Articles tagged with Infectious Disease Transmission
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.
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.
Researchers have developed a database of parasite-host interactions among ancient ocean animals, shedding light on the evolution of biodiversity and the impact of parasitism on ecosystems. The study suggests that parasites can positively stabilize coastal ecosystems, making them more stable despite individual harm to hosts.
A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that governments downplay pandemic severity if they prioritize economy over public health, while exaggerating it when prioritizing public health. The researchers suggest transparent information policies are key for balanced objectives.
A systematic review of 28 studies identified 13 themes related to COVID-19 vaccination status in older, ethnic minority individuals. Factors facilitating access included vaccination reminders from healthcare providers, while misinformation and personal beliefs were barriers to uptake.
A study by the Universities of Basel and Saarland found almost no risk of coronavirus infection in football players, contradicting previous assumptions about team contact risks. The research team collected data from over 1,300 cases and concluded that outdoor sports with minimal physical contact pose a very low risk of infection.
A global review found bioaerosols can be transmitted throughout a building by defective plumbing and that opening toilet lids after flushing disperses contaminated droplets. Uncovered rubbish bins and poor surface cleaning also contribute to high bacterial loads.
A study by the University of Georgia's Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases identified contaminated water as the most common driver of large-scale zoonotic disease outbreaks. The researchers analyzed over 4,400 outbreaks and found that unusual weather patterns and changes in vector abundance were also significant contributors.
Researchers found that a coagulation method using electricity effectively removes and inactivates nonenveloped viruses from untreated water. The process involves the use of iron electrodes to produce hydroxyl radicals, which aggregate with viruses, making them easier to remove.
Researchers found that population density and long-term exposure to air pollution were the two factors most significantly correlated with COVID-19 transmission rates. Disproportionately affecting communities with more minority residents, these factors were identified through computer modeling and analysis of data from 12 metropolitan a...
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to reduced influenza reporting, but vaccination and strengthened surveillance are critical for a possible resurgence. Research highlights the importance of flu vaccination and early testing for non-influenza respiratory viruses.
A University of Warwick study explains Kenya's first three Covid-19 waves through socio-economic differences and variant introductions. Lower socio-economic groups were more vulnerable due to high population density, reduced access to sanitation, and daily mobility requirements.
Scientists at New York University have developed seven new crystal forms of the insecticide imidacloprid, which work up to nine times faster than the original version. The new forms enable the control of disease-carrying mosquitoes in smaller amounts and with reduced environmental impact.
Researchers from MIT have developed a way to use carbon dioxide monitors to estimate indoor COVID-19 risk in near real-time. The model takes into account various factors such as ventilation, mask usage, and activity levels to provide an indoor reproductive number that represents the virus's transmission rate.
A new OSU study on African buffalo offers insights into the persistence of highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease pathogens. Researchers found that carrier transmission among certain strains can allow them to persist in populations, highlighting the need for public health interventions to limit transmission and endemicity.
Researchers developed a model using data from over 1.1 million volunteers to identify the 7 most informative symptoms for COVID-19 test allocation. The model predicted PCR positivity with high accuracy, resulting in potential 30% to 40% increase in eligible individuals and 70% to 75% detection of positive cases.
Researchers will conduct participatory research with transit workers to identify ways to reduce occupational health disparities and improve preparedness for public-facing workers. The project aims to improve safe working environments and build resilience among frontline workers.
A new study found that people infected with COVID-19 exhale infectious virus in their breath, putting others at risk. Using tight-fitting masks can reduce the amount of virus in the air by half.
A new computer model developed by Columbia University researchers accurately predicts the likelihood of individuals being colonized with MRSA in hospital settings. The model identifies asymptomatic carriers, who are responsible for most of the spread, and suggests targeted interventions to control infections.
A study of highly vaccinated health workers found that COVID-19 vaccines lost effectiveness in protecting against symptomatic infection by July, with only 65% protection remaining. The emergence of the delta variant and lifting of masking mandates contributed to this decline in vaccine efficacy.
Researchers explored optimizing disease control in prisons using rapid tests, identifying the optimal strategy to minimize costs and reduce infection. The study found that switching between full and no testing depends on various parameters, including contagion rates and test sensitivity.
Carnivorous animals lack key genes needed to detect and respond to infection, making them asymptomatic carriers of disease-causing pathogens. This can lead to the formation of undetected disease reservoirs that can mutate and become a risk to human health.
The NIH study reveals that aerosol exposure directly deposits SARS-CoV-2 deep into the lungs, while fomite exposure leads to initial virus replication in the nose. The findings support public health guidance focused on masking, air filtration, social distancing, and handwashing.
A new approach to modeling COVID-19 spread incorporates real-time data on people's movements, showing promise for optimal lockdown policies. The study suggests a balance between controlling the pandemic and minimizing economic costs can be achieved through mathematical models and Google mobility data.