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Suryapranata FS, Overbosch FW, Matser A, Grobusch MP, McCall MB, van Rijckevorsel GG, Prins M, Sonder GJ. Malaria in long-term travelers: Infection risks and adherence to preventive measures – A prospective cohort study. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 49:102406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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2
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Fernando SD, Ranaweera D, Weerasena MS, Booso R, Wickramasekara T, Madurapperuma CP, Danansuriya M, Rodrigo C, Herath H. Success of malaria chemoprophylaxis for outbound civil and military travellers in prevention of reintroduction of malaria in Sri Lanka. Int Health 2021; 12:332-338. [PMID: 31927579 PMCID: PMC7322204 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihz094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sri Lanka was certified as malaria-free in September 2016. However, the continuous presence of the malaria vector poses serious risks of reintroduction of the disease. Chemoprophylaxis and advice on malaria preventive behaviour for international travellers is a key strategy adopted to reduce the risk of imported malaria. METHODS We conducted an efficiency study of malaria chemoprophylaxis for civilian and military travellers who requested travel advice from the Anti Malaria Campaign (AMC) prior to departure. The AMC is the only agency that can issue malaria chemoprophylaxis to travellers and hence this sample is representative of all such individuals seeking travel advice in Sri Lanka. RESULTS A total of 544 (400 civilians and 144 military) travellers were interviewed prior to departure and after return. The majority travelled to African destinations (516/544 [94.8%]) and were prescribed mefloquine (517/544 [95%]). Chemoprophylaxis was well tolerated and discontinuation due to adverse events was minimal. Regular chemoprophylaxis was reported by 505 (92.8%) participants while overseas. The protective efficacy of chemoprophylaxis was 100% among those who complied with the full course. CONCLUSIONS The compliance with chemoprophylaxis and its protective efficacy were satisfactory in this study. It is an effective tool in preventing imported malaria to post-elimination Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumadhya D Fernando
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, PO Box 271, Kynsey Road, Colombo C0008, Sri Lanka
| | - Dewanee Ranaweera
- Anti Malaria Campaign, Ministry of Health, 555/5 Public Health Complex, Narahenpita, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Methnie S Weerasena
- Anti Malaria Campaign, Ministry of Health, 555/5 Public Health Complex, Narahenpita, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Rahuman Booso
- Directorate of Health Services, Sri Lanka Air Force Head Quarters, C0002, Sri Lanka
| | - Thamara Wickramasekara
- Director Preventive Medicine and Mental Health Services, Army Head Quarters C0004, Sri Lanka
| | - Chirath P Madurapperuma
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, PO Box 271, Kynsey Road, Colombo C0008, Sri Lanka
| | - Manjula Danansuriya
- Anti Malaria Campaign, Ministry of Health, 555/5 Public Health Complex, Narahenpita, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Chaturaka Rodrigo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Hemantha Herath
- Anti Malaria Campaign, Ministry of Health, 555/5 Public Health Complex, Narahenpita, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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3
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Buguet A, Gati Ouonkoye R, Bogui P, Cespuglio R. Geoclimatology and sleep in Africa: A mini-review. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2019; 175:581-592. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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4
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Kain D, Findlater A, Lightfoot D, Maxim T, Kraemer MUG, Brady OJ, Watts A, Khan K, Bogoch II. Factors Affecting Pre-Travel Health Seeking Behaviour and Adherence to Pre-Travel Health Advice: A Systematic Review. J Travel Med 2019; 26:5549355. [PMID: 31407776 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have seen unprecedented growth in international travel. Travellers are at high risk for acquiring infections while abroad and potentially bringing these infections back to their home country. There are many ways to mitigate this risk by seeking pre-travel advice (PTA), including receiving recommended vaccinations and chemoprophylaxis, however many travellers do not seek or adhere to PTA. We conducted a systematic review to further understand PTA-seeking behaviour with an ultimate aim to implement interventions that improve adherence to PTA and reduce morbidity and mortality in travellers. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of published medical literature selecting studies that examined reasons for not seeking PTA and non-adherence to PTA over the last ten years. 4484 articles were screened of which 56 studies met our search criteria after full text review. RESULTS The major reason for not seeking or non-adherence to PTA was perceived low risk of infection while travelling. Side effects played a significant role for lack of adherence specific to malaria prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS These data may help clinicians and public health providers to better understand reasons for non-adherence to PTA and target interventions to improve travellers understanding of potential and modifiable risks. Additionally, we discuss specific recommendations to increase public health education that may enable travellers to seek PTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Kain
