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Hassoun N, Basu K, Gostin L. Pandemic preparedness and response: a new mechanism for expanding access to essential countermeasures. HEALTH ECONOMICS, POLICY, AND LAW 2024:1-24. [PMID: 38817149 DOI: 10.1017/s1744133124000094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
As the world comes together through the WHO design and consultation process on a new medical counter-measures platform, we propose an enhanced APT-A (Access to Pandemic Tools Accelerator) that builds on the previous architecture but includes two new pillars - one for economic assistance and another to combat structural inequalities for future pandemic preparedness and response. As part of the APT-A, and in light of the Independent Panel on Pandemic Preparation & Response's call for an enhanced end-to-end platform for access to essential health technologies, we propose a new mechanism that we call the Pandemic Open Technology Access Accelerator (POTAX) that can be implemented through the medical countermeasures platform and the pandemic accord currently under negotiation through the World Health Assembly and supported by the High-Level Meeting review on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response at the United Nations. This mechanism will provide (1) conditional financing for new vaccines and other essential health technologies requiring companies to vest licenses in POTAX and pool intellectual property and other data necessary to allow equitable access to the resulting technologies. It will also (2) support collective procurement as well as measures to ensure equitable distribution and uptake of these technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Hassoun
- Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies, University of Helsinki, Fabianinkatu 24 00100 Helsinki, Finland
- Binghamton University, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Box 6000, Binghamton, NY 13902-6000, USA
| | - Kaushik Basu
- Department of Economics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
- Brookings Institution, Washington, DC 20036, USA
| | - Lawrence Gostin
- O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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Jimbo-Sotomayor R, da Costa Oliveira MT, Acurio LA, Bastías M, Carvalho M, Sánchez X, de Oliveira LH. Systematic documentation of the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines in Latin America and the Caribbean. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2024; 48:e50. [PMID: 38765497 PMCID: PMC11099337 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2024.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To document the process of introducing COVID-19 vaccines in a selection of Latin American and Caribbean countries, including the lessons learned and the strengths and weaknesses, and similarities and differences among programs. Methods This descriptive study is based on a systematic evaluation of the process of introducing COVID-19 vaccines in Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama and Peru. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to key stakeholders. Six informants from each of the included countries participated in this study. The period of the study was from December 2021 through September 2022. Results The main strengths reported by countries were health workers' commitment to delivering vaccinations, evidence-based decision-making, the development of plans for vaccine introduction, the participation of national immunization technical advisory groups, the availability of economic resources and positive actions from the respective Ministry of Health. The main challenges were the actions of antivaccination groups, problems with electronic immunization registries, a lack of vaccines, delays in the delivery of vaccines and the scarcity of health personnel at the local level. Conclusions Commitment, the participation of multiple sectors, the availability of resources and preparedness planning were some of the many strengths shown by countries introducing COVID-19 vaccines. Weaknesses included third parties' interests, the lack of information systems and difficulty in accessing vaccines and vaccine services. There is a window of opportunity for countries to maintain the good practices that allowed for the processes' strengths and to assess the identified weaknesses to invigorate immunization programs and prepare for future health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Jimbo-Sotomayor
- Centro de investigación para la Salud en América LatinaPontificia Universidad Católica del EcuadorQuitoEcuadorCentro de investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - María Tereza da Costa Oliveira
- Special Program for Comprehensive ImmunizationPan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaSpecial Program for Comprehensive Immunization, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Luciana Armijos Acurio
- Centro de investigación para la Salud en América LatinaPontificia Universidad Católica del EcuadorQuitoEcuadorCentro de investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Magdalena Bastías
- Special Program for Comprehensive ImmunizationPan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaSpecial Program for Comprehensive Immunization, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Marcia Carvalho
- Special Program for Comprehensive ImmunizationPan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaSpecial Program for Comprehensive Immunization, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Xavier Sánchez
- Centro de investigación para la Salud en América LatinaPontificia Universidad Católica del EcuadorQuitoEcuadorCentro de investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Lucia Helena de Oliveira
- Special Program for Comprehensive ImmunizationPan American Health OrganizationWashington, D.C.United States of AmericaSpecial Program for Comprehensive Immunization, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., United States of America
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Kokori E, Olatunji G, Komolafe R, Ogieuhi IJ, Oyebiyi B, Ajayi I, Muogbo I, Ukoaka B, Samuel O, Aderinto N. Maternal GBS vaccination for preventing group B streptococcus disease in newborns: A mini review of current evidence. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38445529 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15465] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Group B streptococcus (GBS) poses a significant threat to neonates, leading to morbidity and mortality. Intrapartum antibiotics, although effective, have limitations, prompting the exploration of maternal vaccination. This study reviews the current evidence for maternal GBS vaccination in the prevention of early-onset GBS disease in newborns. A search on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus identified studies assessing the impact of maternal GBS vaccination on early-onset GBS disease. Inclusion criteria comprised English-language clinical trials or observational studies. Data extraction included study details, immunogenicity profiles, effectiveness, safety outcomes, and relevant findings. Qualitative synthesis was employed for data analysis. Five studies meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Maternal GBS vaccines demonstrated efficacy with sustained immunogenicity. Adverse events, although documented, were predominantly non-severe. Variability in immune responses and maternal-to-infant antibody ratios show the need for tailored vaccination approaches. Long-term follow up and surveillance are essential to assess persistence and identify unintended effects. Positive outcomes in vaccine efficacy support GBS vaccination integration into maternal health programs. Implementation challenges in diverse healthcare infrastructures require tailored approaches, especially in resource-limited settings. Overcoming cultural barriers and ensuring healthcare provider awareness are crucial for successful vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Kokori
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Gbolahan Olatunji
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Rosemary Komolafe
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | - Babajide Oyebiyi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Irene Ajayi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Ifeanyichukwu Muogbo
- Department of Medicine, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Bonaventure Ukoaka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asokoro District Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Owolabi Samuel
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nicholas Aderinto
- Department of Medicine, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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Awunor NS, Lar LA, Isara AR. Views of Nigerian civil servants about compulsory COVID-19 vaccination: A qualitative study. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2024; 16:e1-e8. [PMID: 38426775 PMCID: PMC10913142 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4208] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 caused unforeseen global burden, although vaccine strategy rapidly stalled transmission and protected those at risk. Many governments made vaccination mandatory for public space access. AIM This study aimed to elucidate perception of Nigerian civil servants towards mandatory COVID-19 vaccination and elicited their recommendations. SETTING This study was conducted in twelve purposively selected states in the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. Relevant ministries, departments and agencies were selected within the study sites. METHODS It was a qualitative study that interviewed consenting civil servants. Ethical approval was obtained from the National Health Research Ethics Committee. Interviews were conducted in person, following a pre-test. Data was analysed using NVivo software version 12. RESULTS Most participants were willing to take the vaccine if their safety was assured. However, enforcement to do so was a hindrance. Most participants commended the government for the effort to curb COVID-19 transmission and create awareness but were displeased with planning and handling of misconceptions. They recommended a more committed approach to vaccine production and funding by the government. CONCLUSION Participants were willing to take the COVID-19 vaccines because the gains of protection outweighed the risks. They suggested a less involuntary approach through reinforcing awareness creation and avoiding threats.Contribution: There is limited qualitative research on perception of Nigerian civil servants regarding mandatory COVID-19 vaccination. Being the main driving force of Nigeria's public service, their views are invaluable. Findings could contribute to future policies in times of emergency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyemike S Awunor
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria; and, Department of Community Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara.
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Zyoud SH. Global landscape of COVID-19 research: a visualization analysis of randomized clinical trials. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:14. [PMID: 38252392 PMCID: PMC10803477 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01254-3] [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: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of COVID-19 in 2019 has resulted in a significant global health crisis. Consequently, extensive research was published to understand and mitigate the disease. In particular, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been considered the benchmark for assessing the efficacy and safety of interventions. Hence, the present study strives to present a comprehensive overview of the global research landscape pertaining to RCTs and COVID-19. A bibliometric analysis was performed using the Scopus database. The search parameters included articles published from 2020 to 2022 using keywords specifically related to COVID-19 and RCTs. The data were analyzed using various bibliometric indicators. The volume of publications, contributions of countries and institutions, funding agencies, active journals, citation analysis, co-occurrence analysis, and future research direction analysis were specifically analyzed. A total of 223,480 research articles concerning COVID-19 were published, with 3,727 of them related to RCTs and COVID-19. The ten most productive countries collectively produced 75.8% of the documents, with the United States leading the way by contributing 31.77%, followed by the UK with 14.03% (n = 523), China with 12.96% (n = 483) and Canada with 7.16% (n = 267). Trials (n = 173, 4.64%), BMJ Open (n = 81, 2.17%), PLOS One (n = 73, 1.96%) and JAMA Network Open (n = 53, 1.42%) were the most active journals in publishing articles related to COVID-19 RCTs. The co-occurrence analysis identified four clusters of research areas: the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, mental health strategies to cope with the impact of the pandemic, the use of monoclonal antibodies to treat patients with COVID-19, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses of COVID-19 research. This paper offers a detailed examination of the global research environment pertaining to RCTs and their use in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The comprehensive body of research findings was found to have been generated by the collaborative efforts of multiple countries, institutions, and funding organizations. The predominant research areas encompassed COVID-19 vaccines, strategies for mental health, monoclonal antibodies, and systematic reviews. This information has the potential to aid researchers, policymakers, and funders in discerning areas of weakness and establishing areas of priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa'ed H Zyoud
- Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839, Palestine.
