1-Feb-2023: Global Report on Neglected Tropical Diseases
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)
- Group of infections that are common in marginalized communities in developing regions
- Caused by various pathogens
- Common in tropical areas with poor sanitation
- Receives less funding than other diseases
- Examples: snakebite envenomation, scabies, yaws, trachoma, Leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, etc.
Highlights of the Report
- 16 countries account for 80% of global NTD burden
- Nearly 1.65 billion people need treatment for at least one NTD
- Covid-19 impacted community-based initiatives and healthcare access and as a result 34% fewer people received NTD treatment in 2020.
Recommendations
- More investments needed to reach NTD road map targets by 2030
- Multi-sectoral collaboration and partnerships essential
- Additional partners and funders needed
Global Initiatives
- WHO's New Roadmap for 2021-2030 in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- The Blueprint recommends following measures,
- From measuring process to measuring impact.
- From disease-specific planning and programming to collaborative work across sectors.
- From externally driven agendas reliant to programmes that are country-owned and country-financed.
- London Declaration on NTDs (2012) to recognise the global burden of NTDs.
Indian Initiatives to Eliminate NTDs
- Accelerated Plan for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (APELF) launched in 2018
- Regional alliance with Bangladesh and Nepal, supported by WHO in 2005 to expedite early diagnosis and treatment of the most vulnerable populations and improve disease surveillance and control of sandfly populations (Kala-azar).
- India has already eliminated guinea worm, trachoma, and yaws
- Preventive methods like Mass Drug Administration and vector control measures used to prevent sandfly breeding.
- Morbidity management and disability prevention supported for those affected by lymphoedema and hydrocele.
- Wage compensation schemes introduced for Kala-Azar and its sequela(a condition which is the consequence of a previous disease or injury) known as Post-Kala Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis.
24-Jan-2023: Norovirus infection was confirmed in two schoolchildren in Kerala.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
Norovirus is transmitted through contaminated food or water, contact with infected people or surfaces, and aerosolized vomit. Norovirus is resistant to many disinfectants and can heat up to 60°C. Therefore, merely steaming food or chlorinating water does not kill the virus. It can also survive many common hand sanitisers.
Symptoms of norovirus infection include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, headache, and fever. The symptoms of norovirus infection usually last for 1-3 days.
Causes
- Virus family: Norovirus belongs to the family Caliciviridae.
- Viral structure: Norovirus is a non-enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus.
- Genogroups: Norovirus is classified into 10 genogroups, with genogroups I, II, and IV causing human infections.
Epidemiology
- Prevalence: Norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, responsible for approximately 685 million cases and 200,000 deaths annually.
- Outbreaks: Norovirus outbreaks are common in closed settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and cruise ships.
- Risk factors: Norovirus infection is more common in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis: Norovirus infection is diagnosed based on symptoms, and confirmed by laboratory testing of stool samples.
- Treatment: There is no specific treatment for norovirus infection, and the focus is on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration.
- Prevention: Hand hygiene, food safety practices, and cleaning and disinfection of surfaces are key measures to prevent norovirus transmission.
Public Health Impact
- Economic impact: Norovirus outbreaks can have significant economic impact, with costs estimated to be over $60 billion globally.
- Burden on healthcare system: Norovirus outbreaks can put a strain on healthcare resources, with hospitalizations and emergency room visits increasing during outbreaks.
- Control measures: Surveillance, outbreak investigation, and implementation of control measures are critical in preventing and controlling norovirus outbreaks.
17-Jan-2023: Antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhea outbreak has hit Kenya
Gonorrhea
- A sexually transmitted infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- Symptoms: Can be asymptomatic, can infect genitals, rectum, throat
- Risks: Infertility, increased risk of HIV infection
- Treatment: Antibiotics, but resistance is increasing
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
- Ability of microorganisms to resist antimicrobial drugs
- Causes: Poor infection control, overuse of antibiotics, genetic mutations
- Impacts: Prolonged illness, disability, death, increased healthcare costs
- Recognition in India: National Health Policy 2017 & Ministry of Health & Family Welfare highlights the problem of antimicrobial resistance and calls for effective action to address it.
Government Initiatives
- National Programme on AMR containment (2012)
- National Action Plan on AMR (2017)
- AMR Surveillance and Research Network (2013)
- Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ICMR)
World Health Organization (WHO)
- Gonorrhea: Second-most common sexually transmitted disease
- AMR: Threatens healthcare systems, sustainability
Prevention
- Limiting use of antimicrobial drugs
- Improving infection control
- Investing in research and development
- Promoting international cooperation