This study aimed to establish a foundation for future collaborations aimed at preparing for and responding to infectious diseases by examining the vaccine injury compensation programs (VICPs) of East Asian countries. We reviewed the current status of VICPs in the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan by searching national government websites and reviewing relevant literature. Additionally, we conducted email inquiries targeting experts from Japan and Taiwan. Through the comprehensive analysis of VICPs in these 3 countries covered various aspects, we identified several similarities and differences in the VICPs across these countries. While the governments of the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan play a central role in supporting investigations into vaccine injuries and managing compensation procedures based on legal statutes, they differ in terms of financial resources for compensation, the range of vaccines covered, and the criteria for assessing causality. In the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, compensation is typically paid in a lump sum, although the specific benefits available vary by country. This study on VICPs in the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan provides valuable insights for the further development and management of domestic systems.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
The Vaccine That Was Never Mentioned: A Comparative Medico-Legal Analysis of the Duty to Inform and Document Preventive Immunization, with Proposed Practice Guidelines Sanit Thongsriratch, Therdpong Thongseiratch, Saratis Pairoh, Puttichart Khantee Vaccines.2026; 14(8): 664. CrossRef
Local Vaccine Manufacturing in Saudi Arabia: Examining the Role of National Legal Frameworks and Strategic Policies Tareq S. Alshammari Beijing Law Review.2025; 16(04): 2147. CrossRef
Objectives The main Brucella species causing human infections in the Republic of Korea is Brucella abortus, which uses cattle as its host. However, since 2014, Brucella melitensis, which uses sheep and goats as hosts, has also been identified. This study investigated whether a shift has occurred in the predominant species of Brucella pathogens.
Methods Brucellosis is a class 3 infectious disease requiring mandatory reporting and registration in the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s infectious disease surveillance system (http://is.kdca.go.kr). Cases from 2014 to 2023 were studied, and whole-genome sequencing analysis was conducted using BruMLSA21.
Results Out of 51 patients, males (45 patients, 88.2%) were predominantly affected. Twenty-five patients (49%) came from the livestock industry, and within the livestock sector group, the route of infection occurred exclusively through contact (25/25, 100%), whereas in other occupations, it was split between contact (9/26 patients, 34.6%) and ingestion (8/26 patients, 30.8%). Among the 31 patients who underwent Brucella culture tests, B. melitensis was found to be more prevalent than B. abortus (14 patients, 45.2% vs. 11 patients, 35.5%). In all cases where B. melitensis was isolated, the infections were of foreign origin, consistent with the results of BruMLSA21.
Conclusion Regular monitoring of the causative agent of brucellosis is necessary due to its varying host preferences and antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, given the increasing prevalence of B. melitensis worldwide, changes in dietary habits (e.g., increased lamb consumption), and the increase in foreign workers and Chinese immigrants, a multi-ministerial One Health response will be required.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
Peculiarities of Brucellosis Spread in Urban and Rural Areas of Jalal-Abad Region, Kyrgyz Republic Zholdoshev Saparbai Tezekbayevich, Temirov Nemat Moydunovich, Akzholtoeva Aizharkyn Akzholtoevna, Tashieva Gulbara Samidinovna, Sorombaeva Nadira Orozbekovna, Akhunbaeva Tattygul Raimzhanovna, Ali Munir Mirza World Journal of Environmental Biosciences.2026; 15(1): 8. CrossRef
Epidemiology and zoonotic impact of brucellosis in ruminants from a one health perspective Arslan Khan Barozai Barozai, Rana Dawood Naseer, Ehsanullah ., Hafiz Mohammed Hamayun, Mahnoor Farrukh, Kashif Iqbal Forensic Insights and Health Sciences Bulletin.2026; : 69. CrossRef
First report of a Brucella inopinata-like atypical Brucella strain isolated from a waxy monkey treefrog (Phyllomedusa bicolor) in the Republic of Korea: Case Report Myeongsu Kim, Zun Zun Wut Hmohn, Jae-Ik Han Frontiers in Veterinary Science.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Senility, defecation disorders, sleep disorders, and non-operative spinal infections: A single-center retrospective analysis Ling-Ling Guo, Hong-Kun Liu, Jin-Feng Cao, Hai-Xia Zhang, Bo Li, Tong Li, Liang Li World Journal of Orthopedics.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Unraveling brucellosis: advances in pathogenesis, diagnostic strategies, therapeutic innovations, and public health perspectives Abdulaziz M. Almuzaini, Ayman Elbehiry Frontiers in Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
BRUCELLA ENFEKSİYONLARI VE ERADİKASYON Zübeyde Arslan Veteriner Farmakoloji ve Toksikoloji Derneği Bülte.2025; 16(3): 95. CrossRef
Objectives This study investigated factors influencing intentional self-harm in Chungcheongbuk Province (hereinafter, Chungbuk) compared to Seoul in the Republic of Korea.
