Nyt fra tidsskrifterne

by Peter Okpeh Amede, Elizabeth Adedire, Aishat Usman, Celestine Attah Ameh, Faruk Saleh Umar, Chukwuma David Umeokonkwo, Muhammad Shakir Balogun

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease and its transmissibility is increased in congregate settings. TB incidence rates are five-to-fifty times higher among inmates in prison settings than the general population which has a direct impact on the outcome of TB treatment. There is paucity of information on TB treatment outcomes and its associated factors in Nigerian prison settings. We therefore assessed TB treatment outcomes among inmates in prison settings in Bauchi State, Nigeria. We conducted a retrospective data analysis of inmates with TB in the five-main prison settings in Bauchi State. We extracted socio-demographic, clinical and treatment outcome characteristics from TB treatment register of inmates treated for TB between January 2014 and December 2018, using a checklist. We calculated the TB treatment success rate (TSR) and explored the relationship between the TSR and socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Related variables were modelled in multiple logistic regression to identify factors associated with TSR at 5% level of significance. All 216 inmates were male with mean (SD) age of 37.6±11.4 years. Seventy-six (35.2%) were cured, 61 (28.2%) completed treatment, 65 (30.1%) were transferred-out without evaluation and 14 (6.5%) died. Overall TSR was 72.9%. Factors associated with successful-treatment-outcome were age, weight, imprisonment duration and HIV status. The results indicate that inmates who are 20–29 years are at least ten times more likely to be successful (aOR = 10.5; 95%CI: 3.2–35.1) than inmates who are 55 years or older. Inmates who are 30–39 years are about four times more likely to be successful than inmates who are 55 years or older (aOR = 4.2; 95% CI: 1.3–13.1). In general, the younger an inmate, the more successful he is. Inmates with pretreatment-weight; 55kg or more are 13 times more likely to be successful (aOR = 13.3; 95%CI: 6.0–29.6) than inmates with weight below 55kg. Inmates who were imprisoned for 2 years or less are about three times more likely to be successful (aOR = 2.6; 95%CI: 1.3–5.4) than inmates who were imprisoned for more than 2 years and HIV negative inmates were three times more likely to succeed (aOR = 3.3; 95%CI:1.4–7.8) than inmates who were HIV positive. We recommended that to improve TB treatment outcome among inmates; age, duration-of-imprisonment, weight and TB/HIV co-infection should be the major consideration during pretreatment, psychological and nutritional counselling and a tracking-system be developed by the authority to follow-up inmates transferred-out to other health facilities to ensure they complete the treatment and outcomes evaluated.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, Ahead of Print. …

Introduction

Control of tuberculosis (TB) is hampered by suboptimal case detection and subsequent delays in treatment, which is worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The community pharmacy is reported as the place for first aid medication among patients with TB. We, therefore, analysed knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) on TB patient detection (TBPD) of community pharmacy personnel, aiming to find innovative strategies to engage community pharmacies in TBPD.

Methods

A multicentre cross-sectional study was performed in four areas of Indonesia’s eastern, central and western parts. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who worked in community pharmacies were assessed for their characteristics and KAP related to TBPD. Descriptive analysis was used to assess participant characteristics and their KAP, while multivariable regression analyses were used to analyse factors associated with the KAP on TBPD.

Results

A total of 1129 participants from 979 pharmacies, comprising pharmacists (56.6%) and pharmacy technicians (43.4%), were included. Most participants knew about TB. However, knowledge related to TB symptoms, populations at risk and medication for TB were still suboptimal. Most participants showed a positive attitude towards TBPD. They believed in their professional role (75.1%), capacity in TB screening (65.4%) and responsibility for TBPD (67.4%). Nevertheless, a lack of TBPD practice was identified in most participants. Several factors significantly associated with performing the TBPD practice (p<0.05), such as TB training experience (p<0.001), provision of a drug consultation service (p<0.001), male gender (p<0.05), a positive attitude towards TBPD (p<0.001), short working hours (p<0.001) and central city location of the pharmacy (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Most participants had good knowledge and attitude, which did not translate into actual TBPD practice. We identified that TB educational programmes are essential in improving the KAP. A comprehensive assessment is needed to develop effective strategies to engage the community pharmacy in TBPD activities.

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Objective

Although several studies have assessed treatment outcomes of drug-susceptible tuberculosis (TB) in Ghana, very little has been done in the area of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). The aim of this study was to determine treatment outcomes and associated factors among patients treated for MDR-TB in the Ashanti Region, Ghana.

Design

A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis.

Setting

The study was conducted in the Ashanti Region, the second most populous region in Ghana. The regional MDR-TB register, which contains information on all patients with MDR-TB being treated at the various TB centres in the region, was analysed between February and May 2021.

