Epidemiological and Immunological Studies of Emerging Infectious Diseases

A special issue of Microorganisms (ISSN 2076-2607). This special issue belongs to the section "Public Health Microbiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2024) | Viewed by 1770

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
Interests: infectious disease epidemiology; historical pandemics and major epidemics (cholera, smallpox, measles, influenza, scarlet fever); modeling burden of epidemic diseases; modeling effect of vaccines; sero-epidemiology; global patterns in COVID-19 impact; other seasonal respiratory diseases such as influenza, RSV and their vaccines

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In the face of an ever-evolving microbial landscape, the emergence of infectious diseases presents a persistent and formidable challenge to global public health. This Special Issue is dedicated to unraveling the intricate interplay between epidemiological dynamics and immunological responses in the context of emerging infectious diseases. By exploring the latest research findings, methodologies, and advancements, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex mechanisms governing the spread and control of emerging pathogens.

Emerging infectious diseases, characterized by their sudden appearance or re-emergence in human and animal populations, demand a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. This Special Issue invites original research articles, reviews, and contributions that delve into various aspects, including the following:

  • Epidemiological insights: investigations into the factors influencing the emergence and transmission of infectious diseases, including ecological, social, and behavioral determinants.
  • Immunological responses: studies elucidating host immune responses to emerging pathogens, exploring mechanisms of resistance, susceptibility, and the development of immunotherapeutic interventions.
  • Disease surveillance and modeling: innovations in epidemiological surveillance, predictive modeling, and data analytics to enhance our ability to anticipate, monitor, and respond to emerging infectious threats.
  • Zoonotic dynamics: understanding the complex dynamics of zoonotic transmission, considering the interface between wildlife, domestic animals, and humans.
  • Global health implications: exploring the broader implications of emerging infectious diseases on global health security, with a focus on preparedness, response strategies, and international collaboration.

Through this Special Issue, we aim to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers and practitioners engaged in unraveling the mysteries of emerging infectious diseases. Researchers and experts are encouraged to contribute to this collective effort, advancing our ability to anticipate, mitigate, and ultimately control the impact of these dynamic and often unpredictable threats.

Prof. Dr. Lone Simonsen
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • emerging infectious diseases
  • spread and control
  • resistance
  • surveillance

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

14 pages, 2808 KiB  
Article
Serological Screening and Risk Factors Associated with Leishmania infantum Positivity in Newly Diagnosed HIV Patients in Greece
by Chrysa Voyiatzaki, Apollon Dareios Zare Chormizi, Maria E. Tsoumani, Antonia Efstathiou, Konstantinos Konstantinidis, Georgios Chrysos, Aikaterini Argyraki, Vasileios Papastamopoulos, Effie G. Papageorgiou and Marika Kotsianopoulou
Microorganisms 2024, 12(7), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12071397 - 10 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1524
Abstract
A serological screening was conducted to detect IgG antibodies against Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) in newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients in Greece. The study also examined potential risk factors and the agreement of commercially available serological methods. IgG antibodies [...] Read more.
A serological screening was conducted to detect IgG antibodies against Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) in newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients in Greece. The study also examined potential risk factors and the agreement of commercially available serological methods. IgG antibodies against L. infantum were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), and Western blot (WB). Out of 155 samples, 14 (9.0%) tested positive for IgG antibodies against L. infantum using at least two methods. Statistical analysis showed substantial agreement between WB and IFAT methods (Cohen’s kappa = 0.75) but moderate overall agreement among the three methods (Fleiss’ kappa = 0.42). Additionally, HIV+ intravenous drug users faced 3.55 times (p = 0.025) higher risk of testing positive for L. infantum IgG, positing that anthroponotic transmission between these patients is a plausible hypothesis based on existing literature. Non-invasive and cost-effective techniques are preferred to detect asymptomatic infections, and leishmaniasis screening should be conducted immediately after HIV diagnosis in endemic regions to enable prophylactic treatment for leishmaniasis in addition to antiretroviral therapy. To maximize sensitivity, performing at least two different serological methods for each patient is recommended. Full article
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