The journal Global Biosecurity is a peer-reviewed, open access electronic journal for cross-disciplinary research in all aspects of human or animal epidemics, pandemics, biosecurity, bioterrorism and CBRN, including prevention, governance, detection, mitigation and response. We publish work on risk analysis, outbreak investigation, epidemiology, modelling, bioinformatics, phylogenetics, surveillance, intelligence, strategic foresight, forecasting, ‘One Health’, policy, governance, law, law enforcement, defense, ethics and first responder preparedness. We have a focus on rapid reports of epidemics of concern.The journal is indexed in CrossRef, JISC KB+, SHERPA RoMEO, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Scopus and Google Scholar. We encourage submissions of original research which is high quality, applied and strategic in all areas listed above. Original research articles undergo blinded peer review and will be published within 6 months of submission if accepted. We also publish editorials, perspectives from the field, CBRN news and have two options for rapid publication. We are committed to providing rapid publication of global epidemics of concern, and encourage field epidemiologists, first responders, trainees in Field Epidemiology Training Programs, and public health officers to submit rapid reports or watching briefs to disseminate critical epidemic information rapidly. Rapid reports may be written as traditional analytical outbreak investigations, whereas watching briefs provide a descriptive overview and critical analysis of outbreaks, structured within a standard template, and will function as a resource for responders in the field. Our Watching Briefs are a new concept and aim to harness global minds, open to anyone who wishes to analyse an outbreak, whether or not they are directly responding, including field epidemiology trainees. We provide an option to request open source outbreak data from our open source observatory, EPIWATCH. The EPIWATCH website provides 30 days of data that can be analysed, as well as analytic tools. Rapid reports and watching briefs in most cases will be published within 4-8 weeks. The journal is researcher-led, not-for-profit, published by UNSW Sydney, a leading global university, and hosted by The Public Knowledge Project. The intended readership is any first responder, policy maker, researcher or stakeholder involved in preparedness or response for epidemics, pandemics, biosecurity or bioterrorism. The expertise of our editorial team reflects the cross-disciplinary scope of the journal. The journal will publish continously, with full issues archived retrospectively. The journal is open access, online only, with no fees for readers or authors, reflecting our policy of equity of access for readers and researchers alike. The journal was established in 2018. ISSN 2652-0036
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Harmonising Indonesia’s CBRN Policy with the IHR and WHO–UNODA Frameworks
Indonesia is increasingly vulnerable to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats, driven by regional geopolitical tensions, natural hazards, and the rapid evolution of biological technologies. While the country has developed various laws and sectoral regulations to manage these risks, its current policy landscape remains fragmented and lacks systematic alignment with global standards. The absence of an integrated national strategy limits Indonesia’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond effectively to CBRN emergencies. This study investigates the extent to which Indonesia’s existing CBRN policies align with two critical international frameworks: the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and the guiding principles of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in biosecurity and disarmament. Using a qualitative document-based approach, this research analysed national legislation, ministerial decrees, strategic plans, and relevant international conventions. Thematic content analysis was applied to evaluate policy alignment with IHR core capacities, such as surveillance, legal frameworks, coordination, and emergency response, as well as WHO–UNODA principles, including dual-use oversight, biological disarmament, and research governance. The analysis reveals major policy and institutional gaps. CBRN governance in Indonesia is dispersed among multiple agencies, BNPB, BAPETEN, Kementerian Kesehatan, BNPT, and TNI, each operating within its own silo. There is no overarching coordinating body or comprehensive legal framework to unify efforts. Moreover, critical areas such as dual-use research oversight, bio-threat intelligence sharing, and international reporting obligations remain poorly developed. Integration with IHR and WHO–UNODA protocols is limited and largely ad hoc. To improve national preparedness and resilience, Indonesia must pursue comprehensive legal reform and establish a national CBRN coordination body. Embedding international norms, such as the IHR and WHO–UNODA guidance, into domestic policy frameworks will enhance inter-agency coherence and align Indonesia’s biosecurity governance with global best practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in Northwestern Russia in 2020-2024
After the COVID-19 pandemic, the analysis of accumulated data could provide new insights to overcome further challenges for the healthcare system. The present study aimed to characterize the seropositivity levels in the context of COVID-19 morbidity in 2020–2022 and diagnostic, screening, and vaccination programs realization. For this purpose, retrospective analysis of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels in 41,295 serum samples harvested from the northwestern Russian population in 2020–2024 was performed. We revealed that seroprevalence gradually increased until the autumn of 2021, when vaccination became mandatory for certain groups and restrictions were placed on unvaccinated persons. In the following winter, the seroprevalence growth was accompanied by a massive Omicron spread that also impacted the herd immunity level. The proportion of seropositive subjects in the Northwestern Russia population reached the suggested herd immunity threshold, i.e., 80% seropositivity, only in 2022. Till the beginning of massive vaccination, the identified IgG levels in patients who reported suffering a non-COVID upper respiratory tract infection were significantly lower than in COVID-positive subjects. That suggests that the available diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 provided patients and healthcare specialists with reliable information on the etiology of respiratory infections.