Participants

The participants consisted of all registered patients with MDR-TB who were placed on treatment between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2020. Patients were included in the analysis if their treatment outcome had been assigned. Patients with no record of treatment outcome were excluded from the study.

Outcome measures

The main outcome variable for the study was MDR-TB treatment outcome, standardised as ‘cured’, ‘treatment completed’, ‘treatment failure’, ‘died’ and ‘lost to follow-up’. A logistic regression model was fitted for factors associated with the outcome measure.

Results

Out of 159 patients included in the analysis, 86 (54.1%) were declared cured, 28 (17.6%) completed their treatment successfully, 6 (3.8%) were declared treatment failure, 12 (7.5%) were lost to follow-up and 27 (17.0%) died. The overall treatment success rate was 71.7%. Patients who were female (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.27, 95% CI: 1.18 to 1.39, p=0.023), younger (AOR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.19 to 2.11, p=0.012), had a higher level of education (AOR=1.12, 95% CI: 0.65 to 1.90, p=0.034), had a baseline body mass index of 18.5 kg/m2 or above (AOR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.23 to 2.47, p=0.011) and those who did not have a history of TB (AOR=0.47, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.75, p=0.028) were more likely to have successful MDR-TB treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

Favourable treatment outcomes for patients with MDR-TB can be achieved in a resource-limited country. Although the recommended WHO target of ≥75% was not met, the current result (71.7% treatment success rate) is still commendable considering all the challenges associated with TB treatment in Ghana.

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Lane S, Yeomans A, Shakir S. Reports of myocarditis and pericarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination: a systematic review of spontaneously reported data from the UK, Europe and the USA and of the scientific literature. BMJ Open 2022;12:e059223. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059223

This article was previously published with an error.

The authors have been made aware of an error in table 7 against row 20 (Lai, reference 61), for the percentage of carditis cases who had received a second vaccine dose. This inaccuracy has been corrected in the table, and now reads ‘75.0% followed 2nd dose.’…

The FDA has authorized the first nonprescription diagnostic test that can identify multiple viruses that cause COVID-19–like respiratory symptoms, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). FDA officials see it as another step toward diagnostic testing at home for certain viruses.

Expiration dates on several monoclonal antibody therapies for COVID-19 were extended by the FDA and the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) as a way to preserve supplies of the drugs for future outbreaks.

This Viewpoint discusses how relying almost exclusively on health care systems to address overall health in the US is problematic, noting that safety net programs and other social policies can serve as powerful population-level interventions that can affect long-standing health disparities.

This modeling study estimates the excess deaths attributable to COVID-19 disease in Massachusetts during the Delta (June to December 2021) and Omicron (December 2021 to February 2022) waves.

Abbreviations: AKI, acute kidney disease; CKD, chronic kidney disease; GFR, glomerular filtration rate; SpO2, oxygen saturation.

Introduction…

Introduction…

Abstract

Background

SARS-CoV-2 reinfections are a public health concern because of the potential for transmission and clinical disease, and because of our limited understanding of whether and how well an infection confers protection against subsequent infections. Despite the public health importance, few studies have reported rigorous estimates of reinfection risk.

Methods

Leveraging Indiana University’s comprehensive testing program to identify both asymptomatic and symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 cases, we estimated the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection among students, faculty, and staff across the 2020–2021 academic year. We contextualized the reinfection data with information on key covariates: age, sex, Greek organization membership, student vs faculty/staff affiliation, and testing type.

Results

Among 12,272 people with primary infections, we found a low level of SARS-CoV-2 reinfections (0.6%; 0.4 per 10,000 person-days). We observed higher risk for SARS-CoV-2 reinfections in Greek-affiliated students.

Conclusions

We found evidence for low levels of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in a large multi-campus university population during a time-period prior to widespread COVID-19 vaccination.

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Abstract

Background

In low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) Staphylococcus aureus is regarded as one of the leading bacterial causes of neonatal sepsis, however there is limited knowledge on the species diversity and antimicrobial resistance caused by Gram-positive bacteria (GPB).

Methods

We characterised GPB isolates from neonatal blood cultures from LMICs in Africa (Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa) and South-Asia (Bangladesh and Pakistan) between 2015–2017. We determined minimum inhibitory concentrations and performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) on Staphylococci isolates recovered and clinical data collected related to the onset of sepsis and the outcome of the neonate up to 60 days of age.

Results

From the isolates recovered from blood cultures, Staphylococci species were most frequently identified. Out of 100 S. aureus isolates sequenced, 18 different sequence types (ST) were found which unveiled two small epidemiological clusters caused by methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in Pakistan (ST8) and South Africa (ST5), both with high mortality (n = 6/17). One-third of S. aureus was MRSA, with methicillin resistance also detected in Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Mammaliicoccus sciuri. Through additional WGS analysis we report a cluster of M. sciuri in Pakistan identified between July-November 2017.

