Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 181 188 Hiba Sami Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Safiya Firoze Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Parvez Khan Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Nazish Fatima Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India Haris Khan Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India 2022 11 17 2023 02 25 Background and Objectives: There are conflicting views regarding face mask guidelines amongst healthcare staff to prevent transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), influenza and other respiratory viral infections (RVIs). We conducted a thorough meta-analysis to statistically compare mask use versus no mask use efficacy for RVIs in healthcare settings. Materials and Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used for selecting researches published between 2003 and June 2022 from different databases, including Publisher Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, etc.; 6 studies qualified for inclusion. Data was pooled from in vivo randomized control, case-control and observational studies dealing with the relationship between face mask use and no use by patients or health personnel and RVI prevention in healthcare setups. Results: The fixed and random-effects model was carried out to determine pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95 percent confidence intervals (CIs). The results revealed that wearing a face mask significantly reduced the risk of contracting a respiratory viral illness in hospital settings, with pooled OR (95% CI) of 0.11 (0.04 to 0.33) (probability value (P) <0.08). Conclusion: Masks largely succeeded in stopping respiratory virus transmission, as evidenced by the meta-analysis of 6 studies (a total of 927 individuals). https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3995 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3995/1556

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 189 195 EN Davood Yadegarynia Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranInfectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shabnam Tehrani Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Fahimeh Hadavand Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shahnam Arshi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Abtahian Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amirreza Keyvanfar Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Azar Darvishi Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Afshin Zarghi Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Latif Gachkar Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ilad Alavi Darazam Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranInfectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Farahbakhsh Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2022 11 20 2023 01 25 Background and Objectives: Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began, several vaccines have been manufactured to subside it. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of side effects after injecting common COVID-19 vaccines available in Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was accomplished on Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (Tehran, Iran) employees during January and September 2022. Eligible participants were selected based on the simple random method and interviewed about side effects after injecting COVID-19 vaccine. Results: The mean age of 656 participants was 38.03 ± 9.53 years, and 453 (69.1%) were female. The prevalence of post-vaccination side effects was higher after receiving the first dose (53.2%) than the second (35.9%) and third (49.4%) doses. Across all three vaccine doses, the overall proportion of side effects was higher following AstraZeneca than the others. The most common side effect after the first dose of the vaccine was myalgia (41.9%), followed by fever (36.6%), chills (31.6%), local reactions (27.0%), headache (25.5%), and sweating (21.6%). People experienced mainly myalgia (23.3%) and fever (20.3%) after injecting the second dose of the vaccine. Additionally, the participants had myalgia (37.2%), fever (30.8%), chills (29.2%), local reactions (26.0%), and headache (24.4%) after the third dose of the vaccine. Conclusion: AstraZeneca had a higher proportion of post-vaccination adverse effects than Sputnik V, Pastocovac, and Sinopharm. The most common side effects were flu-like syndrome and local reactions at the injection site. Furthermore, people rarely experienced life-threatening side effects. Thus, the available COVID-19 vaccines in Iran are safe. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4000 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4000/1557

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 196 200 Fatemeh Golshahi Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zeinab Siami Department of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elham Feizabad Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shahab Rajabzadeh Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shirin Zarinjooie Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Maryam Albaji Department of Pulmonary Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Avin Mabadi Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ayein Azarnoush Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Pershang Nazemi Department of Infectious Disease, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2023 01 26 2023 03 20 Background and Objectives: The most appropriate approach to control the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic is the widespread adoption of vaccination. Several vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been developed and authorized for use in various geographical regions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the vaccination agents presently utilized by healthcare workers (HCWs), and to investigate whether different COVID-19 vaccines would result in the alleviation of symptoms and the severity of clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: This multi-center survey was conducted on 329 vaccinated HCWs who were reinfected with COVID-19 between January 8, 2021 and April 8, 2021, in Tehran, Iran. Results: Overall, 92.1% and 70.8% of the participants had received 2 and 3 cumulative doses of COVID-19 vaccines, respectively. There were no differences between first/second and third-dose vaccines with the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Expectedly, vaccination resulted in a less severe clinical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection, as reported by the participants. Conclusion: The results suggest that the efficacy of the vaccination agents presently utilized by HCWs was acceptable with no significant difference in vaccine type. Participants receiving at least two doses of vaccines in this survey exceeded 90%, which is comparably higher than studies conducted in other countries. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4102 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4102/1558