Nipah Virus Outbreaks: A CBRNE Framework for Global Biocontainment
Nipah virus (NiV), a deadly zoonotic pathogen with a fatality rate of 40-75%, continues to pose a significant pandemic threat, as evidenced by recent outbreaks in Kerala, India (2023 and 2024). These events highlight NiV's potential for human-to-human transmission, particularly in healthcare settings, and its ability to cause severe respiratory and neurological disease. Given the absence of approved vaccines or therapeutics, this review explores the implementation of CBRNE strategies for outbreak containment. We analyze how military-developed protocols - including high-level biocontainment units, aerosolized disinfectant systems, and controlled movement zones - could be adapted to manage NiV's unique challenges. The discussion focuses on practical applications: rapid deployment of mobile isolation pods for patients, strict corpse management procedures to prevent environmental contamination, and specialized equipment requirements for healthcare workers. Recent outbreak responses in India demonstrate the critical need for such approaches, particularly given NiV's potential for airborne transmission and environmental persistence. We suggest how the integrating CBRNE principles into public health preparedness plans could significantly reduce transmission risks during NiV outbreaks while maintaining essential societal functions. This review provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of pre-outbreak training, interagency coordination, and targeted resource allocation to address this growing biological threat.
Smuggling biological materials and illegal laboratories – implications for biosecurity and potential biological attacks.
Balancing Innovation, Biosecurity, and Biosafety in Dual-Use Research in the Middle East
Dual-use research is known for its double use, contributing to positive advancements and serious risks, especially in regions with political instability and low biosafety and biosecurity protocols. This paper offers background knowledge, regional challenges, and much more regarding the situation in the Middle East. Case studies highlight regional regulations' effectiveness and the consequences of not following them by comparing biosafety and biosecurity practices in the Middle East with global standards. We concluded with multiple points on how Regional and international cooperation are essential for sharing the region's information and policy alignment, with recommendations to improve the regulatory frameworks and financing lab facilities and to increase awareness of bioethics and dual-use concerns by educational and training initiatives. This review aims to help researchers and policymakers create a more secure and accountable scientific environment in the region; by filling these directed gaps, we aim to enhance the integrity of Middle East research and biosecurity.
In November 2024, a suspected methanol poisoning event in Vang Vieng, Laos, made international headlines after two Australian women had fallen ill. The two women were last seen well on 12 November before being found by concerned hotel staff at the ‘Nana Backpacker Hostel’ when they did not leave their room the following day. On the same day, two Danish females were found unconscious in their rooms and were transported to a hospital in Vientiane, where they were declared deceased. By 21 November, both the Australian women and a British female were declared deceased. Then, an American man died after being found with bottles of empty and unopened spirits by his bedside. The mass poisoning event hospitalised at least 11 other people and prompted an investigation by the Lao authorities. Police identified a factory outside Vientiane where the suspected tainted alcohol was being produced and arrested the owner on 1 December. A further three staff from the hostel were also arrested on the same day in connection with the deadly poisoning. Subsequently, Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whiskey have been banned from sale across the country. Methanol poisoning events are not uncommon. Many deadly poisoning events have occurred across the globe in recent years. In many countries where home production or artisanal small-scale production of alcoholic beverages is traditional, this distillation process can lead to dangerous bootleg alcohol being produced. Furthermore, counterfeit alcohol is often sold around the globe and bought unknowingly. There is no public early warning surveillance system capturing global methanol poisonings and alerting public health officials to investigate and implement public health measures. Given the widespread problem, it would be timely to consider establishing such a system.