Conclusions

In total we identified 14 different GPB bacterial species, however Staphylococci was dominant. These findings highlight the need of a prospective genomic epidemiology study to comprehensively assess the true burden of GPB neonatal sepsis focusing specifically on mechanisms of resistance and virulence across species and in relation to neonatal outcome.

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Infection and Immunity, Ahead of Print. …

Infection and Immunity, Ahead of Print. …

Abstract

Purpose

Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB) have become a major global public health threat. Ceftazidime–avibactam (CAZ–AVI) is a newer combination of β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor, with activity against carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA). The aim of this review is to describe the recent real-world experience of CAZ–AVI for the infections due to MDR-GNB.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar for clinical application in CAZ-AVI for MDR-GNB infections. Reference lists were reviewed and synthesized for narrative review.

Results

MDRGNB infections are associated with higher mortality significantly comparing to drug-susceptible bacterial infections. Fortunately, CAZ–AVI shows significant benefits for infections due to KPC or OXA-48 CRE, comparing to colistin, carbapenem, aminoglycoside and other older agents, even in those with immunocompromised status. The efficacy of CAZ–AVI varies in different infection sites due to CRE, which is lower in pneumonia. Early use is associated with improved clinical outcomes. Noteworthy, when adopted as salvage therapy, CAZ–AVI is still superior to other GNB active antibiotics. CAZ–AVI plus aztreonam is recommended as the first line of MBL-CRE infections. However, for infections caused by KPC- and OXA-48-producing isolates, further investigations are needed to demonstrate the benefit of combination therapy. Besides CRE, CAZ-AVI is also active to MDR-PA. However, the development of resistance in CRE and MDR-PA against CAZ–AVI is alarming, and more investigations and studies are needed to prevent, diagnose, and treat infections due to CAZ–AVI-resistant pathogens.

Conclusions

CAZ-AVI appears to be a valuable therapeutic option in MDR-GNB infections. Using CAZ-AVI appropriately to improve efficacy and decrease the emergence of resistance is important.

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A 58-year-old gardener and immunocompetent man, presented with painless bulging of the right nasal alar, nasolabial area, cheek and dorsum of the nose, mild erythema, and firm consistency for 3 months. (Figure 1A) Anterior rhinoscopy revealed firm soft tissue swelling of nasal vestibule and head of the inferior turbinate, near totally occluded right nasal cavity. Paranasal sinuses computerized tomography showed ill-defined infiltrative lesions at the right nasal cavity, nose, and upper lip (Figure 2).

Introduction…

In 2017, human monkeypox was detected in Nigeria for the first time since 1971, with sporadic outbreaks outside Africa, including in the UK.1 In May, 2022, the number of cases outside Africa increased substantially with clear extended human-to-human transmission apparently involving intimate contact and with the possibility of transmission by other routes, such as fomites or droplets. This finding indicates that monkeypox virus is using a new route of transmission to overcome barriers that have prevented its emergence as a non-zoonotic human pathogen.

Despite a high risk of invasive meningococcal (Men) disease, there is no published data on any MenB vaccine after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We investigated the immunogenicity and safety of the 4CMenB recombinant vaccine (Bexsero®) in adult HCT recipients.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains the leading cause of death and hospitalization in People Living With HIV (PLWH) (1). Untreated PLWH are 20 to 30 times more likely to develop active TB than those without HIV, and TB incidence remains two-fold higher even when on antiretroviral therapy and with a normal CD4 cell count. While 37.2% of all deaths in PLWH are attributable to TB, TB remains undiagnosed in 46% of those. Twenty years ago, Hamasur et al. reported the usefulness of detecting lipoarabinomannan (LAM) in urine as a diagnostic tool for TB (2).

Objectives

To evaluate the pattern of substandard and falsified pharmaceutical products recall in Nepal.

Setting

We analysed drug recall notices issued by the Department of Drug Administration (DDA), Nepal, and systematically reviewed peer-reviewed research articles during January 2010 to December 2020.

Participants

This study did not include human participants. However, data were collected from 72 drug recall notices issued by DDA and four research papers.

Results

A total of 346 pharmaceutical products were recalled during the reported period. The number of recalled pharmaceutical products has increased significantly over the past decade in Nepal. The most frequently recalled drugs were antimicrobials followed by gastrointestinal medicines, vitamins and supplements and pain and palliative medicines among others. Number of imported recalled drugs were slightly higher (42.2%) than domestic recalled drugs (40.7%). Sixty-two percentage of recalled drugs were substandard, 11% were falsified and remaining 27% were not registered at the DDA. Similarly, higher number of modern drugs (62%) were recalled than traditional ones (35%). Hand sanitisers used to minimise COVID-19 transmission contributed significantly to the list of recalled pharmaceutical products in 2020. Most of these sanitisers contained significant amounts of methanol (as high as 75% v/v) instead of appropriate amount of ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. The peer-reviewed research papers reported issues with labelling, unregistered drugs and drugs failed in several laboratory testing.