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 201 207 Ho Tinh Tam Chau Department of Molecular Biology, Quy Hoa National Leprosy & Dermatology Hospital, Binh Dinh, Vietnam Phuc Nhu Ha Nguyen Department of Molecular Biology, Quy Hoa National Leprosy & Dermatology Hospital, Binh Dinh, Vietnam Hoang Bach Nguyen Department of Microbiology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue, Vietnam 2022 09 12 2023 02 25 Background and Objectives: Leprosy remains an important health problem worldwide. It is one of the oldest recorded diseases of humankind. In this study, we expanded the analysis of the geographic distribution of Mycobacterium leprae by investigating SNPs and rpoT genotypes in South Central Coast and Central Highlands clinical isolates, providing insights into the distribution and transmission of leprosy in Vietnam and in this geographic region. Materials and Methods: 27 clinical isolates from the patients, determined the genotypes of M. leprae by SNP and rpoT polymorphism. SNP genotyping was performed by PCR amplification and sequencing, rpoT genotyping by PCR amplification and electrophoresis. Results: All of 27 DNA samples (100%) were positive with RLEP TaqMan PCR (Ct value range is 18-32 on 3 replicates). SNP type 1 was identified in 15 isolates (56%), while SNP type 3 was detected in 12 samples (44%). SNP type 2 and type 4, were not detected. The 6-base repeat region of the rpoT gene was amplified by PCR and analyzed by 4% MetaPhor™ agarose gel electrophoresis. All isolates yielded amplification products of 91-bp, but not 97-bp. Conclusion: This study showed that 56% of isolates belonged to type 1, 44% to type 3. In addition, all samples have the 3-copy hexamer genotype in the rpoT gene. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/3901 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/3901/1559

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 208 218 Heba Hammad Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Ismail Mohamed Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Omnia El-Badawy Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Amira Zakaria Biotechnology Research Institute, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt Lamia Shabaan Department of Chest, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt Sherine Aly Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt 2022 12 08 2023 02 09 Background and Objectives: Concomitant carriage of blaNDM-1 and plasmid mediated quinolone resistance determinants (PMQRs) by multi drug resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) has increased globally, often related to their presence on transmissible plasmids. In this study, we hypothesized the presence of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs on a single conjugative plasmid that circulates among K. pneumoniae strains isolated from Assiut University Hospital. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two clinical MDR K. pneumoniae strains harboring both blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were genotyped using pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Horizontal transfer of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs was evaluated by conjugation and trans-conjugants were screened for the presence of both genes and integron by PCR. Trans-conjugant’s plasmid DNA bands were purified using agarose gel electrophoresis and different DNA bands were screened for blaNDM-1 and PMQRs. Plasmids carrying blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were typed by PCR based replicon typing. Results: All MDR K. pneumoniae contained class 1 integron and belonged to 15 pulsotypes. BlaNDM-1 and PMQRs were co-transferred in each conjugation process. Multiple replicons (5-9 types) were detected in each trans-conjugant; with IncFIIK and IncFIB-KQ replicons being common among all trans-conjugants. Both blaNDM-1 and PMQRs were detected on a pKpQIL-like multi-replicon plasmid that was present in all K. pneumoniae strains. Conclusion: In view of these results, the presence of blaNDM-1 and PMQRs on pKpQIL-like plasmid that existed in multiple unrelated K. pneumoniae isolates is highly suggestive of the circulation of pKpQIL-like MDR plasmids in our hospitals. Moreover, carriage of integrons by the-circulating MDR plasmids increases the risk of dissemination of antimicrobial resistance among pathogens. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4033 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4033/1560

