Volume 9 | Issue 2

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-1 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.43-48

Preview Abstract
Latent toxoplasmosis is the most frequently occurring parasitic infection worldwide, which causes hormonal and behavioral changes that seriously affect pregnant women. It has also been linked to several autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). This study aimed to investigate the association between Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and thyroid dysfunction, considering the impact of latent toxoplasmosis on the prevalence of maternal AITD and interleukin-33 (IL-33) levels in infected and non-infected pregnant women. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 400 pregnant women aged 15–50 in the 8th–36th gestational week. Toxoplasma status was confirmed by detecting anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobulin (Ig)G antibodies. Recent and past chronic toxoplasmosis status was differentiated using the Toxoplasma IgG avidity test. Free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were determined to evaluate thyroid disorders. Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin, and TSH receptor were assessed to distinguish patients with autoimmune thyroid disorders from those with other thyroid diseases. We divided the subjects into four groups (Toxo+ and abnormal hormone level, Toxo– and normal hormone level, Toxo+ and normal hormone level, and Toxo– and abnormal hormone level) and evaluated their IL-33 levels to investigate its role during the infection. All the tests were performed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that (205/400, 51.2%) samples were seropositive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies. Of these, (25/205, 12.2%) and (180/195, 87.8%) had recent and past chronic infections, respectively. High infection rates were reported among rural dwellers (150/400, 37.5%) and those in their 3rd trimester (110/400, 27.5%). Of the 205 seropositive patients, (131/205, 63.9%) had thyroid disorders, among which (69/205, 33.7%) and (119/205, 58.0%) had abnormal FT3 and TSH hormone levels, respectively. In contrast, out of 195 Toxoplasma seronegative samples, (99/195, 50.8%) had thyroid disorders; (48/195, 24.6%) and (90/195, 46.2%) had abnormal FT3 and TSH hormone levels, respectively. Groups with abnormal FT3 and TSH levels had significantly higher seropositive anti-toxoplasma IgG antibodies (p = 0.01). Women with seropositive anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies had a high hypothyroidism rate (115/205, 56.1%) compared with those with seronegative anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies (86/195, 44.1%). We found an association between toxoplasmosis and thyroid status (p < 0.05). Out of 400 samples, 85 (85/400, 21.25%) had AITD. Further, (58/205, 28.3%) of women with seropositive anti-toxoplasma IgG antibodies had AITD compared to (27/195, 13.85%) in the seronegative ones. We found a significant association between toxoplasmosis and AITD (p < 0.05). The IL-33 level was highest in the Toxo+ and abnormal hormone level group (210.86 ± 44.39 pg/mL) and lowest in the Toxo-and normal hormone level group (22.27 ± 8.41 pg/mL). Our results suggest that latent toxoplasmosis was significantly associated with thyroid hormone secretion, which might stimulate the immune system, leading to the development of AITD among pregnant women. Furthermore, the T. gondii seroprevalence was positively correlated with pregnant patients who were rural dwellers and in their 3rd trimester. Keywords: autoimmune thyroiditis disease, interleukin-33, pregnancy, thyroid hormones, toxoplasmosis.
Research Article | 13 Aug 2023
Elephant tourism: An analysis and recommendations for public health, safety, and animal welfare
Clifford Warwick, Anthony Pilny, Catrina Steedman, and Rachel Grant

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-2 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.49-66