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aidan Findlater
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Timea Maxim
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Oliver J Brady
- Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alexander Watts
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kamran Khan
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Isaac I Bogoch
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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5
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Thellier M, Simard F, Musset L, Cot M, Velut G, Kendjo E, Pradines B. Changes in malaria epidemiology in France and worldwide, 2000-2015. Med Mal Infect 2019; 50:99-112. [PMID: 31257063 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In 2015, 212 million new cases of malaria were reported, causing 429,000 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated a 41% decrease in the number of new cases worldwide between 2000 and 2015. The number of deaths from malaria fell by 62% worldwide and by 71% in Africa. In mainland France, malaria is mainly imported by travelers or migrants from endemic areas, in particular sub-Saharan Africa (95%). In France, the number of imported malaria cases, mainly due to Plasmodium falciparum (85%), was estimated at about 82,000 for the period 2000-2015. Over the same period, 6,468 cases of malaria were reported in the French armed forces, of which 2,430 cases (37.6%) were considered as imported because occurring outside of endemic areas. The number of malaria cases also fell between 2000 and 2015 in Mayotte and French Guiana, a malaria transmission zone. Mayotte has entered the elimination of malaria with less than 15 cases per year. In French Guiana, between 300 and 500 cases have been reported annually in recent years. The decline in morbidity and mortality is usually attributed to vector control measures and improved access to effective treatments. However, the Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit the disease have developed resistance against most insecticides. Similarly, malaria parasites have developed resistance against most of the antimalarial drugs used as prevention or treatment, even the latest marketed combinations such as artemisinin-based combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Thellier
- Service de parasitologie-mycologie, Centre national de référence du paludisme, hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 47, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France; UMRS 1136, iPLESP, institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne université, 27, rue Chaligny, 75571 Paris 12, France; UPMC, faculté de médecine, Sorbonne université, université Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, 91, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - F Simard
- MIVEGEC, IRD-CNRS-university Montpellier, 911, avenue Agropolis, BP 64501, 34394 Montpellier, France
| | - L Musset
- Laboratoire de parasitologie, Centre collaborateur OMS pour la surveillance des résistances aux antipaludiques, institut Pasteur de la Guyane, 23, avenue Louis Pasteur, 97300 Cayenne, France; Centre national de référence du paludisme, institut Pasteur de la Guyane, 23, avenue Louis Pasteur, 97300 Cayenne, France
| | - M Cot
- UMR2016, unité Mère et enfant face aux infections tropicales, institut de recherche pour le développement, 4, avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - G Velut
- Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, GSBdD Marseille Aubagne, BP 40026, 13568 Marseille cedex 02, France; Direction interarmées du service de santé des armées, Quartier La Madeleine, 97306 Cayenne, France
| | - E Kendjo
- Service de parasitologie-mycologie, Centre national de référence du paludisme, hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 47, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France; UMRS 1136, iPLESP, institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne université, 27, rue Chaligny, 75571 Paris 12, France; UPMC, faculté de médecine, Sorbonne université, université Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, 91, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - B Pradines
- Unité parasitologie et entomologie, institut de recherche biomédicale des armées, institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Aix Marseille université, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Centre national de référence du paludisme, institut hospitalo-universitaire Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France.