Methods Raw data from the Discharge In-depth Injury Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency were utilized. From 2,329,149 cases recorded over 9 years (2013–2021), 911 were identified as intentional self-harm cases (248 from Chungbuk and 633 from Seoul). We analyzed the differences in and influencing factors of intentional self-harm in Chungbuk relative to Seoul using the independent sample t-test, chi-square test, and binomial logistic regression analysis.
Results Intentional self-harm was found to be 1.232 times more prevalent among females than males (p<0.05); 2.327 times more prevalent among middle-aged and older adults, ages 50 to 64, compared to those under 50 years old (p<0.01); 8.603 times more prevalent among those using hospitals with fewer than 500 beds compared to those with 500 beds or more (p<0.001); 2.412 times more prevalent among individuals using hospitals in different regions compared to those within the same region (p<0.01); 2.217 times more prevalent among those attempting intentional self-harm during daily activities compared to other specified activities (p<0.01); and 6.987 times more prevalent among those using pesticides or herbicides compared to other poisons (p<0.001) in Chungbuk relative to Seoul.
Conclusion In the Chungbuk region, intentional self-harm prevention programs should be implemented, specifically targeting women, particularly those aged 50 to 64. Additionally, due to the high incidence of intentional self-harm involving pesticides or herbicides in Chungbuk, these substances should be stringently monitored to restrict access.
Objectives Malaria remains a serious public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions, including Indonesia. Children under 5 years old face particular risk of contracting malaria due to low immunity. We examined potential factors associated with malaria infection among under-5 children in Papua Province, Indonesia.
Methods The study utilized secondary data from Indonesia Basic Health Research 2018. Multistage random sampling was employed, from the province level to census blocks (CBs). In Papua Province, interviews were conducted in 928 CBs. All 2,745 under-5 children were selected. The dependent variable was laboratory-confirmed malaria positivity; independent factors included residential area, socioeconomic characteristics, and behaviors such as sleeping under an insecticide net impregnated ≤3 years ago and the use of ventilation barriers. We also examined the conditions of the bedroom, kitchen, and living room according to the frequency of window-opening, proportion of ventilation area to the floor, and radiance.
Results Not sleeping under an insecticide net impregnated within the last 3 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.518; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.391–0.685; p<0.001); having a kitchen without windows (aOR, 0.491; 95% CI, 0.285–0.844; p=0.01); rarely opening the living room window (aOR, 2.804; 95% CI, 1.232–6.383; p=0.01), and having a windowless living room (aOR, 3.027; 95% CI, 1.369–6.696; p=0.01) displayed significant relationships with malaria infection among under-5 children.
Conclusion Not using an insecticide-treated net impregnated ≤3 years ago, along with opening the living room window daily and having a kitchen without windows, appear preventive of malaria infection among under-5 children.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
Associations of temperature and precipitation with malaria in children under 5: A multi-country study in Sub-Saharan Africa Suleiman Chombo, Jovine Bachwenkizi, Huda Omary, Heavenlight A. Paulo, Pankras Luoga, Abdallah Zacharia, Jackline Vicent Mbishi, John D. Andrew, Isaac Y. Addo, Luzia H Carvalho PLOS One.2025; 20(10): e0335031. CrossRef
Epidemiology of Plasmodium spp. Detection Among Acute Febrile Illness Patients in Two Regions of Nigeria Claire A Quiner, Adamu Zigwai Ephraim, Vivian Kwaghe, Cyril Erameh, Jay Samuels, Lauren P Courtney, Jean H Kim, Osahogie Isaac Edeawe, Nankpah Vongdip, Onyia Justus Ejike, Ikponmwosa Odia, Kat Asman, Philippe Chebu, Jacqueline Agbukor, Oladimeji Damilare Clinical Infectious Diseases.2025; 81(Supplement): S168. CrossRef
Objectives Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common, heterogeneous clinical syndrome affecting women. Investigating oxidative stress in women is crucial, as it is linked to insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. Chlorogenic acid, a bioactive component found in green coffee, has numerous documented health benefits. This study aimed to assess the beneficial effects of green coffee consumption on paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in women with PCOS.
Methods This study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial that included 44 patients with PCOS. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. For 6 weeks, the intervention group (n=22) received 400 mg of green coffee supplements, while the control group (n=22) received 400 mg of a starch-based placebo. Anthropometric indices, dietary assessments, and physical activity levels were evaluated before and after the 6-week intervention period. Additionally, blood samples were collected for laboratory analysis.
Results Supplementation with green coffee increased PON-1 levels by 3.5 units, a significant finding (p=0.038). Additionally, the intake of green coffee supplements significantly reduced blood cholesterol levels by 18.8 units (p=0.013) and triglyceride levels by 6.1 units (p=0.053). However, no significant differences were observed in the levels of MDA, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, fasting blood sugar, insulin, or homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance as a result of the intervention.
