Nam Xuan Ha, Anh Nguyen, Huynh Ngo Minh Trang, Jeza Muhamad Abdul Aziz, Nacir Dhouibi, Bao-Tran Do Le, Ahmad Altom, Mostafa Atef Amin, Pham Do Thuc Anh, Hadeir Said, Venkata Vasavi Vadduri, Dao Ngoc Hien Tam, Satoko Okubayashi, Abdelrahman M Makram, Nguyen Tien Huy
{"title":"The filtration performance of fabrics against particles of viral size: a systematic review.","authors":"Nam Xuan Ha, Anh Nguyen, Huynh Ngo Minh Trang, Jeza Muhamad Abdul Aziz, Nacir Dhouibi, Bao-Tran Do Le, Ahmad Altom, Mostafa Atef Amin, Pham Do Thuc Anh, Hadeir Said, Venkata Vasavi Vadduri, Dao Ngoc Hien Tam, Satoko Okubayashi, Abdelrahman M Makram, Nguyen Tien Huy","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14275-6","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14275-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Wearing a mask is part of the comprehensive strategy to suppress transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and respiratory tract infections. Despite available COVID-19 vaccines, wearing a mask has remained one of the simplest and most effective ways. There was, however, little data available regarding the filtration of fabrics in masks against infectious aerosols or particles of viral size. This study reviewed the filtration performance of fabrics against virus-sized particles.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. The literature search started with seven electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Institute of Science Index, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SciFinder) and two preprints, then manual search. Quality assessment was performed on all included studies using an adaptive tool for in vitro studies.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Eighteen studies were finally included. Cotton was most commonly investigated, followed by polymers and nanofibers. A study reported filtration performance as droplet blocking efficiency (%), and materials with the highest blocking efficiency comprised polypropylene (99.7 [95.2-99.9]), cotton (98.9 [96.8-99.8]), silk (98.7 [81.1-99.8]), and polyester/polyamide (98.2 [90-99.8]). Other studies reported filtration efficiency (%). Fabrics showing highest filtration efficiency were polymers (polypropylene, polyethylene, spunbond/meltblown/spunbond) (100, 94.4, 93.9, respectively), nanofibers (nanofiber-fabric-layered composite, polyvinyl alcohol/nylon-taffeta composite) (99.8 ± 0.24, 97.3, respectively), cotton (cotton/chiffon, cotton quilt, cotton/flannel, cotton/silk) (97 ± 2, 96 ± 2, 95 ± 2, 94 ± 2, respectively). Quality assessment showed that most of the studies were adequate to evaluate the filtration performance against aerosol or virus particles.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Some fabrics showed effectiveness in protective applications for respiratory infections; particularly nanofibers and polymers were promising materials for specialized masks or respirators.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13508351/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148817153","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Emmanuel A Bakare, Deborah O Daniel, Samuel A Osikoya, Aaron O Nwana
{"title":"Wavelet analysis and time series forecasting of malaria incidence across different transmission settings in Nigeria.","authors":"Emmanuel A Bakare, Deborah O Daniel, Samuel A Osikoya, Aaron O Nwana","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14226-1","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14226-1","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Malaria remains a public health challenge in Nigeria, characterised by high endemicity with seasonal and perennial transmission, varying between regions. Existing control programmes often face challenges related to the allocation of resources and the timing of interventions, which may be due to an inadequate understanding of local seasonal transmission patterns. Hence,this study analysed the temporal patterns of malaria incidence in Bauchi, Yobe, and Ogun states (representing high, low, and moderate transmission settings) to identify hidden patterns in non-stationary time series and forecast trends for targeted interventions. Using time series, Wavelet, and SARIMA methods, strong annual peaks in Bauchi and Yobe during September/October and stable transmission in Ogun with peaks in July were identified. Wavelet analysis identified a dominant 12-month periodicity in all selected states, strong synchrony between Bauchi and Yobe, with Bauchi leading approximately a week. On the other hand, Ogun is observed to lead the northern states (Bauchi and Yobe) by approximately 2 months. The SARIMA models predicted persistent cyclical patterns into 2026, with monthly cases of 52,000-125,000 in Bauchi, 54,000-185,000 in Yobe, and 20,000-32,000 in Ogun, peaking in October for Bauchi/Yobe and July for Ogun. This study recommends harmonised Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) campaigns in Bauchi and Yobe beginning before September to maximise protection during peak transmission, mass distribution of long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) in Ogun by May / June to precede peak transmission in July, and the use of predictions as an early warning system for health resource planning, improving data-driven control strategies for the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP).</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13584401/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148982200","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sara-Lena Posselt, Claas Baier, Frank Schwab, Ralf-Peter Vonberg
