Articles tagged with Infectious Disease Transmission
Researchers developed a framework to investigate the bidirectional relationship between masking and disease. They found that without proper enforcement of masking, mass vaccination may not be enough to reduce epidemic size.
Scientists detect a highly resistant strain of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Austria, causing treatment failure with current antibiotics. The discovery highlights the urgent need for enhanced antimicrobial surveillance and development of novel treatments to combat this growing public health concern.
A study in the Netherlands estimates a mean incubation period of monkeypox at 8.5 days, with most cases developing symptoms within 13 days after exposure. The findings support the current 21-day quarantine recommendation for preventing infectious contacts.
A new study published in mSystems demonstrates that a surface sampling method can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces, improving environmental surveillance in public health labs.
Researchers found that increasing serotonin levels in mosquito blood reduces their flight speed and motivation to seek second blood meals, making them less efficient vectors of malaria parasites. This discovery provides a promising new avenue for insect-targeted interventions to prevent malaria transmission.
The SHIELD program employed rapid saliva testing, real-time data analysis, and fast reporting to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The program's success led to a significant reduction in cases and deaths on campus, with Champaign County experiencing a third less COVID-19 cases than expected.
Researchers reviewed literature from 2000 to find only one reported case of monkeypox transmission following exposure in non-endemic areas. The study suggests a low risk of nosocomial transmission, but highlights the need for more data on exposure definitions and personal protective equipment use.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can provide protection to newborns against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found a lower incidence of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants born to vaccinated mothers compared to unvaccinated mothers.
The CDC has published a new report detailing the county-level distribution of seven diseases spread by blacklegged ticks. The map highlights areas with reported infections and those without, emphasizing the need for public awareness and prevention measures.
A study analyzing 17 million patient GP records in England found that people with certain inflammatory immune conditions were at higher risk of dying or needing hospital care from COVID-19. The analysis suggests that targeting prevention strategies and early interventions towards those most at risk can help inform evidence-based policy.
The article reports on the rapid transmission of monkeypox in Europe, with cases detected in Italy, Portugal, the UK, and Australia. Human-to-human transmission has been confirmed, particularly in sexual networks, raising concerns about the virus's epidemiology and control.
A WHO-supported series has collected 13,700 new database records on mosquito-borne diseases, providing valuable resource for studying and containing infectious diseases. The data can be used to train machine-learning models for vector detection and classification, improving global human health.
A new study found that the delta variant surge in the US was partially due to overestimating population immunity, with only 67% of southern New Englanders actually immune. This underestimation led to inaccurate projections and an incorrect assumption about herd immunity.
Researchers simulated COVID-19 transmission on a university campus, finding that universal mask usage and high vaccination rates can curb new infections. The study suggests that at least 93% of students should be vaccinated during highly transmissible variant outbreaks.
A new retrospective study analyzed seven patients with monkeypox in the UK between 2018 and 2021, suggesting potential benefits of antiviral medications like tecovirimat. However, brincidofovir showed little clinical benefit and raised concerns about liver toxicity.
A new study reveals which bird species are driving the global spread of avian influenza, identifying ducks and geese as super-spreaders. The research also highlights the crucial role of gulls in transmitting the virus over long distances, with their ability to fly over oceans playing a significant role in its rapid spread.
Researchers are monitoring children for exposure to and responses to emerging pathogens, aiming to develop diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive tools for future pandemics. The study will inform the development of tests, treatments and vaccines that may be used in future pandemics.
Researchers at Lund University found that improved ventilation and distance between patients significantly reduce airborne virus transmission. The study's findings aim to update international healthcare guidelines.
Research found that SARS-CoV-2 relies on human transmembrane proteins, especially IFITM2, to replicate efficiently and produce infectious viruses. Antibodies targeting IFITM2 can protect lung cells from infection, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach by targeting host factors instead of viral ones.
A new mathematical model suggests that wearing masks could drastically slow the spread of COVID-19, reducing severe cases and pressure on healthcare systems. The study's findings are potentially applicable to any respiratory infection transmitted by inhaling infectious particles.
A recent study found that microplastics in the ocean can carry land-based parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia, which can infect humans and animals. The researchers used laboratory experiments to test whether these pathogens could associate with plastics in seawater.
