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Griffiths M, Hatabah D, Sullivan P, Mantus G, Sanchez T, Zlotorzynska M, Heilman S, Camacho-Gonzalez A, Leake D, Korman R, Le M, Suthara M, Wrammert J, Vos MB, Morris CR. Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in pediatric healthcare workers prior to widespread vaccination: A 5-month longitudinal cohort study. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 144:107064. [PMID: 38641316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Determine SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody incidence over time in unvaccinated pediatric healthcare workers (pHCWs). DESIGN A prospective longitudinal cohort of unvaccinated pHCWs measuring the incidence of new infection after initial prevalence was established at 4.1% with seropositive predominance in emergency department (ED)-based pHCWs. Serum samples were collected at follow-up visits to detect new SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. Univariate analysis was performed to estimate different incidence rates between participant demographics, job, employment location, and community risk factors. Anxiety levels about COVID-19 were collected. SARS-CoV-2 antibody decay postinfection and neutralization antibodies were evaluated. Log-linear Poisson regression models were used to estimate incidence. RESULTS Of 642 initially enrolled, 390 pHCWs presented for at least one follow-up serology test after baseline analysis. The incidence of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity was 8.2%. The seropositive cohort, like the negative one, consisted mainly of females in non-ED settings and nonphysician roles. There were no statistically significant differences in incidence across variables. Seropositive participants dropped antibody titers by 50% at 3 months. Neutralization antibodies correlated to SARS-CoV-2 binding antibodies (r = 0.43, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The incidence of seropositivity was 8.2%. Although seropositivity was higher among ED staff during the early stages of the pandemic, this difference declined over time, likely due to the universal adoption of personal protective equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Griffiths
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dunia Hatabah
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Grace Mantus
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Maria Zlotorzynska
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stacy Heilman
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andres Camacho-Gonzalez
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Childhood Infections and Vaccines of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Rawan Korman
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mimi Le
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mehul Suthara
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jens Wrammert
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Childhood Infections and Vaccines of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Miriam B Vos
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Claudia R Morris
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Hackett L, Zhang MM, Casey M, Miller J, Smith J, Low C, Aldridge E, Owen PJ, Buntine P. N-95/P2 respirator compliance with fit testing recommendations and respirator satisfaction amongst hospital staff. Infect Dis Health 2024:S2468-0451(24)00023-3. [PMID: 38702235 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Filtering Facepiece Respirators (FFRs) are an important and readily scalable infection control measure; however their effectiveness is ultimately determined by compliance. We aimed to examine staff compliance and satisfaction with wearing the N95/P2 FFRs assigned to them via the standardised fit testing protocol implemented in a single large healthcare network in Victoria, Australia. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey, employees from five hospital campuses who participated in the health networks N95/P2 FFR fit testing process were invited in person to participate in the study. Data were analysed descriptively, after which chi-squared analysis was performed to determine differences between respirator types, gender, and age groups. RESULTS Amongst the 258 staff members surveyed, 28% had either never or only sometimes worn an FFR to which they had been successfully fit tested, and 11% had experienced facial changes that potentially rendered their most recent fit test invalid. More than half (53%) of those surveyed had experienced side effects, the most common being skin irritation and pressure sores. A majority (87%) of staff felt that wearing an FFR had some impact on their ability to perform their duties. Pooled mean self-reported satisfaction ratings were highest for three-panel flat-fold and duckbill models. CONCLUSION 28% of HCWs surveyed described not wearing N-95/P2 FFRs for which they had successfully been fit tested. Reasons for non-compliance remain unclear, but rates of side effects and interference with duties were high. Further research is required to determine and address potential causative factors and ascertain ongoing optimal organisation-level fit test strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Hackett
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Melanie Meilun Zhang
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of General Surgery, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Casey
- OHS, Emergency Management and Wellbeing, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph Miller
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jesse Smith
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caitlin Low
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anaesthesia, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anaesthesia, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emogene Aldridge
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patrick J Owen
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Buntine
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Harrison R, Mubareka S, Papenburg J, Schober T, Allen UD, Hatchette TF, Evans GA. AMMI Canada 2023 update on influenza: Management and emerging issues. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2023; 8:176-185. [PMID: 38058499 PMCID: PMC10697102 DOI: 10.3138/jammi-2023-07-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Harrison
- University of Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Samira Mubareka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Diagnostics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jesse Papenburg
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Upton D Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Todd F Hatchette