Genomic Surveillance of West Nile Virus in the MENA Region: Phylogenetic Analysis and Biosafety Implications
The resurgence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region presents significant public health challenges. This study presents an in-depth phylogenetic analysis of WNV sequences collected from various MENA countries, including Israel, Iran, and Iraq, focusing on genetic variations and lineage distribution. The dominant Lineage 1a, found predominantly in Israel and Tunisia, contrasts with the emerging Lineage 2 strains from Iran and Iraq, which show higher genetic divergence. This study highlights potential influences on viral replication, immune evasion, and host interaction by identifying key amino acid substitutions in non-structural proteins. These findings provide essential insights into the evolutionary dynamics of WNV and stress the importance of cross-border genomic surveillance and vector control strategies to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks. The study underscores the necessity for enhanced regional cooperation and biosafety measures, particularly in the face of climate change, which exacerbates WNV transmission by extending mosquito activity periods.
An Overview of the outbreak of Meningococcal meningitis in Loreto region, Peru, August 2024
The August 2024 outbreak of Meningococcal meningitis (Serotype B) in Peru's Loreto region presents an unusual epidemiological case worthy of detailed examination. The outbreak in San Antonio del Estrecho, Putamayo Province, affected individuals aged 13-18 years, with 20 suspected cases, 7 confirmed cases and one fatality, leading to a case fatality rate of 14.2%. The age of the infected is particularly noteworthy as Serotype B typically infects infants and young children rather than adolescents. This outbreak highlights gaps in Peru's public health infrastructure, particularly the absence of routine meningococcal vaccination programs and limited surveillance capabilities in the regions. While the Ministry of Health of Peru's rapid response effectively contained the outbreak, the incident highlights the vulnerability of Peru's population to meningococcal disease. This Watching brief demonstrates the urgent need for enhanced surveillance systems, expanded vaccination programs and improved provider training in meningococcal disease recognition. These findings are particularly relevant as the Pan American Health Organization and World Health Organization work towards their 2030 goals of reducing meningitis outbreaks by 50% and associated deaths by 70% in the Americas.
Botulism outbreak in Russia connected to readymade salads
On 15 June 2024, open-source intelligence from EPIWATCH® detected signals of a botulism outbreak in the Russian Federation caused by the Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin. Initial reporting suggested a foodborne outbreak connected to a brand of fish. Further epidemiological investigations identified an additional ready-made salad from a food delivery company. The first report identified 10 cases that were all in intensive care, and by 16 July 2024, 417 cases were reported across 11 regions. Two fatalities were recorded in the outbreak. At least 172 cases were hospitalised, and 43 required mechanical ventilation. Although the outbreak affected 11 regions, the true extent of the outbreak may never be known. Recent reports from the Russian Federation found that 60 per cent of products failed to meet food safety standards. Furthermore, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war will contribute to food insecurity and rising prices, forcing people to turn to cheaper and lower-quality products. The food service company was shut down because of the outbreak, and the investigative committee opened a criminal case against the implicated company. The Russian Federation is no stranger to these outbreaks. Whilst food producers who may be regulated but are going unchecked continue to operate, there is an ongoing risk of future large-scale outbreaks.
Copyright (c) 2024 The Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE GROWING THREAT OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN AFRICA: AN URGENT CALL FOR ACTION
An Outbreak of West Nile Fever in Kerala, India, 2024
This watching brief reports an outbreak of West Nile Fever from the southern state of Kerala in India, 2024.
Seroprevalence of measles antibodies in Northwestern Russia population in 2012-2023.