{"title":"Lessons learned from a structured and descriptive analysis of nosocomial outbreaks in hematology-oncology.","authors":"Sara-Lena Posselt, Claas Baier, Frank Schwab, Ralf-Peter Vonberg","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14279-2","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14279-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Nosocomial outbreaks among immunocompromised patients are serious events. We conducted a descriptive analysis of nosocomial outbreaks in hematology and oncology, drawing on data from 196 outbreaks included in the Worldwide Outbreak Database. Our analysis includes patient characteristics, pathogens, outbreak sources, routes of transmission, and infection control measures. Furthermore, it determines risk factors for increased infection control effort by using the Weighted Cumulative Hygiene Score (WCHS). Bloodstream infections and lower respiratory tract infections were most often observed in the outbreak patient population. The primary infectious agents were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other non-fermenting Gram-negative rods as well as enterococci. An index person (patient/staff) and the environment were the main reservoirs for transmission. Noteworthy, the exact source could not be identified in nearly half of the outbreak events. Infection control measures were usually implemented as bundles including but not limited to screening of patients, changes in the disinfection or sterilization regime and enforcement of proper hand hygiene. Multivariable regression analysis revealed the following factors being independently associated with a high infection control effort: causative agent fungi (other than molds) (OR=6.26; CI95:1.60-24.44), multi-drug resistant bacteria (OR=6.01; CI95:2.56-14.09), antibiotic therapy (OR=2.97; CI95:1.05-8.38), a high number (≥ 10) of patients involved in the outbreak (OR=2.54; CI95:1.11-5.81), and the transmission route being direct contact (OR=3.42; CI95:1.43-8.16). The occurrence of lower respiratory tract infections was strongly associated with mortality (OR=7.95; CI95:2.06-30.73). Staff working in hematology and oncology should be aware of these details in order to approach a nosocomial outbreak appropriately at a most early time point.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13505061/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148811872","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marie Mikuteit, Dominik Schröder, Jacqueline Niewolik, Frank Klawonn, Chantal Degen, Frank Müller, Georg M N Behrens, Alexandra Dopfer-Jablonka, Sandra Steffens
{"title":"Longitudinal observation of persistent Long COVID symptoms and health-related quality of life in an adult German cohort.","authors":"Marie Mikuteit, Dominik Schröder, Jacqueline Niewolik, Frank Klawonn, Chantal Degen, Frank Müller, Georg M N Behrens, Alexandra Dopfer-Jablonka, Sandra Steffens","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14252-z","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14252-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Many individuals experience persistent symptoms following an acute COVID-19 infection, a condition known as Long COVID. The aim of this study was to analyse the prevalence, intensity and longitudinal trajectories of different Long COVID symptoms at baseline and at follow-ups up to 60 weeks later in a German cohort.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This longitudinal observational study is part of the DEFEAT Corona project, wherein Long COVID subjects completed online questionnaires on symptom severity (0-10 points) and health-related quality of life (hrQoL), measured with EQ5D-VAS, at three time points. At baseline, sociodemographic information, COVID-19 infection characteristics, and COVID-19 vaccination status were also recorded. Symptom occurrence and intensity was compared between baseline and two follow-up surveys 54 to 60 weeks later.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among n = 262 adult participants (84.4% female, 14.8% male and 0.8% diverse, mean age 44.85 ± 11.48 years), the most frequent symptoms at baseline were fatigue (67.2%, mean severity 9.02 ± 0.89), palpitations (61.1%, mean severity 6.58 ± 1.95), and concentration impairment (61.0%, mean severity 8.55 ± 1.12). The prevalence decreased in 3/27 Long COVID symptoms and symptom intensity decreased in 15/27 symptoms with small changes in severity (between 0.6 and 2 points of max. 10 points). HrQoL decreased significantly over time (p = 0.006). However, the mean change of - 4.31 ± 21.2 points remained below the established MCID of 7.5 points, indicating no clinically meaningful deterioration.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>More than a year after the acute infection, Long COVID patients of the DEFEAT Corona cohort describe symptoms as persistent and intense. With the corresponding impairment in hrQoL, this underlines the urgent need for comprehensive therapies for Long COVID.</p><p><strong>Trial registration: </strong>The study was in the German Clinical Trial Registry (DRKS00026007) on 9th Sep 2021.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13491786/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148788003","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jing-Ke Cao, Hai-Yi Yan, Jia-Dong Ning, Si-Qi Hu, Yu-Han Chen, Ya-Bo Mei, Tao Han, Hua-Yu Liang, Shu-Mei Wang, Feng Wang, Na Zhang, Li-Ping Cheng, Dan Wang, Zhi-Chun Feng, Li Li, Qiu-Ping Li
