in Bangladesh during the Covid‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study

Background and Aims

The ongoing public health emergency has created incredible fear of getting the infection and a terrible psychological burden among all levels. The pandemic has severely affected private job holders' economic status and lifestyle factors in Bangladesh. Here we aimed to assess fear and depressive symptoms among private job holders in Bangladesh during the Covid‐19 pandemic and associated risk factors.

Methods

We conducted this online cross‐sectional survey between January 15, 2021, and March 15, 2021, among 510 private job holders aged above 18 years. We followed the convenience sampling method for data collection. We assessed sociodemographic factors and two psychometric parameters. We applied the Fear of Covid‐19 Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 to assess increased fear and depressive symptoms, respectively. Chi‐square test, independent sample t‐test, and binary logistic regression analysis were performed for data analysis.

Results

The prevalence of increased fear and depressive symptoms were 86.27% and 42.16%, respectively. Factors associated with increased fear among private job holders during COVID‐19 were economic class, obesity, on‐time salary, company's downsizing policy, salary reduction, home office, and transportation facilities. However, depressive symptoms were associated with marital status, education level, residence area, the organizational practice of health safety rules, company performance, on‐time salary, health insurance, downsizing, salary reduction policy, organization type, transportation, and mental health support at work. The present study also noticed some interrelations among the above factors with mental health issues.

Conclusion

Based on the present findings, we recommend actionable items to improve the mental health of private job holders in Bangladesh due to the ongoing pandemic. Authorities can develop mental health support programs and efficient Covid‐19 response systems. The policymakers and regulatory bodies might take some initiatives to promote mental health in the private sector in Bangladesh.

Chinese University Students' Awareness and Acceptance of the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose

The emergence of the mutant virus has exacerbated the COVID-19 epidemic, and vaccines remain an effective and viable means of resistance. As a socially influential young group, university students’ awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine are crucial to achieving herd immunity. This study aimed to assess the awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among Chinese university students and identify possible factors associated with their awareness level and vaccine hesitancy.

Patients and Methods

An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted among Chinese university students between 10 and 28 June 2021. We collected information on the demographic characteristics, awareness and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine, and influencing factors. Sleep disturbances and anxiety disorders were also evaluated. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Among the 721 participants (aged 18 to 23 years) with a female predominance (68.9%), 40.4% of cases exhibited moderate awareness the COVID-19 vaccine, and 87.4% of cases expressed high acceptance of the vaccine. Participants’ awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine was associated with gender, ethnicity, region of residence, grade level, satisfaction with current state of pandemic control, the perceived likelihood of a COVID-19 pandemic rebound, the source number of COVID-19 information, concerns about differences in vaccine manufacturers, acceptance of current state-approved vaccines and insomnia level. Furthermore, age, preferred channels for vaccination and the acceptance of current state-approved vaccines were significantly associated with their acceptance of the vaccine.

Conclusion

This study reflected Chinese university students’ high acceptance, but insufficient awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine, some students have insomnia and anxiety problems. These require the government to take measures such as individualized publicity and education, adding professional psychological counseling courses to improve the university students’ awareness of vaccines and public health events, and comprehensively promote vaccination to cope with the ever-changing situation of the COVID-19 epidemic.

Increased suicidal behaviors among students during COVID-19 lockdowns: A concern of student's mental health in Bangladesh

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an unprecedented natural event on life. The mental health of students has been impacted due to the long-term closure of educational institutions. The suicide rate had been significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous years among Bangladeshi students. Several COVID-19 responses might be responsible for this increased suicidality among students. Therefore, family members should give them mental supports to reduce additional burdens due to the pandemic. The government and non-government organizations can take suicide prevention programs such as awareness campaigns, student counseling, internet-based interventions, etc. Also, the authority should vaccinate students, teachers, and other staff to reopen the academic institutions on an urgent basis.

Characteristics of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) Variant and Emerging Impact on Global Public Health

The discovery of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant has sparked alarm globally because of its rapid rate of infection and trespassing acquired immunity due to vaccination or natural infection. This heavily mutated variant is rapidly spreading around the world. Infected individuals with the Omicron variant may suffer from flu-like symptoms, and infected with the Delta variant frequently report low oxygen levels, high pulse rates, and a loss of smell and taste. Also, the Omicron variant causes asymptomatic or mild disease so far, and not any severe illness as like Delta, and this new variant has a 15% to 80% reduced risk of hospitalization than the Delta variant. Scientists are worried about the possibility of escaping the immunity by the Omicron variants and subvariants among fully vaccinated and recovered COVID-19 patients. Two doses of available vaccines are found to be partially ineffective in protecting this new variant, therefore, the third dose as a booster is recommended to enhance antibody level. Moreover, some antiviral drugs significantly reduce hospitalization or death among mild to severe COVID-19 patients. All authorized antiviral drugs are effective against viral replication for most SARS-CoV-2 variants, and particularly some monoclonal antibodies may not now be effective in treating COVID-19 patients. There is an urgent need to update existing vaccines, develop more effective and newer vaccines as well as additional monoclonal antibodies to counter Omicron. Therefore, along with close monitoring of Omicron characteristics, the present study suggests that health safety guidelines, mass immunization, early diagnosis, and search for effective antiviral drugs should be the approaches to fight against newer SARS-CoV-2 variants.