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Gerald A Evans
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Hall LL, Thomas ES, Mahon G, Rose CE, Harwell OR. Observed Mask Use in Kindergarten Through Grade 12 Schools in Georgia-Fall, 2021. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2023; 93:1029-1035. [PMID: 37309093 PMCID: PMC10592516 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universal masking, with additional layered prevention strategies, was an essential tool for limiting the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and ensuring a safe return to in-person learning for kindergarten through 12th grade (K-12) students and staff. Few studies have examined mask adherence in this setting and none have described types of masks worn or locations of mask adherence. This project sought to assess mask adherence, types worn, and location of mask adherence in K-12 settings. METHODS This study used direct in-person observations to measure the proportion of persons wearing masks correctly; type of masks worn; and location of mask adherence in 19 K-12 schools in Georgia. RESULTS A total of 16,222 observations were conducted. Among those observed, 85.2% wore masks, with 80.3% wearing the mask correctly. Persons in high school were less likely to wear masks correctly. Correct mask use was most often observed among persons wearing N95-type masks. The prevalence of persons wearing masks correctly in transitional spaces was 5% higher than in congregate spaces. CONCLUSION In K-12 schools with a universal masking policy, correct mask adherence was high among individuals. Examining adherence to recommended prevention measures can provide K-12 schools feedback to inform targeted messaging and policies during future disease outbreaks.
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Kakoullis L, Steffen R, Osterhaus A, Goeijenbier M, Rao SR, Koiso S, Hyle EP, Ryan ET, LaRocque RC, Chen LH. Influenza: seasonality and travel-related considerations. J Travel Med 2023; 30:taad102. [PMID: 37535890 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taad102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE FOR REVIEW This review aims to summarize the transmission patterns of influenza, its seasonality in different parts of the globe, air travel- and cruise ship-related influenza infections and interventions to reduce transmission. KEY FINDINGS The seasonality of influenza varies globally, with peak periods occurring mainly between October and April in the northern hemisphere (NH) and between April and October in the southern hemisphere (SH) in temperate climate zones. However, influenza seasonality is significantly more variable in the tropics. Influenza is one of the most common travel-related, vaccine-preventable diseases and can be contracted during travel, such as during a cruise or through air travel. Additionally, travellers can come into contact with people from regions with ongoing influenza transmission. Current influenza immunization schedules in the NH and SH leave individuals susceptible during their respective spring and summer months if they travel to the other hemisphere during that time. CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS The differences in influenza seasonality between hemispheres have substantial implications for the effectiveness of influenza vaccination of travellers. Health care providers should be aware of influenza activity when patients report travel plans, and they should provide alerts and advise on prevention, diagnostic and treatment options. To mitigate the risk of travel-related influenza, interventions include antivirals for self-treatment (in combination with the use of rapid self-tests), extending the shelf life of influenza vaccines to enable immunization during the summer months for international travellers and allowing access to the influenza vaccine used in the opposite hemisphere as a travel-related vaccine. With the currently available vaccines, the most important preventive measure involves optimizing the seasonal influenza vaccination. It is also imperative that influenza is recognized as a travel-related illness among both travellers and health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukas Kakoullis
- Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Robert Steffen
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, 8001, Switzerland
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics & Environmental Sciences, University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Albert Osterhaus
- Research Center Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, 30559, Germany
| | - Marco Goeijenbier
- Department of Intensive Care, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, 2035, Netherlands
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015, Netherlands
| | - Sowmya R Rao
- Department of Global Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Satoshi Koiso
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Emily P Hyle
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Edward T Ryan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Regina C LaRocque
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Lin H Chen
- Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Travel Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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Marco L, Cambien G, Garcia M, Broutin L, Cateau E, Lariviere A, Castel O, Thevenot S, Bousseau A. [Respiratory infections: Additional transmission-based precautions in healthcare facilities]. Rev Mal Respir 2023; 40:572-603. [PMID: 37365075 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In health care, measures against cross-transmission of microorganisms are codified by standard precautions, and if necessary, they are supplemented by additional precautions. STATE OF THE ART Several factors impact transmission of microorganisms via the respiratory route: size and quantity of the emitted particles, environmental conditions, nature and pathogenicity of the microorganisms, and degree of host receptivity. While some microorganisms necessitate additional airborne or droplet precautions, others do not. PROSPECTS For most microorganisms, transmission patterns are well-understood and transmission-based precautions are well-established. For others, measures to prevent cross-transmission in healthcare facilities remain under discussion. CONCLUSIONS Standard precautions are essential to the prevention of microorganism transmission. Understanding of the modalities of microorganism transmission is essential to implementation of additional transmission-based precautions, particularly in view of opting for appropriate respiratory protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Marco