- Clinical Research Centre, An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, 44839, Palestine.
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Goldin S, Moen A, Moss WJ, Nuzzo J. The 2020 immunization programme landscape: Piloting an assessment metric to evaluate the maturity of national immunization programmes across the life course. Vaccine 2024:S0264-410X(23)01497-4. [PMID: 38212202 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.12.051] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) encourages countries to provide appropriate vaccinations for children, adolescents, and relevant adult populations. Childhood programme have been the focus of global investments, but recent pandemics have increasingly demonstrated the value of life course vaccination. Our objective is to compare national life course immunization programmatic maturity prior to mass COVID-19 vaccine introduction, the largest adult vaccination programme, globally. As coverage estimates (typically used to assess childhood programmes) are not available for adult vaccinations, this analysis pilots a standardized quantitative metric of programmatic maturity. METHODS Through consultation with vaccination experts, we developed a standardized approach to assess national immunization programme maturity across the life course. In accordance with expert input, five vaccines were selected to represent delivery across the life course: diphtheria tetanus toxoid and pertussis (DTP); measles (MCV) second dose; human papillomavirus (HPV) final dose; pneumococcal conjugate (PCV) final dose; and seasonal influenza annual dose. Experts recommended inclusion of the following indicators for each vaccine: a legal mandate (national policy), experience delivering the vaccine (programme duration), and vaccine use (uptake for relevant populations). We developed a metric accordingly that provides up to 5 points per vaccine ("vaccine specific maturity score") which when summed forms the "life course maturity score", with a maximum score of 25. We analysed the prevalence of national policies, experience, and use by region and World Bank income group. RESULTS More than 55% of the 194 WHO Member States had childhood vaccine policies for all three of the vaccines considered (DTP, MCV, and PCV) compared to 60% for HPV (proxy for adolescent vaccination programme) and 52% for seasonal influenza (proxy for adult vaccination programme). Childhood vaccination programmes (e.g., MCV and DTP) had the highest vaccine specific maturity scores, while seasonal influenza and HPV vaccination programmes had much lower scores. The national life course maturity scores ranged from 1 to 23, with a global median of 12 (IQR: 8; 16). DISCUSSION The piloted metric provides an overview of the maturity of life course immunization programmes. The metric is structured to be a flexible, rapid resource that can be used to assess other combinations of vaccines across the life course. The findings from this paper provide a baseline of immunization programme maturity for childhood, adolescent, and adult vaccination programmes immediately prior to the COVID-19 vaccine introduction. This maturity score, or adaptations of this approach, could be used to monitor the trajectory of national immunization programme maturity across the life course in the years ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshanna Goldin
- Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States.
| | - Ann Moen
- Task Force for Global Health, United States
| | - William J Moss
- Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States
| | - Jennifer Nuzzo
- Brown University, Center for Pandemic Preparedness, United States
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Mansaray A, Bangura M, Watson-Jones D, Greenwood B, Burns R, Susan Lees S, Faye F, Leigh B, Enria L. Engaging the public in decisions about emergency vaccine deployment strategies: Lessons from scenario-based discussions in Sierra Leone. Glob Public Health 2024; 19:2334887. [PMID: 38625999 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2024.2334887] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe COVID-19 pandemic has amplified discussions on emergency vaccine deployment strategies, with current perspectives often neglecting extensive community involvement in ethical, logistical and political aspects. Existing social science literature predominantly delves into factors influencing trust, overlooking the untapped potential for community engagement.Our study examines community preparedness in Sierra Leone's Kambia District, exploring diverse viewpoints on vaccine deployment strategies, emphasising Ebola and COVID-19 vaccinations. Utilising extensive ethnographic research from the Ebola vaccine trials (EBOVAC Salone) conducted in Kambia District from 2015 to 2021, including participant observation and tailored focus group discussions, we investigated various deployment scenarios with community leaders and citizens.Our findings underscore the multifaceted contributions of social science research with communities in shaping emergency vaccination strategies. These contributions span logistical insights, aligning campaigns with local livelihoods and social structures, and grounded ethical concerns assessing social justice outcomes across epidemic scenarios. This study emphasises the imperative of integrating discussions on vaccine confidence and deployment. It highlights communities' proficiency in epidemiological reasoning and their ability to bring this in conversation with salient socio-cultural, economic and religious dimensions. We therefore promote the cultivation of public dialogue, collaborative creation of impactful vaccination initiatives alongside relevant communities in recognition of their invaluable perspectives .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahmood Bangura
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | - Rose Burns
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Farba Faye
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Bailah Leigh
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Luisa Enria
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Wei CR, Kamande S, Lang'at GC. Vaccine inequity: a threat to Africa's recovery from COVID-19. Trop Med Health 2023; 51:69. [PMID: 38111032 PMCID: PMC10729430 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00564-2] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccine inequity is a reality facing the Sub-Saharan Africa region as vaccine nationalism from high-income countries (HICs) leads to limited access to the lifesaving vaccines needed to end the pandemic. In Africa, a significant portion of the population has yet to be vaccinated against Covid-19; however, the barriers to accessing such vaccines, including capacity challenges, still persist despite the implementation of the COVAX facility meant to support the lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to boost vaccination. METHODS This study involved a systemic narrative review where literature search was conducted using the NCBI's PMC and BMC databases based on defined keywords. Three authors were involved in the literature search and consensus was applied to settle disagreements and validate the findings. RESULTS In this systematic narrative review, we report that vaccine nationalism remains a challenge for LMICs as HICs still hoard vaccines and even bypass COVAX to procure doses directly from the manufacturers. Factors that promote vaccine hesitancy in Africa include misinformation regarding the Covid-19 vaccine, a lack of trust in politicians and the pharmaceutical industry, and concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy. The policies implemented to enhance vaccine coverage in Africa, such as mandates, community engagement, and partnerships, all seek to promote equity of vaccination and ending Covid-19. CONCLUSION Covid-19 vaccine inequity persists and contributes to prolonged pandemic in LMICs. In response, African governments have taken certain measures to enhance vaccine uptake but more needs to be done to address resistance to vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin R Wei
- Department of Research and Development, Shing Huei Group, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Godwin C Lang'at
- Department of Public and Global Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
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Hur JY, Lee S, Shin WR, Kim YH, Ahn JY. The emerging role of medical foods and therapeutic potential of medical food-derived exosomes. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 6:32-50. [PMID: 38125597 PMCID: PMC10729880 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00649b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Medical food is consumed for the purpose of improving specific nutritional requirements or disease conditions, such as inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. It involves partial or exclusive feeding for fulfilling unique nutritional requirements of patients and is different from medicine, consisting of basic nutrients, such as polyphenols, vitamins, sugars, proteins, lipids, and other functional ingredients to nourish the patients. Recently, studies on extracellular vesicles (exosomes) with therapeutic and drug carrier potential have been actively conducted. In addition, there have been attempts to utilize exosomes as medical food components. Consequently, the application of exosomes is expanding in different fields with increasing research being conducted on their stability and safety. Herein, we introduced the current trends of medical food and the potential utilization of exosomes in them. Moreover, we proposed Medi-Exo, a exosome-based medical food. Furthermore, we comprehensively elucidate various disease aspects between medical food-derived exosomes (Medi-Exo) and therapeutic natural bionanocomposites. This review highlights the therapeutic challenges regarding Medi-Exo and its potential health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Young Hur
- Department of Microbiology, Chungbuk National University 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu Cheongju 28644 South Korea +82-43-264-9600 +82-43-261-2301 +82-43-261-3575
| | - SeonHyung Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania 210 S 33rd St. Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
| | - Woo-Ri Shin
- Department of Microbiology, Chungbuk National University 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu Cheongju 28644 South Korea +82-43-264-9600 +82-43-261-2301 +82-43-261-3575
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania 210 S 33rd St. Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
| | - Yang-Hoon Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Chungbuk National University 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu Cheongju 28644 South Korea +82-43-264-9600 +82-43-261-2301 +82-43-261-3575
| | - Ji-Young Ahn
- Department of Microbiology, Chungbuk National University 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu Cheongju 28644 South Korea +82-43-264-9600 +82-43-261-2301 +82-43-261-3575
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Nyachoti DO, Fwelo P, Springer AE, Kelder SH. Association between Gross National Income per capita and COVID-19 vaccination coverage: a global ecological study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2415. [PMID: 38049821 PMCID: PMC10696801 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17241-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has claimed over six million lives and infected more than 650 million people globally. Public health agencies have deployed several strategies, including rolling out vaccination campaigns to curb the pandemic, yet a significant proportion of the global population has not received the COVID-19 vaccine. We assessed differences in COVID-19 vaccination coverage by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of WHO members (i.e., countries, areas, and territories, n = 192) and by WHO member regions (n = 6). METHODS Using an ecological study design, we analyzed publicly available data from the WHO website merged with the World Bank's GNI per capita data. We included a total of 192 WHO members and six WHO regions in the analysis. We utilized negative binomial regression to assess the associations between the GNI per capita and COVID-19 vaccination coverage (cumulative number of persons fully vaccinated and/or received at least one dose of the vaccine per 100 population), and ANOVA test to assess the differences in vaccination coverage per WHO regions. RESULTS Low GNI per capita WHO members had significantly lower full vaccination coverage (aRR 0.30, 95% CI 0.22-0.40) compared to high GNI per capita WHO members. These members were also 66% less likely to receive at least one dose of the vaccine (aRR 0.34, 0.26-0.44) relative to high GNI per capita WHO members. Africa region had a significantly lower fully vaccination coverage (aRR 0.71, 95% CI 0.36-0.54) and received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (aRR 0.78, 95% CI 0.62-0.99) than Europe region. Conversely, the Western Pacific region had significantly higher fully vaccination coverage (aRR 1.40 95% CI 1.12-1.74) and received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccines (aRR 1.40 95% CI 1.14-1.73) relative to European region. CONCLUSION WHO members with low GNI per capita and the African region reported significantly lower COVID-19 vaccination coverage than those with high GNI per capita or other regions. Efforts to strengthen and promote COVID-19 vaccination in low-income WHO countries and African region should be scaled up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Ogeto Nyachoti
- Texas Department of State Health Services, Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, Austin, TX, USA.