{"title":"Comparison of prevalence and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection between preterm and full-term children after lifting the prevention and control measures in China: a nationwide cross-sectional survey.","authors":"Jing-Ke Cao, Hai-Yi Yan, Jia-Dong Ning, Si-Qi Hu, Yu-Han Chen, Ya-Bo Mei, Tao Han, Hua-Yu Liang, Shu-Mei Wang, Feng Wang, Na Zhang, Li-Ping Cheng, Dan Wang, Zhi-Chun Feng, Li Li, Qiu-Ping Li","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14071-2","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14071-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To analyze whether there were differences in the prevalence and outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection between preterm-born and full-term children after lifting the prevention and control measures in China.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This survey was conducted in March 2023 after nation-wide lifting of the prevention and control measures for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China. Data were collected from parents of children < 8 years of age across the country through the \"Wenjuanxing (Questionnaire Star)\" platform. Differences between preterm-born and full-term children in binary outcomes were assessed by binary logistic regression or modified Poisson regression. Models were weighted using entropy balancing.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 1981 children with valid questionnaires were included in the analysis, comprising 544 preterm-born children (27.5%) and 1437 full-term children (72.5%). The difference in proportion of SARS-CoV-2 infections between preterm-born and full-term children (73.5% vs. 77.5%) was statistically non-significant. The infected preterm-born children exhibited more severe clinical presentations of SARS-CoV-2 infection relative to those born at full term (OR = 1.549, 95% CI: 1.025-2.342). Compared with full-term children, preterm-born children showed a prolonged hospital stay (OR = 2.472, 95% CI: 1.380-4.430) and a higher propensity for respiratory support (OR = 4.147, 95% CI: 1.336-12.868). Among infected preterm-born children, those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) had a higher risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection than those without BPD (OR = 2.485, 95% CI: 1.340-4.610). However, the associations were attenuated and became statistically non-significant after accounting for gestational age.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Preterm birth was associated with an increased severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children aged 8 years and younger. Moreover, having BPD was associated with a higher risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 illness among preterm children which may be partially explained by the lower gestational age.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13584360/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148982192","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Factors associated with disability among patients with leprosy: a scoping review.","authors":"Clausewitz Welmatus Masala, Hartiah Haroen, Iqbal Pramukti","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14255-w","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14255-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hansen's disease, often known as leprosy, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that mostly affects peripheral nerves, the skin and mucous membranes. Notwithstanding improvements in diagnosis and treatment options, many patients with leprosy remain severely disabled, which negatively impacts their quality of life and social interaction. Determining the factors associated with the development of disability in patients with leprosy is essential for developing successful therapeutic plans. For the purpose of this review, disability is defined according to the WHO grading system as any impairment of the eyes, hands, or feet caused by leprosy (Grade 0-2). This review aimed to identify the factors associated with disability among patients with leprosy. The guiding research question was: What are the factors associated with the occurrence of disability in patients with leprosy?. This study employed a scoping review following the guidelines provided in the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature searches were conducted using two databases and search engines, namely PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Articles included in the review were published in English and Indonesian between 2019 and 2023, a period selected to capture the most recent evidence reflecting contemporary clinical practices and disability assessment approaches in leprosy management. Eligible studies were selected and analyzed after approval. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) criteria. Data extraction was carried out using a standardized form that captured information on study characteristics, participant demographics, and key findings related to factors influencing the disability among patients with leprosy. This review analyzed 10 articles, identifying 12 factors that influence the disability in patients with leprosy. These factors include the type of leprosy, duration of the disease, leprosy reactions, the number of affected nerves, delays in treatment or diagnosis, socioeconomic status, gender, occupation, education level, treatment adherence, self-care, and social support. These influencing factors were categorized into three groups: demographic factors, internal factors, and external factors. These findings highlight the complex interplay of various factors contributing to disability in patients with leprosy, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions that address both individual and systemic issues to improve patient outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13602773/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"149029663","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Rasha Mokhtar Elnagar, Somaia Abdalla Abouria, Nawal S Gouda, Habeeb Ali Baig, Mona S Abdelhafez