Background: Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that may cause life-threatening disease, especially in children. The main approach for measles prevention and elimination is vaccination and support for strong immunity in 95% of the population. Although the mandatory measles immunisation was introduced in 1972 in Russia, the infection is still widespread in the country. We summarise the data of twelve-year (from 2012 to 2023) surveillance of the IgG levels in the North-Western Russian population. Methods: The data for anti-measles IgG levels in 28,530 samples from healthy subjects from the Northwestern Russia population which were examined from January 2012 to December 2023 were statistically analysed. Results: IgG levels and seroprevalence are higher in subjects who were born before 1967 and were not admitted to the massive vaccination programs compared to the younger population. In the adult population covered by the single-dose vaccination program (i.e., born in 1971-1990), the seroprevalence level reaches 69 % (compared to >90% in the subjects born before 1967). The gain of seroprevalence to 61,7%, accompanied by a decline of mean IgG levels, was demonstrated in subjects who were born in 1990 or later and covered by the MCV1+MCV2 vaccination according to the National vaccination schedule. Conclusion: These results reveal the necessity of vaccination coverage improvement, especially in the adult population. Also, more complex monitoring programs, including T-cell mediated immunity control, maybe more informative to estimate the actual anti-measles herd immunity.
Addressing Cyberbiosecurity Challenges in the Modern Era of Biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence
In an era where Artificial Intelligence and technology have fully integrated and bloomed in biological sciences, the threat of cyber-attacks inside the biological field has increased. With more dependence on bioinformatics, the internet, and outsourcing for data curation and storage, the development of advanced security measures has become mandatory. They safeguard biological data, systems, and procedures against illegal access, modification, or interference. The information collected for the following article was based on the results of previously published articles. These articles were searched using worldwide search engines and databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and Google search engines. The search was done using different keywords like “Cyberbiosecurity,” “Biosecurity,” “Artificial Intelligence,” and “Biotechnology.” To protect biological systems, data, and infrastructure from cyber-attacks, a wide range of techniques, protocols, and technologies must be included in the emerging discipline of cyberbiosecurity. Robust cyberbiosecurity measures become more and more necessary as biotechnology advances quickly, incorporating digital technologies into many areas of biological research, industry, and healthcare. The lack of infrastructure for cyberbiosecurity worldwide puts the biological and scientific research community at high risk of attack. This could hinder data availability, research validity, and the development of biotechnology, biosecurity, and science. Although cyberbiosecurity is still a new part of biosecurity, its importance must be addressed in this era of increasing technology and internet dependence in biology and medical research.
EPIWATCH®: A Rapid Epidemic Surveillance Tool for Detecting Early Signals of the First-ever Marburg Virus Outbreak in Equatorial Guinea
Background: On February 13, 2023, Equatorial Guinea identified the Marburg virus for the first time, leading to the declaration of a Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak, characterized by a high fatality rate. EPIWATCH® is a rapid surveillance tool that employs artificial intelligence (AI) to detect early signals of outbreaks and the emergence of infectious diseases in real time. Aims: This study aimed to use EPIWATCH® to identify early warning indicators of MVD in Equatorial Guinea during the three months before its official declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) and local health authorities. Additionally, it sought to examine reported syndromes across regional Africa during the same period to explore potential signals of MVD from the neighboring countries. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis using EPIWATCH® to collect syndromic surveillance data from November 2022 to February 2023 in Equatorial Guinea and across Sub-Saharan Africa. Results: There was a notable absence of EPIWATCH® reports regarding Equatorial Guinea in the three months preceding the official declaration of the MVD outbreak, from November 2022 to early February 2023. Additionally, EPIWATCH® reports from neighboring countries did not reveal any syndromic signals of MVD across other regions of Africa during this timeframe. However, a report documenting the syndrome “hemorrhagic fever” in Equatorial Guinea was identified on February 10, 2023, before the diagnosis of the first case on February 12, 2023, serving as the early signal of the 2023 MVD outbreak. Conclusion: The absence of early warning indicators in Equatorial Guinea and across Sub-Saharan Africa in the three months leading up to the official declaration of the outbreak remained unknown. Additional investigations, such as genome analysis or phylogenetic studies, may be required to investigate the outbreak's emergence. AI-based surveillance tools like EPIWATCH® could supplement traditional public health surveillance methods in detecting a wide range of infectious diseases worldwide.