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, El Paso, TX, USA.
| | - Pierre Fwelo
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics & Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew E Springer
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Steven H Kelder
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics & Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Austin, TX, USA
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Islam MA. A review of SARS-CoV-2 variants and vaccines: Viral properties, mutations, vaccine efficacy, and safety. INFECTIOUS MEDICINE 2023; 2:247-261. [PMID: 38205179 PMCID: PMC10774670 DOI: 10.1016/j.imj.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus disease 2 instigated by coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) has delivered an unfathomable obstruction that has touched all sectors worldwide. Despite new vaccine technologies and mass administration of booster doses, the virus persists, and unknown the ending of the pandemic for new variants and sub-variants. Moreover, whether leaning on home medications or using plant extracts is sufficient often to combat the virus has generated tremendous interest in the scientific fraternity. Different databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar used to find published articles linked with related topics. Currently, COVID-19 third and fourth shots of vaccines are progressively administered worldwide, where some countries trail others by a significant margin. Many proteins related to viral activity have changed, possibly boosting the virus infectivity and making antibodies ineffective. This study will reminisce the viral genome, associated pathways for viral protein functions, variants, and their mutations. The current, comprehensive review will also provide information on vaccine technologies developed by several biotech companies and the efficacy of their doses, costs including boosters on a mass level. As no vaccine is working to protect fully against all the variants, the new proactive vaccine research needs to be conducted based on all variants, their sub-lineage, and mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Aminul Islam
- Advanced Molecular Lab, Department of Microbiology, President Abdul Hamid Medical College, Karimganj 2310, Bangladesh
- COVID-19 Diagnostic lab, Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh
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Déom N, Vanderslott S, Kingori P, Martin S. Online on the frontline: A longitudinal social media analysis of UK healthcare workers' attitudes to COVID-19 vaccines using the 5C framework. Soc Sci Med 2023; 339:116313. [PMID: 37984178 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116313] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
This paper explores vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the UK, where different COVID-19 vaccines were being rolled out through a national vaccination campaign from 2020 to 2022, consisting of a first and second dose programme. Through a mixed-method approach using qualitative discourse analysis and network analysis of Twitter data, we assessed HCW perceptions and views about the administration and delivery of COVID-19 vaccines in the United Kingdom (UK). We were also interested in exploring HCWs' personal experiences and attitudes towards taking COVID-19 vaccines themselves. We drew upon sociology, ethics, communication studies and used research methods concentrating on social media and media analysis. By employing the '5C framework' of 'confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation, and collective responsibility' we evaluated a longitudinal selection of tweets to capture relevant factors driving vaccination views and behaviours among HCWs. We found differing positions expressed about COVID-19 vaccines and policy during the first dose compared with the second, through a drop in confidence compounded by supply and access issues, as well the news of a vaccine mandate for HCWs by the UK government in 2021. HCWs asked calculation questions to the community or brought forward competing pieces of information about vaccine policy and guidelines. Constraint levels in access issues were noted, especially for those with work and caregiving responsibilities, and student nurses found they did not have equal vaccination access. HCWs also displayed collective responsibility on social platforms to both encourage vaccination and express concerns through the organisation of social action against vaccine mandates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Déom
- Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK; Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Samantha Vanderslott
- Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.
| | - Patricia Kingori
- Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sam Martin
- Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK; Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
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13
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Fotakis EA, Simou E. Belief in COVID-19 related conspiracy theories around the globe: A systematic review. Health Policy 2023; 137:104903. [PMID: 37688953 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Conspiracy theories have been widespread in public discourses about COVID-19. Belief in conspiracy theories has negative effects on COVID-19 protective and preventive behaviour. However, evidence on the prevalence of belief in COVID-19 conspiracy theories, remains fragmented. We conducted a systematic review on the adult general population prevalence of belief in different COVID-19 conspiracy theories at country and regional level around the globe. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases (end of search: March 22, 2022). We followed guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). We identified 1637 potentially relevant titles in our search and included 33 studies in our review, reflecting conspiracy theory endorsement between March 2020 and August 2021. We found high belief in COVID-19 conspiracy theories in most studies: 29 studies measured at least one conspiracy theory belief prevalence ≥20%. For several conspiracy theories, e.g. "Lab origin" or "Destabilization and power gain", prevalence was often between 20 and 50%. Our findings call for increased awareness about COVID-19 conspiracy theories and the need for tailored, context specific conspiracy theory preparedness, prevention and control. Development and integration of a public health oriented communication and infodemic management strategy, alongside the implementation of conspiracy theory endorsement risk assessments are essential for supporting public health policy in future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil Alexandros Fotakis
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, Athens, Greece.
| | - Effie Simou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, Athens, Greece
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Nii-Trebi NI, Mughogho TS, Abdulai A, Tetteh F, Ofosu PM, Osei MM, Yalley AK. Dynamics of viral disease outbreaks: A hundred years (1918/19-2019/20) in retrospect - Loses, lessons and emerging issues. Rev Med Virol 2023; 33:e2475. [PMID: 37602770 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2475] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases continue to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and a formidable obstacle to the development and well-being of people worldwide. Viruses account for more than half of infectious disease outbreaks that have plagued the world. The past century (1918/19-2019/20) has witnessed some of the worst viral disease outbreaks the world has recorded, with overwhelming impact especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). The frequency of viral disease outbreak appears to be increasing. Generally, although infectious diseases have afflicted the world for centuries and humankind has had opportunities to examine the nature of their emergence and mode of spread, almost every new outbreak poses a formidable challenge to humankind, beating the existing pandemic preparedness systems, if any, and causing significant losses. These underscore inadequacy in our understanding of the dynamics and preparedness against viral disease outbreaks that lead to epidemics and pandemics. Despite these challenges, the past 100 years of increasing frequencies of viral disease outbreaks have engendered significant improvements in response to epidemics and pandemics, and offered lessons to inform preparedness. Hence, the increasing frequency of emergence of viral outbreaks and the challenges these outbreaks pose to humankind, call for the continued search for effective ways to tackle viral disease outbreaks in real time. Through a PRISMA-based approach, this systematic review examines the outbreak of viral diseases in retrospect to decipher the outbreak patterns, losses inflicted on humanity and highlights lessons these offer for meaningful preparation against future viral disease outbreaks and pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas I Nii-Trebi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Anisa Abdulai
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Tetteh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Priscilla M Ofosu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mary-Magdalene Osei
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akua K Yalley
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Lee JY, Bu SH, Song E, Cho S, Yu S, Kim J, Kym S, Seo KW, Kwon KT, Kim JY, Kim S, Ahn K, Jung N, Lee Y, Jung Y, Hwang C, Park SW. Safety and Effectiveness of Regdanvimab for COVID-19 Treatment: A Phase 4 Post-marketing Surveillance Study Conducted in South Korea. Infect Dis Ther 2023; 12:2417-2435. [PMID: 37833467 PMCID: PMC10600078 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00859-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regdanvimab, a neutralising monoclonal antibody (mAb) against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), received approval for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in South Korea in 2021. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in South Korea mandate that new medications be re-examined for safety and effectiveness post-approval in at least 3000 individuals. This post-marketing surveillance (PMS) study was used to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of regdanvimab in real-world clinical care. METHODS This prospective, multicentre, phase 4 PMS study was conducted between February 2021 and March 2022 in South Korea. Eligible patients were aged ≥ 18 years with confirmed mild COVID-19 at high risk of disease progression or moderate COVID-19. Patients were hospitalised and treated with regdanvimab (40 mg/kg, day 1) and then monitored until discharge, with a follow-up call on day 28. Adverse events (AEs) were documented, and the COVID-19 disease progression rate was used to measure effectiveness. RESULTS Of the 3123 patients with COVID-19 infection identified, 3036 were eligible for inclusion. Approximately 80% and 5% of the eligible patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 during the delta- and omicron-dominant periods, respectively. Median (range) age was 57 (18-95) years, and 50.6% of patients were male. COVID-19 severity was assessed before treatment, and high-risk mild and moderate COVID-19 was diagnosed in 1030 (33.9%) and 2006 (66.1%) patients, respectively. AEs and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were experienced by 684 (22.5%) and 363 (12.0%) patients, respectively. The most common ADR was increased liver function test (n = 62, 2.0%). Nine (0.3%) patients discontinued regdanvimab due to ADRs. Overall, 378 (12.5%) patients experienced disease progression after regdanvimab infusion, with extended hospitalisation/re-admission (n = 300, 9.9%) as the most common reason. Supplemental oxygen was required by 282 (9.3%) patients. Ten (0.3%) patients required intensive care monitoring and 3 (0.1%) died due to COVID-19. CONCLUSION This large-scale PMS study demonstrated that regdanvimab was effective against COVID-19 progression and had an acceptable safety profile when used in real-world clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Yeon Lee
- Keimyung University Daegu Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Hee Bu
- Seoul Metropolitan City Bukbu Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - EunHyang Song
- Seoul Metropolitan City Seobuk Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Sungbong Yu
- Bagae General Hospital, Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungok Kim
- Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungmin Kym
- Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Won Seo
- Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Tae Kwon
- School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Yong Kim
- Incheon Medical Centre, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | - Yeonmi Lee
- Celltrion, Inc., Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Sang Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Boramae Medical Centre, 20 Boramae-ro 5-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 07061, Republic of Korea.