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 15 2 2023 04 18 219 224 Susan Panahi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Mohammad Bagher Khalili Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Maryam Sadeh Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Mahmood Vakili Department of Public Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran 2021 09 14 iliation> Sehrish Firyal Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Aleena Kokab Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Syed Tahir Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Tauqeer Mahmood Poultry Research Institute, Rawalpindi, Pakistan Muhammad Shahzad Veterinary Research Institute, Lahore, Pakistan 2025 06 30 2025 12 18 Background and Objectives: Salmonella Enteritidis is widespread in the world and is known to be among the most common agents of zoonotic food-borne illnesses. This study evaluates the efficacy of a bacteriophage cocktail — comprising SEPL01 (Siphovirus) and SEPL13 and SEPL20 (Myoviruses) — in controlling Salmonella Enteritidis infection in poultry. Materials and Methods: A total of 168 one-day-old desi chicks were procured and randomly divided into five different groups: negative control, positive control, prophylactic, 6 h and delayed post-challenge treatment group. Birds in the positive control and trial groups were orally infected with 10⁵ CFU/ml S. Enteritidis on the fourth day. The bacteriophage was given in 10⁷ PFU/ml through oral gavage, drinkers and aerosol spray. Bacterial enumeration was done using dilution plate counting on XLD agar and bacterial reduction was determined using log10 reduction. Results: Among the groups, the prophylactic group showed the highest log₁₀ bacterial reduction: 1.92 (Day 3), 1.79 (Day 7), and 1.23 (Day 14). Drinking water administration resulted in a log₁₀ reduction of 1.62, 1.44, and 0.91, respectively, while aerosol spray was the least effective with a log₁₀ reduction of 1.12, 0.85, and 0.52 across the same days. The treatment group receiving therapy 6 hours post-challenge exhibited a moderate level of reduction: 1.63, 1.37, and 1.22 via oral gavage; 1.43, 1.15, and 0.94 via drinkers; and 0.46, 0.15, and 0.12 via aerosol spray. The delayed post-challenge group showed smaller reductions: 1.56, 1.24, and 0.92 by oral gavage; 1.25, 0.99, and 0.79 by water; and 0.42, 0.13, and 0.10 by aerosol spray. Conclusion: The bacteriophage therapy is highly effective in reducing Salmonella Enteritidis, demonstrating potential as an antibiotic alternative. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5594 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5594/1893

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 345 356 Abdolrazagh Marzban Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Pegah Shakib Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Seyedeh Zahra Mirzaei Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Gholamreza Goudarzi Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Fatemeh Jahani Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran 2025 06 10 2026 05 13 Background and Objectives: Following the emergence of microbial resistance to chemical antimicrobial agents, researchers have recently focused on the effects of nanoparticles and their antimicrobial activity. This research aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) produced using the hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia officinalis (S. officinalis). Materials and Methods: In this study, after preparing the hydroalcoholic extract of S. officinalis and synthesizing CuO-NPs using this extract, the synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated. The antimicrobial properties of synthesized CuO-NPs were investigated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using the microbroth dilution method. The minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) and antioxidant activity of CuO-NPs and the hydroalcoholic extract of S. officinalis against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) were investigated. Results: CuO-NPs have a size in the range of 40 nm and a monoclinic crystal structure. Antimicrobial activity assessment by well diffusion showed that the synthesized CuO-NP nanoparticles at concentrations below 5 mg/mL had no antimicrobial effect on any of the bacteria studied. The lowest MIC of the synthesized CuO-NPs was observed against Staphylococcus saprophyticus (S. saprophyticus), and the highest against P. aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus (B. cereus). On the other hand, the highest MBC was related to B. cereus. The plant extract exhibited much weaker antimicrobial activity than CuO-NPs. The results obtained showed that the MBIC for CuO-NPs was 312 μg/mL. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) obtained from CuO-NPs and the hydroalcoholic extract of S. officinalis was 2.79 and 1.97mg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the green synthesis of CuO-NPs using hydroalcoholic extract of S. officinalis is a suitable candidate for the preparation of antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds that also have antioxidant properties. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5566 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5566/1894

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 357 366 Hassan Ihazmade Department of Laboratory Research in Oral Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco; Department of Virology, National Influenza Center, National Institute of Hygiene, Ministry of Health, Rabat, Morocco Zakia Regragui Department of Virology, National Influenza Center, National Institute of Hygiene, Ministry of Health, Rabat, Morocco Abderrahman Bimouhen Department of Virology, National Influenza Center, National Institute of Hygiene, Ministry of Health, Rabat, Morocco Imane Belbacha Department of Virology, National Institute of Hygiene, Ministry of Health, Rabat, Morocco Fatima Falaki Department of Laboratory Option, Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Rabat, Morocco Bouchra Benfathallah Depatment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco Elmir Elharti Department of Virology, National Influenza Center, National Institute of Hygiene, Ministry of Health, Rabat, Morocco Soumia Triki Department of Emergency, WHO Country Office of Morocco, Rabat, Morocco Khalid Sadki Department of Laboratory Research in Oral Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco Hicham Oumzil Departement of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco 2025 10 17 2026 05 05 Background and Objectives: The influenza infection remains a significant global health challenge, it leads to illnesses that vary from mild to severe, and in certain cases, death. The innate immune response is the first line of defense against pathogen invaders; identification of variants associated with susceptibility or protection could further elucidate immune mechanisms and provide the basis for new therapeutic targets. Materials and Methods: We investigated four widely studied SNPs on the immune response to RNA infection in samples collected as part of sentinel influenza surveillance system. Of 1925 nasopharyngeal swabs collected from patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI), 115 samples were positive for ILI and 83 were positive for SARI. A third group of healthy individuals was also enrolled as a control. Genetic polymorphisms of the OAS3 (rs10735079), TYK2 (rs74956615) and APOBEC3G (rs8177832 and rs2294367) genes were genotyped using Human TaqMan SNP Genotyping Assays (ThermoFisher Scientific©). The association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) with ILI and SARI was investigated using SNPStats software. Results: The rs2294367 in APOBECG3 show a strong and significant association with ILI and SARI across all genetic models, with a p-value<0.001 and OR between 2 and 6, while no association was found with rs8177832. The results for TYK2 suggest a potential protective effect, while the OAS3 SNP shows a strong and significant association with a decreased risk of Influenza infection specially with ILI group (OR<1 and p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Our results open up a new perspective for new methods and strategies of therapy aimed to enhance the body's natural defenses against influenza virus infection. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5869 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5869/1895