Epidemic Signals of Mycoplasma Pneumonia outbreaks in 2023 and early 2024 using Artificial Intelligence System (EPIWATCH®)
Background: Mycoplasma pneumonia is a significant respiratory infection that primarily affects children and young adults and is responsible for 10 to 40% of community-acquired pneumonia cases. Transmission occurs through close contact, complicating infection control in schools, families, and institute settings. The incidence rate of Mycoplasma pneumonia dropped during COVID-19; however, concerning trends emerged in mid-October 2023. This study aims to identify and summarise the timelines of AI intelligence-EPIWATCH signals for enhanced surveillance of Mycoplasma pneumonia in 2023 and early 2024. Methods: EPIWATCH® database was utilized to retrieve syndromic surveillance reports between January 1, 2023, and February 13, 2024, using syndromic keywords such as influenza-like illness, febrile syndromes, pneumonia of unknown origin, and the disease keyword Mycoplasma pneumonia. Study findings were grouped according to geographical locations, and a descriptive epidemiologic analysis of the outbreak was conducted. The top 5 countries were selected for further analysis to show the trends and patterns over the study period. Results: The syndromic surveillance included a total of 1943 reports, including 26 reports of confirmed Mycoplasma pneumonia outbreaks. China, India, Russia, the USA, and Pakistan were included in the descriptive analysis. The trend in the EPIWATCH® syndromic surveillance data between January 1, 2023, and February 11, 2024, across these 5 countries revealed increases in reporting of influenza-like illness and pneumonia of unknown origin starting around August or September 2023, with notable spikes occurring in November or December 2023. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using EPIWATCH® as a syndromic surveillance tool in providing timely early signals of outbreaks compared to traditional surveillance methods. This proactive approach helps in understanding and managing emerging infectious diseases, facilitating effective control measures to mitigate the impact of future Mycoplasma pneumonia outbreaks.
Protection of Fundamental Rights in the Context of Biomedical Innovations: The Role of the European Court of Human Rights
Biomedical and technological advances are reshaping the landscape of healthcare, offering unprecedented opportunities to address previously incurable diseases and improve quality of life. However, these breakthroughs also raise complex ethical, legal, and social challenges, including disparities in access to healthcare and risks to fundamental human rights. This study focuses on the role of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in addressing these challenges by analysing its case law related to biomedical innovations. Specifically, the research identifies recurring patterns of human rights violations, such as breaches of privacy, informed consent, and equitable access to healthcare. By examining the ECtHR’s judgments, the study elucidates the Court's pivotal role in shaping legal norms and harmonising national legislation with international human rights standards. It further highlights how ECtHR decisions contribute to balancing medical innovation with the protection of fundamental rights. Ultimately, the article highlights the critical need for robust legal and ethical frameworks to mitigate the risks posed by biomedical advancements and ensure that these technologies benefit all individuals without discrimination.
Outbreak of Western Equine Encephalitis in humans in Argentina and Uruguay during late 2023 to early 2024
Biowarfare scare: Pakistani judges under threat from suspicious substance
On 2 April 2024, Islamabad High Court and Supreme Court judges in Pakistan received threatening letters laced with an unknown substance, which was later alleged to be bacillus anthracis. This event marked the third possible occasion where bacillus anthracis has been weaponised in Pakistan. Worldwide, bacillus anthracis has been weaponised at least ten times prior to this suspected event. Whilst anthrax is endemic in parts of Pakistan and there are biosafety level 3 laboratories in the country there is the possibility that bacillus anthracis spores could have been harvested or acquired in the country. However, with limited information and no official confirmation from international sources, significant uncertainty remains around the unknown substance being anthrax. Determining the true nature of the attack will require unfettered access to the country for a thorough examination of whether it was anthrax and, if so, how anthrax was weaponised. This attack with a potentially lethal substance underscores the critical importance of robust biosecurity measures.
Pandemic planning and preparedness in Nigeria: A search for entry points to integrate adult vaccinations into the health system.