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Perlman S, Shamian J, Catton H, Ellen M. Assessing the country-level involvement of nurses in COVID-19 vaccination campaigns: A qualitative study. Int J Nurs Stud 2023; 146:104569. [PMID: 37597459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2023.104569] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As each country individually manages the COVID-19 pandemic, mass vaccination campaigns have varied considerably. Implementation campaigns often depend on nurses; however, nurses are not consistently involved in higher-level planning, prioritization, and policy development decisions. This study aimed to examine the involvement and engagement of nurses in country-level COVID-19 mass vaccination policies and practices in 10 Office of Economic Cooperation and Development countries, identify barriers and factors to enhancing the engagement of nurses in the evidence-informed mass vaccination decision-making processes, and suggest areas for improvement. METHODS A qualitative study using in-depth semi-structured interviews was conducted as a follow-up study to an International Council of Nurses survey. The study sample included a purposeful sample of 14 country-representative nurses from 10 Office of Economic Cooperation and Development countries. Interview questions focused on each country's overall COVID-19 vaccination campaign and policies, participants' perspectives regarding the involvement of nurses in the planning, design, and implementation of the mass vaccination program observed outcomes, and the impact of nursing on the outcomes. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, translated where necessary, coded, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS Main areas of involvement identified by participants were membership in advising and decision-making committees, operationalization planning, implementation and coordination processes, education efforts, and nurses' interactions with the media. Seven themes emerged among perceived facilitators of nursing involvement: existing systems and infrastructure, nursing profession-related skills and competencies, communication and messaging, multidisciplinary and interagency work, recognition and visibility of nurses and nursing, trust in nurses, and nursing pride. Meanwhile, perceived barriers included lack of a voice, recognition and appreciation for nursing, workforce-related challenges, decentralization of responsibility and authority, supply and access issues, downstream effects of the pandemic, and non-COVID-related nursing barriers. Three main themes emerged among suggestions made by participants for improved involvement of nursing: culture change within nursing and healthcare, opportunities and momentum to build upon, and perceptions of responsible parties. CONCLUSIONS Nurses play a central role in providing health services but are inconsistently included in the policy, planning, and decision-making processes. Findings highlighted the critical importance of nursing leadership roles and expanded roles for nurses. Nursing should be represented by high-level leaders as part of multidisciplinary decision-making groups, educational initiatives for involvement in health policy should be implemented in nursing schools and continuing education, and advocacy and inclusion efforts should utilize bottom-up and top-down approaches concurrently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saritte Perlman
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
| | | | - Howard Catton
- International Council of Nurses, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Moriah Ellen
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Canada; McMaster Health Forum, McMaster University, Canada.
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17
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Eyal K, Njozela L, Köhler T, Ingle K, Brophy T, Buttenheim A, Maughan-Brown B. Correlates of COVID-19 vaccination intentions and opinions about mandates among four groups of adults in South Africa with distinct vaccine intentions: evidence from a large national survey. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1767. [PMID: 37697314 PMCID: PMC10494356 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16584-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite a high number of recorded COVID-19 infections and deaths in South Africa, COVID-19 vaccine coverage remained low in March 2022, ten months into the national vaccine roll-out. This study provides evidence on the correlates of vaccine intentions, attitudes towards vaccination and opinions about mandates. METHODS We used data from the second COVID-19 Vaccine Survey (CVACS), a telephone survey conducted February-March 2022 among 3,608 South African adults who self-reported not being vaccinated against COVID-19. The survey instrument was designed in consultation with government, policymakers, and civil society; and segmented the sample into four distinct groups with different vaccine intentions (synonymous with vaccine hesitancy levels). Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used to examine the sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes and behaviours associated with the different vaccination intentions groups. Thematic coding of responses to open-ended questions elicited insights on reasons for not being vaccinated and attitudes towards mandates. RESULTS Intentions to get vaccinated were greater among individuals with lower socio-economic status (Mann-Whitney Z = -11.3, p < 0.001); those believing the vaccine protects against death (Kruskal-Wallis Χ2 = 494, p < 0.001); and those who perceived themselves at risk of COVID-19-related illness (Χ2 = 126, p < 0.01). Vaccine intentions were lower among individuals who believed that the vaccine causes death (Χ2 = 163, p < 0.001); believed that the vaccine is unsafe for the babies of pregnant/breastfeeding mothers, or the chronically ill (Χ2 = 123, p < 0.01); those not trusting government health information about COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine (Kendall's τ = -0.41, p < 0.01); and those in opposition to mandates (τ = 0.35, p < 0.001). Only 25% supported mandates, despite 48% thinking mandates would work well, with 54% citing individual rights as their main reason for mandate opposition. CONCLUSION The profile of individuals not vaccinated against COVID-19 as of March 2022 varied markedly by self-reported vaccination intentions, underscoring the importance of tailored demand-creation efforts. This paper highlights several factors which differ significantly across these groups. These findings could inform the design of future vaccination campaigns, potentially increasing their likelihood of success. This is an important policy objective given widespread vaccine hesitancy, and further work is required on this topic. Mandates remain an option to increase coverage but need to be carefully considered given extensive opposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Eyal
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Lindokuhle Njozela
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Timothy Köhler
- Development Policy Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kim Ingle
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Timothy Brophy
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alison Buttenheim
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 416 Fagin Hall, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Brendan Maughan-Brown
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Oladipo EK, Olufemi SE, Ojo TO, Adediran DA, Idowu AF, Idowu UA, Onyeaka H. Africa (COVID-19) Vaccine Technology Transfer: Where Are We? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1886. [PMID: 37763290 PMCID: PMC10532490 DOI: 10.3390/life13091886] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The rampant spread of the COVID-19 infection poses a grave and formidable challenge to global healthcare, with particular concern to the inhabitants of the African continent. In response to these pressing concerns, different strategies have been employed to combat the emergence of this insidious disease, encompassing crucial measures such as physical distancing, the utilization of face masks, meticulous hand hygiene, and widespread vaccination campaigns. Nevertheless, the economic realities faced by numerous African nations, characterized by their classification as "low-income countries (LICs)", present a formidable barrier to accessing and distributing approved vaccines to their populations. Moreover, it is essential to discuss the hesitancy of the European Union (EU) in releasing intellectual property rights associated with the transfer of vaccine technology to Africa. While the EU has been a key player in global efforts to combat the pandemic, there has been reluctance in sharing valuable knowledge and resources with African countries. This hesitancy raises concerns about equitable vaccine access and the potential for a prolonged health crisis in Africa. This review underscores the urgent imperative and need of establishing localized vaccine development and production facilities within Africa, necessitating the active involvement of governments and collaborative partnerships to achieve this crucial objective. Furthermore, this review advocates for the exploration of viable avenues for the transfer of vaccine technology as a means to facilitate equitable vaccine access across the African continent and also the cruciality and the need for the EU to reconsider its stance and actively engage in transferring vaccine technology to Africa through sharing intellectual property. The EU can contribute to the establishment of localized vaccine production facilities on the continent, which will not only increase vaccine availability but also promote self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elijah Kolawole Oladipo
- Department of Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Immunology, Adeleke University, P.M.B. 250, Ede 232104, Osun State, Nigeria
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
| | - Seun Elijah Olufemi
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso 210214, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Taiwo Ooreoluwa Ojo
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso 210214, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Adewole Adediran
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso 210214, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Akindele Felix Idowu
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso 210214, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Usman Abiodun Idowu
- Genomics Unit, Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso 212102, Oyo State, Nigeria; (S.E.O.); (T.O.O.); (D.A.A.); (A.F.I.); (U.A.I.)
- Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso 210214, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B12 2TT, UK
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Annamalai A, Karuppaiya V, Ezhumalai D, Cheruparambath P, Balakrishnan K, Venkatesan A. Nano-based techniques: A revolutionary approach to prevent covid-19 and enhancing human awareness. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2023; 86:104567. [PMID: 37313114 PMCID: PMC10183109 DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In every century of history, there are many new diseases emerged, which are not even cured by many developed countries. Today, despite of scientific development, new deadly pandemic diseases are caused by microorganisms. Hygiene is considered to be one of the best methods of avoiding such communicable diseases, especially viral diseases. Illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 was termed COVID-19 by the WHO, the acronym derived from "coronavirus disease 2019. The globe is living in the worst epidemic era, with the highest infection and mortality rate owing to COVID-19 reaching 6.89% (data up to March 2023). In recent years, nano biotechnology has become a promising and visible field of nanotechnology. Interestingly, nanotechnology is being used to cure many ailments and it has revolutionized many aspects of our lives. Several COVID-19 diagnostic approaches based on nanomaterial have been developed. The various metal NPs, it is highly anticipated that could be viable and economical alternatives for treating drug resistant in many deadly pandemic diseases in near future. This review focuses on an overview of nanotechnology's increasing involvement in the diagnosis, prevention, and therapy of COVID-19, also this review provides readers with an awareness and knowledge of importance of hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaikkutti Annamalai
- Marine Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, 605 014, Puducherry, India
| | - Vimala Karuppaiya
- Cancer Nanomedicine Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhineshkumar Ezhumalai
- Dr. Krishnamoorthi Foundation for Advanced Scientific Research, Vellore, 632 001, Tamil Nadu, India
- Manushyaa Blossom Private Limited, Chennai, 600 102, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Kaviarasu Balakrishnan
- Dr. Krishnamoorthi Foundation for Advanced Scientific Research, Vellore, 632 001, Tamil Nadu, India
- Manushyaa Blossom Private Limited, Chennai, 600 102, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arul Venkatesan
- Marine Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, 605 014, Puducherry, India
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Mthembu TG, Harrison S, Botha K, Britz J, Katts B, Millar M, Sulliman Z, Zitha V. Influences of COVID-19 vaccination policy on students' vaccine acceptance. Health SA 2023; 28:2265. [PMID: 37670744 PMCID: PMC10476499 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v28i0.2265] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Higher education institutions (HEIs) developed and implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy to facilitate vaccine acceptance and vaccination among universities' staff and students. However, little is known about influences of the mandatory vaccination policy on health science students at a university and they tend to result in vaccine hesitancy. Aim To explore the influences of the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy on health sciences students' vaccine acceptance at HEIs in South Africa. Setting The study was conducted in one of the universities in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Methods An interpretive qualitative exploratory-descriptive research was conducted with 10 participants who were selected using the purposive sampling method to participate in semi-structured interviews. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results Two themes and 12 sub-themes were identified during the data analysis, namely individual and group influencing factors, as well as contextual influencing factors. Conclusion This study revealed that the COVID-19 vaccination mandatory policy influenced the students' quality of life, academic performance and well-being. The findings from this study indicate that there were perceived barriers related to personal and contextual influencing factors than benefits of COVID-19 vaccination. Contribution The understanding of and insight into the influences of the mandatory vaccination policy provided a basis for further strategies that may be developed to address COVID-19 vaccine infodemic, vaccine hesitancy and its risk effects. This can be done through collaboration with different stakeholders to educate health science students about the perceived benefits of COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuli G Mthembu
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Samantha Harrison
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Kauthar Botha
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Jessica Britz
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Brittney Katts
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Michaela Millar
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Zia Sulliman
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Vutlhari Zitha
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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21
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Nesovic LD, Roach CJ, Joshi G, Gill HS. Delivery of gold nanoparticle-conjugated M2e influenza vaccine in mice using coated microneedles. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:5859-5871. [PMID: 37455612 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm00305a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
As a prospective influenza vaccination platform, a microneedle patch offers advantages such as self-administration and reduction of needle-phobia-associated vaccination avoidance. In an effort to design a broadly protective influenza vaccine we have previously developed a vaccine formulation containing the highly conserved ectodomain sequence of the M2 influenza protein (M2e) attached to the surface of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with CpG as a soluble adjuvant (AuNP-M2e + sCpG). Our previous studies have used the intranasal route for vaccination and demonstrated broad protection from this vaccine. Here we asked the question whether the same formulation can be effective when administered to mice using microneedles. We demonstrate that the microneedles can be coated with AuNP-M2e + sCpG formulation, and the AuNPs from the coating can be readily resuspended without aggregation. The AuNPs were delivered with high efficiency into murine skin, and the AuNPs cleared the skin within 12 h of microneedle treatment. After vaccination, strong M2e-specific humoral and cellular responses were stimulated, and the vaccinated mice were 100% protected following a lethal challenge with influenza A/PR/8/34 (H1N1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lazar D Nesovic
- Department of Chemical Engineering Texas Tech University, 8th and Canton, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA.
| | - Carsen J Roach
- Department of Chemical Engineering Texas Tech University, 8th and Canton, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA.
| | - Gaurav Joshi
- Department of Chemical Engineering Texas Tech University, 8th and Canton, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA.
| | - Harvinder Singh Gill
- Department of Chemical Engineering Texas Tech University, 8th and Canton, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA.
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22
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Zhang C, Berg A, Joe CCD, Dalby PA, Douglas AD. Lyophilization to enable distribution of ChAdOx1 and ChAdOx2 adenovirus-vectored vaccines without refrigeration. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:85. [PMID: 37277337 PMCID: PMC10240132 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00674-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Distribution of vaccines which require refrigerated or frozen storage can be challenging and expensive. The adenovirus vector platform has been widely used for COVID-19 vaccines while several further candidate vaccines using the platform are in clinical development. In current liquid formulations, adenoviruses require distribution at 2-8 °C. The development of formulations suitable for ambient temperature distribution would be advantageous. Previous peer-reviewed reports of adenovirus lyophilization are relatively limited. Here, we report the development of a formulation and process for lyophilization of simian adenovirus-vectored vaccines based on the ChAdOx1 platform. We describe the iterative selection of excipients using a design of experiments approach, and iterative cycle improvement to achieve both preservation of potency and satisfactory cake appearance. The resulting method achieved in-process infectivity titre loss of around 50%. After drying, there was negligible further loss over a month at 30 °C. Around 30% of the predrying infectivity remained after a month at 45 °C. This performance is likely to be suitable for 'last leg' distribution at ambient temperature. This work may also facilitate the development of other product presentations using dried simian adenovirus-vectored vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Berg
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7DQ, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Carina C D Joe
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7DQ, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A Dalby
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander D Douglas
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, OX3 7DQ, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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23
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Al-Hatamleh MA, Abusalah MA, Hatmal MM, Alshaer W, Ahmad S, Mohd-Zahid MH, Rahman ENSE, Yean CY, Alias IZ, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Understanding the challenges to COVID-19 vaccines and treatment options, herd immunity and probability of reinfection. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:600-638. [PMID: 36570799 PMCID: PMC9758618 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2022.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Unlike pandemics in the past, the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which rapidly spread worldwide, was met with a different approach to control and measures implemented across affected countries. The lack of understanding of the fundamental nature of the outbreak continues to make COVID-19 challenging to manage for both healthcare practitioners and the scientific community. Challenges to vaccine development and evaluation, current therapeutic options, convalescent plasma therapy, herd immunity, and the emergence of reinfection and new variants remain the major obstacles to combating COVID-19. This review discusses these challenges in the management of COVID-19 at length and highlights the mechanisms needed to provide better understanding of this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A.I. Al-Hatamleh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Mai A. Abusalah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Ma'mon M. Hatmal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Walhan Alshaer
- Cell Therapy Center (CTC), The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Manali H. Mohd-Zahid
- Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Engku Nur Syafirah E.A. Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Chan Y. Yean
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Iskandar Z. Alias
- Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | | | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
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24
