Program Head, END RHD and Team Lead, Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention
BA MBBS DCH FRACP PhD
Areas of expertise: Skin infections, clinical trials, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Aboriginal children, COVID-19.
Associate Professor Asha Bowen is a clinician-researcher at Perth Children’s Hospital and Telethon Kids Institute. She is Head of Department of Infectious Diseases at Perth Children’s Hospital and Program Head of the END RHD Program at Telethon Kids Institute. This uniquely positions her for rapid translation of research results from bush to bench to bedside and beyond, with impact globally.
The END RHD Program has a mission to conduct the research needed to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031. Leading the program of over 70 research staff, is complemented by her leadership of the Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Team. This dedicated group of 20 higher degree students and research staff were recognised as the best team at Telethon Kids Institute in 2022 under Asha’s leadership.
A/Prof Bowen received her Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP) as a paediatric infectious disease specialist in 2009. Her NHMRC-funded PhD (2010–2014, Menzies School of Health Research), a randomised controlled trial of impetigo treatment in remote Aboriginal children, was published in The Lancet, with the results translated into national and international guidelines. She has >15 years’ experience leading infectious diseases research and investigator-initiated clinical trials focusing on issues significant to Aboriginal child health.
A/Prof Bowen is currently the lead investigator for the SToP Trial to “see, treat and prevent” skin infections, a large cluster randomised trial with a stepped wedge design throughout the Kimberley region in Western Australia. Community engagement over several years formed the foundation of the SToP Trial and ensured the study was guided by the Aboriginal co-investigators and community members. A/Prof Bowen has taken lessons learned from this project to develop an approach towards understanding the burden of skin infections among urban-living children in WA through the Koolungar Moorditj Healthy Skin project guided by local Elders and Co-researchers.
Within the Staphylococcus aureus research space, A/Prof Bowen leads the paediatric arm of the Staphylococcus aureus Network Adaptive Platform (SNAP) Trial – SNAPP-PY. SNAP aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with S. aureus bloodstream infections – aiming to test multiple different antibiotic options at the same time.
In 2020, A/Prof Bowen pivoted into COVID-19 research to complement her other fields and is was a lead investigator of the WA DETECT-Schools study and chair of the Australasian COVID-19 Trial (ASCOT) global steering committee.
A/Prof Bowen has received numerous awards in recognition of her outstanding research, including:
- 2022 Australian Society of Infectious Diseases Frank Fenner Award
- 2020 3M Eureka Prize for Emerging Leader in Science
- 2020 NHMRC Investigator Award as an Emerging Leader (her third consecutive NHMRC people support award)
- 2019 WA Tall Poppy Science Award
- 2018 L’Oréal UNESCO Women in Science Fellowship – one of only 4 awarded nationally, and an Australian finalist for the International Rising Talents Award
- 2017 Woodside Early Career Scientist of the Year at the WA Premier's Science Awards
She is also the Chair of the Australian and New Zealand Paediatric Infectious Diseases committee, Deputy Chair of the Australasian Society of Infectious Diseases clinical research network and Vice Present of World Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases.
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Projects
The DETECT-Schools Study was launched in May 2020 as a partnership between the WA Government Departments of Education and Health with the Telethon Kids Institute.
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Publications
May 2023
The role of children in transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern within households: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis, as at 30 June 2022
Meta-analyses and single-site studies have established that children are less infectious than adults within a household when positive for ancestral SARS-CoV-2. In addition, children appear less susceptible to infection when exposed to ancestral SARS-CoV-2 within a household. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) has been associated with an increased number of paediatric infections worldwide.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19 Strep A & ARF TherapeuticsMay 2023Defining the pediatric response to SARS-CoV-2 variants
The global population has been severely affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, however, with older age identified as a risk factor, children have been underprioritized. This article discusses the factors contributing to the less severe response observed in children following infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), including, differing viral entry receptor expression and immune responses.
Published research Early Childhood Development Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Airway Epithelial Research P4 Respiratory Health for Kids Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Subsite: Walyan Systems Vaccinology COVID-19 Child and adolescent healthJuly 2023Evaluating the role of asymptomatic throat carriage of Streptococcus pyogenes in impetigo transmission in remote Aboriginal communities in Northern Territory, Australia: a retrospective genomic analysis
Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (GAS), infections contribute to a high burden of disease in Aboriginal Australians, causing skin infections and immune sequelae such as rheumatic heart disease. Controlling skin infections in these populations has proven difficult, with transmission dynamics being poorly understood. We aimed to identify the relative contributions of impetigo and asymptomatic throat carriage to GAS transmission.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2023A multicentre, retrospective audit of fosfomycin use for urinary tract infections in Australian children and adolescents
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to MDR organisms are increasingly common. The lack of paediatric data on efficacious antibiotics makes UTI treatment particularly challenging. Data on the efficacy of fosfomycin use for UTI in children are variable.
