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Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition
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Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032). This special issue belongs to the section "Preventive Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2025) | Viewed by 9919

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Vito Fiore

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Guest Editor
Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Sassari University Hospital, 07100 Sassari, Italy
Interests: infection; HIV; emerging infectious diseases; clinical infectious diseases; infectious pregnancy complications; rickettsia infections; tuberculosis; COVID-19; hepatitis; chronic viral hepatitis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

To ‘ensure healthy lives and promote well-being’ is one of the main goals adopted by the United Nations. According to the World Health Organization’s plan, five of the principal global health needs are related to infectious diseases, such as HIV testing, treatment, and viral suppression of 95%–95%–95%, respectively, and reducing viral hepatitis as a main global threat. To face the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, infection prevention and public health promotion are even more important. Moreover, under-served populations are still a fundamental global issue in planning communicable disease control. This Special Issue aims to include papers on infectious disease prevention and public health promotion in order to propose new approaches and strategies in the field.

Dr. Vito Fiore
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • HIV/AIDS
  • viral hepatitis B
  • viral hepatitis C
  • HIV/HCV co-infection
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • sexually transmitted diseases
  • infectious disease prevention
  • public health promotion
  • under-served populations
  • infectious disease knowledge
  • sexual health

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 361 KiB  
Article
Outcomes of COVID-19 in Pregnant Women: A Retrospective Analysis of 300 Cases in Jordan
by Hamza Hasan Suliman Al-Amoosh, Rasmieh Al-Amer, Aysheh Hasan Alamoush, Fatima Alquran, Taghreed Mohammad Atallah Aldajeh, Taysier Ahmad Al Rahamneh, Amer Gharaibeh, Amira Mohammed Ali, Maher Maaita and Tamara Darwish
Healthcare 2024, 12(21), 2113; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12212113 - 23 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1360
Abstract
Background: The impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy remains a critical area of research, with growing evidence suggesting that maternal infection, particularly in the third trimester, may lead to significant complications Aims: The primary aim was to investigate the maternal and neonatal outcome of [...] Read more.
Background: The impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy remains a critical area of research, with growing evidence suggesting that maternal infection, particularly in the third trimester, may lead to significant complications Aims: The primary aim was to investigate the maternal and neonatal outcome of pregnant Jordanian women with COVID-19. The secondary aim included exploring demographics, obstetrics characteristics, and comorbidities among these women. Methods: A retrospective comprehensive review of the records of 300 cases of pregnant women with COVID-19, who were treated between November 2020 and April 2021 at Queen Alia Military Hospital (a main referral center for patients with COVID-19) in Jordan. All cases were confirmed by the rapid antigen test (RAT) + long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test used to detect SARS-CoV-2 by amplifying viral RNA from patient samples. Women infected with COVID-19 were categorized into four groups according to the RCOG guidelines for COVID-19 infection in pregnancy: asymptomatic, mild, moderate, and severe cases. All cases were managed following the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists protocol for COVID-19 in pregnancy. Data extracted from patient’s records included demographic information, COVID-19 clinical manifestations, obstetric history, diagnostic findings, treatment plans, comorbidities, gestational age at diagnosis, treatment protocols, and maternal and neonatal outcomes. Results: The mean age was 29.7 years; 98.3% were nonsmokers; 8% had previous miscarriages, and 67.3% had the infection in the third trimester. Iron deficiency anemia affected 30.3%, while 18.3% had comorbidities, mainly hypothyroidism. Most women were asymptomatic 61.7%, but 33% had respiratory symptoms, 4.7% needed intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and 2.7% resulted in maternal deaths. First-trimester and second-trimester miscarriages were recorded in 2.67% and 3.67% of cases, respectively, while preterm labor occurred in 3.0% of pregnancies. Additionally, age and hospitalization duration had a positive correlation with the neonatal outcomes (r = 0.349, p < 0.01), (r = 0.376, p < 0.01), respectively. Furthermore, COVID-19 presentation and treatment options demonstrated a strong positive correlation (p-value <0.01). On the other hand, maternal death had a strong negative correlation with poor neonatal outcomes (r = −0.776, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The study showed that COVID-19 in pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, is associated with significant neonatal complications, with age, hospitalization duration, and COVID-19 severity strongly impacting outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition)
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16 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
Assessing Women’s Knowledge and Awareness of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Study
by Nujud Hassan Al-sahli, Zahra Essa Alhammaqi, Raghad Faisal Alruwailiy, Shatha Ahmed Alzahrani, Asma Ahmed Hakami, Ashjan Saeed Al Mansour, Ola Abdu Yahya Khawaji and Hanadi Bakhsh
Healthcare 2024, 12(14), 1437; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12141437 - 18 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3096
Abstract
This study aimed to comprehensively assess the knowledge, awareness, and misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 600 women aged 18–55 from various regions across the country. The findings revealed moderate overall STI [...] Read more.
This study aimed to comprehensively assess the knowledge, awareness, and misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 600 women aged 18–55 from various regions across the country. The findings revealed moderate overall STI knowledge, with gaps in understanding transmission routes (31.7%), recognizing symptoms (40.8%), and awareness of prevention methods (35.2%). Prevalent misconceptions included the belief that STIs can spread through casual contact (38%), only individuals with multiple partners are at risk (30%), and STIs are always symptomatic (32%). Demographic factors such as age, education level, and marital status significantly influenced STI knowledge, while residential area did not. Higher education, particularly bachelor’s degrees and above, was strongly associated with better awareness. Digital platforms like the internet and social media emerged as significant sources of STI information. Undergoing STI testing, discussing STIs with partners, using protection, and receiving the HPV vaccine were linked to higher knowledge levels. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions, integration of sexual health education into curricula, training healthcare providers, community engagement, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance STI awareness and prevention efforts among Saudi women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition)
12 pages, 219 KiB  
Article
Barriers and Mythical Practices of Teenagers Regarding the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Rural Areas of Limpopo Province, South Africa
by Jessica Uchechi Damian, Eustacia Hlungwane and Takalani Grace Tshitangano
Healthcare 2024, 12(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12030355 - 30 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1913
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections in South Africa are increasing at alarming rates. This study’s setting is no. 5, with the highest STI, pregnancy, and HIV statistics in Limpopo province among 13- to 19-year-old teenagers. This study explored preventative measures against STIs practiced by teenagers [...] Read more.
Sexually transmitted infections in South Africa are increasing at alarming rates. This study’s setting is no. 5, with the highest STI, pregnancy, and HIV statistics in Limpopo province among 13- to 19-year-old teenagers. This study explored preventative measures against STIs practiced by teenagers in rural areas of Limpopo province, South Africa. This study was conducted at a selected rural-based clinic using an exploratory descriptive qualitative research approach. Unstructured in-depth face-to-face interviews were used to collect data from sixteen conveniently sampled teenagers aged 13–19, consisting of 13 females and 3 males, who came to Manavhela Clinic for youth-friendly services in August/September 2022. Open-coding analysis was used to identify themes and sub-themes. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were ensured. Ethical clearance (FSH/21/PH/22/2211) was obtained, and ethics principles were observed throughout this study. Two themes emerged from data analysis: STI preventive measures practiced by teenagers and factors influencing the choice of STI preventive measures practiced by teenagers. Only a few participants aged 13 and 14 years of age practiced abstinence and condom use. Most participants were sexually active and used mythical mixtures made from boiling aloe or morula tree (which they drank before and after sex), applied plain yogurt on the vagina once a week, or practiced vaginal steaming. Participants cited patriarchy, lack of sex education in rural schools, long distances to clinics, and desire to taste sex as reasons for adopting the practiced preventive measures. Risky sexual behavior among 13- to 19-year-old teenagers is still rife in rural areas. Rural clinics in Limpopo province should intensify STI school health education and youth-friendly services programs to raise awareness and improve accessibility to condoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition)