Conclusion

Our analysis showed that number of recalls of substandard and falsified drugs are increasing in Nepal. Since the recall data in this paper did not include number of samples tested and location of samples collected, more studies to understand the prevalence of substandard and falsified drugs in Nepal is recommended.

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Introduction

The emergence of a regional or global scale infectious disease outbreak often requires the implementation of economic relief programmes in affected jurisdictions to sustain societal welfare and, presumably, population health. While economic relief programmes are considered essential during a regional or global health crisis, there is no clear consensus in the literature about their health and non-health benefits and their impact on promoting equity. Thus, our objective is to map the current state of the literature with respect to the types of individual-level economic relief programmes implemented during infectious disease outbreaks and the impact of these programmes on the effectiveness of public health measures, individual and population health, non-health benefits and equity.

Methods and analysis

Our scoping review is guided by the updated Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework. Eligible studies will be identified in eight electronic databases and grey literature using text words and subject headings of the different pandemic and epidemic infectious diseases that have occurred, and economic relief programmes. Title and abstract screening and full-text screening will be conducted independently by two trained study reviewers. Data will be extracted using a pretested data extraction form. The charting of the key findings will follow a thematic narrative approach. Our review findings will provide in-depth knowledge on whether and how benefits associated with pandemic/epidemic individual-level economic relief programmes differ across social determinants of health factors.

This information is critical for decision-makers as they seek to understand the role of pandemic/epidemic economic mitigation strategies to mitigate the health impact and reduce inequity gap.

Ethics and dissemination

Since the scoping review methodology aims to synthesise evidence from literature, this review does not require ethical approval. Findings of our review will be disseminated to health stakeholders at policy meetings and conferences; published in a peer-review scientific journal; and disseminated on various social media platforms.

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Objective

To explore the impact of the COVID-19 on the distribution, type and patterns of diseases in hospitalised children under local antiepidemic measures.

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Electronic medical records of patients hospitalised in the paediatric department of a tertiary hospital in South China from 21 January 2019 to 20 January 2021.

Participants

Records of 2139 patients.

Outcome measures

Data were analysed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disease characteristics were analysed based on the 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Features of the length of hospital stay were investigated. Categorical variables involving more than three groups were analysed using an overall 2 test, followed by pairwise comparisons.

Results

During the COVID-19 outbreak period, paediatric hospitalisation was reduced by 29.6%, from 1255 to 884. The proportions of infection-related diseases (36.3% (455 cases) vs 20.8% (184 cases)), respiratory system-related diseases (22.5% (283 cases) vs 9.4% (83 cases)); and endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases (17.1% (214 cases) vs 9.2% (81 cases)) decreased significantly, whereas that of musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases increased from 11.0% (138 cases) to 20.1% (178 cases), thereby becoming the most common reason for hospitalisation. The proportions of diseases of the nervous system (12.4% (156 cases) to 18.8% (166 cases)) and mental and behavioural disorders (0.2% (3 cases) to 2.1% (19 cases)) increased significantly. The average length of hospital stay increased after the outbreak (7.57±6.53 vs 8.36±6.87).

Conclusion

The number of hospitalisation cases decreased during the COVID-19 period. The prominent decreases in hospitalisation associated with infections and respiratory system diseases were likely attributed to the improved epidemic prevention work, enhancement of people’s health awareness and fear of possible exposure to COVID-19. Describing the impact of COVID-19 on disease patterns may provide a reference for resource planning during the pandemic.

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Abstract

Background

Microalbuminuria is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular and kidney disease and a predictor of end organ damage, both in the general population and in persons with HIV (PWH). Microalbuminuria is also an important risk factor for mortality in PWH treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). In the ongoing Renal Risk Reduction (R3) study in Nigeria, we identified a high prevalence of microalbuminuria confirmed by two measurements 4–8 weeks apart in ART-experienced, virologically suppressed PWH. Although Stage 1 or 2 hypertension and exposure to potentially nephrotoxic antiretroviral medications were common in R3 participants, other traditional risk factors for albuminuria and kidney disease, including diabetes, APOL1 high-risk genotype, and smoking were rare. Co-infection with endemic pathogens may also be significant contributors to albuminuria, but co-infections were not evaluated in the R3 study population.

Methods

In Aim 1, we will cross-sectionally compare the prevalence of albuminuria and established kidney disease risk factors in a cohort of PWH to age- and sex-matched HIV-negative adults presenting for routine care at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, Nigeria. We will leverage stored specimens from 2500 R3 participants and enroll an additional 500 PLWH recently initiated on ART (≤ 24 months) and 750 age- and sex-matched HIV-negative adults to determine the contribution of HIV, hypertension, and other comorbid medical conditions to prevalent albuminuria. In Aim 2, we will follow a cohort of 1000 HIV-positive, ART-treated and 500 HIV-negative normoalbuminuric adults for 30 months to evaluate the incidence and predictors of albuminuria.