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 367 374 EN Forough Tavakoli Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Sharareh Moghim Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Vahid Salimi Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Ali Pourmirzaiee Department of Pediatrics, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Child Growth and Development Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2025 12 07 2026 02 14 Background and Objectives: Respiratory syncytial virus is the most common virus causing acute respiratory infections in children under 5 years old. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and circulating strains of RSV in hospitalized children in Isfahan. Materials and Methods: Between January and May 2024, children under 5 years of age were enrolled in this study. Nasal swabs were collected from 100 children with acute respiratory infections admitted to the referral pediatric ward at Imam Hossein Children’s Hospital in Isfahan, Iran. The prevalence of circulating RSV was investigated using the RSV qPCR detection kit. The virus type was identified by RT-PCR using type A- and B-specific primers. Results: A total of 51 (51%) samples tested positive for RSV. Among them, typing was done in 33 specimens, of which 66.6% (22/33 cases) were assigned as subtype B and 33.3% (11/33 cases) as subtype A. Infants under 6 months were most severely affected by RSV (47.1%, 24/51). RSV-positive samples peaked in February (43.1%), followed by January (29.4%). Conclusion: The results of the current study revealed a high prevalence of RSV and co-circulation of subtypes A and B, with subtype B more prevalent among children. This highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance of RSV. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5992 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5992/1896

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 375 381 Marjan Tariverdi Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Development Center of Children's Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Mohammad Tamaddondar Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Dariush Hooshyar Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Mahsa Fallahi Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Development Center of Children's Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Mohammad Bagher Rahmati Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Development Center of Children's Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Maryam Mohammadian Hakami Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Development Center of Children's Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Ali Asgari Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Development Center of Children's Hospital, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Hossein Abdollahi Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran 2025 11 17 2026 05 11 Background and Objectives: Rotavirus is a major cause of acute gastroenteritis in children. This study assessed the frequency and clinical characteristics of rotavirus infection in children under five years old. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 on children with acute gastroenteritis. Clinical and demographic data were collected, dehydration severity was assessed by a pediatrician, and stool samples obtained within 48 hours of admission were tested for rotavirus antigen using ELISA. Results: A total of 301 children with acute gastroenteritis were included. Rotavirus antigen was detected in 34.6% of cases. Vomiting (81.2%) and diarrhea (96.1%) were significantly common among rotavirus-positive children (p = 0.01). Severe dehydration (>10%) and the need for parenteral rehydration were observed more frequently among rotavirus-positive children compared with rotavirus-negative cases (20.9% vs. 9.2%, p = 0.02 and 91.1% vs. 78.1%, p = 0.01, respectively). However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously, as clinical severity may also have been influenced by other demographic and clinical factors. Conclusion: Rotavirus was detected in a considerable proportion of children with acute gastroenteritis in southern Iran. Rotavirus-positive cases showed more frequent severe dehydration, although this finding should be interpreted cautiously. Early assessment and supportive care remain important. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5943 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5943/1897

