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Isah MB, Muhammad Z, Lawan MM, Alkhamis AI, Goni BW, Oakley SS, Marshall K, Hartig R, Raouf ISA, Yoshimatsu T, Chagas AM, Maina MB. Setting up a state-of-the-art laboratory in resource limited settings: A case study of the biomedical science research and training centre in Northeast Nigeria. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:1681-1695. [PMID: 38311832 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
African science has substantial potential, yet it grapples with significant challenges. Here we describe the establishment of the Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC) in Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria, as a case study of a hub fostering on-continent research and describe strategies to overcome current barriers. We detail the steps taken to establish BioRTC, emphasising the critical importance of stakeholder engagement, community involvement, resource optimisation and collaborations. With its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to training African scientists, BioRTC is poised to significantly advance neuroscience research and training in the region. Although we are in the early stages of our journey, our model, emphasizing open access and inclusivity, offers a replicable blueprint for neuroscience research development in similar resource-limited settings, promising to enrich the global neuroscience community. We invite the support and collaboration of those who share our vision and believe in our potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murtala Bindawa Isah
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Umaru Musa Yar'adua University, Katsina, Nigeria
| | - Zaid Muhammad
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Department of Human Physiology, College of Medical Sciences, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
| | - Mohammed Musa Lawan
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Department of Chemistry, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrahman Idris Alkhamis
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Department of Human Physiology, College of Medical Sciences, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
| | - Baba Waru Goni
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
| | - Sebastian Scott Oakley
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Karen Marshall
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Renée Hartig
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Center for Biomedical Imaging and Neuromodulation, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Issa Sabi-Abdoul Raouf
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Maintenance of the Nervous System & Behaviour, Brain Plasticity Unit, CNRS, ESPCI Paris, PSL Research University, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Modélisation de la Cellule, ENS de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Takeshi Yoshimatsu
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - André Maia Chagas
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
| | - Mahmoud Bukar Maina
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
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Haseeb A, Saleem Z, Faidah HS, Saati AA, AlQarni A, Iqbal MS, Alghamdi S, Elrggal ME, AlGethamy M, Radwan RM, Mahrous AJ, Abuhussain SSA, Khayyat SM, Ibrahim K, Godman B, Sheikh A. Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance among Pilgrims with Infectious Diseases during Hajj: Lessons Learnt from COVID-19 Pandemic. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1299. [PMID: 37627718 PMCID: PMC10451798 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hajj pilgrimage is a large mass gathering global event that may facilitate the spread and emergence of various infectious diseases as well as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in a local and global scenario. Planning and preparing for these public health issues is a challenging and complex process for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) health authorities. Despite multiple efforts for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases through longtime funding in education and medical care, the prevalence of infectious disease is still high among Hajj pilgrims. The commonly observed infectious diseases during Hajj include respiratory tract infections (influenza and pneumonia), urinary tract infections and skin infections that may necessitate the use of antimicrobials. Beta-lactams are used as a first-line treatment for hospital acquired infections as well as community acquired infections due to their broad-spectrum activity. However, most of the bacterial isolates such as Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas spp. and E. coli are resistant to beta-lactams. Irrational use of antimicrobials, lack of infection prevention practices and suboptimal healthcare access further exacerbate the risk of spreading AMR among Hajj pilgrims. Enhanced collaboration between countries, sharing of best practices and international cooperation are crucial in addressing AMR threats among pilgrims. Consequently, robust surveillance systems for early detection and monitoring of AMR, collaboration with national as well as international healthcare agencies, effective infection prevention and control measures, public awareness and rational use of antimicrobials via antimicrobial stewardship programs are required to mitigate the risk of AMR and ensure the health and well-being of pilgrims during Hajj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Haseeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Hani Saleh Faidah
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A. Saati
- Department of Community Medicine & Pilgrims Healthcare, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullmoin AlQarni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alnoor Specialist Hospital Makkah, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alghamdi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Clinical Pharmacy, Al Baha University, Al Baha 57911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud E. Elrggal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Manal AlGethamy
- Department of Infection Prevention & Control Program, Alnoor Specialist Hospital Makkah, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rozan Mohammad Radwan
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, Alnoor Specialist Hospital, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Jamal Mahrous
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sarah M. Khayyat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kiran Ibrahim
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2QL, UK
| | - Brian Godman
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Strathclyde University, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aziz Sheikh
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH16 4UX, UK