Two fatal cases of airport malaria were reported in Belgium, highlighting the need for healthcare awareness near airports. The most likely route of transmission was through an imported infectious exotic Anopheles mosquito that was possibly brought via the international airport or military airport.
A recent study by Japanese researchers found that Staphylococcus argenteus, a bacterial organism causing food poisoning, was present in 13.9% of tested chicken samples. The study also revealed cross-contamination among retail foods and slaughterhouses, suggesting a potential link between the two.
A five-year, $13 million grant will investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of prion transmission in CWD. The researchers aim to understand the inter-species transmission potential of the disease and its ability to spread from animals to humans.
PrEP users in Germany experienced infrequent testing, with 26.3% not following recommended frequencies for HIV, STI, and renal function testing. Regular testing is crucial to prevent missed diagnoses and manage asymptomatic STIs, particularly in MSM populations.
Researchers discover that common herbicides can kill the Toxoplasma gondii parasite without harming human cells. The compounds work by inhibiting heme biosynthesis, a promising approach for treating toxoplasmosis.
A novel bed net treated with chlorfenapyr has been shown to significantly reduce malaria infection in children, with a 43% decrease in the first year and 37% decrease in the second year. The study found that the bed net reduced clinical episodes of malaria by 44% over two years.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a setback in global efforts to meet SDG targets for tackling tuberculosis. TB mortality plateaued in Europe between 2019 and 2020, likely due to disruptions in essential TB services. Researchers highlight the need for continued commitment and investments to prevent further progress being reversed.
Far-UVC light has been shown to be highly effective in reducing airborne microbes in a real room environment, with an equivalent air exchange rate exceeding 184 per hour. This technology could potentially prevent the next pandemic by making indoor places as safe as being outside on a breezy day.
Analyses of ancient TB genomes from coastal Peru and inland Colombian Andes sites reveal a marine-associated strain of the pathogen that suggests a zoonosis from seals. The findings support a complex distribution network for TB on land, with trade networks potentially playing a key role in transporting the pathogen.
A new study found a strong association between school closures and declines in non-residential trips during COVID-19, leading to reduced risk of dengue transmission. Reduced time spent in public areas was closely associated with reduced dengue risk in countries where COVID-19 restriction measures began at the peak of dengue season.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that a domestic cat was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, but without significant genetic changes. This discovery highlights the virus's ability to infect a wide range of hosts and raises questions about its evolution in different species.
A team led by City University of Hong Kong researcher Dr Zhang Qingpeng found that donating 46% to 80% of COVID-19 vaccines to low- and middle-income countries can significantly reduce infection rates and mortality. The study suggests prioritizing vaccines for countries with high incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that individuals in England reduced their social contacts by up to 75% during the most restrictive lockdown periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. This reduction in contact was maintained throughout the year, with people only reaching 50% of pre-pandemic levels during less stringent policies.
Research suggests that genetic material from E. coli bacteria in farm animals may contribute to the evolution of deadly pandemic strains. The study found that ColV plasmids in pigs, cattle, and chickens can increase the likelihood of antimicrobial resistance and extra-intestinal infections in humans.
The WHO European Region saw a decrease in reported cases of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia, but data availability varies widely among non-EU/EEA countries. Georgia had the highest syphilis case rate, while EU/EEA countries had lower rates.
A new study suggests that small respiratory particles can remain moist and airborne for a longer time and greater distance than previously recognized. The mucus shell surrounding these particles likely reduces evaporation rates, keeping viral particles infectious for up to 30 minutes and traveling distances of up to 200 feet.
A growing number of US states have passed laws requiring employers to provide paid sick leave, with 27.6% of jobs covered as of 2019. However, some states block local governments from creating their own regulations, exacerbating health disparities and leaving low-wage workers without access to benefits.
A human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) was confirmed in England, with the individual remaining asymptomatic despite close contact with infected ducks. The investigation found that the virus exhibited four nucleotide mutations, but no increased zoonotic risk was detected.
A new study suggests that preventing pandemics could save around 1.6 million lives and reduce mortality costs by $10 trillion annually by investing just 5% of the estimated annual economic losses associated with human deaths from COVID into environmental protection and early-stage disease surveillance.
New research reveals mosquitoes use red and orange colors to detect hosts, influenced by their sense of smell. By filtering out these colors or wearing specific attire, individuals can potentially prevent mosquito bites, reducing the risk of diseases like dengue and Zika.