Preview Abstract
We examined over 500 scientific publications with respect to our primary objectives, as well as non-peer-reviewed materials relating to other relevant subject matters (e.g., tourism promotional websites and YouTube films) for background purposes, although these additional materials were not included in this review. We identified at least 12 confirmed or potential zoonotic and other transmissible infections relevant to the elephant tourism sector, and at least 13 areas of animal welfare concern. Infection and injury risks between humans and captive elephants cannot be safely controlled where close contact experiences are involved, arguably creating an unredeemable and indefensible public health and safety situation. Elephant welfare within some sectors of the close contact interactive tourism industry continues to involve significant mistreatment and abuse. To alleviate key One Health concerns outlined in this study, we recommend several types of regulation, monitoring, and control regarding interactions at the human-captive elephant interface. These include legal bans on the promotion and performance of close contact experiences, combined with strong enforcement protocols; new policies toward discouraging elephant tourism; 24/7 surveillance of captive elephants; and the adoption of independent scientific positive list systems for tourism promoters or providers regarding public observation of free-ranging elephants within national parks and protected areas. Keywords: animal welfare, elephant tourism, One Health, public health, safety, zoonoses.
Research Article | 13 Aug 2023
A recent update on the use of antimicrobials for animal health in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Agustina Dwi Wijayant, Antasiswa Windraningyas Rosetyadew, Anggi Muhtar Pratama, Aria Ika Septana, Dwi Cahyo Budi Setyawan, and Ida Fitriana

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-3 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.67-73

Preview Abstract
Animal antimicrobials must be studied to determine if they have the same types, norms of use, and resistance patterns as those used in humans. This study aimed to facilitate the analysis of data on the use of antimicrobials in veterinary medicine and to aid in developing a strategy to prevent the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans and animals. Data were obtained through a survey of 101 veterinarians working in animal clinics and independent practice in five regencies of Yogyakarta province. Both of the antibiotics, antiparasitic (78.6%) and, antiseptic and disinfectant (68.0%), and antifungal (31.1%) were the most frequently used types of antimicrobials, while antivirals were the least used (9.7%). The most often treated animals with antimicrobials are pets (37%), followed by large and small livestock (30%), poultry (15%), and exotic animals (14%). Of the respondents, 89% were aware of the factors contributing to AMR, but only 47% monitored developments and expanded their understanding of AMR. The most common antibiotic classes were penicillin (71), tetracyclines (50), sulfonamides (41), fluoroquinolones (31), and aminoglycosides (27). All antimicrobials used in the animal health sector are also used in human medicine, which requires special consideration. This cross-use of antibiotics was a crucial factor in determining the cause of the spread of AMR between humans and animals. Keywords: animal health, antimicrobial use, Yogyakarta.
Research Article | 18 Sep 2023
Characterizing how One Health is defined and used within primary research: A scoping review
Sydney D. Pearce, David F. Kelton, Charlotte B. Winder, Jan M. Sargeant, Jamie Goltz, and E. Jane Parmley

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-4 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.74-86

Preview Abstract
One Health (OH) approach can be used in multiple ways to tackle a wide range of complex problems, making OH research applications and definitions difficult to summarize. To improve our ability to describe OH research applications, we aimed to characterize (1) the terms used in OH definitions within primary research articles reporting the use of the OH approach, and (2) the who, what, where, when, why, and how (5Ws and H) of the OH primary research articles. A scoping review was conducted using nine databases and the search term “One Health” in June 2021. Articles were screened by two reviewers using pre-specified eligibility criteria. The search yielded 11,441 results and screening identified 252 eligible primary research articles. One Health definitions and 5Ws and H data were extracted from these studies. Definitions: One Health was labeled as an “approach” (n = 79) or “concept” (n = 30) that is “multi/cross/inter/trans-disciplinary” (n = 77), “collaborative” (n = 54), “interconnected” (n = 35), applied “locally/regionally/nationally/globally” (n = 84), and includes health pillars (“human” = 124, “animal” = 122, “environmental/ecosystem” = 118). WHEN: Article publication dates began in 2010 and approximately half were published since 2020 (130/252). WHERE: First authors most often had European (n = 101) and North American (n = 70) affiliations, but data collection location was more evenly distributed around the world. WHO: The most common disciplines represented in affiliations were human health/biology (n = 198), animal health/biology (n = 157), food/agriculture (n = 81), and environment/geography (n = 80). WHAT: Infectious disease was the only research topic addressed until 2014 and continued to be the most published overall (n = 171). Antimicrobial resistance was the second most researched area (n = 47) and the diversity of topics increased over time. HOW: Both quantitative and qualitative study designs were reported, with quantitative observational designs being the most common (n = 174). WHY: Objectives indicated that studies were conducted for the benefit of humans (n = 187), animals (n = 130), physical environment (n = 55), social environments (n = 33), and plants (n = 4). This scoping review of primary OH research shows a diverse body of work, with human health being considered most frequently. We encourage continued knowledge synthesis work to monitor these patterns as global issues and the application of OH approaches evolve. Keywords: global One Health research, knowledge synthesis, one health applications, one health definitions.
Research Article | 22 Sep 2023
The impact of antibiotic resistance training programs on knowledge, attitude, and practice reflection among Indian higher education students
Dona Boban, Kiranjeet Kaur, Stefano Greco, Himanshu Shekhar Pradhan, Riya Joshi, K. Rakshitha, and Jyoti Prakash

