Molecular surveillance of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2/3 gene deletions in Mozambique, 2023.

Background: Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) based on the detection of Plasmodium falciparum histidine rich protein 2 (PfHRP2) are widely used for the diagnostic of P. falciparum in Africa. However, deletions of the pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 genes can lead to false negative test results and compromise appropriate case management.

Performance of two plasma separation devices for HIV-1 viral load measurement in primary healthcare settings.

Burnett and HemaSpot are two novel technologies that allow whole blood collection and plasma separation and stabilization at room temperature without the need of additional equipment. Hence, these devices are potential alternatives to fresh plasma as a suitable specimen for viral load scale-up to monitor antiretroviral therapy in resource-limited settings.

Etiology of meningitis among adults in three quaternary hospitals in Mozambique, 2016-2017: The role of HIV.

Background: Meningitis remains an important cause of morbi-mortality in adults in sub-Saharan Africa. Data on the etiological investigation of meningitis in adults in Mozambique is limited and most studies were conducted in southern Mozambique. Identification of the etiology of meningitis in adults are crucial to guide prevention and treatments strategies.

Stability of HIV-1 Nucleic Acids in cobas Plasma Separation Card for Viral Load Measurement.

Objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the stability of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) RNA on cobas plasma separation card (PSC) specimens for viral load (VL) testing after being exposed to varied temperatures and storage times.

Methods: For this purpose, venous PSC specimens were collected and stored at 25ºC to 42ºC for a period of up to 28 days. Plasma VL at baseline was used as reference, against which PSC VL was compared at different time points.

Comprehensive knowledge and HIV prevalence in two migrant mineworkers' communities of origin in Gaza Province in Southern Mozambique: evidence from a cross-sectional survey.

Introduction: migrant mine workers are susceptible to engage in risky sexual behaviour due to their high mobility, putting at risk their families and home communities. Because comprehensive knowledge about HIV/AIDS is a key factor in reducing HIV infections, this study aims to understand the current state of knowledge about HIV in these communities, estimate HIV prevalence and evaluate the risk behaviour associated with comprehensive knowledge.

Methods: secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey conducted in two communities of origin of mine workers in Gaza Province, targeting current and former mine workers of the South African mines and their relatives.

Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BHV1) infection in testes and epididymis from bulls from a slaughterhouse.

Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BHV1) is an agent associated with reproductive disease in cattle. Viral pathogenicity is related to disorders such as temporary infertility, embryonic death, and abortions in affected animals. Considering that natural infections in genital organs of males are understudied, this investigation evaluated the presence of BHV1 in both testicular and epididymal tissues obtained from naturally infected bulls by the evaluation of the presence of the BHV1 genome and antigens.

HIV prevalence and TB in migrant miners communities of origin in Gaza Province, Mozambique: The need for increasing awareness and knowledge.

Background: As part of ongoing efforts to generate evidence needed on HIV and tuberculosis (TB) to inform policies and programs aimed to improve the health outcomes of migrants and communities affected by migration and mining, a preliminary investigation was conducted through a biological and behavioral (BBS) approach related to HIV and TB in two communities of origin of migrant mineworkers in Gaza Province. The main objective was to determine the prevalence of HIV and the rates of asymptomatic infection by TB, and the social and behavioral risk factors associated.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to June 2017 using a simple random sampling methodology.