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OPINION article

Front. Public Health, 29 April 2024
Sec. Public Health Policy

Concurrent emergencies: overlapping Salmonella and COVID-19 concerns in public health strategies and preparedness

  • Department of Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a significant scholarly investigation into its ramifications, yet there is a further menace from Salmonella (1). Salmonella is a prominent public health concern worldwide, particularly in countries with limited resources (2). The remarkable adaptability of this organism to various conditions demonstrates genetic and phenotypic changes that enhance its ability to survive and reproduce (3), allowing it to thrive under diverse environmental conditions. Salmonella survives in different habitats and overcomes barriers that affect how the disease develops, its severity, and how it interacts with the host. It leads to the emergence of Salmonella strains with the remarkable capacity to induce a range of health problems (4).

Salmonella infections remain a growing issue, but with less acknowledgment owing to the prevailing emphasis on the COVID-19 pandemic in the last 3 years. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare has redirected its focus toward detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus, primarily in clinical settings. These alterations in clinical diagnostic emphasis, therefore, exclude the possibility of diagnosing other infectious disorders, such as those caused by Salmonella (5). The widespread enforcement of strict lockdown measures worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic restricted individual and societal activities. Moreover, it also impacted the distribution of agricultural commodities, livestock, and food products, ultimately causing disruptions in food supply chains (6, 7).

While the lockdown may have contributed to a decrease in the likelihood of Salmonella infection, it is important to note that Salmonella still persists (8). Although Salmonella infection and COVID-19 have different modes of transmission, they exhibit comparable symptoms (9). The misreading of this circumstance, along with the shift in diagnostic focus, amplifies the bias in estimating the incidence of Salmonella infections (5). Additionally, it is essential to note that the immunological response that SARS-CoV-2 elicits may have affected the severity of bacterial infections like Salmonella (10). These factors were later identified to have severe implications for the occurrence and management of Salmonella infections (4, 11, 12).

The interplay between these pathogens exhibits a multifaceted nature. The persistence of Salmonella during the COVID-19 pandemic (8, 13) necessitates the attention of individuals in academia, healthcare professions, and policy-making positions. Despite the inherent disparities between these pathogens, they exhibit a notable interconnection (8, 14). There have been documented instances of co-infection between Salmonella and COVID-19 in the nine studies worldwide (15), some of them were found in patients from Pakistan (13), Turkey (1), and Japan (14). Patients who have a co-infection face more severe repercussions and increase the complexity of therapy solutions needed to address this issue. Furthermore, incorrect therapeutic intervention might exacerbate the problem and perhaps result in greater mortality rates (1).

This article examines the dynamic relationship between Salmonella and COVID-19, employing an evaluation of empirical evidence to analyze their intersections across clinical and social domains. The primary objective of this initiative is to offer a complete comprehension of the further framework of infectious diseases, therefore providing valuable insights into the development of methods for effectively addressing different health emergencies. In extraordinary circumstances, it is imperative to recognize the necessity of adopting a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges posed by contagious diseases. Understanding the interplay between infections such as Salmonella and SARS-CoV-2 enables the advancement of more effective strategies.

Salmonella during COVID-19: overlapping symptoms and diagnostic challenges

The many serotypes of Salmonella, all of which are regarded as pathogens, can be attributed to variations in their virulence mechanisms, the intensity of the resulting sickness, and their ability to adapt to different hosts (16, 17). Consequently, this bacterium causes a diverse array of infections (18, 19), ranging from mild gastroenteritis to more severe systemic disorders including bacteremia and typhoid fever (4, 20). A Salmonella infection commonly manifests gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. At times, the condition may present itself in a more severe form, leading to issues such as dehydration and imbalances in electrolyte levels (3).

Occasionally, infection with non-typhoidal Salmonella can lead to septicemia, arthralgia, and other complications. Nevertheless, in the event of typhoid fever, symptoms often manifest within a span of 1–3 weeks following exposure to the bacteria. Initial symptoms include a low-grade fever that progressively intensifies over the day, perhaps peaking at 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40°C) (2, 21). Other indications, such as chills, headaches, debilitation, muscular discomfort, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or constipation, still exist (16). Individuals afflicted with typhoid fever may further experience symptoms such as a respiratory cough, diminished desire for food, and perspiration (2, 22). Salmonella is commonly spread by the fecal-oral route, which implies that infection with this bacterium occurs when contaminated foods or beverages are consumed. The extent of Salmonella transmission is influenced by the particular serovar and the circumstances of transmission (23).