Published research Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2023Walking the walk to include pregnant participants in non-obstetric clinical trials: Insights from the SNAP Trial
Despite several calls for greater inclusion of pregnant people in non-obstetric clinical trials, their systematic exclusion remains common practice. Excluding pregnant individuals from clinical trials may result in unintended consequences such as inadequate treatment of medical conditions in pregnancy, inappropriate dosing of medications, and investigational therapies being used off-label outside of the context of a clinical trial, risking adverse events in the absence of demonstrated efficacy.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2023A pilot study to develop assessment tools for Group A Streptococcus surveillance studies
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes pharyngitis (sore throat) and impetigo (skin sores) GAS pharyngitis triggers rheumatic fever (RF) with epidemiological evidence supporting that GAS impetigo may also trigger RF in Australian Aboriginal children. Understanding the concurrent burden of these superficial GAS infections is critical to RF prevention. This pilot study aimed to trial tools for concurrent surveillance of sore throats and skins sore for contemporary studies of RF pathogenesis including development of a sore throat checklist for Aboriginal families and pharynx photography.
Published research Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A & ARF TherapeuticsAugust 2023Getting to grips with invasive group A streptococcal infection surveillance in Australia: are we experiencing an epidemic?
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A & ARF TherapeuticsFebruary 2023Culturally supported health promotion to See, Treat, Prevent (SToP) skin infections in Aboriginal children living in the Kimberley region of Western Australia: a qualitative analysis
While there are many skin infections, reducing the burden of scabies and impetigo for remote living Aboriginal people, particularly children remains challenging. Aboriginal children living in remote communities have experienced the highest reported rate of impetigo in the world and are 15 times more likely to be admitted to hospital with a skin infection compared to non-Aboriginal children.
Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionDecember 2014The microbiology of impetigo in Indigenous children
Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of impetigo pathogens in a randomised, controlled trial of impetigo treatment conducted in remote Indigenous communities
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseNovember 2014Standardising and assessing digital images for use in clinical trials: A practical, reproducible method that blinds the assessor to treatment allocation
We describe the development and evaluation of a protocol for digital image collection by the non-professional photographer in a remote setting research trial
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseAugust 2014Short-course oral co-trimoxazole versus intramuscular benzathine benzylpenicillin for impetigo in a highly endemic region
The major burden of disease is in developing and tropical settings where topical antibiotics are impractical and lead to rapid emergence of antimicrobial...
Published research Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseJune 2014Nitazoxanide for the treatment of infectious diarrhoea in the Northern Territory, Australia 2007-2012
This paper examines the use of a new antibiotic to treat diarrhoea cause by Cryptosporidium infection in Australian Indigenous children.
Published research Aboriginal Health Infectious Disease Implementation Research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseApril 2013Comparison of three methods for the recovery of skin pathogens from impetigo swabs collected in a remote community of Northern Territory, Australia
Immediate plating of impetigo swabs is the gold standard for bacterial recovery but is rarely feasible in remote regions.
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseDecember 2022The Impact of a Multifaceted Tertiary Pediatric Hospital's Antimicrobial Stewardship Service
Antimicrobials are the most commonly prescribed drug class in children. Overuse through inappropriate prescribing is a key driver of antimicrobial resistance and is recognized as one of the top 10 threats to global health by the World Health Organization.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Disease Implementation Research Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionDecember 2022Improving primary care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with rheumatic heart disease: What can I do?
Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia, with devastating impacts on morbidity, mortality and community wellbeing. Research suggests that general practitioners and primary care staff perceive insurmountable barriers to improving clinical outcomes, including the need for systemic change outside their scope of practice.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Aboriginal Health Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionDecember 2022ASCOT ADAPT study of COVID-19 therapeutics in hospitalised patients: an international multicentre adaptive platform trial
SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with a significant risk of hospitalisation, death, and prolonged impact on quality of life. Evaluation of new treatment options and optimising therapeutic management of people hospitalised with SARS-CoV-2 infection remains essential, but rapid changes in pandemic conditions and potential therapies have limited the utility of traditional approaches to randomised controlled trials.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19December 2022Consumer perspectives on simplified, layered consent for a low risk, but complex pragmatic trial
For decades, the research community has called for participant information sheets/consent forms (PICFs) to be improved. Recommendations include simplifying content, reducing length, presenting information in layers and using multimedia. However, there are relatively few studies that have evaluated health consumers' (patients/carers) perspectives on the type and organisation of information, and the level of detail to be included in a PICF to optimise an informed decision to enter a trial.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2022Examining the interseasonal resurgence of respiratory syncytial virus in Western Australia
Following a relative absence in winter 2020, a large resurgence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) detections occurred during the 2020/2021 summer in Western Australia. This seasonal shift was linked to SARS-CoV-2 public health measures. We examine the epidemiology and RSV testing of respiratory-coded admissions, and compare clinical phenotype of RSV-positive admissions between 2019 and 2020.
Published research Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Respiratory viral infectionsMarch 2022Pediatric Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: Clinical Spectrum and Predictors of Poor Outcome
Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of bacteremia, yet the epidemiology and predictors of poor outcome remain inadequately defined in childhood. ISAIAH (Invasive Staphylococcus aureus Infections and Hospitalizations in children) is a prospective, cross-sectional study of S. aureus bacteremia in children hospitalized in Australia and New Zealand over 24 months.