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Rodrigues KMDP, Costa ABFD, Santoro-Lopes G. Adherence to malaria prophylaxis among travelers from a middle-income country. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2019; 52:e20190014. [PMID: 31188918 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0014-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malaria is the main cause of death by infection among travelers and is preventable through a combination of chemoprophylaxis and personal protective measures. METHODS Travelers were interviewed by phone 28-90 days after returning, to assess adherence to pre-travel advice for malaria prevention. RESULTS A total 57 travelers were included. Adherence to chemoprophylaxis was significantly higher among participants prescribed mefloquine (n=18; 75%) than doxycycline (n=14; 45%). Adherence to mosquito repellent and bed net use was 65% and 67%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to malaria prophylaxis was lower than expected. Further studies testing innovative approaches to motivate travelers' compliance are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karis Maria de Pinho Rodrigues
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil.,Centro de informação em Saúde para Viajantes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - André Bon Fernandes da Costa
- Hospital Universitário de Brasília, Centro Universitário de Brasília, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Guilherme Santoro-Lopes
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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Hasler T, Fehr J, Held U, Schlagenhauf P. Use of repellents by travellers: A randomised, quantitative analysis of applied dosage and an evaluation of knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP). Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 28:27-33. [PMID: 30578847 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of arthropod-borne infections hinges on bite prevention. We aimed to investigate travellers' use of repellents. METHODS We measured the amount of applied repellent with a spray containing 30% DEET and 20% Icaridin versus a lotion with 20% Icaridin alone. We calculated the concentration of active ingredient reached on the skin and evaluated formulation acceptability. The travellers completed a questionnaire evaluating Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice (KAP) to anti-vectorial protective measures (AVPM). RESULTS Some 200 volunteers travelling to mosquito borne infection endemic areas were recruited. The mean concentration of active substance achieved on the skin of the left arm was 0.52 mg/cm2 of DEET/Icaridin spray versus 0.21 mg/cm2 of Icaridin lotion. These levels are below the recommended protective dose (1 mg/cm2) for each formulation. Women were significantly more likely to apply a higher, protective dose of repellent. Travellers to Africa, women and older participants showed higher projected adherence to AVPM. CONCLUSIONS Only 2.5% of recruited travellers applied the recommended protective dose of repellent. Women and older travellers are the most adherent users of repellents. The pre-travel health consultation should provide more information on the application quantity and correct use of repellents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hasler
- University of Zurich Centre for Travel Medicine, WHO Collaborating for Travellers' Health, Department of Public Health, Institute for Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention, Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan Fehr
- University of Zurich Centre for Travel Medicine, WHO Collaborating for Travellers' Health, Department of Public Health, Institute for Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention, Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland; Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Held
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute for Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Schlagenhauf
- University of Zurich Centre for Travel Medicine, WHO Collaborating for Travellers' Health, Department of Public Health, Institute for Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention, Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Rodrigues KMDP, Moreira BM. Preventing diseases in round-the-world travelers: a contemporary challenge for travel medicine advice. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2018; 51:125-132. [PMID: 29768543 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0418-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Providing advice for travelers embarking on long-term trips poses a challenge in travel medicine. A long duration of risk exposure is associated with underuse of protective measures and poor adherence to chemoprophylaxis, increasing the chances of acquiring infections. Recently, in our clinic, we observed an increase in the number of travelers undertaking round-the-world trips. These individuals are typically aged around 32 years and quit their jobs to embark on one-to-two-year journeys. Their destinations include countries in two or more continents, invariably Southeast Asia and Indonesia, and mostly involve land travel and visiting rural areas. Such trips involve flexible plans, increasing the challenge, especially with regard to malaria prophylaxis. Advising round-the-world travelers is time-consuming because of the amount of information that must be provided to the traveler. Advisors must develop strategies to commit the traveler to his/her own health, and verify their learnings on disease-prevention measures. Contacting the advisor after the appointment or during the trip can be helpful to clarify unclear instructions or diagnosis made and prescriptions given abroad. Infectious diseases are among the most frequent problems affecting travelers, many of which are preventable by vaccines, medicines, and precautionary measures. The dissemination of counterfeit medicines, particularly antibiotics and antimalarial medicines, emphasizes the need for travelers to carry medicines that they may possibly need on their trip. Additional advice on altitude, scuba diving, and other possible risks may also be given. Considering the difficulties in advising this group, we present a review of the main recommendations on advising these travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karis Maria de Pinho Rodrigues
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Centro de Informação em Saúde para Viajantes (Cives), Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Beatriz Meurer Moreira