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 382 392 EN Azadeh Haghi Navand Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Azarakhsh Azaran Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Mina Bavi Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Farid Yousefi Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Maryam Dastorpour Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Manoochehr Makvandi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2024 07 25 2026 05 27 Background and Objectives: Routine screening for occult hepatitis C virus (OHCV) is not a standard procedure in medical laboratories, which has resulted in an increased incidence of OHCV among high-risk groups and the general population. The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular epidemiology of (OHCV) in Iranian injecting drug users (IDUs). Materials and Methods: To determine chronic hepatitis C virus(HCV) and OHCV, plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) were collected from 103 (96 (93.2%) males, 7 (6.79%) females) IDUs. Their plasma was tested for Anti-HCV (ELISA). Following RNA extraction from plasma and PBMCs, RT-nested PCR was employed to amplify the 5′ untranslated region (5′UTR) and core regions of the HCV genome in plasma and PBMCs from IDUs. Sequencing of the 5′UTR and core regions, along with phylogenetic tree construction, was used to determine HCV genotypes. Results: Among the 103 individuals, 12/96 males (12.5%) were positive for both anti-HCV and HCV RNA in plasma, indicating chronic HCV infection. In addition, 18/96 males (18.75%) and 1/7 females (14.28%) were positive for anti-HCV but negative for HCV RNA, indicating evidence of past HCV infection (p = 0.1). Furthermore, 5 individuals, including 4/94 males (4.1%) and 1/7 females (14.28%), were found to be seropositive for HCV (p = 0.77). Meanwhile, 23/103 individuals (22.33%), including 20/96 males (20.8%) and 3/7 females (42.85%), were seronegative for HCV (p = 0.37). HCV genotype 1a was the dominant genotype among IDUs. Conclusion: In conclusion, a high prevalence of HCV infection was observed among IDUs, underscoring the pressing necessity for the implementation of an efficacious strategy to eradicate HCV transmission in this high-risk population. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/4939 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/4939/1898

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 393 402 EN Ahmad Enferadi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Amir Tukmechi Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Katayoon Nofouzi Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Zahraalsadat Tavakolian Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran 2025 05 21 2026 05 11 Background and Objectives: Anaplasmosis, an ailment affecting both captive and free-ranging small ruminants, is instigated by Anaplasma spp., a tick-vectored, obligate intracellular rickettsial bacterium. Iran's ovine and caprine populations, numbering roughly 71 million, are vital to its financial structure. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma species in sheep and goats within West Azerbaijan province. Additionally, nucleic acid specimens were isolated from gathered ticks and examined for Anaplasma spp. Through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) utilizing the major surface protein gene (groEL). Results: Anaplasma was detected in 161 (69.0%) of 919 ovine and 82 (71.3%) of 243 caprine blood DNA extracts. Subsequently, genetic material from 426 ticks comprised of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (n=146), Rhipicephalus turanicus (n=63), Hyalomma asiaticum (n=56), Hyalomma anatolicum (n=74), and Hyalomma egebtiom (n=87) was screened for A. ovis utilizing the same methodology. Conclusion: This research not only confirmed the presence of A. ovis within Iranian sheep and goats but also implicated ticks as a possible vector for its transmission. The findings emphasize the importance of monitoring the health status of Iran's small ruminants to detect clinical manifestations of anaplasmosis and of implementing effective tick control strategies worldwide. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5518 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5518/1899

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 3 2026 06 07 403 412 Jegan Charlies Department of Microbiology, Vinayaka Mission’s Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed-to–be-University), Karaikal, Puducherry, India Latha Ragunathan Department of Microbiology, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed-to–be-University), Kirumampakkam, Puducherry, India Kavitha Kanniyan Department of Microbiology, Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed-to–be-University), Kirumampakkam, Puducherry, India Jeyakumari Duraipandian Department of Microbiology, JIPMER, Karaikal, Puducherry, IndiaVikram Thakur Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas, United States Vikrant Sharma Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Ishani Bora Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Radha Ratho Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Suresh Angurana Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India Mini Singh Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India 2025 09 04 2026 01 05 Background and Objectives: Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, accounting for approximately 18% of deaths in those <5 years of age. Viruses cause 50-90% of pediatric ARTI cases. Human rhinovirus (HRV) is increasingly associated with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). This study aimed to detect HRV in pediatric ARTI cases and characterize circulating genotypes. Materials and Methods: Nasopharyngeal swabs from 154 children (≤5 years) presenting with ARTI were screened for HRV using real-time PCR. Thirteen samples with a cycle threshold ≤30 were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using 41 global reference sequences representing different geographical regions and HRV types. Results: HRV was detected in 34.41% (53/154) of the samples. In children aged >1 month to 1 year, HRV positivity was significantly associated with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) compared with influenza-like illness (ILI). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a predominance of HRV-C strains (n = 7), followed by HRV-A (n = 5) and HRV-B (n = 1). Conclusion: HRV was detected in a significant proportion of pediatric ARTI cases, with HRV-C as the predominant strain. Infants aged >1 month to 1 year showed a higher association with severe illness, underscoring the need for closer clinical monitoring in this age group. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5758 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5758/1869