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Otaigbe II, Elikwu CJ. Drivers of inappropriate antibiotic use in low- and middle-income countries. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2023; 5:dlad062. [PMID: 37265987 PMCID: PMC10230568 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlad062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global security threat that accounts for about 700 000 deaths annually. Studies have shown that antimicrobial resistance could result in a 2% to 3.5% reduction in global Gross Domestic Product by 2050 and a loss of between 60 and 100 trillion US dollars, worth of economic output resulting in significant and widespread human suffering. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) will be worse hit by an unchecked rise of AMR. For example, it is predicted that AMR could kill about 4.1 million people in Africa by 2050 if it is not curbed. Similarly rising rates of AMR will lead to increased treatment costs and an inability to attain universal health coverage, in LMICs with fragile health systems. Sadly, AMR is driven by the inappropriate use of antimicrobials, especially antibiotics. Inappropriate antibiotic use is a pertinent problem in LMICs where regulatory frame works are weak. Inappropriate antibiotic use in LMICs is a multifaceted problem that cuts across clinical and veterinary medicine and agriculture. Therefore, efforts geared at curbing inappropriate antibiotic use in LMICs must identify the factors that drive this problem (i.e. inappropriate antibiotic use) in these countries. A clear knowledge of these factors will guide effective policy and decision making to curb inappropriate antibiotic use and ultimately AMR. The focus of this review is to discuss the factors that drive inappropriate antibiotic use in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles John Elikwu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Clinical Sciences, Benjamin Carson (Snr.) College of Health & Medical Sciences, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
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Kumar V, Yasmeen N, Chaudhary AA, Alawam AS, Al-Zharani M, Suliman Basher N, Harikrishnan S, Goud MD, Pandey A, Lakhawat SS, Sharma PK. Specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators regulate inflammatory macrophages: A paradigm shift from antibiotics to immunotherapy for mitigating COVID-19 pandemic. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1104577. [PMID: 36825200 PMCID: PMC9942001 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1104577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The most severe clinical manifestations of the horrifying COVID-19 disease, that claimed millions of lives during the pandemic time, were Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), Coagulopathies, septic shock leading eventually to death. ARDS was a consequence of Cytokine storm. The viral SARS-COV2infection lead to avalanche of cytokines and eicosanoids causing "cytokine storm" and "eicosanoid storm." Cytokine storm is one of the macrophage-derived inflammatory responses triggered by binding of virus particles to ACE2 receptors of alveolar macrophages, arise mainly due to over production of various pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines, e.g., interleukin (IL)-1, IL-2, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α, causing pulmonary edema, acute respiratory distress, and multi-organ failure. Cytokine storm was regarded as the predictor of severity of the disease and was deemed one of the causes of the high mortality rates due to the COVID-19. The basis of cytokine storm is imbalanced switching between an inflammation increasing - pro-inflammatory (M1) and an inflammation regulating-anti-inflammatory (M2) forms of alveolar macrophages which further deteriorates if opportunistic secondary bacterial infections prevail in the lungs. Lack of sufficient knowledge regarding the virus and its influence on co-morbidities, clinical treatment of the diseases included exorbitant use of antibiotics to mitigate secondary bacterial infections, which led to the unwarranted development of multidrug resistance (MDR) among the population across the globe. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) needs to be addressed from various perspectives as it may deprive future generations of the basic health immunity. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are generated from the stereoselective enzymatic conversions of essential fatty acids that serve as immune resolvents in controlling acute inflammatory responses. SPMs facilitate the clearance of injured tissue and cell debris, the removal of pathogens, and augment the concentration of anti-inflammatory lipid mediators. The SPMs, e.g., lipoxins, protectins, and resolvins have been implicated in exerting inhibitory influence on with cytokine storm. Experimental evidence suggests that SPMS lower antibiotic requirement. Therefore, in this review potential roles of SPMs in enhancing macrophage polarization, triggering immunological functions, hastening inflammation resolution, subsiding cytokine storm and decreasing antibiotic requirement that can reduce AMR load are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Kumar
- Amity institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India,*Correspondence: Vikram Kumar,
| | - Nusrath Yasmeen
- Amity institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S. Alawam
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Zharani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nosiba Suliman Basher
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - S. Harikrishnan
- Amity institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Aishwarya Pandey
- INRS, Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada
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Kimathi G, Kiarie J, Njarambah L, Onditi J, Ojakaa D. A cross-sectional study of antimicrobial use among self-medicating COVID-19 cases in Nyeri County, Kenya. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2022; 11:111. [PMID: 36042483 PMCID: PMC9427085 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-022-01150-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nyeri County in Kenya was among the regions reporting a high number of confirmed cases. This exemplified the increased need of addressing potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and self-medication during disease outbreaks. This study examined the extent of self-medication with antimicrobials among COVID-19 confirmed cases in the County.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey using phone-based interviews was conducted in August 2021 among a sample of 280 out of 2317 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the County using a pre-coded questionnaire. Descriptive analyses of frequencies and causal logistic regression were conducted using STATA version 13.