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-5 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.87-94

Preview Abstract
Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is one of the most pressing public health issues. Resistant pathogens originate from antibiotic misuse and unsustainable socioeconomic patterns. Co-financed by the European Commission, the Erasmus + capacity building project, PREVENT IT | Risk Management and Prevention of ABR, aims to improve the effectiveness of the study programs of Indian universities vis-à-vis ABR. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the ABR training programs on the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) reflection of undergraduate and postgraduate students from five Indian universities. In this multicentric study, the KAP reflection of the students was assessed before (pre) and after (post) the intervention of experiential ABR training. Paired t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used to analyze the impact of intervention using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. A total of 515 students participated in the study. The findings indicate a significant improvement in the knowledge and attitude scores, while a minor change was observed in practice reflection. The intervention conducted within the framework of the project could set a good practice for the prevention and risk management of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Keywords: health, antibiotic resistance, training, innovations and health, attitude and practice, capacity building, equal access, awareness, increasing life expectancy, international health policy.

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-6 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.95-105

Preview Abstract
Inappropriate antibiotic use in the agricultural sector is a crucial driver of antibiotic resistance which is a global public health concern. Although there are many studies on antibiotic use in livestock production, studies on antibiotic use in crop production are relatively scarce. This study aimed to determine farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward antibiotic use in Mandarin orchard and investigate their associations with the antibiotic susceptibility patterns among Mandarin orchard farmers in Fang District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Fang District between November and December 2021. The participants in this study were 151 farmers (farm owners and farm workers) in ten Mandarin orchards. All participants completed face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Nasal swabs were collected from 100 participants. The disk diffusion and staphylococcal chromosome cassette mec typing methods were used to test the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates. All farmers involved in the activities related to antibiotic exposure, 39.7% prepared or mixed antibiotics, and 82.8% injected antibiotics into Mandarin trees. Overall, farmers in this study had moderate levels of knowledge and attitudes and good antibiotic use practices. There was a significant association between attitudes and practices (r = 0.312, p < 0.001). In the analysis of drug resistance of the bacterial isolates, Staphylococcus aureus was detected in 16 of 100 nasal swab samples, with resistance to penicillin (16/16), methicillin (cefoxitin) (1/16), and tetracycline (6/16). This is the first report on farmers' and farm workers' KAP and antibiotic use in crop production, specifically Mandarin production. The findings of this research will help in developing plans and strategies to encourage the appropriate use of antibiotics and prevent antibiotic resistance or microbial resistance in plant production. Keywords: antibiotic use, attitudes, farmers, knowledge, mandarin orchard, practices.
Systematic Review | 26 Sep 2023
The potential for foodborne disease stemming from the consumption of quail products: A systematic review
Trianing Tyas Kusuma Anggaeni, Sulthon Aqil Muhana, Roostita Lobo Balia, and Gemilang Lara Utama

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-7 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.106-114