{"title":"Temporal trends and shifting mycological spectrum of infectious keratitis in Egypt before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: a four-year laboratory-based surveillance study.","authors":"Rasha Mokhtar Elnagar, Somaia Abdalla Abouria, Nawal S Gouda, Habeeb Ali Baig, Mona S Abdelhafez","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14198-2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-026-14198-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Fungal keratitis (FK) significantly contributes to corneal morbidity in tropical and subtropical environments; yet, longitudinal data describing post-pandemic epidemiologic changes remain limited. This study evaluated temporal trends and changes in the mycological spectrum of culture-confirmed FK in Egypt before, during and after the COVID-19 era.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We retrospectively inspected corneal scrapings collected between January 2019 and December 2022 at a major ophthalmic hospital in the Nile Delta, Egypt. Specimens were examined by direct microscopy and culture. Temporal patterns in fungal positivity, seasonal variation, species distribution and diversity were compared across pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic periods.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Of 584 specimens analyzed, 423 (72.4%) yielded microbial growth, and fungi accounted for 97.6% (413/423) of culture-positive isolates. The proportion of fungal-positive specimens increased from 49.0% pre-pandemic to 67.6% during the pandemic and 79.7% in the post-pandemic period (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, rural residence (aOR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.53-3.53), history of ocular trauma (aOR = 6.70, 95% CI: 3.59-12.50), and study period were independently associated with fungal positivity. Spring and autumn were associated with higher odds of FK than summer. Shannon diversity index increased from 1.03 pre-pandemic to 1.35 during the pandemic and 1.78 post-pandemic, indicating expanding species diversity. Aspergillus fumigatus (29.5%) and A. niger (27.2%) were the dominant isolates, while Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., and less common fungi emerged more frequently in later phases.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Temporal changes in the burden and mycological spectrum of FK were observed across the pandemic and post-pandemic phases, with the pandemic era being associated with a sustained increase in FK burden and broader species diversity. Ongoing laboratory-based surveillance and future prospective multicenter studies that integrate molecular and clinical outcome are warranted for a deeper comprehension of the factors driving these epidemiological patterns.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13491606/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148787961","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ebenezer Adangabe, Jacob Solomon Idan, Benjamin Spears Ngmekpele Cheabu, Austin Arinze Obiefuna, Kofi Akohene Mensah, Princess Ruhama Acheampong, Aliyu Mohammed
{"title":"Prevalence and factors associated with tuberculosis recurrence among key vulnerable populations in the Ashanti region, Ghana.","authors":"Ebenezer Adangabe, Jacob Solomon Idan, Benjamin Spears Ngmekpele Cheabu, Austin Arinze Obiefuna, Kofi Akohene Mensah, Princess Ruhama Acheampong, Aliyu Mohammed","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14249-8","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14249-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading public health challenge, with limited data on the prevalence of recurrence TB and its associated factors among key vulnerable populations (KVPs) in Ghana. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of TB recurrence and identify factors associated with recurrence among PLHIV, informal miners, prisoners, the rural poor, smokers, and children.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted in five health districts in the Ashanti Region, Ghana, from September to November, 2024. A total of 436 participants, including PLHIV, informal miners, prisoners, the rural poor, smokers, and children, were recruited through systematic random sampling. Data on socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral factors were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data, and logistic regression to identify factors associated with TB recurrence, adjusting for potential confounders using Stata/SE version 16.1.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The overall prevalence of TB recurrence among KVPs was 15.6% (68/436). Recurrence was highest among smokers at 25.0% (95% CI: 14.7-37.9), followed by the rural poor at 23.1% (95% CI: 14.9-33.1), informal miners at 19.1% (95% CI: 11.8-28.6), and prisoners at 14.3% (95% CI: 1.8-42.8). PLHIV had a recurrence prevalence of 12.0% (95% CI: 6.4-20.0), while no recurrence was observed among children (0%). In the multivariable logistic regression, two factors were independently associated with TB recurrence, which included; residing in a single-family home compared to a family compound house (AOR: 2.055; 95% CI: 1.002-4.212), and those with the history of heavy alcohol consumption (AOR = 3.596; 95% CI: 1.283-10.080) Compared with participants who reported never consuming alcohol. All other factors, including age, sex, educational level, marital status, key vulnerable population category, and TB support, were not significantly associated with TB recurrence in the adjusted model.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>TB recurrence among KVPs in the Ashanti Region is an important public health concern, with the burden disproportionately concentrated among smokers, the rural poor, and informal miners. Individuals residing in single-family homes and those with heavy alcohol consumption had higher odds of TB recurrence. These findings indicate that TB control programmes must address both housing conditions that isolate individuals from family support networks and implement integrated alcohol screening and brief interventions within treatment protocols. Targeted interventions addressing these modifiable factors are essential to reduce TB recurrence and improve treatment outcomes among vulnerable populations in Ghana.</p><p><strong>Clinical trial: </strong>Not applicable.