Results
A total of 193 (68.9%) of the respondents indicated developing COVID-19 related symptoms-mainly cough (41.5%), headache (38.3%), and fatigue (34.7%). Over one-fifth (23.4%) of the respondents had self-medicated with antibiotics, 60.6% of whom did so at the onset of symptoms before the confirmatory test, and 51.5% self-medicating more than once. Common antibiotics used were Azithromycin (40.0%) and Amoxycilline (23.3%), with a considerable 21.7% having difficulty remembering the name of the drugs. Only half (50.4%) of the respondents (128/254) were aware of regulations towards self-medication with antibiotics. Age was the only socio-demographic variable significantly related to reduced self-medication, with older persons less likely to self-medicate. On the other hand, developing COVID-19 symptoms, awareness of COVID regulations, and appreciation of the need for self-medication awareness were related to increased self-medication.
Conclusion
Being older, developing COVID-19 symptoms, and appreciating self-medication awareness have influential effects on the use of antimicrobials. Public health interventions should be timely during infectious disease outbreaks to prevent undesirable health-seeking behavior such as irrational antimicrobial use. AMR policies should enhance awareness of the risks of self-medication and address barriers that deter people from timely access of health services during disease outbreaks. Further research should be conducted on the self-medication and AMR nexus, especially during health emergencies.
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Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antiviral Drug Effectiveness in COVID-19 Therapy: A Data-Driven Retrospective Approach. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2022; 29:92-105. [PMID: 35366292 PMCID: PMC8955219 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology29010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical manifestations associated with COVID-19 disease is mainly due to a dysregulated host response related to the overexpression of inflammatory markers. Until recently, only remdesivir had gained FDA approval for COVID-19 hospitalized patients and there are currently no evidence-based therapeutic options or options for prevention of complications that have been established. Some medical treatments such as antivirals, antibacterials, antithrombotics, antipyretics, corticosteroids, interleukin inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, convalescent plasma, immunostimulants, and vitamin supplements have been utilized. However, there are limited data to support their effectiveness. Hence, this study was attempted to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of antibacterials and antivirals used for COVID-19 using a retrospective cross-sectional approach based on the medical records of adult patients in four hospitals. The number of antibacterials was calculated in defined daily dose (DDD) per 100 bed-days unit. Both mixed-logit regression and analysis of covariance were used to determine the effectiveness of the aforementioned agents in relation to COVID-19 outcome and patients’ length of stay. The model was weighed accordingly and covariates (e.g., age) were considered in the model. Heart disease was found to be the most common pre-existing condition of COVID-19 hospitalized patients in this study. Azithromycin, an antibacterial in the Watch category list, was used extensively (33–65 DDD per 100 bed-days). Oseltamivir, an antiviral approved by the FDA for influenza was the most prescribed antiviral. In addition, favipiravir was found to be a significant factor in improving patients’ COVID-19 outcomes and decreasing their length of stay. This study strongly suggests that COVID-19 patients’ received polypharmacy for their treatment. However, most of the drugs used did not reach statistical significance in improving the patients’ condition or decreasing the length of stay. Further studies to support drug use are needed.
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Gutema G, Homa G. Cropping Up Crisis at the Nexus Between COVID-19 and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Africa: A Scoping Review and Synthesis of Early Evidence. Cureus 2022; 14:e21035. [PMID: 35155003 PMCID: PMC8820498 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aim to synthesize some evidence on the impacts that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is having on the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Africa since it was declared a global pandemic by the WHO in March 2020. A scoping review was undertaken by collecting and curating relevant resources from peer-reviewed articles and also from the gray literature. Mixed approaches of extracting data (qualitative and quantitative) were employed in synthesizing evidence, as suggested by the Health Evidence Network. A model constructed based on the synthesis of early evidence available on the effects of factors linked to COVID-19 in impacting the evolution of AMR in Africa predicted that, in cumulative terms, those factors favoring the evolution of AMR outpace those disfavoring it by no less than three folds. COVID-19 is likely fueling the evolution of AMR almost unhindered in Africa. Due to the recognition of this crisis, concerted efforts for resource mobilization and global cooperation are needed to tackle it.