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Rajasi RS, Chandran P, Sivakumar CP, George B, Amrutha D, Elizabeth M, George AM. Profile of COVID-19 breakthrough cases and its comparison with unvaccinated COVID-19 cases among healthcare workers in a tertiary care centre in North Kerala. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:1118-1124. [PMID: 37636199 PMCID: PMC10451569 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1725_22] [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: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers (HCWs) were the most vulnerable group during COVID-19 pandemic and had faced many challenges including high rate of breakthrough infections. Aims To study the incidence of reported breakthrough infections among HCWs in Government Medical College, Kozhikode and to compare profile of COVID-19 infection between fully vaccinated and unvaccinated COVID-19 positive HCWs. Settings and Design The research was conducted as a prospective study for a duration of 78 weeks from 1st of March 2020 through 31st of August 2021 in Government Medical College, Kozhikode. Methods and Material The study was conducted among HCWs in a COVID-19 tertiary care institute. Real-time data were collected from 401 breakthrough cases and 390 unvaccinated COVID-19 positive HCWs through telephonic interviews. Statistical Analysis Used Univariate analysis was done using frequency for categorical variables and mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables. Chi-square test was used to find out statistical significance. Results Incidence of breakthrough infection was found to be 5.62% with 43.3% being asymptomatic. Fever was the most predominant symptom (62.5%). None of the breakthrough cases developed complication requiring intensive care (ICU). There was a reduction in incidence of acute post-COVID-19 syndrome in vaccinated group (17.45%) compared to unvaccinated group (57.2%). Conclusions COVID-19 vaccination plays a key role in preventing severity, complication, and ICU admissions in COVID-19 infection. Incidence of post-COVID-19 syndrome is also less among fully vaccinated compared to unvaccinated individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- RS Rajasi
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Priya Chandran
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - CP Sivakumar
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Biju George
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - D Amrutha
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Milu Elizabeth
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Ardra M George
- Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
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25
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Asriadi, Mutiarin D. Comparison of Achievements in the Implementation of COVID-19 Vaccination in Five Provinces to Establish Herd Immunity in Indonesia in the Perspective of the New Public Service. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:318-330. [PMID: 37204316 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0136] [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] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the achievements of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in five provinces in Indonesia, North Maluku, West Sulawesi, Maluku, West Papua, and Papua. Furthermore, to establish herd immunity in the new normal perspective. Vaccination is important because it is an effective way to build immunity. This method uses qualitative research with a Qualitative Data Analysis Software (QDAS) approach. The source of data was obtained from the official website of the government, the ministry of health, in the category of areas with low vaccination achievement, and data were also obtained by capturing news in credible official media to find the cause of the low vaccination rate in the community. The data analyst uses NVivo12 software to code and visualizes data in graphs, images, and word clouds. The findings of this study indicate that in five provinces in Indonesia, North Maluku (68%), West Sulawesi (76%), Maluku (66%), West Papua (62%), and Papua (41%), the achievement of vaccination implementation is still relatively low. Due to doubts in the community about the status of the vaccine, information and communication education from the government have not been optimal; the environment and geography vary, so it becomes an obstacle in carrying out vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asriadi
- Government Affairs and Administration, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dyah Mutiarin
- Government Affairs and Administration, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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26
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Nsubuga EJ, Fitzmaurice AG, Komakech A, Odoi TD, Kadobera D, Bulage L, Kwesiga B, Elyanu PJ, Ario AR, Harris JR. Community dialogue meetings among district leaders improved their willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccines in Western Uganda, May 2021. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:969. [PMID: 37237258 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15903-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Widespread COVID-19 vaccine uptake can facilitate epidemic control. A February 2021 study in Uganda suggested that public vaccine uptake would follow uptake among leaders. In May 2021, Baylor Uganda led community dialogue meetings with district leaders from Western Uganda to promote vaccine uptake. We assessed the effect of these meetings on the leaders' COVID-19 risk perception, vaccine concerns, perception of vaccine benefits and access, and willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine. METHODS All departmental district leaders in the 17 districts in Western Uganda, were invited to the meetings, which lasted approximately four hours. Printed reference materials about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines were provided to attendees at the start of the meetings. The same topics were discussed in all meetings. Before and after the meetings, leaders completed self-administered questionnaires with questions on a five-point Likert Scale about risk perception, vaccine concerns, perceived vaccine benefits, vaccine access, and willingness to receive the vaccine. We analyzed the findings using Wilcoxon's signed-rank test. RESULTS Among 268 attendees, 164 (61%) completed the pre- and post-meeting questionnaires, 56 (21%) declined to complete the questionnaires due to time constraints and 48 (18%) were already vaccinated. Among the 164, the median COVID-19 risk perception scores changed from 3 (neutral) pre-meeting to 5 (strong agreement with being at high risk) post-meeting (p < 0.001). Vaccine concern scores reduced, with medians changing from 4 (worried about vaccine side effects) pre-meeting to 2 (not worried) post-meeting (p < 0.001). Median scores regarding perceived COVID-19 vaccine benefits changed from 3 (neutral) pre-meeting to 5 (very beneficial) post-meeting (p < 0.001). The median scores for perceived vaccine access increased from 3 (neutral) pre-meeting to 5 (very accessible) post-meeting (p < 0.001). The median scores for willingness to receive the vaccine changed from 3 (neutral) pre-meeting to 5 (strong willingness) post-meeting (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION COVID-19 dialogue meetings led to district leaders' increased risk perception, reduced concerns, and improvement in perceived vaccine benefits, vaccine access, and willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. These could potentially influence public vaccine uptake if leaders are vaccinated publicly as a result. Broader use of such meetings with leaders could increase vaccine uptake among themselves and the community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Allan Komakech
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Dias Odoi
- Baylor College of Medicine Children's Foundation, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Daniel Kadobera
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda National Institute of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lilian Bulage
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda National Institute of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benon Kwesiga
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda National Institute of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Alex Riolexus Ario
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda National Institute of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Julie R Harris
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kampala, Uganda
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27
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Nabia S, Wonodi CB, Vilajeliu A, Sussman S, Olson K, Cooke R, Udayakumar K, Twose C, Ezeanya N, Adefarrell AA, Lindstrand A. Experiences, Enablers, and Challenges in Service Delivery and Integration of COVID-19 Vaccines: A Rapid Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:974. [PMID: 37243078 PMCID: PMC10222130 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 vaccination is a crucial public health intervention for controlling the spread and severity of the SARS-CoV2 virus. COVID-19 vaccines have been developed in record time, but their deployment has varied across countries, owing to differences in health system capacity, demand for the vaccine, and purchasing power of countries. The aim of this rapid review is to summarize and synthesize experiences on COVID-19 vaccine service delivery and integration to inform future COVID-19 vaccination programming and contribute to the knowledge base for future pandemic management. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Global Index Medicus databases. Twenty-five studies were included in the analysis. Included studies spanned nine countries where COVID-19 vaccines were delivered through mass, mobile, and fixed-post vaccination service delivery models. There was limited evidence of integrating COVID-19 vaccines into routine services for pregnant women, people who inject drugs, and leveraging existing health programs to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to the general population. Common challenges reported were vaccine skepticism, lack of adequate health workers, and linguistic barriers to access. Partnerships with a variety of stakeholders and the involvement of volunteers were vital in overcoming barriers and contributed to the efficient functioning of COVID-19 vaccination programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nabia
- USAID’s MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership, International Vaccine Access Center (IVAC), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA;
| | - Chizoba Barbara Wonodi
- USAID’s MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership, International Vaccine Access Center (IVAC), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA;
| | - Alba Vilajeliu
- Department of Immunization, Vaccines & Biologicals (IVB), World Health Organization, WHO, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (A.V.); (A.L.)
| | - Sabine Sussman
- Duke-Robert J. Margolis, MD, Center for Health Policy, Washington, DC 20004, USA;
| | - Katharine Olson
- Duke Global Health Innovation Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; (K.O.); (R.C.); (K.U.)
| | - Rianna Cooke
- Duke Global Health Innovation Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; (K.O.); (R.C.); (K.U.)
| | - Krishna Udayakumar
- Duke Global Health Innovation Center, Durham, NC 27701, USA; (K.O.); (R.C.); (K.U.)
| | - Claire Twose
- Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Nwamaka Ezeanya
- Direct Consulting and Logistics Limited, Abuja 901101, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria; (N.E.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Adewumi Adetola Adefarrell
- Direct Consulting and Logistics Limited, Abuja 901101, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria; (N.E.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Ann Lindstrand
- Department of Immunization, Vaccines & Biologicals (IVB), World Health Organization, WHO, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (A.V.); (A.L.)