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13589359/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"149001241","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Analysis of measles outbreaks reported to Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), India, 2019-2023.","authors":"Gopi Kumbha, Sushma Choudhary, Mohan Kumar Raju, Meera Dhuria, Archana Ramalingam","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14250-1","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14250-1","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>In 2022, an estimated 1,36,000 measles deaths were reported worldwide, mostly in children under five. In 2022, thirty-seven countries reported extensive or disruptive measles outbreaks by the WHO, while only 22 countries reported similar outbreaks in 2021. According to NFHS-5, 87.9% of children between 12 and 23 months old had received their initial dose of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV), but only 31.9% of children aged 24-35 months who received MCV2. The study aimed to perform descriptive epidemiology of measles outbreaks reported to IDSP in India from 2019 to 2023.</p><p><strong>Methodology: </strong>We did a secondary data analysis of weekly outbreak data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) for the period 2019-2023. We extracted data from publicly available IDSP weekly outbreak reports and analysed them using MS Excel, focusing on time, place, and person distribution.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Out of 259 reported outbreaks, 89% were laboratory-confirmed, and 56.3% of outbreaks were timely, with reporting occurring in the same week. Age distribution was not available in 56% of IDSP outbreak reports. The median (Interquartile range) age was 6.5 (5-9.5). Sex distribution was not available in 96% of IDSP outbreak reports. The 53% (137/259) outbreaks were reported from Bihar (18%), Jharkhand (13%), Uttar Pradesh (11%), and Gujarat (10%). The 25 districts have reported three or more measles outbreaks over five years. These districts account for 117 of the 259 reported outbreaks: Godda (Jharkhand), West Champaran (Bihar), and Nuh (Haryana). The maximum number of outbreaks (116) was recorded in 2023. Vitamin A was given during 56% (114/259) of outbreaks. Twenty deaths were reported.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>A substantial proportion of outbreaks (72%) were reported from seven states, predominantly in northern and eastern India. The delayed reporting of outbreaks and the absence of age and sex distribution in most reports highlight areas for improvement. Recommendations include timely reporting, inclusion of age and sex data, and ensuring widespread vitamin A supplementation.</p><p><strong>Clinical trial number: </strong>Not applicable.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13536584/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148873020","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Bacterial etiology, antimicrobial susceptibility, and clinical outcomes in cervicofacial space infections before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic: a 10-year single-centre study.","authors":"Shuang He, Zheng Jiang, Yibei Wang, Mailudan Ainiwaer, Xiaoqin Ji, Huiling Zhao","doi":"10.1186/s12879-026-14186-6","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s12879-026-14186-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>To investigate epidemiological trends of cervicofacial space infections in Western China, including pathogen distribution, antimicrobial resistance, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pathogen susceptibility and patient outcomes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Clinical data from 542 hospitalized patients with severe cervicofacial space infections who underwent open surgery at a tertiary hospital over the past decade were analyzed. Data on bacterial strains, antibiotic susceptibility, drug resistance, and treatment outcomes were recorded. Statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests, Fisher's exact tests, logistic regression, and multiple regression.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>From January 2014 to June 2024, the annual number of hospitalized CFI cases declined initially but later increased. Bacterial growth was observed in 400 cases (73.8%). Based on the frequency of isolation in positive pus cultures, Streptococcus spp. and Klebsiella spp. were the most frequently identified organisms. The five antimicrobial agents with the highest in vitro susceptibility rates were levofloxacin (66.3%), vancomycin (63.8%), cefepime (61.0%), ceftriaxone (59.5%), and cefotaxime (58.5%). Compared to the pre-pandemic period, Patients treated during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods had higher odds of in-hospital complications than those treated during the pre-pandemic period (OR = 7.28, 95% CI:3.67 ~ 14.45; P < 0.001; OR = 4.96, 95% CI:2.16 ~ 11.41; P < 0.001), including pulmonary infections, and coagulopathy etc. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the prevalent pathogen profile and local susceptibility patterns observed in this study, cephalosporins are the preferred empirical choice for cervicofacial space infections in our region. Fluoroquinolones may be considered as an alternative in patients with beta-lactam allergy, but should be used judiciously to preserve their activity for resistant organisms. Antibiotic therapy should be tailored based on culture and susceptibility results as soon as they become available. Additionally, patients treated during and after the COVID-19 pandemic had higher odds of in-hospital complications, which may reflect healthcare system disruptions and delayed presentation.</p><p><strong>Clinical trial number: </strong>Not applicable.</p>","PeriodicalId":8981,"journal":{"name":"BMC Infectious Diseases","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2026-08-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13523276/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148849698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}