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Goés, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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Lalani T, Yun H, Tribble D, Ganesan A, Kunz A, Fairchok M, Schnaubelt E, Fraser J, Mitra I, Kronmann KC, Burgess T, Deiss RG, Riddle MS, Johnson MD. A comparison of compliance rates with anti-vectorial protective measures during travel to regions with dengue or chikungunya activity, and regions endemic for Plasmodium falciparum malaria. J Travel Med 2016; 23:taw043. [PMID: 27378367 PMCID: PMC4939934 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taw043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited information on compliance rates with anti-vectorial protective measures (AVPMs) during travel to countries with risk of dengue and chikungunya. We evaluated differences in mosquito exposures, and factors associated with AVPM compliance in travellers going to countries where the principal mosquito-borne infectious disease threat is falciparum malaria and those where risk of dengue or chikungunya predominates. METHODS Department of Defence beneficiaries with planned travel to regions where the predominant mosquito-borne infection is falciparum malaria, and those with predominantly dengue or chikungunya risk, were included. Regions were divided into three groups: 'high-risk falciparum malaria', 'low-risk falciparum malaria' and 'chikungunya/dengue risk'. Demographics, trip characteristics, arthropod exposure and AVPM compliance were captured using pre- and post-travel surveys. Skin repellent compliance was defined as self-reported use, categorized as 'often/every day'. A logistic regression model was used to estimate factors associated with AVPM compliance. RESULTS 183 (9%), 185 (9%) and 149 (7%) travelled to high and low falciparum malaria risk regions, and chikungunya/dengue risk regions, respectively. Overall, 53% (95% CI: 48-57%) and 16% (95% CI: 12-19%) were compliant with repellent use on skin and clothing, respectively. Daytime bites were reported more frequently in chikungunya/dengue risk regions than high malaria risk regions (37% vs. 10%), while night time bites were frequently in high malaria risk regions (53% vs 20%; P < 0.001). Compliance with skin repellents was associated with female gender [RR: 1.54 (95% CI: 1.05-2.28)], observing mosquitoes during travel [RR: 2.77 (95% CI: 1.76-4.36)] and travel during the rainy season [RR: 2.45 (95% CI: 1.66-3.71)]). CONCLUSIONS Poor AVPM compliance was observed in the overall cohort. Compliance with skin repellent use was associated with female gender, observing mosquitoes and travelling during the rainy season, and was not associated with the risk of malaria or chikungunya/dengue at the travel destination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahaniyat Lalani
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Heather Yun
- San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education, Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Tribble
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anuradha Ganesan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anjali Kunz
- Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, USA
| | - Mary Fairchok
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, USA
| | | | - Jamie Fraser
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Indrani Mitra
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Karl C Kronmann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA, USA
| | - Timothy Burgess
- San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education, Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert G Deiss
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Naval Medical Center of San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Riddle
- Enteric Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Mark D Johnson
- Naval Medical Center of San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.,DoD HIV/AIDS Prevention Program, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA, USA
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Créach MA, Velut G, de Laval F, Briolant S, Aigle L, Marimoutou C, Deparis X, Meynard JB, Pradines B, Simon F, Michel R, Mayet A. Factors associated with malaria chemoprophylaxis compliance among French service members deployed in Central African Republic. Malar J 2016; 15:174. [PMID: 26987358 PMCID: PMC4797250 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-016-1219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria is a public health concern in the French armed forces, with 400-800 cases reported every year and three deaths in the past 2 years. However, lack of chemoprophylaxis (CP) compliance is often reported among service members. The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with CP compliance. METHODS A retrospective study (1296 service members) was carried out among troops deployed in Central African Republic. Determinants of CP were collected by self-questionnaire. Socio-demographic variables, behavioural characteristics, belief variables, operational determinants such as troops in contact (TIC) and number of nights worked per week and peer-to-peer reinforcement were studied. Relationships between covariates and compliance were explored using logistic regressions (outcome: compliance as a dummy variable). RESULTS Chemoprophylaxis compliance was associated with other individual preventive measures against mosquito bites (bed net use, OR (odds ratio) = 1.41 (95% CI [1.08-1.84]), and insecticide on clothing, OR = 1.90 ([1.43-2.51]) and malaria-related behaviours (taking chemoprophylaxis at the same time every day, OR = 2.37 ([1.17-4.78]) and taking chemoprophylaxis with food, OR = 1.45 ([1.11-1.89])). High perceived risk of contracting malaria, OR = 1.59 ([1.02-2.50]), positive perception of CP effectiveness, OR = 1.62 ([1.09-2.40]) and the practice of peer-to-peer reinforcement, OR = 1.38 ([1.05-1.82]) were also associated with better compliance. No association was found with TIC and number of nights worked. CONCLUSIONS This study, which shows a positive relationship between peer-to-peer reinforcement and CP compliance, also suggests the existence of two main personality profiles among service members: those who seek risks and those who are health-conscious. Health education should be expanded beyond knowledge, know-how and motivational factors by using a comprehensive approach based on identification of health determinants, development of psychosocial skills and peer-to-peer reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Aude Créach
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.