This commentary aimed to investigate opportunities for implementing adult vaccination programs, with the goal of enhancing coverage, accessibility, and fortification of both populations and health systems, whether in response to future outbreaks or as part of routine initiatives. The Nigerian health system operates on three distinct tiers: primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, all overseen by the Ministry of Health and other governmental health agencies, collectively playing pivotal roles in healthcare delivery. outreach programs are pivotal by extending immunization services to underserved regions, ensuring equitable vaccine access beyond traditional healthcare facilities. Pharmacy clinics have proven effective vaccination entry points in many countries, benefiting from frequent interactions with the adult population targeted for vaccination. By diversifying entry points for COVID-19 vaccination, Nigeria can enhance immunization coverage, especially among adults, and integrate these efforts effectively into the existing health system.
Mpox, smallpox and the increasing threat of orthopoxvirus epidemics
An epidemic of clade I mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo, low population immunity to orthopoxviruses and advances in synthetic biology should be the triggers to raise our level of preparedness for resurgent orthopoxvirus epidemics.
A RETROSPECITVE ANALYSIS ON VARIOUS CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF DENGUE FEVER IN A TERITIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Dengue is a vector borne illness caused via dengue virus infected female Aedes mosquitoes. The main viral strains are DEN1, DEN2, DEN3 and DEN4. A various cluster of manifestations are included in dengue as the disease progresses. This observational study was conducted at tertiary care hospitals in and around Mangalore from 2015 to 2019, on confirmed cases of Dengue via immunological studies. Various clinical, laboratory and radiological parameters were recorded and assessed statistically later. Dengue was more common in young males (58.9%). Common presentations were fever with headache (94%), hypotension and abdominal pain (15%). Thrombocytopenia (88.4) and leucopenia (48.3%) were the commonest cytological findings. Deranged LFT (39.1%)with Hyponatremina (35.3%) and low bicarbonate (78.3%)were also seen. Cavitatory effusion was seen in 67% of patients with complications. Myocarditis was seen in 2%. Dengue despite being an easily preventable and usually self-limiting illness, the complications however can fatal. Especially in endemic areas, early diagnosis of the disease using clinical, laboratory and radiological assessment is necessary to avoid it being confused with other infections due to its overlapping of symptoms; and for preventing complications.
Legal aspects of preventing the spread of epidemics across state borders: legislative framework in Ukraine and international practice
Анотація Дана наукова стаття присвячена дослідженню правових аспектів проведення епідемічних заходів на державному кордоні. Він досліджує загальні норми міжнародного права, які регулюють вільне пересування осіб і відповідальність держави за безпеку громадян під час епідемії. Автор надає огляд міжнародних конвенцій, угод та національного законодавства, що регулюють впровадження заходів з профілактики епідемії, зосереджуючи увагу на ролі міжнародних організацій, таких як ВООЗ, МОМ та Європейський центр профілактики та контролю захворювань. Особлива увага приділяється міжнародному співробітництву та координації між державами у здійсненні заходів на кордоні під час епідемій. Аналізуючи стратегії боротьби з поширенням інфекційних захворювань, досліджуючи ефективність різних підходів та їх переваги. Встановлено, що тимчасові прикордонні обмеження можуть значно зменшити кількість випадків зараження, хоча їх ефективність може залежати від внутрішніх стратегій контролю за хворобою в шкірній країні. За результатами перевірки висунуто рекомендації щодо посилення правового регулювання та підвищення ефективності заходів із запобігання поширенню епідемії через державні кордони. також, пропонується сприяти міжнародному співробітництву та координації зусиль держави для встановлення єдиних стандартів і стратегій. Крім того, є рекомендація посилити законодавство для підтримки використання інноваційних технологій та забезпечення прозорості та справедливості у вирішенні питань обмежень на кордоні. Ці заходи спрямовані на забезпечення ефективного контролю за пересуванням людей через національні кордони під час епідемії, зберігаючи при цьому баланс між громадським здоров’ям і правами людини. Посилення глобальної координації та визначення визначено як вирішальна перспектива підвищення готовності до майбутніх пандемій та епідемій.