Conclusion Supplementation with green coffee alters PON-1 activity and cholesterol levels in women with PCOS. However, it has no significant impact on MDA levels or glycemic status.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation Markers in Obesity-Related Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Menstrual Irregularities: A Systematic Review of Biochemical and Pharmacological Interventions Shahnaz Fatima, Anum Saeedullah, Anjum Mahmood, Mohammad Iqbal, Samina Firdous, Umar Alim Pakistan Journal of Health Sciences.2026; : 151. CrossRef
Encapsulated coffee parchment extracts mitigate fructose-induced liver injury: linking agro-industrial waste valorization to environmental and metabolic health Meriem Benyelles, Amel Zoubeyda Merzouk, Hafida Merzouk, Amel Medjdoub, Farid Berroukeche International Journal of Environmental Health Rese.2026; : 1. CrossRef
Polycystic ovary syndrome, cardiovascular risk, and coffee: a complex interplay Anna Vittoria Mattioli Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives.2025; 16(1): 89. CrossRef
Association of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Its Metabolic Outcomes, Including Insulin Resistance and Dyslipidemia: A Systematic Review Hina Zuhra, Shabina Saifullah, Bela Inayat, Aneela Mehr, Amena Arif, Sabeen Khalid Pakistan Journal of Health Sciences.2025; : 171. CrossRef
Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships among obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), dyspnea, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), as well as the factors influencing HRQOL.
Methods A total of 129 lung cancer survivors (mean age, 53.4 years; 77 men and 52 women; mean time since diagnosis, 1.6 years; and cancer stage [1/2/3/4/relapse], 43/31/19/34/2, respectively) completed a questionnaire that included demographic and clinical information, as well as questions about the severity of sleep apnea, dyspnea, and HRQOL. The severity of OSA, dyspnea, and HRQOL were assessed using the Berlin questionnaire, the Dyspnea-10 item (FACIT-Dyspnea), and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30, respectively.
Results The severity of OSA and dyspnea exhibited negative correlations with HRQOL (p<0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that several factors significantly impacted the HRQOL of lung cancer survivors. These included the extent of dyspnea (β=–0.369, p<0.01), weight loss (β=0.192, p<0.01), OSA score (β=−0.215, p<0.01), stage 2 cancer (β=−0.181, p<0.01), and poor perceived health status (β=−0.179, p<0.05).
Conclusion These findings suggest that breathing difficulties, including OSA and dyspnea, contribute to decreased HRQOL. This study offers valuable insights for researchers and clinicians, aiding in the development of effective strategies to manage these issues in daily life.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
Effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in people with lung cancer after lung resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis Qun Wang, Zhe Liu, Lei Qi, Sek Ying Chair, Ruitong Gao Journal of Cancer Survivorship.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Factors Affecting Quality of Life Among Patients with Primary Lung Cancer Mideum Kang, Myung Sun Hyun, Sun Hyoung Bae, Sunjoo Boo Asian Oncology Nursing.2024; 24(3): 144. CrossRef
Objectives The aim of this study was to disseminate information about the safety of bivalent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA booster vaccines administered to adults in the Republic of Korea.
Methods Two databases were used to assess the safety of COVID-19 booster doses of Pfizer BA.1, Pfizer BA.4/5, Moderna BA.1, and Moderna BA.4/5 vaccines for adults aged 18 years and older. Adverse events (AEs) were analyzed using data reported to the web-based COVID-19 vaccination management system (CVMS) and a self-reported text-message survey.
Results Between October 11, 2022 and March 30, 2023, the CVMS received reports of 2,369 (93.7%) non-serious AEs from vaccinated adults, along with 158 (6.3%) serious AEs, which included 5 cases of anaphylaxis and 33 deaths. From October 11, 2022 to January 27, 2023, 40,022 people aged 18 and older responded to a survey conducted via text message. The booster doses were associated with fewer local and systemic AEs compared to the original vaccines. After receiving the bivalent vaccine, the most commonly reported AEs were pain at the injection site, headache, fatigue, and myalgia.
Conclusion Overall, bivalent vaccines exhibited fewer AEs compared to the original vaccines. The majority of AEs were non-serious, and serious AEs were rare among adults aged 18 years and older following vaccination with the Pfizer and Moderna bivalent vaccines.
Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
Cross-neutralizing antibody responses among individuals with or without bivalent vaccine: a six-month prospective cohort study Hye Hee Cha, Ji Yeun Kim, Seung Beom Kim, Junho Cha, Ji-Soo Kwon, Woori Kim, Ju Yeon Son, Choi Young Jang, Min-Chul Kim, So Yun Lim, Sung-Han Kim The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine.2026; 41(3): 516. CrossRef
Safety of COVID-19 mRNA-1273 booster doses in Asian populations: A literature review of post-marketing observational studies Chris Clarke, Daina Esposito, Veronica Urdaneta, Piyali Mukherjee, Amanda K. Buttery Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
First
Prev