Researchers developed a school simulation model that shows how the virus spreads in different settings and calculates the effectiveness of measures against its spread. The model reveals that elementary and lower secondary schools can keep reproduction rates below 1 with classroom ventilation, wearing masks, and class size reduction.
Researchers have identified several factors that can predict the development of long COVID, including the presence of certain autoantibodies, pre-existing Type 2 diabetes, and low cortisol levels. The study found that administering antivirals early in the disease course may also prevent some long COVID symptoms.
A new study has found that children in sub-Saharan Africa who are hospitalized with COVID-19 are dying at a rate far greater than children in the US and Europe. Children under 1 year old had nearly five times the risk of death compared to adolescents aged 15-19 years.
Researchers found that smart windows with dynamic tinting can completely disinfect surfaces within 24 hours, reducing bacterial growth rates and viability. In contrast, traditional windows with blinds blocked almost all daylight, promoting contamination on glass, plastic, and fabric surfaces.
A new model recommends a staged testing strategy that tracks changing risks as variants emerge and subside. The approach balances costs with benefits of preventing hospitalizations and deaths, while preparing for future pandemics.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida found that face masks can reduce airborne pathogens' travel distance by more than half, suggesting they can effectively prevent airborne diseases. The study's findings could aid in managing responses to pandemics like COVID-19.
Researchers found that N95 respirators maintained their function and effectiveness after 25 decontamination cycles, passing user seal checks and filtration efficiency tests. Successful implementation of reprocessing requires planning and coordination among multidisciplinary teams.
A UCF researcher is developing nanotechnology to detect and mitigate emerging animal-borne infectious diseases. Her team aims to create an active material that will change color in the presence of pathogens, significantly reducing the work involved in mosquito trapping and analysis.
A model analyzed air and droplet dynamics, heat transfer, and ventilation in public transportation vehicles. It found that droplets from window seats rose more and invaded other passengers' space after exhalation, while those from aisle seats contaminated aisle passengers more due to downward flow of personal ventilation.
A new study published in the American Journal of Infection Control identified specific face mask combinations and modifications that can improve mask fit and performance, thereby reducing the spread of respiratory infectious pathogens. The study found that layering a three-ply cloth mask over a medical mask or securing a medical mask w...
The study estimates the risk of severe outcomes among symptomatic children aged 0-17 years in the European Union, with hospitalization rates highest among youngest age groups. The authors also note that most children with symptomatic COVID-19 have a low risk of death or hospitalization.
A Chicago study found that providing individual hotel rooms and medical support to high-risk homeless individuals reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection rates by 75% compared to citywide rates in shelters. The intervention also led to improvements in health measures such as blood pressure and glycemic control, with over half of participants movi...
The Research Corporation for Science Advancement and USDA have awarded $1.25 million to early-career scientists to detect and mitigate emerging zoonotic diseases. Crystal Hepp and Jason Ladner of Northern Arizona University will receive funding for projects on serological approaches and genomic epidemiology.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict mosquito breeding ground temperatures, estimating populations and tracking vector-borne diseases. The model revealed that even in winter, certain breeding grounds can support mosquito growth.
A new statistical analysis supports the notion that COVID-19 became more lethal in the UK in late 2020, with increased lethality attributed to factors beyond just the alpha variant of the virus. The study used Bayesian inference to draw stronger conclusions from weekly data on cases and deaths.
A mathematical model suggests that SARS-CoV-2 Delta-like variants, which combine enhanced transmissibility and partial immune escape, will cause more severe pandemics than variants with either trait alone. Vaccination is predicted to be highly beneficial in these cases, preventing more infections and breakthroughs.
Researchers developed EDS-HAT, an AI-powered system combining machine learning and whole genome sequencing to detect clusters of similar infections in real-time. The system identified 99 clusters of infections and prevented potential transmissions in 65.7% of cases, saving the hospital $692,500.
A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge found that an air filtration machine removed almost all traces of airborne SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 wards. The study suggests that setting standards for cleaner air could reduce the risk of airborne transmission of infections.
Scientists sequenced Plasmodium falciparum genomes to understand malaria parasite populations and track drug resistance biomarkers. The study identified population-specific SNPs that can be used to determine transmission routes and monitor drug resistance.