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2022Improving primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever in Australia: consensus primary care priorities identified through an eDelphi process
To establish the priorities of primary care providers to improve assessment and treatment of skin sores and sore throats among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at risk of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
Published research Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing Rheumatic Heart Disease Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2022Modelling study of the ability to diagnose acute rheumatic fever at different levels of the Ugandan healthcare system
To determine the ability to accurately diagnose acute rheumatic fever given the resources available at three levels of the Ugandan healthcare system.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2022Missing Piece Study protocol: Prospective surveillance to determine the epidemiology of group A streptococcal pharyngitis and impetigo in remote Western Australia
Group A β-haemolytic Streptococcus (GAS), a Gram-positive bacterium, causes skin, mucosal and systemic infections. Repeated GAS infections can lead to autoimmune diseases acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia have the highest rates of ARF and RHD in the world.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2022Whole genome sequencing and molecular epidemiology of paediatric Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia
The role Staphylococcus aureus antimicrobial resistance genes and toxins play in disease severity, management and outcome in childhood is an emerging field requiring further exploration.
Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A DiseaseFebruary 2022Infectious complications and optimising infection prevention for children with cochlear implants
To describe the clinical epidemiology of children receiving cochlear implants, as well as the management and outcomes of cochlear implant infections and adherence to infection prevention measures.
Published research Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2022Clindamycin adjunctive therapy for severe Staphylococcus aureus treatment evaluation (CASSETTE)-an open-labelled pilot randomized controlled trial
Combination antibiotic therapy with an antitoxin agent, such as clindamycin, is included in some guidelines for severe, toxin-mediated Staphylococcus aureus infections. The evidence to support this practice is currently limited to in vitro, animal and observational human case-series data, with no previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Published research Skin Infections Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2022COVID-19 in children: I. Epidemiology, prevention and indirect impacts
Children globally have been profoundly impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This review explores the direct and indirect public health impacts of COVID-19 on children. We discuss in detail the transmission dynamics, vaccination strategies and, importantly, the ‘shadow pandemic’, encompassing underappreciated indirect impacts of the pandemic on children.
Published research Immunisation Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19January 2022COVID-19 in children. II: Pathogenesis, disease spectrum and management
The global disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the life of every child either directly or indirectly. This review explores the pathophysiology, immune response, clinical presentation and treatment of COVID-19 in children, summarising the most up-to-date data including recent developments regarding variants of concern.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19January 2022Western Australian adolescent emotional wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been vast and are not limited to physical health. Many adolescents have experienced disruptions to daily life, including changes in their school routine and family’s financial or emotional security, potentially impacting their emotional wellbeing.
Published research Human Development and Community Wellbeing School Attendance Youth Health Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Social and Emotional Wellbeing of Aboriginal Young People Geospatial Health and Development COVID-19January 2022Re-examining Hepatitis B Postexposure Prophylaxis Following Pediatric Community-acquired Needle-stick Injury in an Era of a National Immunization Registry
Long-term hepatitis B immunity has been demonstrated following the completion of the primary vaccination series in childhood. Some guidelines recommend a hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) directed approach following community-acquired needle-stick injury (CANSI) to inform hepatitis B postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) management.
Published research Immunisation Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2022Acceptability of OP/Na swabbing for SARS-CoV-2: a prospective observational cohort surveillance study in Western Australian schools
When the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, Governments responded with lockdown and isolation measures to combat viral spread, including the closure of many schools. More than a year later, widespread screening for SARS-CoV-2 is critical to allow schools and other institutions to remain open.
Published research Academic Biostatistics Infectious Diseases Human Development and Community Wellbeing School Attendance Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19November 2022The burden of atopic dermatitis and bacterial skin infections among urban-living Indigenous children and young people in high-income countries: A systematic review
A high burden of bacterial skin infections is well documented in remote-living Indigenous children and young people in high-income countries.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2022Real world impact of 13vPCV in preventing invasive pneumococcal pneumonia in Australian children: A national study
We aimed to assess the direct protective effect of 13 valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (13vPCV) against invasive pneumococcal pneumonia (IPP; including pneumonia and empyema) in children using a nation-wide case-control study across 11 paediatric tertiary hospitals in Australia.
Published research Immunisation Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2022Starting the SToP trial: Lessons from a collaborative recruitment approach
Recruitment in research can be challenging in Australian Aboriginal contexts. We aimed to evaluate the SToP (See, Treat, Prevent skin infections) trial recruitment approach for Aboriginal families to identify barriers and facilitators and understand the utility of the visual resource used.
Published research Skin Infections Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2022The Staphylococcus aureus Network Adaptive Platform Trial Protocol: New Tools for an Old Foe
Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream (SAB) infection is a common and severe infectious disease, with a 90-day mortality of 15%-30%. Despite this, <3000 people have been randomized into clinical trials of treatments for SAB infection.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Disease Implementation Research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2022Host-dependent resistance of Group A Streptococcus to sulfamethoxazole mediated by a horizontally-acquired reduced folate transporter
Described antimicrobial resistance mechanisms enable bacteria to avoid the direct effects of antibiotics and can be monitored by in vitro susceptibility testing and genetic methods. Here we describe a mechanism of sulfamethoxazole resistance that requires a host metabolite for activity.
Published research Children's Lung Health Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention BREATH Strep A Pathogenesis and DiagnosticsOctober 2022Skin Health in Northern Australia
Achieving healthy skin requires the prevention of infectious diseases that affect the skin. Prevention activities range from environmental health improvements to address inequities in living situations, through to community-wide treatment programs to reduce transmission and improve skin health.