Preview Abstract
Investigation of the zoonotic potential of quail-derived food items, including eggs and meat, and their consequential impact on the health of the general population is insufficient. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of the potential hazards associated with consuming quail eggs and meat products with a One Health approach based on the existing body of knowledge derived from multi-disciplinary studies. A total of 37 studies from 2004 to 2021 were procured from four distinct databases following a two-stage screening process involving practical and methodological screening. The utilization of a descriptive qualitative method with a meta-aggregation approach was employed to scrutinize these studies, leading to a definitive conclusion regarding the risks of foodborne diseases associated with the consumption of quail meat products. A total of 7555 studies were retrieved and 146 were qualified based on the predetermined criteria. Of 146 studies, 90 studies were eliminated based on duplication screening. Of the 90, 37 were determined to be related to the aim of this research. The consumption of quail eggs and meat products poses a significant risk for foodborne diseases, with potentially greater ramifications than currently recognized, particularly in the areas of food safety, public health, conservation, and the economy. Keywords: foodborne disease, One Health, quail.
Research Article | 17 Oct 2023
Occurrence and antibiogram of Escherichia albertii in backyard poultry and pigeons in Bangladesh
Mukta Das Gupta, Mishuk Shaha, Arjuman Lima, Keya Ghosh, Tahia Ahmed Logno, and Ashutosh Das

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-8 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.115-121

Preview Abstract
Escherichia albertii is an emerging enteric pathogen that causes mass avian mortality events in the Northern Hemisphere, as well as mortality in captive birds and poultry. This study aims to investigate the occurrence and antibiotic resistance pattern of E. albertii in backyard poultry and pigeons in Bangladesh. A total of 200 cloacal swabs were collected from backyard poultry and pigeons from Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar districts in Bangladesh. Escherichia albertii isolates were isolated and identified by culturing on selective growth media. Polymerase chain reaction was used to confirm the presence of cytolethal distending toxin gene (Eacdt). Antimicrobial resistance patterns of E. albertii isolates were investigated using the Bauer-Kirby disk diffusion method. In addition, the E. albertii isolates were screened for sulphonamide-resistant sul1 and sul2. In total, 7/200 (3.5%) isolates from backyard poultry tested positive for Eacdt. The isolation rate of E. albertii was highest in chicken (4.76%), followed by turkey (2.78%) and duck (2.2%). Pigeon samples were negative for E. albertii. Based on the disk diffusion test, all seven E. albertii isolates were resistant to ≥3 antimicrobials. Resistance was highest against tetracycline (86%), followed by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (71%). In addition, 6/7 isolates tested positive for sul1 and sul2. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to show that backyard poultry and pigeons in Bangladesh may be reservoirs of E. albertii, indicating the importance of determining the transmission and pathogenicity of E. albertii to humans. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, Bangladesh, pathogenicity, tetracycline.

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-9 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.122-133

Preview Abstract
Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly pathogenic zoonotic virus that has caused several outbreaks with high fatality rates in humans and animals, thus, requiring a “One Health” approach. No specific treatment or vaccine is available for NiV infection, making the development of effective antiviral agents against this virus a critical research priority. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to identify and develop antiviral agents targeting the various stages of NiV pathogenesis. This review comprehensively discusses current research on antiviral agents against NiV. The promising results obtained with several compounds, including repurposed drugs, nucleoside analogs, phytochemicals, and multi-target inhibitors, are also highlighted. Developing effective antiviral agents against NiV remains a major challenge; however, recent advances in understanding the mechanisms of NiV pathogenesis and identifying potential targets for antiviral agents have provided hope for the future. Further research is required to identify and optimize antiviral agents with broad-spectrum activity against NiV and other related viruses.
Systematic Review | 29 Oct 2023
One Health and research with freshwater fish: A systematic review
Julia Fernanda de Camargo Teles Miranda, Karla Fernanda Sanches Rodrigues, Beatriz Regina Rodrigues Carvalho, José Rodrigo de Arruda, Valéria de Souza, and and Welber Senteio Smith

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-10 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.134-140