Discussion

The findings from this study will support the development of interventions to prevent or address microalbuminuria in PWH to reduce kidney and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Such interventions might include more intensive monitoring and treatment of traditional risk factors, the provision of renin-angiotensin aldosterone system or sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, consideration of changes in ART regimen, and screening and treatment for relevant co-infections.

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Abstract

Background

Despite the availability of a highly effective vaccine, measles remains a substantial public health problem in many countries including Uganda. In this study, conducted between June–August 2020 following a local outbreak, we sought to explore the factors that could affect measles vaccination coverage in rural western Uganda.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive study using qualitative data collection approaches in the Kasese district. The research team utilized purposive sampling to identify and select participants from the public health sector and district government. We conducted key informant interviews (KII) and one focus group discussion (FGD). Responses were recorded using portable electronic devices with the FGD and KII guide installed. Interviews were conducted at the health centre and district headquarters. Data was coded and analysed using ATLAS.ti version 8 software through deductive thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results

Barriers to measles vaccination identified in this study were premised around six themes including: (i) availability of supplies and stock management, (ii) health worker attitudes and workload, (iii) financing of vaccination outreach activities, (iv) effectiveness of duty rosters (i.e., health workers’ working schedules), (v) community beliefs, and (vi) accessibility of healthcare facilities. Respondents reported frequent vaccine supply disruptions, lack of resources to facilitate transportation of health workers to communities for outreach events, and health centre staffing that did not adequately support supplemental vaccination activities. Furthermore, community dependence on traditional medicine as a substitute for vaccines and long distances traveled by caregivers to reach a health facility were mentioned as barriers to vaccination uptake.

Conclusions

Health system barriers limiting vaccination uptake were primarily logistical in nature and reflect inadequate resourcing of immunization efforts. At the same time, local beliefs favouring traditional medicine remain a persistent cultural barrier. These findings suggest an urgent need for more efficient supply management practices and resourcing of immunization outreaches in order to achieve the Uganda Ministry of Health’s targets for childhood immunization and the prevention of disease outbreaks.

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Abstract

Chagas Disease (CD) is a neglected zoonotic disease of the Americas. It can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Using geospatial and sensitivity analysis, this study focuses on understanding how to better allocate resources and educational information to areas in the United States, specifically Texas, that have the potential for increased risk of CD cases and the associated costs of addressing the disease. ICD-9 and 10 inpatient hospital diagnostic codes were used to illustrate the salience of potentially missed CD diagnoses (e.g., cardiomyopathic diagnoses) and where these are occurring with more frequency. Coding software along with GIS and Microsoft Excel 3D mapping were used to generate maps to illustrate where there may be a need for increased statewide surveillance and screening of populations at greater risk for CD. The CD cases reported to the Texas Department of State Healthcare Services (TxDSHS) are not homogenously dispersed throughout the state but rather, reveal that the incidences are in clusters and primarily in urban areas, where there is increased access to physician care, CD research and diagnostic capabilities.…

Abstract

The emergence of COVID-19 has caused a significant impact on healthcare workers (HCWs) across the globe. A few of these challenges include high workload, lack of coordination and direction, changing information, shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), managing isolation, fear, and increased anxiety, adapting to changes in healthcare practice and policy, coping strategies, and emotional and physical needs. Here, we shed light on some aspects of these challenges among healthcare workers.…

Abstract

Background

We evaluated clinical features and risk factors for mortality in patients with haematological malignancies and COVID-19.

Methods

Retrospective, case–control (1:3) study in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Cases were patients with haematological malignancies and COVID-19, controls had COVID-19 without haematological malignancies. Patients were matched for sex, age and time of hospitalization.

Results

Overall, 66 cases and 198 controls were included in the study. Cases had higher prior corticosteroid use, infection rates, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia and more likely received corticosteroids and antibiotics than controls. Cases had higher respiratory deterioration than controls (78.7% vs 65.5%, p = 0.04). Notably, 29% of cases developed respiratory worsening > 10 days after hospital admission, compared to only 5% in controls. Intensive Care Unit admission and mortality were higher in cases than in controls (27% vs 8%, p = 0.002, and 35% vs 10%, p < 0.001).

At multivariable analysis, having haematological malignancy [OR4.76, p < 0.001], chronic corticosteroid therapy [OR3.65, p = 0.004], prior infections [OR57.7, p = 0.006], thrombocytopenia [OR3.03, p < 0.001] and neutropenia [OR31.1, p = 0.001], low albumin levels [OR3.1, p = 0.001] and ≥ 10 days from hospital admission to respiratory worsening [OR3.3, p = 0.002] were independently associated with mortality.