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Wertheim HFL, Huong VTL, Kuijper EJ. Clinical microbiology laboratories in low-resource settings, it is not only about equipment and reagents, but also good governance for sustainability. Clin Microbiol Infect 2021; 27:1389-1390. [PMID: 34332110 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2021.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heiman F L Wertheim
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud UMC and Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Vu Thi Lan Huong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Dong Da, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Ed J Kuijper
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Experimental Bacteriology, Leiden University Medical Center and RIVM, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Panchal D, Prakash O, Bobde P, Pal S. SARS-CoV-2: sewage surveillance as an early warning system and challenges in developing countries. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:22221-22240. [PMID: 33733417 PMCID: PMC7968922 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13170-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Transmission of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in humans happens either through airway exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected patient or by touching the virus contaminated surface or objects (fomites). Presence of SARS-CoV-2 in human feces and its passage to sewage system is an emerging concern for public health. Pieces of evidence of the occurrence of viral RNA in feces and municipal wastewater (sewage) systems have not only warned reinforcing the treatment facilities but also suggest that these systems can be monitored to get epidemiological data for checking trend of COVID-19 infection in the community. This review summarizes the occurrence and persistence of novel coronavirus in sewage with an emphasis on the possible water environment contamination. Monitoring of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) via sewage-based epidemiology could deliver promising information regarding rate of infection providing a valid and complementary tool for tracking and diagnosing COVID-19 across communities. Tracking the sewage systems could act as an early warning tool for alerting the public health authorities for necessary actions. Given the impracticality of testing every citizen with limited diagnostic resources, it is imperative that sewage-based epidemiology can be tested as an early warning system. The need for the development of robust sampling strategies and subsequent detection methodologies and challenges for developing countries are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Panchal
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- Wastewater Technology Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, 440020, India
| | - Om Prakash
- Wastewater Technology Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, 440020, India
| | - Prakash Bobde
- Wastewater Technology Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, 440020, India
- Department of Research & Development, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India
| | - Sukdeb Pal
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
- Wastewater Technology Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, 440020, India.
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Alsaadi A, Beamud B, Easwaran M, Abdelrahman F, El-Shibiny A, Alghoribi MF, Domingo-Calap P. Learning From Mistakes: The Role of Phages in Pandemics. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:653107. [PMID: 33815346 PMCID: PMC8010138 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.653107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The misuse of antibiotics is leading to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, and in the absence of available treatments, this has become a major global threat. In the middle of the recent severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, which has challenged the whole world, the emergence of MDR bacteria is increasing due to prophylactic administration of antibiotics to intensive care unit patients to prevent secondary bacterial infections. This is just an example underscoring the need to seek alternative treatments against MDR bacteria. To this end, phage therapy has been proposed as a promising tool. However, further research in the field is mandatory to assure safety protocols and to develop appropriate regulations for its use in clinics. This requires investing more in such non-conventional or alternative therapeutic approaches, to develop new treatment regimens capable of reducing the emergence of MDR and preventing future global public health concerns that could lead to incalculable human and economic losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlam Alsaadi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Beatriz Beamud
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, I2SysBio, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
- FISABIO-Salud Pública, Generalitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maheswaran Easwaran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sethu Institute of Technology, Rajapalayam, India
| | - Fatma Abdelrahman
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Biomedical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman El-Shibiny
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Biomedical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Majed F. Alghoribi
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pilar Domingo-Calap
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, I2SysBio, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Paterna, Spain
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Goel N, Ahmad R, Fatima H, Khare SK. New threatening of SARS-CoV-2 coinfection and strategies to fight the current pandemic. MEDICINE IN DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 10:100089. [PMID: 33748740 PMCID: PMC7963520 DOI: 10.1016/j.medidd.2021.100089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a global pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has overloaded healthcare systems that need medication to be rapidly established, at least to minimize the incidence of COVID-19. The coinfection with other microorganisms has drastically affected human health. Due to the utmost necessity to treat the patient infected with COVID-19 earliest, poor diagnosis and misuse of antibiotics may lead the world where no more drugs are available even to treat mild infections. Besides, sanitizers and disinfectants used to help minimize widespread coronavirus infection risk also contribute to an increased risk of antimicrobial resistance. To ease the situation, zinc supplements' potentiality has been explored and found to be an effective element to boost the immune system. Zinc also prevents the entry of the virus by increasing the ciliary beat frequency. Furthermore, the limitations of current antiviral agents such as a narrow range and low bioavailability can be resolved using nanomaterials, which are considered an important therapeutic alternative for the next generation. Thus, the development of new antiviral nanoagents will significantly help tackle many potential challenges and knowledge gaps. This review paper provides profound insight into how COVID-19 and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are interrelated and the possible implications and current strategies to fight the ongoing pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikky Goel