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28
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Budhia DM, Jaiswal A, Prasad R, Yelne S, Wanjari MB. From Polio to COVID-19: Examining the Impact of Pandemics on Childhood Vaccination Programs. Cureus 2023; 15:e39460. [PMID: 37362480 PMCID: PMC10290216 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.39460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article aims to examine the impact of pandemics on childhood vaccination programs, specifically looking at the examples of polio and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The article provides a comprehensive overview of the history of polio vaccination programs, including the challenges of eradicating the disease and the barriers to vaccine uptake. The article also looks at the global efforts to eradicate polio, such as the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, and the progress made in reducing the number of polio cases worldwide. The article reviews the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on childhood vaccination programs and how the pandemic has disrupted routine vaccination services. Lockdowns and travel restrictions have contributed to this, which has reduced access to medical facilities and vaccine uptake. The article also explores how the prioritization of COVID-19 vaccines has led to a diversion of resources away from routine childhood immunization programs. The article highlights the need to address these challenges to prevent a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases. Furthermore, the article discusses the lessons learned from these pandemics, such as the importance of global collaboration, vaccine equity, addressing vaccine hesitancy, pandemic preparedness, and embracing technology. The article emphasizes the need to prioritize vaccine equity and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to vaccines. Additionally, the article stresses the importance of addressing vaccine hesitancy and providing effective communication and education about vaccines. The article also advocates for pandemic preparedness, emphasizing the need to invest in research and development of vaccines for emerging infectious diseases. Finally, the article suggests embracing technology as a means to improve vaccine accessibility and distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyansh M Budhia
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Arpita Jaiswal
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Roshan Prasad
- Medicine and Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Seema Yelne
- Nursing, Shalinitai Meghe College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Mayur B Wanjari
- Research and Development, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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29
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Feng YX, Hu H, Wong YY, Yao X, He ML. Microneedles: An Emerging Vaccine Delivery Tool and a Prospective Solution to the Challenges of SARS-CoV-2 Mass Vaccination. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051349. [PMID: 37242591 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is an effective measure to prevent infectious diseases. Protective immunity is induced when the immune system is exposed to a vaccine formulation with appropriate immunogenicity. However, traditional injection vaccination is always accompanied by fear and severe pain. As an emerging vaccine delivery tool, microneedles overcome the problems associated with routine needle vaccination, which can effectively deliver vaccines rich in antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to the epidermis and dermis painlessly, inducing a strong immune response. In addition, microneedles have the advantages of avoiding cold chain storage and have the flexibility of self-operation, which can solve the logistics and delivery obstacles of vaccines, covering the vaccination of the special population more easily and conveniently. Examples include people in rural areas with restricted vaccine storage facilities and medical professionals, elderly and disabled people with limited mobility, infants and young children afraid of pain. Currently, in the late stage of fighting against COVID-19, the main task is to increase the coverage of vaccines, especially for special populations. To address this challenge, microneedle-based vaccines have great potential to increase global vaccination rates and save many lives. This review describes the current progress of microneedles as a vaccine delivery system and its prospects in achieving mass vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Xiu Feng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huan Hu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu-Yuen Wong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xi Yao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ming-Liang He
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- CityU Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518071, China
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30
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Gupta G, Mahor R, Pawar N, Gumashta R, Gumashta J. Program management challenges of clinical studies: A qualitative critical assessment. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:625-631. [PMID: 37312779 PMCID: PMC10259540 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1151_22] [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: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Organization, coordination, and discipline are required to complete any intricate operation, conducting a clinical experiment is no different. There are usually many moving components, from designing a plan, to conveying changes, to calculating risk, and excellent project management which are necessary to guarantee the study works successfully. Past evidence suggested that roadblock at any level hampers the progress of the clinical research. Understanding program management challenges hence becomes the key for timely and effective completion of clinical research. Methods A cross-sectional qualitative enquiry involving stakeholders in clinical research program management. We used problem tree-based approach wherein we documented views of various stakeholders to understand the interaction, interdependence, and related interventional needs of bottlenecks for long-term research gains using modern management methods applicable in clinical settings. The best fit approach was also explored to augment maximum benefit in limited resource settings. Results Non-alignment with state policy aims, a lack of effective coordination and communication among members, challenging logistic management, limited use of technology, a need for training, and an inefficient monitoring mechanism were among the major issues highlighted, and solutions were proposed. Conclusion Study concludes that an Integrated Process-cum-Timeline-Based Management strategy with multisectoral emphasis is ideal for program management of clinical projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girjesh Gupta
- Department of Community Medicine, PCMS and RC, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Rajendra Mahor
- Department of Community Medicine, PCMS and RC, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Neeraj Pawar
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, AIIMS Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Raghvendra Gumashta
- Department of Community Medicine, PCMS and RC, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
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31
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Albert CD. Epidemic intelligence studies: A research agenda for political scientists. Politics Life Sci 2023; 42:158-162. [PMID: 37140229 DOI: 10.1017/pls.2023.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This research letter introduces readers to health intelligence by conceptualizing critical components and providing a primer for research within political science broadly considered. Accordingly, a brief review of the literature is provided, concluding with possible future research agendas. The aim is to elaborate on the importance of public health intelligence to national security studies, and to political science more generally.
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32
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Yousaf I, Qureshi S, Qureshi F, Gubareva M. Connectedness of COVID vaccination with economic policy uncertainty, oil, bonds, and sectoral equity markets: evidence from the US. ANNALS OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH 2023:1-27. [PMID: 37361093 PMCID: PMC10032274 DOI: 10.1007/s10479-023-05267-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
We examine the connectedness of the COVID vaccination with the economic policy uncertainty, oil, bonds, and sectoral equity markets in the US within time and frequency domain. The wavelet-based findings show the positive impact of COVID vaccination on the oil and sector indices over various frequency scales and periods. The vaccination is evidenced to lead the oil and sectoral equity markets. More specifically, we document strong connectedness of vaccinations with communication services, financials, health care, industrials, information technology (IT) and real estate equity sectors. However, weak interactions exist within the vaccination-IT-services and vaccination-utilities pairs. Moreover, the effect of vaccination on the Treasury bond index is negative, whereas the economic policy uncertainty shows an interchanging lead and lag relation with vaccination. It is further observed that the interrelation between vaccination and the corporate bond index is insignificant. Overall, the impact of vaccination on the sectoral equity markets and economic policy uncertainty is higher than on oil and corporate bond prices. The study offers several important implications for investors, government regulators, and policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Yousaf
- College of Business and Public Management, Wenzhou-Kean University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Saba Qureshi
- Institute of Business Administration, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan
| | - Fiza Qureshi
- Southampton Malaysia Business School, University of Southampton Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia
| | - Mariya Gubareva
- ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Miguel Lupi, 20, 1249-078 Lisbon, Portugal
- SOCIUS/CSG - Research in Social Sciences and Management, Rua Miguel Lupi, 20, 1249-078 Lisbon, Portugal
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33
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Hegde SJ, Mahmassani H, Smilowitz K. A two-regime analysis of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution process. JOURNAL OF HUMANITARIAN LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/jhlscm-10-2021-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework to evaluate and assess the performance of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution process that is sensitive to the unique supply-side and demand-side constraints exhibited in the US vaccine rollout.
Design/methodology/approach
A queuing framework that operates under two distinct regimes is formulated to analyze service rates that represent system capacity to vaccinate (under the first regime) and hesitancy-induced throughput (under the second regime). These supply- and hesitancy-constrained regimes form the focus of the present paper, as the former reflects the inherent ability of the nation in its various jurisdictions to mobilize, whereas the latter reflects a critical area for public policy to protect the population’s overall health and safety.
Findings
The two-regime framework analysis provides insights into the capacity to vaccinate and hesitancy-constrained demand, which is found to vary across the country primarily by politics and region. The framework also allows analysis of the end-to-end supply chain, where it is found that the ability to vaccinate was likely constrained by last-mile administration issues, rather than the capacity of the manufacturing and transportation steps of the supply chain.
Originality/value
This study presents a new framework to consider end-to-end supply chains as dynamic systems that exhibit different regimes because of unique supply- and demand-side characteristics and estimate rollout capacity and underlying determinants at the national, state and county levels.
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Zaczyński A, Hampel M, Piątkiewicz P, Nasiłowski J, Butkiewicz S, Religioni U, Barańska A, Herda J, Neumann-Podczaska A, Vaillancourt R, Merks P. The Course of COVID-19 among Unvaccinated Patients—Data from the National Hospital in Warsaw, Poland. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11030675. [PMID: 36992258 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Studies to date indicate the relatively high effectiveness of vaccinations in preventing severe COVID-19 symptoms. However, in Poland, 40% of the population remains unvaccinated. Objective. The objective of this study was to describe the natural history of COVID-19 in unvaccinated hospital patients in Warsaw, Poland. Material and methods. This study evaluated data from 50 adult patients from the National Hospital in Warsaw, Poland, in the period 26 November 2021 to 11 March 2022. None of these patients had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Results. Analysis showed that the average hospitalisation time for these unvaccinated COVID-19 patients was 13 days. Clinical deterioration was observed in 70% of these patients, 40% required the intensive care unit, and 34% subsequently died prior to the end of the study. Conclusions. There was a significant deterioration and high mortality rate in the unvaccinated patients. For this reason, it seems prudent to take measures to increase the vaccination coverage level of the population against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Zaczyński
- Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration in Warsaw, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Hampel
- Central Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Interior and Administration in Warsaw, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Piątkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Nasiłowski
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sławomir Butkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Religioni
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Barańska
- Department of Medical Informatics and Statistics with e-Health Lab, Medical University of Lublin, 20-124 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Herda
- Department of Medical Informatics and Statistics with e-Health Lab, Medical University of Lublin, 20-124 Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Regis Vaillancourt
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Merks
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
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de Sousa Neto AR, de Carvalho ARB, Ferreira da Silva MD, Rêgo Neta MM, Sena IVDO, Almeida RN, Filha FSSC, Lima e Silva LL, da Costa GR, Lira IMDS, Portela DMMC, Oliveira e Silva AT, Rabêlo CBDM, Valle ARMDC, Moura MEB, de Freitas DRJ. Bibliometric Analysis of Global Scientific Production on COVID-19 and Vaccines. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4796. [PMID: 36981704 PMCID: PMC10049169 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This bibliometric analysis aims to analyze the global scientific production of COVID-19 and vaccines. First, a search for scientific articles was performed using the advanced query in the Web of Science™ database, more precisely in its core collection, on 18 February 2023. Data from 7754 articles were analyzed using the Bibliometrix R package and the Biblioshiny application. The evaluated articles were published mainly in 2022 (60%). The scientific journals that published the most about COVID-19 and vaccines were "Vaccines", "Vaccine" and "Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics". The University of Oxford was the most productive institution, with the authors of the articles mainly originating from the United States, China and the United Kingdom. The United States, despite having carried out the most significant number of collaborations, published mainly with local researchers. The 15 most cited articles and the KeyWords Plus™ evidenced the focus of the published articles on the safety and efficacy of vaccines against COVID-19, as well as on the evaluation of vaccine acceptance, more specifically on vaccine hesitancy. Research funding came primarily from US government agencies.