In cases, neutropenia [OR3.1, p < 0.001], prior infections [OR7.7, p < 0.001], ≥ 10 days to respiratory worsening [OR4.1, p < 0.001], multiple myeloma [OR1.5, p = 0.044], the variation of the CT lung score during hospitalization [OR2.6, p = 0.006] and active treatment [OR 4.4, p < 0.001] all were associated with a worse outcome.

Conclusion

An underlying haematological malignancy was associated with a worse clinical outcome in COVID-19 patients. A prolonged clinical monitoring is needed, since respiratory worsening may occur later during hospitalization.

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Introduction…

The adenovirus-based vaccine Gam-COVID-Vac (Sputnik V), showed promising effectiveness in a phase 3 clinical trial; however, data concerning its impact at a population level are scarce. The Republic of San Marino (RSM) conducted a SARS-CoV-2 vaccination program mainly based (>80%) on Gam-COVID-Vac. Our aims were to investigate the impact of Gam-COVID-Vac vaccination program and its effectiveness in a retrospective observational study based on the entire RSM population aged 12 or older.

We thank Klopfenstein et al (ref 1) for their interest on our COVIDSTORM study results (ref 2). They ask for more details concerning the amount of oxygen support at randomization. As reported in the original article, an oxygen saturation…

Abstract

Background

Nchelenge District in northern Zambia suffers from holoendemic malaria transmission despite a decade of yearly indoor residual spraying (IRS) and insecticide-treated net (ITN) distributions. One hypothesis for this lack of impact is that some vectors in the area may forage in the early evening or outdoors. Anopheles gibbinsi specimens were identified in early evening mosquito collections performed in this study area, and further insight was gleaned into this taxon, including characterizing its genetic identity, feeding preferences, and potential role as a malaria vector.

Methods

Mosquitoes were collected in July and August 2019 by CDC light traps in Nchelenge District in indoor sitting rooms, outdoor gathering spaces, and animal pens from 16:00–22:00. Host detection by PCR, COI and ITS2 PCR, and circumsporozoite (CSP) ELISA were performed on all samples morphologically identified as An. gibbinsi, and a subset of specimens were selected for COI and ITS2 sequencing. To determine risk factors for increased abundance of An. gibbinsi, a negative binomial generalized linear mixed-effects model was performed with household-level variables of interest.

Results

Comparison of COI and ITS2 An. gibbinsi reference sequences to the NCBI database revealed > 99% identity to “Anopheles sp. 6” from Kenya. More than 97% of specimens were morphologically and molecularly consistent with An. gibbinsi. Specimens were primarily collected in animal pen traps (59.2%), followed by traps outdoors near where humans gather (24.3%), and traps set indoors (16.5%). Host DNA detection revealed a high propensity for goats, but 5% of specimens with detected host DNA had fed on humans. No specimens were positive for Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites. Animal pens and inland households > 3 km from Lake Mweru were both associated with increased An. gibbinsi abundance.

Conclusions

This is the first report of An. gibbinsi in Nchelenge District, Zambia. This study provided a species identity for unknown “An. sp. 6” in the NCBI database, which has been implicated in malaria transmission in Kenya. Composite data suggest that this species is largely zoophilic and exophilic, but comes into contact with humans and the malaria parasites they carry. This species should continue to be monitored in Zambia and neighbouring countries as a potential malaria vector.

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Abstract

Background

The associations between viral etiology of acute respiratory infections (ARI) with meteorological factors and air pollutants among children is not fully understood. This study aimed to explore the viral etiology among children hospitalized for ARI and the association of meteorological factors and air pollutants with children hospitalization due to viral ARI.

Methods

Electronic health record data about children (aged between 1 month and 14 years) admitted for ARI at Kiang Wu Hospital in Macao between 2014 and 2017 was analyzed retrospectively. xMAP multiplex assays were used to detect viruses in the nasopharyngeal swab and distributed-lag nonlinear model (DLNM) was used to evaluate associations.

Results

Among the 4880 cases of children hospitalization due to ARI, 3767 (77.2%) were tested positive for at least one virus and 676 (18%) exhibited multiple infections. Enterovirus (EV)/rhinovirus (HRV), adenovirus (ADV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza virus (IFV) were the most common viral pathogens associated with ARI and human bocavirus (hBOV) exhibited the highest multiple infection rates. Meteorological factors and air pollutants (PM10, PM2.5 and NO2) were associated with the risk of viral ARI hospitalization. The relative risk of viral infection increased with daily mean temperature but plateaued when temperature exceeded 23 °C, and increased when the relative humidity was < 70% and peaked at 50%. The effect of solar radiation was insignificant. Air pollutants (including PM10, PM2.5, NO2 and O3) showed strong and immediate effect on the incidence of viral infection.