Review

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13 pages, 1858 KiB  
Review
Revolutionizing HIV-1 Viral Load Monitoring in India: The Potential of Dried Blood Spot Analysis for Expanding Access and Improving Care
by Madhuri Chandane Tak, Anuradha Vaidyanathan and Anupam Mukherjee
Healthcare 2024, 12(4), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12040413 - 6 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2714
Abstract
India continues to grapple with a significant burden of HIV infections. Despite notable progress in prevention and treatment efforts, multiple challenges, such as high-risk populations, inadequate testing facilities, and limited access to healthcare in remote areas, persist. Though the Government of India offers [...] Read more.
India continues to grapple with a significant burden of HIV infections. Despite notable progress in prevention and treatment efforts, multiple challenges, such as high-risk populations, inadequate testing facilities, and limited access to healthcare in remote areas, persist. Though the Government of India offers HIV-1 plasma viral load testing at various medical centers, aiding treatment decisions and monitoring antiretroviral therapy effectiveness, enhancing care for individuals living with HIV under the National AIDS Control Program (NACP), the nation’s large population and diverse demographics further complicate its outreach and response. Hence, strategic interventions and alternative methods of testing remain crucial to curbing HIV transmission and improving the quality of life for those affected. Dried blood spot (DBS) sampling has emerged as a convenient and cost-effective alternative for HIV-1 viral load testing, revolutionizing the landscape of diagnostic and monitoring strategies for HIV infection. Though the plasma-based viral load remains the gold standard for monitoring HIV-1, DBS-based HIV-1 viral load testing holds immense promise for improving access to care, particularly in resource-limited settings where traditional plasma-based methods may be logistically challenging. DBS entails the collection of a small volume of blood onto filter paper, followed by drying and storage. This approach offers numerous advantages, including simplified sample collection, transportation, and storage, reducing the need for cold-chain logistics. Recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility and accuracy of DBS-based HIV-1 viral load testing, revealing a strong correlation between DBS and plasma measurements. Its implementation can enhance the early detection of treatment failure, guide therapeutic decisions, and ultimately contribute to better clinical outcomes for HIV-infected individuals. Hence, this review explores the principles, advancements, feasibility, and implications of DBS-based HIV-1 viral load testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Prevention and Public Health Promotion: Second Edition)
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