Published research Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionOctober 2022Body distribution of impetigo and association with host and pathogen factors
Impetigo or skin sores are estimated to affect >162 million people worldwide. Detailed descriptions of the anatomical location of skin sores are lacking.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2022A Systematic Framework for Prioritizing Burden of Disease Data Required for Vaccine Development and Implementation: The Case for Group A Streptococcal Diseases
Vaccine development and implementation decisions need to be guided by accurate and robust burden of disease data. We developed an innovative systematic framework outlining the properties of such data that are needed to advance vaccine development and evaluation, and prioritize research and surveillance activities.
Published research Immunisation Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Implementation, Epidemiology & New HorizonsSeptember 2022Population pharmacokinetic study of benzathine penicillin G administration in Indigenous children and young adults with rheumatic heart disease in the Northern Territory, Australia
Benzathine penicillin G is the cornerstone of secondary prophylaxis to prevent Streptococcus pyogenes infections, which precede acute rheumatic fever.
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2022Standardization of Epidemiological Surveillance of Group A Streptococcal Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the superficial layer of skin. Impetigo is caused by group A Streptococcus (Strep A) and Staphylococcus aureus, alone or in combination, with the former predominating in many tropical climates. Strep A impetigo occurs mainly in early childhood, and the burden varies worldwide. It is an acute, self-limited disease, but many children experience frequent recurrences that make it a chronic illness in some endemic settings.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A Pathogenesis and Diagnostics Strep A & ARF TherapeuticsSeptember 2022Standardization of Epidemiological Surveillance of Acute Rheumatic Fever
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a multiorgan inflammatory disorder that results from the body's autoimmune response to pharyngitis or a skin infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A). Acute rheumatic fever mainly affects those in low- and middle-income nations, as well as in indigenous populations in wealthy nations, where initial Strep A infections may go undetected.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Strep A & ARF Therapeutics Implementation, Epidemiology & New HorizonsSeptember 2022Standardization of Epidemiological Surveillance of Acute Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis
Acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is an immune complex-induced glomerulonephritis that develops as a sequela of streptococcal infections. This article provides guidelines for the surveillance of APSGN due to group A Streptococcus (Strep A). The primary objectives of APSGN surveillance are to monitor trends in age- and sex-specific incidence, describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with APSGN, document accompanying risk factors, then monitor trends in frequency of complications, illness duration, hospitalization rates, and mortality.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2022Standardization of Epidemiological Surveillance of Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis, more commonly known as sore throat, is caused by viral and/or bacterial infections. Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) is the most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis. Strep A pharyngitis is an acute, self-limiting disease but if undertreated can lead to suppurative complications, nonsuppurative poststreptococcal immune-mediated diseases, and toxigenic presentations.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A Pathogenesis and Diagnostics Strep A & ARF Therapeutics Strep A Vaccines Implementation, Epidemiology & New HorizonsSeptember 2022Standardization of Epidemiological Surveillance of Invasive Group A Streptococcal Infections
Invasive group A streptococcal (Strep A) infections occur when Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as beta-hemolytic group A Streptococcus, invades a normally sterile site in the body. This article provides guidelines for establishing surveillance for invasive Strep A infections. The primary objective of invasive Strep A surveillance is to monitor trends in rates of infection and determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with laboratory-confirmed invasive Strep A infection, the age- and sex-specific incidence in the population of a defined geographic area, trends in risk factors, and the mortality rates and rates of nonfatal sequelae caused by invasive Strep A infections.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A Pathogenesis and Diagnostics Strep A & ARF Therapeutics Implementation, Epidemiology & New HorizonsAugust 2022Nafamostat Mesylate for Treatment of COVID-19 in Hospitalised Patients: A Structured, Narrative Review
The search for clinically effective antivirals against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is ongoing. Repurposing of drugs licensed for non–coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) indications has been extensively investigated in laboratory models and in clinical studies with mixed results.
Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19August 2022Roadmap to incorporating group A Streptococcus molecular point-of-care testing for remote Australia: a key activity to eliminate rheumatic heart disease
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A Pathogenesis and DiagnosticsAugust 2022The burden of bacterial skin infection, scabies and atopic dermatitis among urban-living Indigenous children in high-income countries: a protocol for a systematic review
Bacterial skin infections and scabies disproportionately affect children in resource-poor countries as well as underprivileged children in high-income countries. Atopic dermatitis is a common childhood dermatosis that predisposes to bacterial skin infection.
Published research Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionAugust 2022Ancestral SARS-CoV-2, but not Omicron, replicates less efficiently in primary pediatric nasal epithelial cells
Children typically experience more mild symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) when compared to adults. There is a strong body of evidence that children are also less susceptible to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection with the ancestral viral isolate.
Published research Airway Epithelial Research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Clinical Epigenetics Subsite: Walyan Systems Vaccinology COVID-19 Respiratory viral infectionsJuly 2022In vitro antibacterial activity of Western Australian honeys, and manuka honey, against bacteria implicated in impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious skin disease caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Without treatment, impetigo may be recurrent, develop into severe disease, or have serious, life-threatening sequelae. Standard treatment consists of topical or systemic antibiotic therapy (depending on severity), however, due to antibiotic resistance some therapies are increasingly ineffective.
