South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the commonest cause of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in children, particularly those aged <1 year. In South Africa (SA), increased hospitalisation rates during the RSV season, including access to intensive care facilities, place a huge burden on the healthcare system. ⋯ Both strategies have shown high efficacy in reducing RSV-LRTI hospitalisation in infants and are being considered for licensure in SA. Implementation of these prevention strategies, combined with public engagement and collaboration between stakeholders, could significantly reduce RSV-related morbidity and mortality in SA.
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Practice Guideline
South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 guidelines for the management of axial spondyloarthritis.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment initiation are essential in the management of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), also known as ankylosing spondylitis, remembering that underdiagnosis and overdiagnosis of axSpA are common. These South African guidelines offer screening tools and details of useful investigations, including imaging. ⋯ The ankylosing spondylitis disease activity score is recommended as a measure of disease activity, and a stepwise algorithm for therapy is provided. Screening for comorbidities and vaccination is advised.
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Practice Guideline
South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 guidelines for the management of peripheral spondyloarthritis.
Peripheral spondyloarthritis (SpA) includes psoriatic arthritis (PsA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-associated arthritis, reactive arthritis and undifferentiated peripheral SpA. These South African guidelines offer information on diagnosis, assessment and therapy of peripheral SpA. Emphasis is placed on a multidisciplinary team, and a treat-to-target strategy with escalation of therapy if the target of minimal or very low disease activity is achieved. Screening for and treatment of comorbidities are paramount.