New Coronavirus Variants are Creating More Challenges to Global Healthcare System: A Brief Report on the Current Knowledge

The coronavirus is naturally mutating over time and producing new variants. Some of them are more contagious and destructive than previous strains. Also, some variants are capable of therapeutic escaping. Earlier SARS-CoV-2 variants proved that some are supercritical, and newly mutated strains are creating new challenges to the global healthcare systems. Here we aimed to evaluate different coronavirus variants and associated challenges for healthcare systems. We searched for information online and on the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. We found the wild-type virus is more sensitive for neutralization and more controllable than newer variants. The Delta and Omicron variants are more highly transmissible than Alpha, Beta, and Gamma variants. Also, few strains are resistant to neutralization. Therefore, there is a chance of reinfection among the vaccinated population. The transmissibility and resistance of the recently identified Omicron variant is still unclear. The Delta variant is the most dangerous among all variants due to its high transmissibility, disease severity, and mortality rate. For poor and developing countries, oxygen supply, medication, vaccination, and device supply are challenging during epidemic waves. Slowing down the transmission, mass vaccination, vaccine redesign, re-compiling action plans, and following safety guidelines can be effective solutions to the new challenges.

New Coronavirus Variants are Creating More Challenges to Global Healthcare System: A Brief Report on the Current Knowledge

The coronavirus is naturally mutating over time and producing new variants. Some of them are more contagious and destructive than previous strains. Also, some variants are capable of therapeutic escaping. Earlier SARS-CoV-2 variants proved that some are supercritical, and newly mutated strains are creating new challenges to the global healthcare systems. Here we aimed to evaluate different coronavirus variants and associated challenges for healthcare systems. We searched for information online and on the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. We found the wild-type virus is more sensitive for neutralization and more controllable than newer variants. The Delta and Omicron variants are more highly transmissible than Alpha, Beta, and Gamma variants. Also, few strains are resistant to neutralization. Therefore, there is a chance of reinfection among the vaccinated population. The transmissibility and resistance of the recently identified Omicron variant is still unclear. The Delta variant is the most dangerous among all variants due to its high transmissibility, disease severity, and mortality rate. For poor and developing countries, oxygen supply, medication, vaccination, and device supply are challenging during epidemic waves. Slowing down the transmission, mass vaccination, vaccine redesign, re-compiling action plans, and following safety guidelines can be effective solutions to the new challenges.

Indiscriminate Use of Antibiotics for COVID-19 Treatment in South Asian Countries is a Threat for Future Pandemics Due to Antibiotic Resistance

The COVID-19 pandemic has put enormous strain on the global public health and healthcare systems. Here we aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of indiscriminate use of antibiotics for COVID-19 treatment in south Asian countries. We observed the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in south Asian countries and other similar parts of the world. Along with vaccines, people in poor and developing countries have been taking antibiotics and some other medications without proper jurisdiction during the waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. We all know that COVID-19 is a viral disease, and only a few patients might have bacterial co-infections. Therefore, the role of antibiotics is ambiguous in most COVID-19 cases. Consequently, the overuse of antibiotics would cause antimicrobial resistance that has the potential to become a 2-edged sword after the COVID-19 pandemic era. Our findings emphasize the judicious use of antibiotics in COVID-19 therapy, especially in poor and developing countries across the globe.

The Upsurge of Diarrhea Amid COVID-19 Pandemic Makes Matter Worse in Bangladesh: A Call to Action

We have seen an alarming increase in diarrhea prevalence amid Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) in Bangladesh. Healthcare professionals might face difficulty in diagnosis as these two infectious diseases have some common symptoms. Though there are confirmatory diagnostic tests for individual cases, there are chances of misdiagnosis as co-infections occur. Here we presented distinct clinical features of diarrhea and COVID-19 for differential diagnosis. We demonstrated the common overlapping symptoms of these two infectious diseases to facilitate fast diagnosis of patients. Also, we have discussed possible reasons for this upsurge of diarrheal infections in Bangladesh. Finally, we have made some recommendations based on our findings for managing this upsurge of diarrheal disease during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. The healthcare authorities should take immediate measures before the tremendous twin effects of these two infectious diseases.