| | - Guillaume Velut
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France
| | - Franck de Laval
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,INSERM, UMR912 (SESSTIM), 13006, Marseille, France
| | - Sébastien Briolant
- Inter-Army Health Service Directorate, Cayenne, French Guiana, France.,Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur of French Guiana, Cayenne, French Guiana, France.,Research Unit on Emerging Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Aix Marseille University, UM 63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198, Inserm 1095, Marseille, France
| | - Luc Aigle
- Operation Sangaris, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | - Catherine Marimoutou
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,INSERM, UMR912 (SESSTIM), 13006, Marseille, France
| | - Xavier Deparis
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,INSERM, UMR912 (SESSTIM), 13006, Marseille, France.,Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Meynard
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,INSERM, UMR912 (SESSTIM), 13006, Marseille, France.,Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Pradines
- Research Unit on Emerging Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Aix Marseille University, UM 63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198, Inserm 1095, Marseille, France.,Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny sur Orge, France.,National Reference Centre for Malaria, Marseille, France
| | - Fabrice Simon
- Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny sur Orge, France.,Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Laveran Armed Forces Teaching Hospital, Marseille, France.,Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, Paris, France
| | - Rémy Michel
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Laveran Armed Forces Teaching Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Aurélie Mayet
- French Armed Forces Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health (CESPA), GSBdD, Marseille Aubagne-111, Avenue de la Corse-P 40026, 13568, Marseille cedex 02, France.,INSERM, UMR912 (SESSTIM), 13006, Marseille, France
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11
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Allen KC. Phenomenological analysis of going home in Caribbean-American international travelers. TROPICAL DISEASES TRAVEL MEDICINE AND VACCINES 2015; 1:12. [PMID: 28883943 PMCID: PMC5531102 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-015-0016-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In travel health risk assessments visiting friends and relatives (VFR) travel status is often used as an indicator for high-risk travel behavior. VFR travelers have been associated with increased risk of travel-associated illnesses due to poor adherence to travel guidelines and lack of pre-travel health consultations. For travelers to dengue endemic regions, guidelines include compliance with mosquito avoidance practices (MAP). The goal of this study is to understand the meaning of travel experiences to the home country for immigrant and first generation American VFR travelers in the United States (US). METHODS A phenomenology study was conducted on VFR travelers to identify social and physical environmental factors associated with travel health behaviors, and determine how 'going home' influences compliance with recommendations for dengue prevention. Purposive sampling identified participants for semi-structured interviews on travel behavior with iterative collection and analysis until data reached saturation. RESULTS Interviews revealed five themes that defined the experience of going home: connectedness; control of the experience; two different experiences at home; seeing what home has to offer; and there is no place like home. Moreover, risk perception of health and disease risks in the travel destination influenced travel behavior and compliance with guidelines. CONCLUSIONS VFR travel status does not fully capture the experience of international travel. Behavior was associated with the emergent concept of Cultural Embeddedness when traveling home and to new destinations. More research on improving terminology for travel health risk assessments is needed to improve prevention strategies in VFR travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koya C Allen
- Department of Biostatistics, Environmental Health & Epidemiology, Kent State University College of Public Health, PO Box 5190, Kent, OH 44242 USA.,Present Address: Counter Bio-threats Cell, Force Health Protection, J42 Medical Readiness Division, US European Command Headquarters, US Department of Defense, Stuttgart, Germany
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12