Published research Skin Infections Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A Pathogenesis and DiagnosticsJuly 2022Antibiotic treatment duration for bloodstream infections in critically ill children - A survey of pediatric infectious diseases and critical care clinicians for clinical equipoise
To describe antibiotic treatment durations that pediatric infectious diseases (ID) and critical care clinicians usually recommend for bloodstream infections in critically ill children.
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJune 2022A quality improvement study: Optimizing pneumococcal vaccination rates in children with cochlear implants
Children with cochlear implants are at increased risk of invasive pneumococcal disease, with national and international guidelines recommending additional pneumococcal vaccines for these children. This study aimed to examine the pneumococcal immunization status and rate of invasive pneumococcal disease in children with cochlear implants at a tertiary paediatric hospital over a 12-year period.
Published research Immunisation Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2021Meningococcal serotype W septic arthritis: Case series in children
The epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease has changed over the last decade and there has been an increase in cases caused by serogroup W135, particularly in Indigenous children. Extra‐meningeal and atypical presentations are associated with serogroup W and may delay diagnosis and therefore appropriate treatment. Public and clinician awareness are essential in facilitating effective new vaccine schedule implementation.
Published research Immunisation Aboriginal Health Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2021COVID-19, children and schools: overlooked and at risk
We have closely followed the international literature about severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) transmission dynamics in children (aged 0–18 years).2 Evidence‐informed discussion about school attendance in the context of COVID‐19 is a high priority and this complex subject requires weighted expert review of the literature to accurately inform policy. As paediatricians and infectious diseases specialists, we wish to highlight important considerations when interpreting the available data.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2021Modes of transmission and attack rates of group A Streptococcal infection: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) is an important cause of mortality and morbidity globally. This bacterium is responsible for a range of different infections and post-infectious sequelae. Summarising the current knowledge of Strep A transmission to humans will address gaps in the evidence and inform prevention and control strategies. The objective of this study is to evaluate the modes of transmission and attack rates of group A streptococcal infection in human populations.
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionDecember 2021Examining the entire delayed respiratory syncytial virus season in Western Australia
An interseasonal resurgence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was observed in Western Australia at the end of 2020. Our previous report describing this resurgence compared the 2019 and 2020 calendar years, capturing only part of the 2020/21 season.
Published research Influenza Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Respiratory viral infectionsFebruary 2021Addressing normalization using culturally relevant approaches: An important adjunct to reducing the burden of impetigo and scabies
Impetigo, a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and S. aureus of the superficial dermis affects up to 162 million children at any one time. Three out of every five school-children in Samoa have active or recently healed impetigo, far higher than the global median impetigo prevalence surpassing previous estimates for the Oceania region.
Published research Skin Infections Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2021Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology of an Emerging Panton-Valentine Leukocidin-Positive ST5 Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Clone in Northern Australia
Recently, we identified a Staphylococcus aureus sequence type 5 (ST5) clone in northern Australia with discrepant trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (SXT) susceptibility results. We aimed to identify isolates of this clone using Vitek 2 SXT resistance as a proxy and to compare its epidemiology with those of other circulating S. aureus strains. We collated Vitek 2 susceptibility data for S. aureus isolates collected through our laboratory and conducted a prospective, case-control study comparing clinical, microbiological, epidemiological, and genomic data for subsets of isolates reported as SXT resistant (cases) and SXT susceptible (controls) by Vitek 2.
Published research Skin Infections Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2021Molecular diagnosis of scabies using a novel probe-based polymerase chain reaction assay targeting high-copy number repetitive sequences in the sarcoptes scabiei genome
The suboptimal sensitivity and specificity of available diagnostic methods for scabies hampers clinical management, trials of new therapies and epidemiologic studies. Additionally, parasitologic diagnosis by microscopic examination of skin scrapings requires sample collection with a sharp scalpel blade, causing discomfort to patients and difficulty in children. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic assays, combined with non-invasive sampling methods, represent an attractive approach.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2021DETECT Schools Study Protocol: A Prospective Observational Cohort Surveillance Study Investigating the Impact of COVID-19 in Western Australian Schools
Amidst the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the transmission dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is key to providing peace of mind for the community and informing policy-making decisions. While available data suggest that school-aged children are not significant spreaders of SARS-CoV-2, the possibility of transmission in schools remains an ongoing concern, especially among an aging teaching workforce. Even in low-prevalence settings, communities must balance the potential risk of transmission with the need for students' ongoing education.
Published research Academic Biostatistics Influenza Infectious Diseases Human Development and Community Wellbeing Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Child Physical Activity, Health and Development Social and Emotional Wellbeing of Aboriginal Young People Geospatial Health and DevelopmentJanuary 2021Clinical experience with SUBA-itraconazole at a tertiary paediatric hospital
Itraconazole remains a first-line antifungal agent for certain fungal infections in children, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and sporotrichosis, but poor attainment of therapeutic drug levels is frequently observed with available oral formulations. A formulation of 'SUper BioAvailability itraconazole' (SUBA-itraconazole; Lozanoc®) has been developed, with adult studies demonstrating rapid and reliable attainment of therapeutic levels, yet paediatric data are lacking.