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 131 137 EN Golnaz Mokhtari Irani Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Azarakhsh Azaran Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Roya Pirmoradi Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Alireza Tabibzadeh Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran; Applied Neuroscience Research Center, Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch, Arak, Iran Mohamad Rashno Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Manoochehr Makvandi Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2024 11 06 2026 02 04 Background and Objectives: The enteroviruses may lead to conditions such as aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, acute flaccid myelitis, epidemic pleurodynia (Bornholm disease), hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, and myopericarditis among pediatric populations. The present study was undertaken to identify the presence of enteroviruses within sewage treatment systems. Materials and Methods: 24 composite effluent sewage samples (500 ml each) were collected, centrifuged (1000 rpm for 30 minutes), and the first supernatant was saved. The precipitate was resuspended in 10 ml of supernatant, treated with 10% chloroform, and centrifuged again (1000 rpm for 5 minutes) to collect a second supernatant. The first and second supernatants were combined, treated with 2.2% sodium chloride and 7% polyethylene glycol 6000, and the mixture was agitated at 4°C overnight before being centrifuged for two hours at 2000 g. After discarding the supernatant, the pellet was resuspended at a 1:100 dilution. Each sample was then inoculated into RD and HeLa cells for virus isolation, followed by detection via RT-PCR. A phylogenetic tree was constructed to determine the genotypes of the isolated enteroviruses. Results: Enterovirus was detected in 10 of 24 (41.7%) sewage effluent samples. Phylogenetic analysis of five randomly chosen positive samples identified echovirus 7. Conclusion: The removal of enteroviruses during the sewage treatment process is of paramount importance, necessitating heightened attention to this critical phase of wastewater management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5121 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5121/1870

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 138 146 Ali Ahmadi Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ebrahim Hazrati Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care and Trauma Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahtab Noorifard Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zohreh Farahnejad Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Mycology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mojgan Mohammadimehr Infectious Disease Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, AJA University of Medical Sciences,Tehran, Iran 2024 09 18 2026 01 08 Background and Objectives: Candiduria related to urinary catheters is frequently encountered in patients hospitalized in intensive care units. The diagnosis and management of catheter-associated candiduria in hospitalized patients is frequently a gray area for both physicians and microbiologists because of the paucity of clinical and microbiological data. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study aims to enhance the understanding of candiduria among adult ICU patients with urinary catheters across three hospitals in Tehran, Iran. Yeast identification was performed using a two-step multiplex PCR, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed following the CLSI M27, 4th edition, recommendations. Results: Among the 110 enrolled ICU patients, 38 (35%) had significant candiduria. A total of 45 yeast isolates were collected. The distribution was as follows: Candida glabrata (23/45; 51%), C. albicans (14/45; 31%), and C. tropicalis (4/45; 9%). These three species accounted for 91% of the isolates. Antifungal resistance was detected: six isolates (two C. glabrata, two C. albicans, one C. krusei, and one C. tropicalis) were fluconazole-resistant, and one C. glabrata isolate was resistant to itraconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin. All isolated species were susceptible to amphotericin B. Symptomatic candiduria occurred in 29% of cases (11/38); only 55% (6/11) were treated, and of those, 50% (3/6) experienced fluconazole treatment failure. One symptomatic patient developed candidemia shortly after acquiring candiduria. The mortality rate was 21% (8/38), with no apparent difference in death rates between symptomatic and asymptomatic candiduric patients. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that high fluconazole failure rates among patients with symptomatic candiduria are concerning. Furthermore, speciation and antifungal susceptibility testing are crucial, as they guide clinicians in selecting the most effective agent and improving case management. https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/view/5045 https://ijm.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijm/article/download/5045/1871

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Microbiology 2008-3289 18 1 2026 02 15 147 156 EN Pariya Kouhi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Seyed Alireza Mirhosseini Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Maryam Ranjbar Department of MD-MPH, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammadreza Akbari Department of Internal Medicine, Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Zeinab Mehrabi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Rojan Javaheri Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mahsa Moosavi Department of Education, Clinical Education Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammad Alishahi Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Kamran Rasekh Dep