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Lestelle C, Aymeric S, Maakaroun-Vermesse Z, Pouliquen A, Bernard L, Chandenier J, Grammatico-Guillon L. Impact of advice given to travelers concerning the main infectious risks associated with traveling in the tropics. Med Mal Infect 2015; 45:222-8. [PMID: 26026227 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2015.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevention of sanitary risks related to traveling in the tropics implies delivering a large amount of information to travelers. The objective of our study was to assess the knowledge acquired by travelers during a pre-travel consultation. METHODS A before and after study was conducted among 202 travelers having consulted at the Tours international vaccine center. We used self-administrated questionnaires (score out of 100 marks) concerning diet, hygiene, anti-vectorial prevention (AVP), and sexual-transmitted infections (STI). The scores obtained before and after consultation were compared globally and for each topic. RESULTS The travelers' global knowledge had improved after consultation (66.1 vs. 75.5%; P < 0.0001) as well as for each topic. The most important improvement concerned hygiene (+12.5%; P < 0.0001) and the lowest concerned STI (+5.8%; P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis revealed that not having searched for information before consulting was the main factor associated with global knowledge improvement (P < 0.0001) (unplanned professional traveling compared to humanitarian mission prepared ahead of departure time). The recommendations for diet were less well acquired in travelers > 50 years of age than in those < 30 years of age (P < 0.002). CONCLUSION A specialized pre-travel consultation improves the travelers' knowledge for the main prevention measures but does not allow them to acquire all required knowledge. Taking into account the travelers' initial knowledge and their ability to learn could improve the impact of the pre-travel consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lestelle
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France; Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - S Aymeric
- Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France; Service d'information médicale, d'épidémiologie et d'économie de la santé, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France; Équipe émergente 1, éducation éthique santé, université François-Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Z Maakaroun-Vermesse
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France; Service de médecine interne et maladies infectieuses, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - A Pouliquen
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France
| | - L Bernard
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France; Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France; Service de médecine interne et maladies infectieuses, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - J Chandenier
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France; Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France; Service de parasitologie-mycologie-médecine tropicale, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - L Grammatico-Guillon
- Unité de consultation des voyageurs, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours cedex 1, France; Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France; Service d'information médicale, d'épidémiologie et d'économie de la santé, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France; Équipe émergente 1, éducation éthique santé, université François-Rabelais, Tours, France.
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13
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Michel R, Demoncheaux JP, Créach MA, Rapp C, Simon F, Haus-Cheymol R, Migliani R. Prevention of infectious diseases during military deployments: a review of the French armed forces strategy. Travel Med Infect Dis 2014; 12:330-40. [PMID: 25052855 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Military personnel in operations have always paid a high toll to infections. In the 21st century some of these diseases still cause outbreaks with significant morbidity and impact on deployments. The new configuration of the French Armed Forces requires the permanent preparedness of deployable units. During deployments, soldiers are at least exposed to the infectious diseases that are observed in travellers, but with a potentially severe impact for the combatting strengths and a risk for cancelation or failure of the operational durability. The most common disabling infections during military deployments are faeco-oral transmitted diseases including diarrhoea. Preventing infectious diseases during deployments is of great concern and the French medical service has established a strategy based on different components; risk assessment and preparation, immunizations, protective measures and chemoprophylaxis, health education, health surveillance, outbreak investigations and medical tracking. In this review, the authors present the context of deployment of the French Armed Forces, the main health risks they are exposed to and develop the key points of the force health protection strategy, focused on infections related to military deployments.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Michel
- Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, Marseille, France; Ecole du Val-de-Grace, Paris, France.
