Mmic poster

2nd Blog
As a summary of the previous blog, we decided to arrive at 4 main types of microorganism (Fungal and protozoa). They are the dermatophytes (Trichophytom mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, Trichophyton rubrum ), Flagellate (Giardia lamblia), Amoeba (Entaemoeba Histolytica) & plasmodium species (P. Vivax, P.ovale, P.falciparum & P.malariae). Below are the rationale why the following microbes are selected over the others.

Giardia Lamblia
Basically, this protozoa is mainly transmitted via water. It is a waterborne microbes that could lead to intestinal disease such as diarrhea. It is basically transmitted through ingestion of cyst in fecally contaminated water or food. In a jungle area setting where lakes and rivers are a common sight, these could trigger off outbreaks if soldier man is not careful. These sources of water from the lakes and river are often used by soldier when their water supplies run out. Water from the lakes or river may appear clear looking but may harbour organism such as Giardia Lamblia. As such the incidence rate of outbreak associated with this microbe is fairly high.

Entamoeba Histolytica

Simiarly to Giardia Lamblia, the same mode of transmission applies to Entamoeba Histolytica. As such, the rationale applies here and Entamoeba Histolytica is also commonly found in contaminated water.


Malaria caused by Plasmodium spp

Malaria is a common disease caused by a microscopic parasite that is passed along from one infected person to another by mosquitoes. Malaria occurs in more than 100 countries worldwide, infecting 300 million to 500 million people, and causing about 1 million deaths, each year. The reason we include it is due to the area of outbreak with malaria. It is said that the malaria zone is very broad and widely distributed covering areas from Africa to central asian to even Southern asia(1). Since Brunei is part of southern asia zone, it is regarded as a highly important prozotoa species.

Dermatophytes

This group of fungi thrives in conditions when there is moisture, warmth, specific skin chemistry, composition of sebum and perspiration, youth, heavy exposure and genetic predisposition. The incidence is higher in hot, humid climates and under crowded living conditions. Wearing shoes provide warmth and moisture, a predisposing setting for infection of the feet. As such, tropical climate of Brunei jungle which is often hot, high humidity level will encourage the spread of infection by the dermatophytes, jeopardizing the soldier that is often sweaty and oily due to excessive training.

References :

1)InteliHealth
http://www.intellihealth.com

2)Geo. F. Brooks, Janet S. Butel, Stephen A. Morse. (2001). Medical Microbiology. Singapore. McGraw-Hill