- Unité d'hygiène hospitalière, département des agents infectieux, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - G Cambien
- Unité d'hygiène hospitalière, département des agents infectieux, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France; Inserm CIC 1402, université de Poitiers, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - M Garcia
- Département des agents infectieux, laboratoire de virologie et mycobactériologie, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France; Laboratoire inflammation, tissus épithéliaux et cytokines, EA 4331, université de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - L Broutin
- Département des agents infectieux, laboratoire de bactériologie, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - E Cateau
- Laboratoire écologie et biologie des interactions, UMR CNRS 7267, université de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France; Département des agents infectieux, laboratoire de parasitologie et mycologie médicale, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - A Lariviere
- Département des agents infectieux, laboratoire de virologie et mycobactériologie, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - O Castel
- Unité d'hygiène hospitalière, département des agents infectieux, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - S Thevenot
- Unité d'hygiène hospitalière, département des agents infectieux, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France; Inserm CIC 1402, université de Poitiers, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - A Bousseau
- Unité d'hygiène hospitalière, département des agents infectieux, pôle BIOSPHARM, CHU de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers, France.
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Madden K, Adili A. Cochrane in CORR ®: Physical Interventions to Interrupt or Reduce the Spread of Respiratory Viruses. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2023; 481:1273-1280. [PMID: 37249319 PMCID: PMC10263234 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000002721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Madden
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Research Institute of St. Joseph’s Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anthony Adili
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Research Institute of St. Joseph’s Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Cappetto KD, Brown JC, Englund JA, Zerr DM, Dickerson JA, Wang X, Strelitz B, Klein EJ. Paediatric healthcare and hospital worker SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody: A longitudinal cohort study. IJID REGIONS 2023; 7:281-286. [PMID: 37234562 PMCID: PMC10175074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background This study sought to determine the prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) protein immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in healthcare and hospital workers (HCHWs), and changes in IgG N antibody levels over time. Methods Longitudinal study of HCHWs at a freestanding, urban paediatric tertiary care hospital. Asymptomatic HCHWs aged ≥18 years working in clinical areas were eligible to enrol. Participants completed four surveys and blood draws over 12 months. Specimens were tested for IgG N at four timepoints and IgG S at 12 months. Results In total, 531 HCHWs enrolled in this study; of these, 481 (91%), 429 (81%) and 383 (72%) completed follow-up blood draws at 2, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Five of 531 (1%), 5/481 (1%), 6/429 (1%) and 5/383 (1.3%) participants were seropositive for IgG N at baseline, 2, 6 and 12 months, respectively. All (374/374; 100%) participants who received one or two doses of either mRNA COVID-19 vaccine were seropositive for IgG S. One of nine unvaccinated participants was seropositive for IgG S. Conclusions In this paediatric hospital, IgG N and IgG S were detected in 1.9% and 97.9% of HCHWs, respectively. This study demonstrated low transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among HCHWs with appropriate infection prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie C Brown
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Janet A Englund
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Danielle M Zerr
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jane A Dickerson
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Xing Wang
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Eileen J Klein
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Purssell E, Gould D. Face mask use to prevent COVID-19 in clinical practice. Using a review of reviews to improve decision-making and transparency. J Adv Nurs 2023. [PMID: 36798024 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of transparency and scientific rigour in the development of clinical guidance. Rapid review methodologies were widely used in the development of guidance, and in the United Kingdom, COVID-19 guidance was criticized for methodological inadequacy and erroneous conclusions. AIMS To summarize the evidence looking at the use of face masks to prevent COVID-19 infection in clinical practice areas, and to show how this can be used in decision-making. DESIGN Overview of systematic reviews. METHOD Systematic reviews which included meta-analyses were sought, and data on the protective effect of face masks on COVID-19 transmission were extracted. A total of 15 papers yielded 44 effect sizes suitable for quantitative presentation, which showed wide variation in effect depending on the outcome and intervention chosen. CONCLUSIONS Guideline development groups need to take care to choose outcomes that are of most importance to those who are the target of guidance. Quantification of the protective effect of interventions such as different types of face mask will help nurses and others decide on the utility of their use, alongside consideration of the other factors that go into informing clinical recommendations. IMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENT CARE AND THE PROFESSION COVID-19 has been an unprecedented public health issue, but much clinical guidance was lacking in transparency. Nurses and other healthcare professionals have often expressed a lack of confidence in guidance. Systematic reviews reported a wide range of effect sizes. However, there was a high degree of indirectness and heterogeneity in methods and findings. To produce transparent guidance, those for whom guidance is intended should have evidence of effect where this is available. IMPACT Guideline authors should reflect these outcomes in their recommendations, clearly balancing both the benefits and harms of recommending face masks to prevent COVID-19.