| | - J P Demoncheaux
- Centre médical des armées de Nîmes-Orange-Laudun, Antenne vétérinaire de Nîmes, France
| | - M A Créach
- Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, Marseille, France
| | - C Rapp
- Hôpital d'instruction des armées Bégin, Saint Mandé, France; Ecole du Val-de-Grace, Paris, France
| | - F Simon
- Ecole du Val-de-Grace, Paris, France; Hôpital d'instruction des armées Laveran, Marseille, France
| | - R Haus-Cheymol
- Direction centrale du Service de santé des armées, Vincennes, France
| | - R Migliani
- Ecole du Val-de-Grace, Paris, France; Direction centrale du Service de santé des armées, Vincennes, France
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Migliani R, Pradines B, Michel R, Aoun O, Dia A, Deparis X, Rapp C. Malaria control strategies in French armed forces. Travel Med Infect Dis 2014; 12:307-17. [PMID: 25069406 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2014.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Revised: 05/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Each year, 40,000 French soldiers deploy or travel through malaria-endemic areas. Despite the effective control measures that were successively implemented, malaria remains a public health concern in French armed forces with several important outbreaks and one lethal case every two years. This article describes the malaria control strategy in French armed forces which is based on three combined strategies: i) Anopheles vector control to prevent infection with the implementation of personal protection against vectors (PPAV) adapted to the field living conditions of the troops. ii) Chemoprophylaxis (CP) to prevent the disease based on prescription of effective and well tolerated doxycycline. iii) Management of cases through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent death. In isolated conditions in endemic areas, rapid diagnosis tests (RDT) are used as first-line tests by military doctors. Treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria is based either on the piperaquine tetraphosphate-dihydroartemisinin association since 2013, or on the atovaquone-proguanil association. First-line treatment of severe P. falciparum malaria is based on IV artesunate. These measures are associated with constant education of the military, epidemiological surveillance of malaria cases and monitoring of parasite chemosensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - B Pradines
- Institut de recherche biomédicale des armées, Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; Aix Marseille Université, Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, UM 63, CNRS 7278, IRD 198, Inserm 1095, Marseille, France
| | - R Michel
- Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, Marseille, France
| | - O Aoun
- Service des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital d'instruction des armées Bégin, Saint-Mandé, France
| | - A Dia
- Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, Marseille, France
| | - X Deparis
- Ecole du Val de Grâce, Paris, France; Centre d'épidémiologie et de santé publique des armées, Marseille, France
| | - C Rapp
- Ecole du Val de Grâce, Paris, France; Service des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôpital d'instruction des armées Bégin, Saint-Mandé, France
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The epidemiology of imported malaria in Taiwan between 2002-2013: the importance of sensitive surveillance and implications for pre-travel medical advice. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:5651-64. [PMID: 24871257 PMCID: PMC4078540 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110605651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the epidemiology of imported malaria in Taiwan between 2002 and 2013. We analyzed the national data recorded by the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC). Malaria cases were diagnosed by blood films, polymerase chain reaction, or rapid diagnostic tests. The risk of re-establishment of malarial transmission in Taiwan was assessed. A total of 229 malaria cases were included in our analysis. All of the cases were imported. One hundred and ninety-two cases (84%) were diagnosed within 13 days of the start of symptoms/signs; 43% of these cases were acquired in Africa and 44% were acquired in Asia. Plasmodium falciparum was responsible for the majority (56%) of these cases. Travel to an endemic area was associated with the acquisition of malaria. The malaria importation rate was 2.36 per 1,000,000 travelers (range 1.20–5.74). The reproductive number under control (Rc) was 0. No endemic transmission of malaria in Taiwan was identified. This study suggests that a vigilant surveillance system, vector-control efforts, case management, and an educational approach focused on travelers and immigrants who visit malaria endemic countries are needed to prevent outbreaks and sustain the elimination of malaria in Taiwan.
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Angelin M, Evengård B, Palmgren H. Travel health advice: Benefits, compliance, and outcome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 46:447-53. [DOI: 10.3109/00365548.2014.896030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Factors affecting the use of anti-malaria preventive measures among Taiwan immigrants returning to malaria-endemic regions. Travel Med Infect Dis 2013; 12:370-7. [PMID: 23932759 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of anti-malaria preventive measures (AMPMs) among Taiwan immigrants returning to their country of origin using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Between March and May 2011, all permanent immigrants originating from malaria-endemic countries, attended by either the Taipei or Tainan Immigrant Service Center, Taiwan, and who reported a history of returning to their country of origin within the preceding year during the malarious season in their country of origin were enrolled in the study. Complete information was collected from 316 immigrants, with a response rate of 87% (316/364). The mean age of the subjects was 38.1 years (SD = 9.9). The majority (70%) of participants did not receive travel information through a pre-travel consultation; more than 40% reported that they did not use measures to prevent insect bites. Multiple regression analyses revealed that Chinese proficiency, travel consultation before travel, lower perceived susceptibility to malaria, higher perceived severity of malaria infection, higher perceived benefit for taking measures, and higher self-efficacy for taking measures significantly predicted the use of AMPMs during the return to their country of origin (R(2) = 0.20; F = 50.42; P < 0.001). A high proportion of immigrants were not using appropriate AMPMs when they returned to their country. Educational approaches should be targeted toward immigrants who return to visit their country of origin.