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2021Association between convalescent plasma treatment and mortality in COVID-19: a collaborative systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Convalescent plasma has been widely used to treat COVID-19 and is under investigation in numerous randomized clinical trials, but results are publicly available only for a small number of trials. The objective of this study was to assess the benefits of convalescent plasma treatment compared to placebo or no treatment and all-cause mortality in patients with COVID-19.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19October 2021Incidence of acute rheumatic fever in northern and western Uganda: a prospective, population-based study
Acute rheumatic fever is infrequently diagnosed in sub-Saharan African countries despite the high prevalence of rheumatic heart disease. We aimed to determine the incidence of acute rheumatic fever in northern and western Uganda.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionOctober 2021Clinical care of children and adolescents with COVID-19: recommendations from the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce
The epidemiology and clinical manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are different in children and adolescents compared with adults. Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appears to be less common in children, with milder disease overall, severe complications may occur, including paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19September 2021Viridans Group Streptococci in Pediatric Leukemia and Stem Cell Transplant: Review of a Risk-stratified Guideline for Empiric Vancomycin in Febrile Neutropenia
Viridans group streptococci (VGS) are an important cause of sepsis in immunosuppressed children. We reviewed the effectiveness of risk-stratified addition of vancomycin to empiric febrile neutropenia therapy among 107 children with leukemia or undergoing an allogeneic transplant.
Children's Cancers Infectious Diseases Leukaemia Translational Research Subsite: Cancer Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2021Acute haemoptysis, fever and abdominal pain in an adolescent from northern Australia
Published research Infectious Disease Implementation Research Infectious Diseases Epidemiology P4 Respiratory Health for Kids Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention BREATHJuly 2021Cellulitis in children: A retrospective single centre study from Australia
To characterise the epidemiology, clinical features and treatment of paediatric cellulitis. Methods A retrospective study of children presenting to a paediatric tertiary hospital in Western Australia, Australia in 2018.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2021The role of Kingella kingae in pre-school aged children with bone and joint infections
The Pre-school Osteoarticular Infection (POI) study aimed to describe the burden of disease, epidemiology, microbiology and treatment of acute osteoarticular infections (OAI) and the role of Kingella kingae in these infections.
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJune 2021Lessons learnt during the COVID-19 pandemic: Why Australian schools should be prioritised to stay open
In 2020, school and early childhood educational centre (ECEC) closures affected over 1.5 billion school-aged children globally as part of the COVID-19 pandemic response. Attendance at school and access to ECEC is critical to a child's learning, well-being and health. School closures increase inequities by disproportionately affecting vulnerable children. Here, we summarise the role of children and adolescents in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission and that of schools and ECECs in community transmission and describe the Australian experience.
Published research Infectious Diseases School Attendance Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19June 2021Australia needs a prioritised national research strategy for clinical trials in a pandemic: lessons learned from COVID-19
The emergence of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), sparking a global pandemic, has driven an imperative to quickly design and conduct treatment studies. We strongly propose a national, coordinated approach for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), future pandemics and inter-pandemic periods in Australia.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19June 2021A Meta-analysis on the Role of Children in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Household Transmission Clusters
The role of children in the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains highly controversial. To address this issue, we performed a meta-analysis of the published literature on household SARS-CoV-2 transmission clusters (n = 213 from 12 countries). Only 8 (3.8%) transmission clusters were identified as having a pediatric index case.
Published research Influenza Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention COVID-19May 2021Primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an abnormal immune reaction following Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) infection of the throat, and likely the skin. Primary prevention is the prompt and appropriate antibiotic treatment of Strep A infection, and it can reduce the risk of developing ARF and subsequent rheumatic heart disease.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Subsite: END RHD Invasive Streptococcus A Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMay 2021Increase in Body Mass Index in Children With HIV, Switched to Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate or Dolutegravir Containing Antiretroviral Regimens
Recent data indicate excessive weight gain in treatment-naive adults with HIV commenced on antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens containing tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) or the integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) dolutegravir (DTG) and bictegravir.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionDecember 2020Performance and Practicality of a Rapid Molecular Test for the Diagnosis of Strep A Pharyngitis in a Remote Australian Setting
Over 5 days, 120 schoolchildren from two schools in the remote Kimberley region of Australia were screened for Strep A pharyngitis. Molecular point-of-care testing identified Strep A pharyngitis in 13/18 (72.2%) symptomatic children. The portability and feasibility of molecular point-of-care testing was highly practical for remote settings.
Published research Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A DiseaseNovember 2020A model of population dynamics with complex household structure and mobility: implications for transmission and control of communicable diseases
Households are known to be high-risk locations for the transmission of communicable diseases. Numerous modelling studies have demonstrated the important role of households in sustaining both communicable diseases outbreaks and endemic transmission, and as the focus for control efforts. However, these studies typically assume that households are associated with a single dwelling and have static membership.
Published research Aboriginal Health Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious DiseasesNovember 2020Ending rheumatic heart disease in Australia: the evidence for a new approach
The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031 (the Endgame Strategy) is the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Australia by 2031. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live with one of the highest per capita burdens of RHD in the world.