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10
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Takeuchi H, Kawashima R. Disappearance and Re-Emergence of Influenza during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Association with Infection Control Measures. Viruses 2023; 15:223. [PMID: 36680263 PMCID: PMC9862942 DOI: 10.3390/v15010223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the influenza virus had a very low prevalence, and in many areas, outbreaks were almost non-existent. In this study, the associations between infection control measures taken for COVID-19 and the global disappearance of the influenza virus were investigated. The detection rate of influenza from baseline was investigated during four seasons (12 weeks from epidemiological week 49 in 2020 and 2021 and 12 weeks from epidemiological week 23 in 2020 and 2021) in each country participating in the surveillance system of the World Health Organization. Three measures of infection control: mask use ratio, social distancing index (an index of human mobility and physical distance obligations), and an index of stringency of measures taken by authorities were studied. In mid-2020, most countries analyzed had high levels of infection control measures, and in most countries, influenza was drastically reduced compared to previous years. Multiple regression analyses compared the study data with data from other seasons. There was an association between high mask use with low influenza detection in all three remaining seasons, an association between a low social distancing index (low mobility and more social contact obligations) with a low influenza detection rate in two seasons, and a marginal significant association of high stringency index with a low influenza detection rate(in 2020-end-seasons). These results support the notion that seasonal influenza is controllable through effective preventive measures, especially those of mask use and human social contact, and these measures should be recommended during future waves of novel influenza virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikaru Takeuchi
- Division of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Ryuta Kawashima
- Division of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
- Smart Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Advanced Brain Science, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
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11
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Basseal JM, Bennett CM, Collignon P, Currie BJ, Durrheim DN, Leask J, McBryde ES, McIntyre P, Russell FM, Smith DW, Sorrell TC, Marais BJ. Key lessons from the COVID-19 public health response in Australia. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 30:100616. [PMID: 36248767 PMCID: PMC9549254 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Australia avoided the worst effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but still experienced many negative impacts. Reflecting on lessons from Australia's public health response, an Australian expert panel composed of relevant discipline experts identified the following key lessons: 1) movement restrictions were effective, but their implementation requires careful consideration of adverse impacts, 2) disease modelling was valuable, but its limitations should be acknowledged, 3) the absence of timely national data requires re-assessment of national surveillance structures, 4) the utility of advanced pathogen genomics and novel vaccine technology was clearly demonstrated, 5) decision-making that is evidence informed and consultative is essential to maintain trust, 6) major system weaknesses in the residential aged-care sector require fixing, 7) adequate infection prevention and control frameworks are critically important, 8) the interests and needs of young people should not be compromised, 9) epidemics should be recognised as a 'standing threat', 10) regional and global solidarity is important. It should be acknowledged that we were unable to capture all relevant nuances and context specific differences. However, the intent of this review of Australia's public health response is to critically reflect on key lessons learnt and to encourage constructive national discussion in countries across the Western Pacific Region.
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Affiliation(s)
- JM Basseal
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - CM Bennett
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - P Collignon
- Medical School, Australian National University and Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australia
| | - BJ Currie
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - DN Durrheim
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - J Leask
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - ES McBryde
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - P McIntyre
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - FM Russell
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - DW Smith
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia and PathWest Department of Microbiology, Perth, Australia
| | - TC Sorrell
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - BJ Marais
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Corresponding author at: Clinical School, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145 Sydney, Australia.