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Texier G, Machault V, Barragti M, Boutin JP, Rogier C. Environmental determinant of malaria cases among travellers. Malar J 2013; 12:87. [PMID: 23496931 PMCID: PMC3599338 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Approximately 125 million travellers visit malaria-endemic countries annually and about 10,000 cases of malaria are reported after returning home. Due to the fact that malaria is insect vector transmitted, the environment is a key determinant of the spread of infection. Geo-climatic factors (such as temperature, moisture, water quality) determine the presence of Anopheles breeding sites, vector densities, adult mosquito survival rate, longevity and vector capacity. Several studies have shown the association between environmental factors and malaria incidence in autochthonous population. The association between the incidence of clinical malaria cases among non-immune travellers and environmental factors is yet to be evaluated. The objective of the present study was to identify, at a country scale (Ivory Coast), the environmental factors that are associated with clinical malaria among non-immune travellers, opening the way for a remote sensing-based counselling for malaria risk prevention among travellers. Methods The study sample consisted in 87 cohorts, including 4,531 French soldiers who travelled to Ivory Coast, during approximately four months, between September 2002 and December 2006. Their daily locations were recorded during the entire trip. The association between the incidence of clinical malaria and other factors (including individual, collective and environmental factors evaluated by remote sensing methods) was analysed in a random effect mixed Poisson regression model to take into account the sampling design. Results One hundred and forty clinical malaria cases were recorded during 572,363 person-days of survey, corresponding to an incidence density of 7.4 clinical malaria episodes per 1,000 person-months under survey. The risk of clinical malaria was significantly associated with the cumulative time spent in areas with NDVI > 0.35 (RR = 2,42), a mean temperature higher than 27°C (RR = 2,4), a longer period of dryness during the preceding month (RR = 0,275) and the cumulative time spent in urban areas (RR = 0,52). Conclusions The present results suggest that remotely-sensed environmental data could be used as good predictors of the risk of clinical malaria among vulnerable individuals travelling through African endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëtan Texier
- Public Health and Epidemiology Centre of the French Army (CESPA) &SESSTIM UMR912, Allée du Médecin Colonel Jamot, Parc du Pharo, BP60109,13262 Marseille cedex 07, France
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Adherence to chemoprophylaxis and Plasmodium falciparum anti-circumsporozoite seroconversion in a prospective cohort study of Dutch short-term travelers. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56863. [PMID: 23451100 PMCID: PMC3581530 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We conducted a prospective study in a cohort of short-term travelers assessing the incidence rate of anti-circumsporozoite seroconversion, adherence to chemoprophylaxis, symptoms of malaria during travel, and malaria treatment abroad. Methods Adults were recruited from the travel clinic of the Public Health Service Amsterdam. They kept a structured daily travel diary and donated blood samples before and after travel. Blood samples were serologically tested for the presence of Plasmodium falciparum anti-circumsporozoite antibodies. Results Overall, the incidence rate (IR) of anti-circumsporozoite seroconversion was 0.8 per 100 person-months. Of 945 travelers, 620 (66%) visited high-endemic areas and were advised about both chemoprophylaxis and preventive measures against mosquito bites. Most subjects (520/620 = 84%) took at least 75% of recommended prophylaxis during travel. Travel to Africa, use of mefloquine, travel duration of 14–29 days in endemic areas, and concurrent use of DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) were associated with good adherence practices. Four travelers without fever seroconverted, becoming anti-circumsporozoite antibody-positive. All four had been adherent to chemoprophylaxis; two visited Africa, one Suriname, one India. Ten subjects with fever were tested for malaria while abroad and of these, three received treatment. All three were adherent to chemoprophylaxis and tested negative for anti-circumsporozoite antibodies. Conclusion Travel to Africa, using mefloquine, travel duration of 14–29 days in endemic areas, and use of DEET were associated with good adherence to chemoprophylaxis. The combination of chemoprophylaxis and other preventive measures were sufficient to protect seroconverting travelers from clinical malaria. Travelers who were treated for malaria abroad did not seroconvert.
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