On the other hand, COVID-19 is predominantly transmitted by respiratory droplets and aerosols, which can be inhaled or encounter mucosal membranes. Its transmission typically varies based on factors such as the existence of asymptomatic persons, the efficacy of public health efforts, and the population density (24). The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is the cause of COVID-19 disease, exhibits a wide range of symptoms that can vary in intensity. The typical symptoms include a high body temperature, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Tiredness and physical discomfort are frequently present as well. Additionally, certain individuals may have symptoms such as headaches, an aching throat, a diminished sense of taste or smell, and gastrointestinal issues, including nausea or diarrhea. It is crucial to acknowledge that the manifestation of COVID-19 symptoms can vary significantly across individuals, with some being asymptomatic carriers and others experiencing severe respiratory distress (25).

Identifying patients based on their symptoms is a prevalent diagnostic strategy in most clinical settings. Nevertheless, the symptoms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, such as fever, headache, reduced appetite, muscular discomfort, and gastroenteritis (nausea and diarrhea), have a remarkable resemblance to those observed in Salmonella infections, including both typhoid and non-typhoid strains (9). This recurring overlap of symptoms between these pathogens during the COVID-19 pandemic made it challenging to accurately identify Salmonella, giving rise to diagnostic bias in clinical settings (5). Additionally, according to Ürkmez and Atalay (1) as well as Haqqi et al. (13), the simultaneous occurrence of COVID-19 and Salmonella infections presents significant challenges in the planning of clinical treatment (8, 26). It is crucial to acknowledge that although these symptoms may be similar, COVID-19 is mostly a pulmonary disease, while Salmonella infection usually manifests with gastrointestinal infections. Therefore, these medical conditions require specific therapeutic interventions that are efficient against their pathogens (9).

Potential approaches for diagnosis strategies

Given the above concerns, it is essential to utilize diagnostic approaches that exhibit both adaptability and accuracy in addressing these problems. Utilizing precise and reliable diagnostic techniques is crucial for making succinct decisions while dealing with these overlapping symptoms. Accurate identification of pathogens implicated in illnesses is crucial for effective treatment (5, 14). Conversely, inadequate treatment might exacerbate the condition for both the patient and the whole scenario. The implementation of comprehensive solutions is essential for the efficient management of both COVID-19 pandemics and Salmonella threats (8).

Thus, a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms should be supplemented with a prompt laboratory diagnosis, particularly using simple and rapid molecular methods to provide more precise results. Due to its high efficiency and accuracy, molecular approaches are strongly recommended over serology techniques for identifying Salmonella and SARS-CoV-2, as the latter has been found to provide misleading findings (27). Several well-established molecular approaches for Salmonella and SARS-CoV-2 identification are extremely specific and precise. However, the use of Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) for detection is particularly effective and suitable for routine diagnosis (28). Although Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) can serve as a more thorough method for identification due to its ability to provide a full genomic study, it is much more costly compared to qPCR (29). Once the specific infectious microorganisms, such as Salmonella or SARS-CoV-2, have been definitively identified, the proper therapeutic measures may be taken. This includes administering antibiotics to treat Salmonella and antiviral medications to treat SARS-CoV-2 (28).

Shifting priorities: COVID-19's impact on healthcare and food safety

The global COVID-19 pandemic has led to a substantial restructuring of healthcare priorities and the distribution of resources (30, 31). The healthcare system had significant difficulty in properly treating numerous health concerns due to the new coronavirus, resulting in a temporary halt of regular healthcare services. In Pakistan, several crucial primary health care services were discontinued during the COVID-19 epidemic, resulting in millions of children being deprived of polio vaccination (32). Uganda and Sierra Leone had similar reductions in vaccination rates, with decreases ranging from 21 to 66% and 18 to 29%, respectively. These implications extend beyond vaccination programs and also include a drop in other healthcare services, such as a fall of 17%−34% in family planning and HIV services in the Democratic Republic of Congo (33).