Preview Abstract
The concept of One Health, which aims to establish the association between human, animal, and environmental health, is dedicated to finding solutions to challenges such as the spread of zoonotic diseases. This study focuses on the conservation of freshwater fish and underscores the need for multi-and transdisciplinary approaches that emphasize the objective established by the concept. In this context, this study conducted a systematic review, employing criteria for article selection and exclusion, where publications spanning from 1990 to 2022 were analyzed using the electronic databases Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, SciELO, and Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde. Using the keywords “One Health,” “fish,” and “freshwater,” a comprehensive collection of 2392 articles was identified. However, after a meticulous evaluation, only 12 articles fully satisfied the review criteria. These selected articles, published between 2015 and 2022, were primarily concentrated in Asia and Africa. Notably, the focal points of these articles addressed antimicrobial resistance, parasites, and heavy metals, which are challenges associated with consuming contaminated fish. Thus, the One Health approach is the most efficient method for managing environmental risks. By harnessing the collaborative efforts of diverse professionals and experts in the fields of environmental, human, and animal health, this approach serves as a robust framework for addressing challenges involving the triad of human, animal, and environmental spheres. Keywords: animal health, antimicrobial resistance, heavy metals, human health, parasites.
Research Article | 21 Nov 2023
Prevalence of multidrug resistance and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from dairy cattle farm wastewater in East Java Province, Indonesia
Fidi Nur Aini Eka Puji Dameanti, Sheila Marty Yanestria, Agus Widodo, Mustofa Helmi Effendi, Hani Plumeriastuti, Wiwiek Tyasningsih, Emmanuel Nnabuike Ugbo, Rahayu Sutrisno, and M. Ali Akram Syah

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-11 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.141-149

Preview Abstract
Antibiotic resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae, especially extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers, has become a global public health problem. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) and ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae in wastewater from dairy farms. This study was conducted on dairy farms in East Java Province from June to October 2022. In total, 342 dairy farm wastewater samples were isolated on buffered peptone water media from six cities/regencies with the highest dairy cattle population in East Java. Samples were identified using MacConkey agar media, Gram-staining,eosin-methylene blue agar, and biochemical tests. In total, 14.32% (49/342) samples contained K. pneumoniae. Positive isolates were tested for antibiotic sensitivity. Klebsiella pneumoniae resistant to beta-lactam was confirmed using the double-disk synergy test to confirm the presence of ESBL-producing bacteria. The percentage of antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae was 98% resistance to ampicillin, 67.3% to cefotaxime, 46.9% to tetracycline, 49% to ciprofloxacin, 98% to streptomycin, 14.3% to sulfamethoxazole–trimethoprim, and 83.7% to chloramphenicol. The prevalence of MDR in K. pneumoniae was 12.57% (43/342), with the highest prevalence in the five classes of antibiotics at 41.86% (18/43), and the prevalence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae was 5.55% (19/342), with the highest prevalence in the districts of Blitar and Pasuruan at 26.31% (5/19). Although the prevalence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae in wastewater samples from dairy farms was low, caution is recommended because they can be a reservoir for ESBL. Keywords: animal health, dairy cattle, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, human health, Klebsiella pneumoniae, wastewater.
Research Article | 21 Nov 2023
Knowledge, attitude, and hygiene practices of food handlers related to food safety in Al-Suwaira City, Wasit Province in Iraq
Manal H. G. Kanaan, Israa Dawood Salim, Ahmad M. Tarek, and Sura Saad Abdullah

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-12 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.150-158