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Aboriginal Health Subsite: END RHDNovember 2020The incidence of sore throat and group A streptococcal pharyngitis in children at high risk of developing acute rheumatic fever: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis has traditionally been considered the sole precursor of acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Evidence from Australia, however, suggests that GAS skin infections may contribute to the pathogenesis of ARF.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Invasive Streptococcus A DiseaseOctober 2020Planning and clinical role of acute medical home care services for COVID-19: consensus position statement by the Hospital-in-the-Home Society Australasia
During a pandemic when hospitals are stretched and patients need isolation, the role of hospital-in-the-home (HITH) providing acute medical care at home has never been more relevant. We aimed to define and address the challenges to acute home care services posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2020Clinical Management of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Neonates, Children, and Adolescents
Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of community and health care-associated bacteremia, with authors of recent studies estimating the incidence of S aureus bacteremia (SAB) in high-income countries between 8 and 26 per 100 000 children per year. Despite this, <300 children worldwide have ever been randomly assigned into clinical trials to assess the efficacy of treatment of SAB.
Published research Infectious Diseases Allergy & Infectious DiseasesJuly 2020Predicting the causative pathogen among children with osteomyelitis using Bayesian networks – improving antibiotic selection in clinical practice
We have demonstrated the potential use of Bayesian Networks in improving antibiotic selection for children with osteomyelitis
Published research Infectious Diseases Infectious Disease Implementation Research Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2020Antimicrobial stewardship in remote primary healthcare across northern Australia
The high burden of infectious disease and associated antimicrobial use likely contribute to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in remote Australian Aboriginal communities. We aimed to develop and apply context-specific tools to audit antimicrobial use in the remote primary healthcare setting.
Published research Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJune 2020Progress towards a coordinated, national paediatric antimicrobial resistance surveillance programme
These data support that children are not just 'little adults' in the AMR era, and analyses by age group are important to detect differences in antibiotic susceptibility
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJune 2020Complicated skin and soft tissue infections in remote indigenous communities
The burden and consequences of skin infections for remote living indigenous people are high
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2020Skin infections in Australian Aboriginal children: a narrative review
The Australian National Healthy Skin Guideline summarises evidence-based treatment of impetigo, scabies and fungal infections in high burden settings
Published research Skin Infections Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2020Spotting sporotrichosis skin infection: The first Australian paediatric case series
These data highlight the importance of recognising Sporotrichosis in children outside an outbreak setting
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2020Barriers and enablers of health service utilisation for childhood skin infections in remote aboriginal communities of Western Australia
Health service utilisation in this setting may be enhanced by improving general awareness of the significance of childhood skin infections
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2020Prevalence of Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcal Throat Carriage and Prospective Pilot Surveillance of Streptococcal Sore Throat in Ugandan School Children
The Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus pharyngeal carriage rates seen in Uganda (15.9%) are higher than the most recent pooled results globally, at 12%
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2019Treatment, prevention and public health management of impetigo, scabies, crusted scabies and fungal skin infections in endemic populations: a systematic review
Systematic review of the treatment, prevention and public health control of skin infections in resource-limited settings where skin infections are endemic
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMarch 2019Burden of skin disease in two remote primary healthcare centres in northern and central Australia
Skin infections are an under-appreciated and dominant reason for presentation to primary healthcare centres in these indigenous communities
Published research Skin Infections Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2019Potential for molecular testing for group a streptococcus to improve diagnosis and management in a high-risk population: A prospective study
Implementation of molecular testing could improve antibiotic use in this high-burden setting
Published research Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2019Adjunctive protein synthesis inhibitor antibiotics for toxin suppression in Staphylococcus aureus infections: a systematic appraisal
A summary of the literature regarding the use of adjunctive protein synthesis inhibitors for toxin suppression in the setting of S. aureus infections is presented
Published research Infectious Diseases Subsite: Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJanuary 2019The fall and rise of Group A Streptococcus diseases
We overview the changing epidemiology of Group A Streptococcus infections and the genetic alterations that accompany the emergence of Group A Streptococcus strains
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionOctober 2019A Survey of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Clinicians in Australia and New Zealand About the Management of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Significant variation in practice, particularly for patients with a severe disease phenotype and antibiotic-resistant profile
Published research Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2019SToP (See, Treat, Prevent) skin sores and scabies trial: study protocol for a cluster randomised, stepped-wedge trial for skin disease control in remote Western Australia
Skin infection burden in remote Aboriginal communities can be reduced by the See, Treat, Prevent (SToP skin sores and scabies) trial
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2019Talking skin: Attitudes and practices around skin infections, treatment options, and their clinical management in a remote region in Western Australia
Documenting carer, service provider and healthcare practitioner perspectives on skin infections provides more understanding of the context of treatment decisions
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Aboriginal Maternal Health & Child Development Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2019Perinatal risk factors associated with skin infection hospitalisation in Western Australian Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal children
We have quantified the relative influence of perinatal risk factors associated with skin infection hospitalisations in WA children
Published research Academic Biostatistics Skin Infections Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2019An urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship in Indigenous rural and remote primary health care
We write this perspective to raise awareness of antimicrobial resistance as an issue in Indigenous primary health care
Published research Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2019A population pharmacokinetic study of benzathine benzylpenicillin G administration in children and adolescents with rheumatic heart disease
Few children and adolescents receiving BPG as secondary prophylaxis will achieve concentrations >0.02 mg/L for the majority of the time between injections