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Razi Ahmad
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Huma Fatima
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Sunil Kumar Khare
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
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12
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Rusic D, Vilovic M, Bukic J, Leskur D, Seselja Perisin A, Kumric M, Martinovic D, Petric A, Modun D, Bozic J. Implications of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance: Adjusting the Response to Future Outbreaks. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030220. [PMID: 33801799 PMCID: PMC8000815 DOI: 10.3390/life11030220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The net effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the response to it on the emergence of antimicrobial resistance is yet unknown. Positive impacts on the spread of multiresistant pathogens and infections in general may be observed with the implementation of general preventative measures for the spread of infectious disease such as social distancing, reduced travel and increased personal hygiene. This pandemic has accelerated the development of novel technologies, such as mRNA vaccines, that may be used to fight other diseases. These should be capitalized upon to manage the ongoing antimicrobial resistance pandemic in the background. However, it is likely that the COVID-19 pandemic is fueling the emergence of antimicrobial resistance due to high rates of inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing, the high use of biocides and the interruption of treatment for other conditions. Clinical uncertainty driven by the lack of effective diagnostics and practice of telemedicine may have driven the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. As pathogens know no borders, increased focus is needed for infectious diseases still threatening low- and middle-income countries such as tuberculosis. Stewardship measures for future outbreaks should stress the importance of social distancing and hand washing but discourage the overuse of disinfectants and antimicrobials that are not proven effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Rusic
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Marino Vilovic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (M.V.); (M.K.); (D.M.)
| | - Josipa Bukic
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Dario Leskur
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Ana Seselja Perisin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Marko Kumric
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (M.V.); (M.K.); (D.M.)
| | - Dinko Martinovic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (M.V.); (M.K.); (D.M.)
| | - Ana Petric
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
- Split-Dalmatia County Pharmacy, Kneza Ljudevita Posavskog 12 b, 21 000 Split, Croatia
| | - Darko Modun
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (D.R.); (J.B.); (D.L.); (A.S.P.); (A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Josko Bozic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21 000 Split, Croatia; (M.V.); (M.K.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Knight GM, Glover RE, McQuaid CF, Olaru ID, Gallandat K, Leclerc QJ, Fuller NM, Willcocks SJ, Hasan R, van Kleef E, Chandler CIR. Antimicrobial resistance and COVID-19: Intersections and implications. eLife 2021; 10:e64139. [PMID: 33588991 PMCID: PMC7886324 DOI: 10.7554/elife.64139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Before the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was among the top priorities for global public health. Already a complex challenge, AMR now needs to be addressed in a changing healthcare landscape. Here, we analyse how changes due to COVID-19 in terms of antimicrobial usage, infection prevention, and health systems affect the emergence, transmission, and burden of AMR. Increased hand hygiene, decreased international travel, and decreased elective hospital procedures may reduce AMR pathogen selection and spread in the short term. However, the opposite effects may be seen if antibiotics are more widely used as standard healthcare pathways break down. Over 6 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the dynamics of AMR remain uncertain. We call for the AMR community to keep a global perspective while designing finely tuned surveillance and research to continue to improve our preparedness and response to these intersecting public health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenan M Knight
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CMMID), LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Public Health, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- TB Centre, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Rebecca E Glover
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - C Finn McQuaid
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CMMID), LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Public Health, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- TB Centre, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Ioana D Olaru
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- Biomedical Research and Training InstituteZambezi RiverZimbabwe
| | - Karin Gallandat
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Quentin J Leclerc
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CMMID), LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Public Health, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Naomi M Fuller
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CMMID), LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Public Health, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sam J Willcocks
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Rumina Hasan
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Esther van Kleef
- Department of Public Heath, Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Clare IR Chandler
- AMR Centre, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)LondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, LSHTMLondonUnited Kingdom
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Affiliation(s)
- Iruka N Okeke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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