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Haque MA, Tanbir M, Ahamed B, Hossain MJ, Roy A, Shahriar M, Bhuiyan MA, Islam MR. Comparative Performance Evaluation of Personal Protective Measures and Antiviral Agents Against SARS-CoV-2 Variants: A Narrative Review. CLINICAL PATHOLOGY (THOUSAND OAKS, VENTURA COUNTY, CALIF.) 2023; 16:2632010X231161222. [PMID: 36938514 PMCID: PMC10014419 DOI: 10.1177/2632010x231161222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Scientists identified SARS-CoV-2 in December 2019 in Wuhan city of China. Soon after its identification, Covid-19 spreads almost everywhere. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Covid-19 outbreak as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Countries are facing multiple waves due to the different variants of the coronavirus. Personal preventive measures, vaccines, and antiviral drugs are the approaches to control Covid-19. However, these approaches are being implemented in different countries at different levels because of the availability of personal protective measures and antiviral agents. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of practicing measures to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. Here we searched relevant literature from PubMed and Scopus using the keywords such as personal protective measures, antiviral agents, and vaccine effectiveness. According to the present findings, protective measures were found comparatively less effective. Nevertheless, these measures can be used to limit the spreading of Covid-19. Antiviral agents can reduce the hospitalization rate and are more effective than personal protective measures. The most effective strategy against Covid-19 is early vaccination or multiple vaccination dose. The respective authorities should ensure equal distribution of vaccines, free availability of antiviral drugs, and personal protective measure in poor and developing countries. We recommend more studies to describe the effectiveness of practicing preventive measures and antiviral agents against recent variants of the coronavirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Anamul Haque
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Tanbir
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Bulbul Ahamed
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Jamal Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Arpita Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Mohammad Shahriar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Rabiul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Md Rabiul Islam, Department of Pharmacy, University of Asia Pacific, 74/A Green Road, Farmgate, Dhaka1205, Bangladesh.
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Coleman M, Martinez L, Theron G, Wood R, Marais B. Mycobacterium tuberculosis Transmission in High-Incidence Settings-New Paradigms and Insights. Pathogens 2022; 11:1228. [PMID: 36364978 PMCID: PMC9695830 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis has affected humankind for thousands of years, but a deeper understanding of its cause and transmission only arose after Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis in 1882. Valuable insight has been gained since, but the accumulation of knowledge has been frustratingly slow and incomplete for a pathogen that remains the number one infectious disease killer on the planet. Contrast that to the rapid progress that has been made in our understanding SARS-CoV-2 (the cause of COVID-19) aerobiology and transmission. In this Review, we discuss important historical and contemporary insights into M. tuberculosis transmission. Historical insights describing the principles of aerosol transmission, as well as relevant pathogen, host and environment factors are described. Furthermore, novel insights into asymptomatic and subclinical tuberculosis, and the potential role this may play in population-level transmission is discussed. Progress towards understanding the full spectrum of M. tuberculosis transmission in high-burden settings has been hampered by sub-optimal diagnostic tools, limited basic science exploration and inadequate study designs. We propose that, as a tuberculosis field, we must learn from and capitalize on the novel insights and methods that have been developed to investigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission to limit ongoing tuberculosis transmission, which sustains the global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaela Coleman
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tuberculosis and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Tuberculosis Research Program, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Leonardo Martinez
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Grant Theron
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
| | - Robin Wood
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Ben Marais
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tuberculosis and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
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14
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Shobako N. Lessons from the health policies for children during the pandemic in Japan. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1015955. [PMID: 36339184 PMCID: PMC9628751 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1015955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
It is everyone's desire to seek the sound growth of children through food education and there is a critical need for fostering an environment for this purpose. Health policies are important for this support. To the present, the Japanese society has been greatly disrupted by COVID-19 pandemic. "Stay at home", "mokusyoku (silent eating)", and mask wearing were encouraged in nationwide campaigns as public health measures to combat COVID-19. There are some papers reporting negative effects of "stay at home" and lockdowns such as weight gain, decrease in physical activities and change in eating habits. In Japan, while benefits and advantages of food education during mealtime were previously well studied, the "mokusyoku" rule may directly run counter to this food education. Moreover, there are several reports showing that nutrients might contribute to prevention of infectious diseases. Japanese children were also encouraged to wear masks all day long. The results of the clinical research, especially randomized control trials, show limited protective effect of masks. On the other hand, negative outcomes of the masks were reported in various scenes. This review focuses on these topics and arousing reconsideration for a better environment for children.
