Management of biofilms in device-related infections by Prof Elizabeth Wasserman
As soon an artificial device is introduced into the body, the host reacts by producing a conditioning film to cover this surface, as a natural response. The laying of this foundation for biofilm formation is initiated when plasma proteins bind to the artificial surface, activating the coagulation cascade and complement in surrounding body fluids. If undisturbed, this conditioning film may mature into a layer of fibrinous tissue that will incorporate the prosthesis into the body in a healthy and functional manner. However, should this conditioning film be colonised with potentially pathogenic organisms, it will expand to host a growing number of organisms, eventually leading to chronic infection, failure of the device and/or more serious adverse events which may include dissemination of infection to distant sites via emboli dislodged from the biofilm.
Epidemiology and mechanisms of resistance in Enterobacterales, South Africa by Prof Ruth LekalakalaMokaba
Enterobacterales are a large and diverse group of Gram-negative bacilli constituted by seven families namely: Enterobacteriaceae, Erwiniaceae, Pectobacteriaceae, Yersiniaceae, Hafniaceae, Morganellaceae, and Budviciaceae. Enterobacterales are enteric pathogens known to cause both community and hospital-acquired infections such as gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections, peritonitis, pneumonia, septicemia, and meningitis. However, it is the emergence and rapid spread of multi-drug resistance (MDR) in these organisms that attracted global attention. Antimicrobial-resistant organisms are considered today’s most serious global threats to human health associated with high morbidity and mortality, as well as economic burden.
Ethics: Harm occasioned by infectious diseases with an emphasis on causation in the context of the novel COVID-19 - liability of South African medical practitioners by PG Cilliers and A Politis
The liability of South African medical practitioners for harm caused by infectious diseases has transcended the sphere of medical science and has entered juristic debate and practice. The difficulties created by the novel coronavirus/ COVID-19 have brought the issue to the forefront of consideration and it will undoubtedly cause juristic debate far into the future. Medical professionals and healthcare providers are currently locked in a desperate battle against an invisible and deadly enemy. The coronavirus/COVID-19 and its aetiology, the means of containing the virus, the best practice of treatment and the potential future efficacy of vaccines are at present uncertain.
Phage Therapy by Dr Moses Muia Masika
In many cultures across the globe, water bodies such as rivers and lakes are associated with mythical healing powers. River Ganges, the longest river in India, is one of such water bodies. In 1896, a scientist confirmed that Ganges waters could kill Vibrio cholerae, a property that was later attributed to bacteriophages
Attempts allowed: 2
70% pass rate