West Nile Virus Infection

Vector-borne diseases, caused by bites from infected mosquitoes, flies, fleas, ticks, or other blood-feeding insects, result in nearly one million deaths annually and are increasing, especially in Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, these diseases may account for about 10 percent of fevers, but many cases go undiagnosed. This research aims to better understand the range of febrile illnesses by using advanced metagenomic sequencing to identify pathogens in affected individuals. Participants include people aged 2 months and older who have a fever of at least 38 degrees Celsius or are diagnosed with a concerning pathogen. Close contacts of infected individuals may also join. The study collects blood samples, and for those with respiratory symptoms, nasal swabs. Participants share information on their age, sex, health history, and recent travel. If a highly transmissible or virulent pathogen is found, follow-up samples and testing of close contacts are performed to deepen understanding of disease spread. During the study, participants undergo screening with medical history review and physical assessments such as weight for children. They complete questionnaires and provide biological samples for pathogen identification. Optional follow-up samples may be collected within 1 to 2 weeks and again at 3 months after enrollment. Researchers measure pathogen sequences and immune responses to vector saliva proteins. The study continues through July 2027, aiming to improve knowledge of febrile diseases in Cambodia.

Researchers are studying visuospatial abilities and psychological outcomes in patients with Multiple Sclerosis MS and West Nile virus infection vWN. Both conditions can affect cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive skills. This study aims to better understand these impairments and test a new rehabilitation approach to improve visuospatial and cognitive functions. Participants will receive 10 sessions over 2 weeks of cognitive training using Mindlenses Professional, a device that combines prismatic adaptation therapy with digital serious games targeting attention, executive functions, and language. There is also a comparison group receiving standard computerized cognitive rehabilitation offered by the hospital. During the study, patients will undergo neuropsychological and psychological evaluations before and after the treatment to assess changes in cognitive performance and psychological status. The primary outcome measures cognitive changes after the 2-week intervention, while secondary outcomes assess psychological effects. The study involves randomized assignment and single masking, with a total participation period of about 2 weeks.

Researchers are investigating the spread and impact of multiple infectious diseases in Cambodia, a country facing challenges in disease surveillance and laboratory capacity. This nationwide study uses a One Health approach to better understand disease burden, transmission, and population immunity for a broad range of pathogens including zoonotic, vector-borne, vaccine-preventable, and neglected tropical diseases. The goal is to provide evidence that supports targeted and culturally appropriate public health interventions and to create a model that can be applied in similar low- and middle-income countries. The study will enroll about 10,000 participants aged 2 to 75 from urban and rural areas across Cambodia through a multi-stage population sampling method. Participants will complete standardized questionnaires covering demographics, health status, mobility, animal contact, and healthcare access. Blood samples will be collected for multiplex serology to detect antibodies against 57 priority pathogens. This observational study does not involve treatments but focuses on extensive data and sample collection to support research and policy development. Participants will be visited at home for blood sampling and questionnaire completion between December 2025 and April 2026. Researchers will measure the presence of antibodies to assess prior exposure to various pathogens. The study also includes building a biobank and curated datasets for long-term research use. Community engagement and collaboration with national stakeholders aim to facilitate the uptake of findings. The total participation period spans the inclusion period with no intervention, focusing on observation and data collection.