Respiratory illness of unknown cause as an early signal of the COVID-19 pandemic
Background: As the COVID-19 pandemic began, cases of respiratory illness of unknown cause could have presented early disease signals. The detection of such signals can provide useful clues regarding disease emergence and opportunities for early outbreak control. This study assessed trends in the global incidence of reports of respiratory illness of unknown cause as early indicators of COVID-19 in late 2019, using the early warning system, EPIWATCH, to investigate the disease’s origins and early epidemiology. Methods: Global news articles published between 1-Oct and 31-Dec in 2019 and collected by EPIWATCH, an open-source Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven epidemic surveillance system, were searched for keywords relating to unknown respiratory illness. Control periods representing the pre-COVID period (1-Oct to 31-Dec 2016-2018) were used to compare report trends over time. Data on report location, case demographics, outbreak setting, and type of illness, were extracted and descriptively analysed. Fisher’s exact tests were conducted to assess proportional differences between years. Results: Overall, 113 EPIWATCH reports of unknown respiratory illness were identified from 12 countries in 2019. Most reports (n=111 [98.2%]) were published in Northern hemisphere countries, in particular Russia (n=A72 [63.7%]) and the United States (n=17 [15.0%]). China experienced a month-on-month increase in reports. Schools were the most reported outbreak setting (n=49 [43.4%]). The proportion of included reports in 2019 was significantly higher compared to 2016-2018 (p<.001). Conclusion: Potential early COVID-19 signals were detected from various countries before the end of 2019. AI-driven open-source disease surveillance systems, such as EPIWATCH, can provide early warnings to enhance disease surveillance and improve outbreak prevention and response.
HIV Sero-Prevalence among Tuberculosis Patients in Bangladesh: a nationwide cross-sectional study
Introduction Bangladesh is committed to achieving the SDG target of ending the tuberculosis epidemic and achieving UHC by 2030. To inform policy and program decision-making, this nationwide sero-survey of HIV among tuberculosis patients was conducted. Methods The cross-sectional survey utilized a two-stage probability proportional to size (PPS) systematic random sampling technique for selected TB reporting centers (TRCs) from June 2020 to December 2021. The estimated 12,065 diagnosed tuberculosis patients, according to the NTP diagnostic algorithm, irrespective of age and sex, were included. The required information was collected through face-to-face interviews and record reviews using a pre-tested electronic TAB-based semi-structured questionnaire. With all aseptic precautions for all respondents who gave consent, 5 ml. venous blood was collected for the standard confirmatory test by 4th generation ELISA method for detection of antibody of HIV1/2/P24 antigen. Results Out of 12,065 TB patients surveyed, most of them were from the Dhaka division (25%), urban (76%), 55 years and above (28%), male (56%), married (82%), illiterate (36%) and living in a nuclear family (70%). A total of 12 (0.1%) HIV-positive cases were found among TB patients across the country, and the majority (33%) of them belonged to the age group of 35 to 44 years, male (58%), lower educational group (67%), urban resident (67%), and from nuclear family (77%). The HIV-positive patients found more among pulmonary TB patients (83%) who were detected bacteriologically positive (58%) but smear and gene expert negative (75%). Among them, none was found to have progressed to drug-resistant TB. Conclusion HIV affects the immune system, and TB is one of the leading causes of death in HIV-infected people. Although the rate is low, there is a need for continued efforts to prevent and treat TB in Bangladesh, particularly among older age groups, urban residents, and those with co-morbidities such as diabetes.
Introduction: Malaria, a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium sp. is a substantial threat to global health. In recent years, the association of malignancies and malaria has been an interesting field of research. To date, Burkitt's lymphoma has shown a close association with Malaria in the sub-Saharan nations. The latest research targets the current anti-malarial medicines as a promising approach towards novel anti-cancer therapies. The complicated relationship between malaria, genetics, immune response, and cancer might help in exploring various pharmacological approaches that might help in the therapeutic approach to malaria and cancer. Further, in-depth in-vivo and in-vitro studies are needed to establish the link between malaria infection and cancer progression. Aims and Objectives: This review aims to explore the key associations of malaria and various malignancies and the possible anti-cancer effects of anti-malarial drugs. Materials and Methods: A critical review of 53 articles from 1987 to 2023 was conducted. Conclusion: • Endemic Burkitt's lymphoma shows a synergy with malaria, but more studies are needed to explore, for correlating the possible associations of malaria with other malignancies. • Non-hematological malignancies were shown not to have a strong correlation with malaria. • Anti-malarial drugs displaying anti-cancer properties could be a promising adjunct to current routine cancer treatment