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on healthcare systems, not just in low- and middle-income nations but also in higher-income regions like as Europe and the United States (30, 32). European countries showed considerable diversity in their approaches to healthcare practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, but overall, they successfully implemented appropriate measures to tackle this problem (34, 35). Smolić et al. (36) discovered that 44.6% of the participants in their study saw disruptions on healthcare services during the pandemic. The interruptions varied from instances of delays to complete refusal of access to healthcare services. Like Europe, the healthcare management in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic has varied throughout states and towns, with specific locations encountering significant challenges in managing the epidemic (37). While there were no notable changes in some parts of healthcare services, such as emergency care and maternity health, there was a decline in the consumption of several preventative treatments, elective operations, and in-person office visits (38). After implementing widespread COVID-19 vaccination campaigns, which effectively decreased the number of infected individuals and the mortality rate, the strained circumstances in healthcare institutions progressively improved. This circumstance was linked to a decrease in the workload for healthcare personnel and a subsequent resumption of regular healthcare services (39).

Moreover, the distribution of research and development resources has exhibited an imbalanced focus on COVID-19, while certain illnesses, such as recurrent Salmonella infections, received much less emphasis and scrutiny (5). It was leading to a postponement in progress related to other infectious diseases (40, 41). The limited availability of resources might unintentionally impact the identification and management of Salmonella infections, particularly within healthcare systems already under significant strain. Hence, it serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency of healthcare systems to adapt and address both acute and persistent health challenges. The association between increasing healthcare objectives and the prevalence of Salmonella infections is crucial to be recognized for the advancement of comprehensive healthcare systems.

The pandemic has not only disrupted PHC services, but also exposed vulnerabilities in other public sectors, including infrastructures, supply chains, government preparation and actions, human capital, and public health systems. The pandemic had a substantial impact on people's behavior connected to food and the adoption of safety protocols (4, 12). The implementation of improved sanitation practices, such as regular hand washing, maintaining social distance as well as face mask and hand gloves, has had a substantial impact in reducing the spread of foodborne illnesses, including Salmonella infections. The resurgence of home cooking has provided individuals with an increased level of control over the safety of their food (11). Subsequently, there has been a rise in the use of food delivery services (42). It requires more attentiveness to guarantee compliance with food safety regulations throughout food production and delivery.

Yet, the COVID-19 pandemic has also shown weaknesses within global food supply networks (43), emphasizing the imperative of establishing robust systems around food safety, traceability systems, and contingency plans (7, 44). Salmonella, a proficient bacterium in capitalizing on vulnerabilities within supply chains, enables contamination through these interruptions (45, 46). Humans have exhibited their ability to adapt their habits and employ safety measures considering the global pandemic (47, 48) and persistent issues such as Salmonella infection (49). An in-depth awareness of the inherent fluidity in the production and consumption of food is essential for successfully addressing new challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and for guaranteeing the long-term stability and resilience of the food system.

Enhancing public health strategies

The COVID-19 pandemic and the persistence of Salmonella pose substantial challenges to public health (13, 14). Upon further contemplation, it becomes evident that the pandemic has imparted several valuable lessons, including the urgency of crisis management, the indispensability of resilient healthcare systems, and the imperative nature of international collaboration among nations (47). The preceding lessons have contributed to enhancing the effectiveness of public health systems, reinforcing monitoring efforts, and promoting collaboration in the fight against pathogens such as persistent Salmonella. Moreover, it is necessary to emphasize the value of effective communication. The efficient transmission of public health communication plays a pivotal role in promoting preventive behaviors, disseminating accurate details, and countering disinformation (50). Integrating these measures for addressing Salmonella might reduce the risk associated with foodborne diseases. For example, the development of telemedicine has become a prominent method of delivering healthcare (51), which is particularly advantageous for infectious diseases. This strategy has demonstrated its ability to enhance healthcare accessibility, particularly in places that lack adequate medical services (52).

Telemedicine has been extensively utilized, particularly in the United States, with its usage significantly expanding during the COVID-19 epidemic (52). This method is particularly beneficial since it allows for the real-time monitoring of patients, which is essential during a pandemic to reduce the danger of pathogens transmission. It also facilitates the provision of remote healthcare assistance and home care services for patients who are in quarantine or isolation. This strategy not only safeguards healthcare practitioners, but also protects patients themselves. Telemedicine is anticipated to have the advantage of reducing hospital admissions and lowering costs for patients. Furthermore, telemedicine facilitates contact between different medical specialties and allows for the efficient collection of data, leading to improved access to healthcare information (51).

