Last data update: Jun 11, 2024. (Total: 46992 publications since 2009)
Records 1-3 (of 3 Records) |
Query Trace: Likofata J [original query] |
---|
Operational evaluation of rapid diagnostic testing for Ebola Virus Disease in Guinean laboratories
VanSteelandt A , Aho J , Franklin K , Likofata J , Kamgang JB , Keita S , Koivogui L , Magassouba N , Martel LD , Dahourou AG . PLoS One 2017 12 (11) e0188047 BACKGROUND: Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) at the point of care have the potential to increase access and acceptability of EVD testing and the speed of patient isolation and secure burials for suspect cases. A pilot program for EVD RDTs in high risk areas of Guinea was introduced in October 2015. This paper presents concordance data between EVD RDTs and PCR testing in the field as well as an assessment of the acceptability, feasibility, and quality assurance of the RDT program. METHODS AND FINDINGS: Concordance data were compiled from laboratory surveillance databases. The operational measures of the laboratory-based EVD RDT program were evaluated at all 34 sentinel sites in Guinea through: (1) a technical questionnaire filled by the lab technicians who performed the RDTs, (2) a checklist filled by the evaluator during the site visits, and (3) direct observation of the lab technicians performing the quality control test. Acceptability of the EVD RDT was good for technicians, patients, and families although many technicians (69.8%) expressed concern for their safety while performing the test. The feasibility of the program was good based on average technician knowledge scores (6.6 out of 8) but basic infrastructure, equipment, and supplies were lacking. There was much room for improvement in quality assurance of the program. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of new diagnostics in weak laboratory systems requires general training in quality assurance, biosafety and communication with patients in addition to specific training for the new test. Corresponding capacity building in terms of basic equipment and a long-term commitment to transfer supervision and quality improvement to national public health staff are necessary for successful implementation. |
Extended human-to-human transmission during a monkeypox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Nolen LD , Osadebe L , Katomba J , Likofata J , Mukadi D , Monroe B , Doty J , Hughes CM , Kabamba J , Malekani J , Bomponda PL , Lokota JI , Balilo MP , Likafi T , Lushima RS , Ilunga BK , Nkawa F , Pukuta E , Karhemere S , Tamfum JJ , Nguete B , Wemakoy EO , McCollum AM , Reynolds MG . Emerg Infect Dis 2016 22 (6) 1014-21 A 600-fold increase in monkeypox cases occurred in the Bokungu Health Zone of the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the second half of 2013; this increase prompted an outbreak investigation. A total of 104 possible cases were reported from this health zone; among 60 suspected cases that were tested, 50 (48.1%) cases were confirmed by laboratory testing, and 10 (9.6%) tested negative for monkeypox virus (MPXV) infection. The household attack rate (i.e., rate of persons living with an infected person that develop symptoms of MPXV infection) was 50%. Nine families showed >1 transmission event, and >6 transmission events occurred within this health zone. Mean incubation period was 8 days (range 4-14 days). The high attack rate and transmission observed in this study reinforce the importance of surveillance and rapid identification of monkeypox cases. Community education and training are needed to prevent transmission of MPXV infection during outbreaks. |
Introduction of monkeypox into a community and household: risk factors and zoonotic reservoirs in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Nolen LD , Osadebe L , Katomba J , Likofata J , Mukadi D , Monroe B , Doty J , Kalemba L , Malekani J , Kabamba J , Bomponda PL , Lokota JI , Balilo MP , Likafi T , Lushima RS , Tamfum JJ , Okitolonda EW , McCollum AM , Reynolds MG . Am J Trop Med Hyg 2015 93 (2) 410-5 An increased incidence of monkeypox (MPX) infections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was noted by the regional surveillance system in October 2013. Little information exists regarding how MPX is introduced into the community and the factors associated with transmission within the household. Sixty-eight wild animals were collected and tested for Orthopoxvirus. Two of three rope squirrels (Funisciurus sp.) were positive for antibodies to Orthopoxviruses; however, no increased risk was associated with the consumption or preparation of rope squirrels. A retrospective cohort investigation and a case-control investigation were performed to identify risk factors affecting the introduction of monkeypox virus (MPXV) into the community and transmission within the home. School-age males were the individuals most frequently identified as the first person infected in the household and were the group most frequently affected overall. Risk factors of acquiring MPXV in a household included sleeping in the same room or bed, or using the same plate or cup as the primary case. There was no significant risk associated with eating or processing of wild animals. Activities associated with an increased risk of MPXV transmission all have potential for virus exposure to the mucosa. |
- Page last reviewed:Feb 1, 2024
- Page last updated:Jun 11, 2024
- Content source:
- Powered by CDC PHGKB Infrastructure