Preview Abstract
Food safety and hygiene are global health concerns, particularly in underprivileged nations, due to the increased incidence of foodborne diseases (FBDs) and associated mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the food handlers’ knowledge, attitude, and hygiene practices toward food safety in Al-Suwaira City, Wasit governorate, Iraq. In this cross-sectional study, researchers interviewed 130 food handlers to assess their knowledge, attitude, and hygiene regarding food safety in Al-Suwaira, Wasit governorate, Middle Eastern Iraq, from October 2022 to March 2023. The data regarding their age, sex, place of residence, education, employment history, marital status, and monthly income were collected through a questionnaire, as were details on their knowledge, attitudes, and hygiene habits about food safety. Overall, most participants demonstrated poor knowledge of food hygiene and preservation but showed good knowledge of personal hygiene. Knowledge gaps were identified about the healthy ways to clean and use cooking utensils (35.38%), storage of food in the refrigerator (33.85%), and the possible exposure to foodborne pathogens when utensils are reused to cook vegetables and meat (12.31%). Nearly all participants in this study had positive attitudes toward food safety. Most participants (n = 100, 76.7%) agreed that separating raw and cooked food is the best way to avoid spreading germs. Moreover, 109 respondents (83.85%) agreed that washing hands before preparing food efficiently reduces the spread of FBDs. Furthermore, 117 participants (90%) disagreed that disposing of expired perishable foods is necessary, while 91.54% disagreed that monitoring meals for cleanliness and health is important. Our findings showed that 57.15% of the participants had low-to-intermediate competence in food safety procedures, such as avoiding cross-contamination, checking food temperatures, and washing hands thoroughly before and after handling food. The participants in this study exhibited poor compliance and awareness of food safety procedures and practices, respectively. Therefore, educational opportunities and training are necessary to enhance their knowledge, attitudes, and cleanliness levels. Keywords: food handlers, food safety, Iraq, knowledge, attitude, and hygiene practices, Wasit province.
Research Article | 30 Nov 2023
A bibliometric analysis of worldwide research on One Health from 2012 to 2022
Firdausy Kurnia Maulana, Lailatul Maghfiroh, Siti Shofiya Novita Sari, and Fedik Abdul Rantam

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-13 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.159-165

Preview Abstract
Bibliometrics is a statistical method used to examine a collection of literature and its features, assess advancements in certain areas, and forecast future trends. To demonstrate global research trends in One Health and serve as a resource for potential future study and practice, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of articles related to worldwide research on One Health from Scopus database. This study identified keywords related to One Health that were limited by the subject area to medicine, veterinary, and environmental science to identify and search for articles in the Scopus database, which included 1608 international research papers published from 2012 to 2022. The results showed a 10-year trend of rising publishing outputs and research interest in One Health. The most prolific One Health author is Zinsstag Jakob from Switzerland and the most productive journal on One Health was the One Health journal. The institution with the most One Health research articles was the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USA). Coauthorship analysis revealed that the USA was the country with the greatest degree of affiliation, followed by the UK, Switzerland, and France. Four separate topic clusters were generated using the clustering algorithm within the network: (1) green: Veterinary; (2) blue: Zoonoses; (3) red: Antimicrobial resistance; and (4) yellow: Tropical disease. This article provides an overview of further research related to One Health. There is a need to explore further research in the environmental sector, which is the least explored sector among the three sectors in relation to One Health. The limitations of the current study were that we used only Scopus database and excluded literature from other scientific databases. Keywords: bibliometric analysis, One Health, scopus, VOSviewer.
Research Article | 22 Dec 2023
Generating evidence on antibiotic use across human and animal health sectors using the World Health Organization’s Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification: Exploratory pilot study in rural Pune, India
Abhay Machindra Kudale, Sakshi Shantanu Hiralkar, Pravin Arun Sawant, Yogita Purushottam Hulsurkar, Nikhil Rajkumar Fatate, Priya Padmakar Waghmare, Abhishek Prakash Randive, Mugdha Sharad Phutane, Prashant Pawar, and Prashant Mhase

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-14 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.166-171

Preview Abstract
Human antibiotic formulations in animal feed for therapeutic and non-therapeutic purposes have contributed to antimicrobial resistance worldwide; however, little evidence is available in low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to generate evidence of antibiotic use across the human and animal health sectors by investigating the overlap in antibiotic use in community settings in rural blocks of Pune District, India, following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification. An exploratory pilot study using a cross-sectional design in two randomly selected rural blocks of the Pune district included 138 interviews with general physicians (GPs, n = 62), pharmacists (n = 60), and veterinary practitioners (n = 16) using semi-structured interview schedules and the WHO AWaRe classification. IBM-Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Version 21.0 software was used for descriptive statistics and to calculate the proportions of the different antibiotic groups. The WHO AWaRe classification was used to describe antibiotic use by the study participants and to assess the overlap in antibiotic use. Our study provides evidence of an overlap in human and animal antibiotic use in rural community settings across the human and animal health sectors. Amoxicillin (access group), penicillin (access group), and ofloxacin (watch group) were used in both human and animal health. Amoxicillin and penicillin were used to treat common bacterial infections, ofloxacin was used to treat skin infections in humans and animals, and ofloxacin was used to treat pneumonia in animals and urinary bladder infections in humans. In contrast, azithromycin (watch group), cefixime (watch group), and amoxicillin (Access Group), with or without other antibiotics, were the most commonly used antibiotics by GPs in humans. We confirmed the overlap in antibiotic use across the human and animal health sectors in rural community settings, suggesting the need for interventions following the One Health approach. Further, research is required to assess the patterns of this overlap, as well as behavior, knowledge, and potential solutions to help avoid this overlap and prevent the rampant use of antibiotics in the animal and human health sectors in rural community settings. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, antibiotics use, overlap, rural India, WHO AWaRe.