Conclusions

The effects of mean temperature, relative humidity and air pollutants should be taken into account when considering management of ARI among children.

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Main text…

Is single dose of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (AZD1222) enough for persons with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or baseline seropositive status?…

AbstractBackgroundVitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk or severity of infection, but this has been investigated in few large population-based trials. We analyzed data from the D-Health Trial, using prescription of antibiotics as a surrogate for infection.MethodsThe D-Health Trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 21,315 Australians aged 60–84 years were randomized to 60,000 IU of supplementary vitamin D3 or placebo monthly for 5 years. For this analysis, the primary outcome was the number of antibiotic prescription episodes; secondary outcomes were total number of prescriptions; repeat prescription episodes; and antibiotics for urinary tract infection. We estimated incidence rate ratios (IRRs) using negative binomial regression, and odds ratios using logistic regression.ResultsVitamin D supplementation slightly reduced the number of prescription episodes (IRR 0.98, 95% CI 0.95-1.01), total prescriptions (IRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.93-1.00), and repeat prescription episodes (IRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-1.00). There was stronger evidence of benefit in people predicted to have insufficient vitamin D at baseline (prescription episodes IRR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87-0.99).ConclusionsVitamin D may reduce the number of antibiotic prescriptions, particularly in people with low vitamin D status. This supports the hypothesis that vitamin D has a clinically relevant effect on the immune system.

AbstractBackgroundFrom 2019-2021, Rwandan residents of the border with Democratic Republic of the Congo were offered the Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo Ebola vaccine regimen.MethodsNon-pregnant ≥2 years-olds were eligible. Unsolicited adverse events (UAE) were reported through phone calls or visits, and serious adverse events (SAE) recorded per ICH guidelines.ResultsFollowing Ad26.ZEBOV, UAEs were reported by 0.68% of 216,113 vaccinees and were more common in younger children (age 2-8, 1.2%) compared with older children (age 9-17, 0.4%) and adults (0.7%). Fever and headache were the most reported symptoms. All 17 SAE related to vaccine were in 2-8 year-olds (10 post-vaccination febrile convulsions +/- gastroenteritis and 7 fever and/or gastroenteritis) The incidence of febrile seizures was 8/26,062 (0.031%) prior to initiation of routine acetaminophen in December 2020 and 2/15,897 (0.013%) thereafter. Non-obstetric SAE were similar in males and females. All twenty deaths were unrelated to vaccination. Young female children and adult women with UAE were less likely to receive the second dose than those without UAE. Seven unrelated SAE occurred in 203,267 MVA-BN-Filo recipients.ConclusionsPost-vaccination febrile convulsions in young children were rare but not previously described after Ad26.ZEBOV and were reduced with routine acetaminophen. The regimen was otherwise safe and well-tolerated.

ABSTRACTBackgroundRickettsia felis is emergent in tropical areas. Despite its high morbidity, its natural history has not yet been fully determined. We investigated the role of the common household booklouse, Liposcelis bostrychophila, recently found to harbour R. felis.MethodsBlood samples from 372 febrile patients from Senegalese villages, as well as nasal and skin samples from 264 asymptomatic individuals, were tested for cat flea-associated and booklice-associated strains of R. felis. Dust samples from beds were collected to isolate booklice and R. felis. Mice were infected with aerosol of R. felis strain from naturally infected booklice.ResultsForty febrile patients (11%) were infected by R. felis, including 26 (7%) by the booklice-associated strain. Nine nasal samples (3.4%) and 28 skin samples (10.6%) contained R. felis, including seven and 24, respectively, with the booklice-associated strain. The presence of live L. bostrychophila was observed in 32 dust samples (16.8%); R. felis was identified in 62 dust samples (32.5%). Several mice samples were positive for R. felis; interstitial lymphohistiocytic infiltrates were identified in lungs.ConclusionsL. bostrychophila may be a reservoir of R. felis. The booklice-associated strain is pathogenic in mammals causing pneumonia. Human infection may be acquired via inhalation of infected booklice particles.

AbstractBackgroundAlthough most adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 fully recover, a proportion have ongoing symptoms, or post-COVID conditions (PCC), after infection. The objective of this analysis was to estimate the number of US adults with activity-limiting PCC on November 1, 2021.MethodsWe modeled the prevalence of PCC using reported infections occurring from February 1, 2020 – September 30, 2021, and population-based, household survey data on new activity-limiting symptoms ≥1 month following SARS-CoV-2 infection. From these data sources, we estimated the number and proportion of US adults with activity-limiting PCC on November 1, 2021, as 95% uncertainty intervals, stratified by sex and age. Sensitivity analyses adjusted for under-ascertainment of infections and uncertainty about symptom duration.ResultsOn November 1, 2021, at least 3.0–5.0 million US adults were estimated to have activity-limiting PCC of ≥1 month duration, or 1.2%–1.9% of US adults. Population prevalence was higher in females (1.4%–2.2%) than males. The estimated prevalence after adjusting for under-ascertainment of infections was 1.7%–3.8%.ConclusionMillions of US adults were estimated to have activity-limiting PCC. These estimates can support future efforts to address the impact of PCC on the U.S. population.