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention Strep A & ARF TherapeuticsJune 2019Infectious diseases clinician's variation in the management of pediatric Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia and equipoise for clinical trials
Large variation in antibiotic prescribing amongst clinicians is demonstrated and increased, corresponding with escalating case complexity and persisting MRSA bacteraemia
Published research Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJune 2019CASSETTE-clindamycin adjunctive therapy for severe Staphylococcus aureus treatment evaluation: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
This study will assess the effect of adjunctive clindamycin on patient-centred outcomes in severe, toxin-mediated S. aureus infections
Published research Infectious Diseases Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionApril 2019Pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention during pregnancy and lactation: forget not the women and children
The framework for appropriately identifying and managing at-risk pregnant and lactating women requiring PrEP is poorly defined
Published research Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2018Investigation of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole resistance in an emerging sequence type 5 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clone reveals discrepant resistance reporting
Our findings are crucial in demonstrating that the Northern Territory STS clone is not STX resistant
Published researchSeptember 2018Ascertaining infectious disease burden through primary care clinic attendance among young Aboriginal children living in four remote communities in Western Australia
Improved public health measures targeting bacterial skin infections are needed to reduce this high burden of skin infections in Western Australia
Published research Skin Infections Infectious Diseases Infectious Disease Implementation Research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Aboriginal Maternal Health & Child DevelopmentAugust 2018Infection characteristics and treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia at a tertiary children's hospital
There is a wide spectrum of disease severity in paediatric Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia
Published research Infectious Diseases Vaccine Trials Group Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionMay 2018Scabies and impetigo in Timor-Leste: A school screening study in two districts
Scabies and impetigo are common in Timor-Leste, with very high prevalence of scabies in the rural district of Ermera
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionFebruary 2018Dedicated paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy medical support: a pre-post observational study
We examined the impact of introducing a dedicated team to OPAT, to define the role of increased medical oversight in improving patient outcomes in this cohort.
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionJuly 2017Are scabies and impetigo “normalised”? A cross-sectional comparative study of hospitalised children in northern Australia assessing clinical recognition
Scabies and impetigo infections are under-recognised and hence under-treated by clinicians
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionAugust 2017Dedicated paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy medical support: a pre-post observational study
The introduction of a formal medical team to Hospital in the Home (HiTH) demonstrated a positive clinical impact on Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) patients' outcomes.
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Vaccine Trials Group Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionSeptember 2017Immuno-nephelometric determination of group streptococcal anti-streptolysin O titres (ASOT) from dried blood spots: Method for validating a new assay
This study was designed to determine the sensitivity and reproducibility of recovering anti-streptolysin O titres (ASOT) from dried blood spot (DBS) samples
Published research Rheumatic Heart Disease Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionOctober 2017A 15-Year Old Burmese Girl With Hemoptysis: A Case Report
A 15 year old girl, born in Hakha, Myanmar, presented with 2 months of intermittent hemoptysis 3 years after immigrating to Australia, via Malaysia.
Published research Infectious Disease Implementation Research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2017Hospital admissions for skin infections among Western Australian children and adolescents from 1996 to 2012
Skin infections are a significant cause of severe disease, requiring hospitalization in Western Australian children, particularly with Aboriginal children
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Aboriginal Maternal Health & Child Development Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2017Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (Cotrimoxazole) for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections Including Impetigo, Cellulitis, and Abscess
We conducted a systematic review of clinical trials and observational studies that address the utility of SXT for SSTI treatment, caused by either GAS or MRSA
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionNovember 2017Hospital admissions for skin infections among Western Australian children and adolescents from 1996 to 2012
The objective of this study was to describe the occurrence of skin infection associated hospitalizations in children born in Western Australia (WA).
Published research Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Vaccine Trials Group Aboriginal Maternal Health & Child Development Healthy Skin and ARF PreventionOctober 2016Epidemiology and mortality of staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Australian and New Zealand children
Describe the epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia in children and adolescents younger than 18 years from Australia and New Zealand
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Vaccine Trials GroupAugust 2016Antibiotic duration and timing of the switch from intravenous to oral route for bacterial infections in children: systematic review and guidelines
Systematic review of antibiotic duration and timing of intravenous to oral switch for paediatric infectious diseases and evidence-graded recommendations
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease Vaccine Trials GroupJuly 2016Impetigo and scabies - Disease burden and modern treatment strategies
Recent data on the epidemiology of impetigo and scabies and describe the current evidence around approaches to individual and community based treatment
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseApril 2016The Importance of Scabies Co-Infection in the Treatment Considerations for Impetigo
Treatment success for scabies co-infection was lower than for impetigo overall, with a higher success seen in the co-trimoxazole group than benzylpenicillin
Published research Aboriginal Health Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseFebruary 2016A Retrospective case-series of children with bone and joint infection from northern Australia
We report osteomyelitis incidence in indigenous children of northern Australia is amongst the highest reported in the world
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseFebruary 2016Whole genome sequencing reveals extensive community-level transmission of group A Streptococcus in remote communities
There was evidence of extensive transmission of group A Streptococcus both within households and across the community
Published research Infectious Diseases Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart DiseaseJanuary 2016The inequitable burden of group A streptococcal diseases in Indigenous Australians
Given the ongoing mortality and morbidity from GAS infections, we must address more effectively the treatment and prevention of GAS impetigo and pharyngitis
Published research Skin Infections Group A Streptococcal & Rheumatic Heart Disease -
Awards/Honours