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-15 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.172-180

Preview Abstract
The United States (US) government implemented interventions against COVID-19, but their effects on variant-related risks remain inconclusive. We aimed to assess the causal effects of vaccination rates, booster uptakes, face mask mandates, and public area mobility (societal behavioral factor) on early-stage COVID-19 case and death growth rates and identify the most effective public health response for controlling COVID-19 in the US. We performed retrospective analyses using four standard correlated random effects models, analyzing a robust panel dataset that encompasses 16,700 records across all fifty US states. Models 1 and 3 analyzed COVID-19 case rates and death growth rates, respectively, from January 2021 to November 2021. In contrast, using the data from August 2021 to November 2021, Models 2 and 4 assessed the effect of Delta variants and booster shots on COVID-19 case and death growth rates, respectively. We found that face mask mandate (p < 0.01) and workplace mobility (p < 0.05) led to lower COVID-19 case growth rates. COVID-19 vaccination uptake rate reduced COVID-19 death growth rates (p < 0.01). Furthermore, contrary to Epsilon variant (p < 0.01), which contributed to reduced COVID-19 case growth rates, Delta variant led to significant increases in COVID-19 cases (p < 0.001). This study suggests that immediate public health interventions, like mask mandates, are crucial for crisis mitigation, while long-term solutions like vaccination effectively address pandemics. The findings of this study not only sheds light on the recent pandemic but also equips policy-makers and health professionals with tools and knowledge to tackle future public health emergencies more effectively. Keywords: COVID-19, face mask mandate, public mobility, vaccination, variants.
Review Article | 28 Dec 2023
Integration of water, sanitation, and hygiene program with biosecurity: A One Health approach to reduce the prevalence and exposure of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the livestock community
Yudith Vega Paramitadevi, Cindy Rianti Priadi, Iftita Rahmatika, Andriansjah Rukmana, and Setyo Sarwanto Moersidik

Volume-9 | Issue-2 | Article-16 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.181-193

Preview Abstract
The global spread of antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health and is one of the main causes of this problem. Livestock farming plays a significant role in the horizontal and vertical transmission of treatment-resistant genes and bacteria. These processes involve contact with agricultural products and the environment, raising concerns for public health, and farming communities. The farming community is composed of a staggering 608 million farms worldwide, and their livelihood depends heavily on livestock farming. To address this issue, a multidisciplinary One Health approach focusing on integrated monitoring and intervention for humans, animals, and the environment is essential. Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WaSH) programs have the potential to significantly reduce the risk of exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli, by obstructing the transmission route between humans and animals. Additional risk reduction measures for ESBL E. coli infection in animals include vaccination and biosecurity program implementation. Water, sanitation, and hygiene and biosecurity measures must be combined to maximize the effectiveness of the One Health program. Therefore, this study aimed to describe recent advances in biosecurity and WaSH interventions in the livestock environment, analyze the effects of these interventions on human and animal health, and investigate potential future scenarios within the quantitative microbial risk assessment framework. This study used an integrative literature review through searches of four databases, a review of World Health Organization documents through websites, and an examination of relevant texts from previously obtained reference lists. Although hygiene and sanitation are often combined, there is still a lack of quantitative evaluation of the efficacy of integrating WaSH with biosecurity in livestock. In addition, the integration of the WaSH program with biosecurity has potential as a One Health intervention in the coming years.