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Stanford V, Gresh L, Toledo J, Méndez J, Aldighieri S, Reveiz L. Evidence in decision-making in the context of COVID-19 in Latin America. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH - AMERICAS 2022; 14:100322. [PMID: 35879980 PMCID: PMC9299752 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background The pace of the COVID-19 pandemic poses an unprecedented challenge to the evidence-to-decision process. Latin American countries have responded to COVID-19 by introducing interventions to both mitigate the risk of infection and to treat cases. Understanding how evidence is used to inform government-level decision-making at a national scale is crucial for informing country and regional actors in ongoing response efforts. Objectives This study was undertaken between February-May 2021 and aims to characterise the best available evidence (BAE) and assess the extent to which it was used to inform decision-making in 21 Latin American countries, in relation to pharmaceutical (PI) and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) related to COVID-19, including the use of therapeutics (corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine and ivermectin), facemask use in the community setting and the use of diagnostic tests as a requirement for international travel. Method A three-phase methodology was used to; (i) characterise the BAE for each intervention using an umbrella review, (ii) identify government-level decisions for each intervention through a document review and (iii) assess the use of evidence to inform decisions using a novel adapted framework analysis. Findings The BAE is characterized by 17 living and non-living systematic reviews as evolving, and particularly uncertain for NPIs. 107 country-level documents show variation in both content and timing of decision outcomes across intervention types, with the majority of decisions taken at a time of evidence uncertainty, with only 5 documents including BAE. Seven out of eight key indicators of an evidence-to-decision process were identified more frequently among PIs than either NPI of facemask use or testing prior to travel. Overall evidence use was reported more frequently among PIs than either NPI of facemask use or travel testing (92%, 28% and 29%, respectively). Interpretation There are limitations in the extent to which evidence use in decision-making is reported across the Latin America region. Institutionalising this process and grounding it in existing and emerging methodologies can facilitate the rapid response in an emergency setting. Funding No funding was sourced for this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Stanford
- Evidence and Intelligence for Action in Health Department, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lionel Gresh
- Incident Management System for the Covid-19 Response. Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Health Emergencies, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Joao Toledo
- Incident Management System for the Covid-19 Response. Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Health Emergencies, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jairo Méndez
- Incident Management System for the Covid-19 Response. Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Health Emergencies, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sylvain Aldighieri
- Incident Management System for the Covid-19 Response. Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Health Emergencies, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ludovic Reveiz
- Evidence and Intelligence for Action in Health Department, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Incident Management System for the Covid-19 Response. Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
- Corresponding author at: Pan American Health Organization, 525 23rd St, NW, Washington DC 20037-2895, USA.
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. A Systematic Review of Whether the Use of N95 Respirator Masks Decreases the Incidence of Cardiovascular Disease in the General Population. Cureus 2022; 14:e29823. [PMID: 36199761 PMCID: PMC9526995 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The usage of masks such as the N95 has increased exponentially worldwide. With the ever-increasing global rates of cardiovascular disease, it is vital that preventative measures are adopted to help tackle this crisis. N95 masks have been promoted as health prevention odysseys in the battle against viruses such as COVID-19. A systematic review was conducted on whether the N95 masks could help improve our cardiovascular health. Our data sources included PubMed, Medline and Scopus. Eleven studies met the eligibility criteria to be included in the review. N95 mask usage led to increased reports of dyspnoea, however, no significant effect was seen on blood pressure. N95 masks also showed improvement in aortic parameters. While encouraging results were yielded, further focussed studies on the use of N95 masks and the effect on various cardiovascular parameters would help strengthen the association.
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Mattiuzzi C, Lippi G, Nocini R. Highly efficient respirators are needed for the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. Public Health 2022; 206:e2. [PMID: 35450730 PMCID: PMC8930697 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Mattiuzzi
- Service of Clinical Governance, Provincial Agency for Social and Sanitary Services, Trento, Italy
| | - G Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry and School of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - R Nocini
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Unit of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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