AbstractBackgroundThe epidemiological advantage of Omicron variant is evidenced by its rapid spread and the ability to outcompete prior variants. Among Omicron sub-lineages, early outbreaks were dominated by BA.1 while BA.2 has gained dominance since February 2022. The relative pathogenicity and transmissibility of BA.1 and BA.2 have not been fully defined.MethodsWe compared viral loads and clinical signs in Syrian hamsters after infection with BA.1, BA.2, or D614G variant. A competitive transmission model and next generation sequencing were used to compare the relative transmission potential of BA.1 and BA.2.ResultsBA.1 and BA.2 caused no apparent clinical signs while D614G caused more than 10% weight loss. Higher viral loads were detected from the nasal washes, nasal turbinate and lungs of BA.1 than BA.2 inoculated hamsters. No aerosol transmission was observed for BA.1 or BA.2 under the experimental condition that D614G transmitted efficiently. BA.1 and BA.2 were able to transmit among hamsters via direct contact; however, BA.1 transmitted more efficiently than BA.2 under the competitive transmission model. No recombination was detected from direct contacts exposed simultaneously to BA.1 and BA.2.ConclusionsOmicron BA.1 and BA.2 demonstrated attenuated pathogenicity and reduced transmission potential in hamsters when compared to early SARS-CoV-2 strains.

AbstractWe described bacterial/fungal co-infections and antibiotic resistant infections among inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 and compared findings with inpatients diagnosed with influenza-like-illness. Less than 10% of COVID-19 inpatients had bacterial/fungal co-infection. Longer lengths of stay, critical care stay, and mechanical ventilation contribute to increased incidence of hospital-onset infections among COVID-19 inpatients.

ABSTRACTBackgroundClostridioides difficile is the most common cause of healthcare-associated infections (HAI) in the US. It is unknown whether universal gown and glove use in intensive care units (ICUs) decreases acquisition of C. difficile.MethodsSecondary analysis of a cluster-randomized trial in 20 medical and surgical ICUs in 20 US hospitals from January 4, 2012, to October 4, 2012. After a baseline period, ICUs were randomized to standard practice for glove and gown use vs. the intervention of all healthcare workers being required to wear gloves and gowns for all patient contact and when entering any patient room (contact precautions).Main outcomes and measuresThe primary outcome was acquisition of toxigenic C. difficile determined by surveillance cultures collected on admission and discharge from the ICU.ResultsA total of 21,845 patients had both admission and discharge perianal swabs cultured for toxigenic C. difficile. On admission, 9.43% (2,060/21,845) of patients were colonized with toxigenic C. difficile. No significant difference was observed in the rate of toxigenic C. difficile acquisition with universal gown and glove use. Differences in acquisition rates in the study period compared to baseline period in control ICUs were 1.49 per 100 patient days vs 1.68 per 100 patient days in universal gown and glove ICUs, (rate difference -0.28, generalized linear mixed model, p = 0.091).ConclusionsGlove and gown use for all patient contact in medical and surgical ICUs did not result in a reduction in the acquisition of C. difficile compared with usual care.

AbstractThe highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant led to increased hospitalizations, staffing shortages, and increased school closures. To reduce spread in school-aged children during the Omicron peak, the District of Columbia implemented a test-to-return strategy in public and public charter schools after a two-week break from in-person learning.

We aimed to compared the clinical features of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) induced by COVID-19 and H7N9 virus infections.

COVID-19 refers to an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which can cause a series of clinical symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, dry cough, dyspnea, shortness of breath, shock, and multi-organ dysfunction. As of 17 June 2022, the World Health Organization reports 535,863,950 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 6,314,972 deaths (WHO, 2022). Between December 2019 and February 2020, 3019 health care workers (HCWs) (1716 confirmed cases) in China were found to be affected with SARS-CoV-2 (Epidemiology Working Group for NCIP Epidemic Response et al., 2020).

Despite its stringent containment measures, Hong Kong has experienced a most challenging coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) wave due to the Omicron variant (Mallapaty, 2022). Implementing a citywide ‘compulsory universal testing (CUT)’ and a citywide lockdown was a subject of debate in March 2022 (South China Morning Post, 2022).

To describe Delta/Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants co-infection detection and confirmation during the fifth wave of COVID-19 pandemics in France in 7 immunocompetent and epidemiologically unrelated patients.