In addition to its use in pandemics, telemedicine has the potential to be applied to combating endemic illnesses, as pathogens, including Salmonella, may quickly spread across international borders. An all-encompassing and flexible approach is required to address the overlap between COVID-19 and Salmonella infections. Sharing information promptly through telemedicine can enhance preparedness for efficiently handling simultaneous health crises. In an era of interrelated risks, understanding the connections between various health conditions is essential for adopting a comprehensive strategy to protect public health.

Discussions: preparedness for future health crises

The simultaneous presence of Salmonella and SARS-CoV-2 infections emphasizes the urgent need for a significant transformation in worldwide health readiness (11). The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the need to carefully assess and examine strategies for preventing the spread of infectious diseases, including Salmonella infections (53). Thoroughly examining several important conversations and carrying out planned actions is needed. It effectively deals with future health issues, including temporary pandemics and ongoing endemic risks. In addition, the presence of comorbidities of COVID-19 with other infectious disease might also heighten an individual's vulnerability to severe sickness or the acquisition of new microbial illnesses, including the possibility of developing a combined infection with pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella (54, 55).

The pandemic has brought to the forefront the vulnerabilities in healthcare systems globally, underscoring the pressing necessity for resilience (56). The inadequacies in the ability to handle sudden increases in capacity, shortages in essential medical resources, and the overwhelming workload on healthcare staff have emphasized the need for a strong and adaptable healthcare system (30, 57). Integrated surveillance systems are essential in pandemics since they enable prompt response measures and efficient allocation of resources (58). The knowledge gained from the monitoring efforts carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic has the capacity to strengthen comprehensive surveillance systems for other infections.

The diagnostic challenges presented by the pandemic require the development of novel analytical methods that are fast, accurate, and easily accessible. Point-of-care testing and telemedicine might enhance diagnostic capacities, especially in low-resource settings (51, 52). The response to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the significance of global collaboration (47), which could serve as a paradigm for addressing future health emergencies. It entails prioritizing prompt data sharing, coordinating research efforts, and ensuring equitable access to medicines. Community involvement and education are essential for public health, particularly in enhancing community understanding and empowerment concerning cleanliness, vaccination, and appropriate food handling practices. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to the importance of implementing adaptable and rigorous food safety protocols, establishing resilient supply chains, conducting thorough inspections, and educating consumers to mitigate the dangers of foodborne infections, such as salmonellosis and gastroenteritis.

In addition, appropriate treatment protocols to effectively address the infections were of the highest priority. Strict stewardship, careful monitoring of antimicrobial use, and the creation of novel, cutting-edge ways to treat infections are all necessary to avoid any follow-up issues such as antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance development, which has also emerged in several strains of Salmonella, is recognized as a perpetual burden. It is imperative for healthcare systems to actively participate in scenario planning and readiness drills to identify any gaps in preparedness, formulate appropriate response plans, and establish a well-coordinated approach for handling future emergencies.

In summary, the interrelationship between Salmonella and COVID-19 highlights the imperative need for a comprehensive, flexible, and forward-looking plan for global health preparedness. The acquisition of valuable lessons from previous events and the adoption of novel strategies are the most important in safeguarding communities, healthcare systems, and global health security in an era marked by interconnected health risks.

Author contributions

WP: Conceptualization, Writing—review & editing, Writing—original draft.

Funding

The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Acknowledgments

The author would like to express gratitude to all colleagues at the University of Surabaya for their support and encouragement during manuscript writing.

Conflict of interest

The author declares that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Keywords: co-infections, epidemiological connections, foodborne disease in pandemic, pathogens, public health implication, SARS-CoV-2

Citation: Prayoga W (2024) Concurrent emergencies: overlapping Salmonella and COVID-19 concerns in public health strategies and preparedness. Front. Public Health 12:1331052. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1331052

Received: 02 November 2023; Accepted: 08 April 2024;
Published: 29 April 2024.

Edited by:

Jasdeep Singh, University of Denver, United States

Reviewed by:

Arti Kataria, National Institutes of Health (NIH), United States
Omkar Indari, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, United States
Peter J. Eggenhuizen, Monash University, Australia

Copyright © 2024 Prayoga. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Windra Prayoga, windraprayoga@staff.ubaya.ac.id

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.