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Bakare AA, Olojede OE, King C, Graham H, Uchendu O, Colbourn T, Falade AG, Alvesson HM. Care seeking for under-five children and vaccine perceptions during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos State, Nigeria: a qualitative exploratory study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069294. [PMID: 36882237 PMCID: PMC10008198 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore healthcare seeking practices for children and the context-specific direct and indirect effects of public health interventions during the first two waves of COVID-19 in Lagos State, Nigeria. We also explored decision-making around vaccine acceptance at the start of COVID-19 vaccine roll-out in Nigeria. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A qualitative explorative study involving 19 semistructured interviews with healthcare providers from public and private primary health facilities and 32 interviews with caregivers of under-five children in Lagos from December 2020 to March 2021. Participants were purposively selected from healthcare facilities to include community health workers, nurses and doctors, and interviews were conducted in quiet locations at facilities. A data-driven reflexive thematic analysis according to Braun and Clark was conducted. FINDINGS Two themes were developed: appropriating COVID-19 in belief systems, and ambiguity about COVID-19 preventive measures. The interpretation of COVID-19 ranged from fearful to considering it as a 'scam' or 'falsification from the government'. Underlying distrust in government fuelled COVID-19 misperceptions. Care seeking for children under five was affected, as facilities were seen as contagious places for COVID-19. Caregivers resorted to alternative care and self-management of childhood illnesses. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was a major concern among healthcare providers compared with community members at the time of vaccine roll-out in Lagos, Nigeria. Indirect impacts of COVID-19 lockdown included diminished household income, worsening food insecurity, mental health challenges for caregivers and reduced clinic visits for immunisation. CONCLUSION The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos was associated with reductions in care seeking for children, clinic attendance for childhood immunisations and household income. Strengthening health and social support systems with context-specific interventions and correcting misinformation is crucial to building adaptive capacity for response to future pandemics. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12621001071819.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayobami Adebayo Bakare
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Community Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Omotayo E Olojede
- Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Carina King
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hamish Graham
- Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Centre for International Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Obioma Uchendu
- Department of Community Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Ibadan College of Medicine, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Tim Colbourn
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Adegoke G Falade
- Department of Paediatrics, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Ibadan College of Medicine, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Engebretsen E, Baker M. Health Preparedness and Narrative Rationality: A Call for Narrative Preparedness. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7532. [PMID: 37579420 PMCID: PMC10461864 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7532] [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: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This conceptual paper argues the need for narrative preparedness, understood as the ability to engage and empathize with peoples' stories and the values they encode, assess them based on the universe in which people live, and acknowledge the narrative rationality of each story - even when it conflicts with the rationality of science. Expanding 'health preparedness' to encompass 'narrative preparedness' complements the ideals of patient centeredness, which are sometimes betrayed when implemented into concrete decisions because the rationality of science that underpins medical practice fails to make sense of patients' stories. We outline the central tenets of narrative preparedness and demonstrate its relevance by discussing various responses to mainstream discourses on COVID-19 as a case in point. We discuss and further develop Fisher's narrative paradigm, which provides a model that complements traditional, scientific rationality with attention to narrative rationality and a radical democratic ground for health political critique. Applying the narrative paradigm to authentic examples of vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccination demonstrates how closer attention to the way narratives are assessed by different constituencies might help us mitigate some of the sources of resistance and misunderstanding that continue to plague public communication about important medical issues such as pandemics. Health authorities must acknowledge and engage with the stories people believe in and their reasons for doing so. The crucial question for the success of health policy interventions is not only 'what are the facts' but 'how do these facts make sense to people, and why.' To be prepared for the next pandemic, health professionals must learn to engage with people's stories and the processes by which they come to be understood and assessed differently by various constituencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eivind Engebretsen
- Centre for Sustainable Healthcare Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Mattzela K, White CJ, Francis LA. Mobilizing the Community to Implement Mass Coronavirus Disease-2019 Vaccination Clinics: The Power of Free and Charitable Clinics. Nurs Clin North Am 2023; 58:11-23. [PMID: 36731956 PMCID: PMC9579184 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A free and charitable clinic successfully designed and implemented mass COVID-19 vaccination clinics in a semirural area in Central Pennsylvania. A total of 172 clinics were offered, approximately 500 volunteers were mobilized, and approximately 45,000 vaccine doses were administered. Partnering with local schools, universities, and recreation centers to offer mass vaccination clinics made it possible to expand the clinic's reach beyond its own patients. Findings provide evidence for the capacity of small community clinics to respond to major public health emergencies, such as a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi Mattzela
- Centre Volunteers in Medicine, State College, 2520 Green Tech Drive, Suite D, State College, PA 16803, USA
| | - Cheryl Jo White
- Centre Volunteers in Medicine, State College, 2520 Green Tech Drive, Suite D, State College, PA 16803, USA
| | - Lori A. Francis
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, 219 Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA,Corresponding author
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Omotuyi O, Olatunji OM, Nash O, Oyinloye B, Soremekun O, Ijagbuji A, Fatumo S. Benzimidazole compound abrogates SARS-COV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD)/ACE2 interaction In vitro. Microb Pathog 2023; 176:105994. [PMID: 36682669 PMCID: PMC9851952 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.105994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The development of clinically actionable pharmaceuticals against coronavirus disease (COVID-19); an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus is very important for ending the pandemic. Coronavirus spike glycoprotein (GP)-Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) and its interaction with host receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is one of the most structurally understood but therapeutically untapped aspect of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Binding interface based on previous x-ray structure of RBD/ACE2 were virtually screened to identify fragments with high-binding score from 12,000 chemical building blocks. The hit compound was subjected to fingerprint-based similarity search to identify compounds within the FDA-approved drug library containing the same core scaffold. Identified compounds were then re-docked into of RBD/ACE2. The best ranked compound was validated for RBD/ACE2 inhibition using commercial kit. Molecular dynamics simulation was conducted to provide further insight into the mechanism of inhibition. From the original 12000 chemical building blocks, benzimidazole (BAZ) scaffold was identified. Fingerprint-based similarity search of the FDA-approved drug library for BAZ-containing compounds identified 12 drugs with the benzimidazole-like substructure. When these compounds were re-docked into GP/ACE2 interface, the consensus docking identified bazedoxifene as the hit. In vitro RBD/ACE2 inhibition kinetics showed micromolar IC50 value (1.237 μM) in the presence of bazedoxifene. Molecular dynamics simulation of RBD/ACE2 in the presence BAZ resulted in loss of contact and specific hydrogen-bond interaction required for RBD/ACE2 stability. Taken together, these findings identified benzimidazole scaffold as a building block for developing novel RBD/ACE2 complex inhibitor and provided mechanistic basis for the use of bazedoxifene as a repurposable drug for the treatment of COVID-19 acting at RBD/ACE2 interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaposi Omotuyi
- Institute for Drug Research and Development, S.E. Bogoro Center, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria; Bio-Computing & Drug Research Unit, Mols and Sims, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
| | - Olusina M Olatunji
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Oyekanmi Nash
- Center for Genomics Research and Innovation, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, PMB 5118, Nigeria
| | - Babatunji Oyinloye
- Institute for Drug Research and Development, S.E. Bogoro Center, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria; Phytomedicine, Biochemical Toxicology and Biotechnology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, Afe Babalola University, PMB 5454, Ado-Ekiti, 360001, Nigeria; Biotechnology and Structural Biology (BSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, Kwa-Dlangezwa, 3886, South Africa
| | - Opeyemi Soremekun
- The African Computational Genomics (TACG) Research Group, MRC/UVRI, and LSHTM, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ayodeji Ijagbuji
- Pharmaceutics International, Inc. Hunt Valley, Maryland, United States
| | - Segun Fatumo
- The African Computational Genomics (TACG) Research Group, MRC/UVRI, and LSHTM, Entebbe, Uganda; H3Africa Bioinformatics Network (H3ABioNet) Node, Centre for Genomics Research and Innovation, NABDA/FMST, Abuja, Nigeria; Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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40
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Chen YT. Effect of vaccination patterns and vaccination rates on the spread and mortality of the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH POLICY AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 12:100699. [PMID: 36415885 PMCID: PMC9673057 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlpt.2022.100699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Acquiring herd immunity through vaccination is the best way to curb the COVID-19 infection. Many countries have attempted to reach the herd immunity threshold as early as possible since the commencement of vaccination at the end of 2020. The purpose of this study is to (1) examine whether the pattern of vaccination rates affects the spread of COVID-19 and the consequent mortality and (2) investigate the level of cumulative vaccination rates that can begin to have an impact on reducing the spread and mortality of the pandemic. Methods This study selected 33 countries with higher vaccination rates as its sample set, classifying them into three groups as per vaccination patterns. Results The results showed that vaccination patterns have a significant impact on reducing spread and mortality. The full-speed vaccination pattern showed greater improvement in the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic than the other two patterns, while the striving vaccination pattern improved the most in terms of mortality. Secondly, the spread and mortality of the COVID pandemic started to significantly decline when the average cumulative vaccination rate reached 29.06 doses per 100 people and 7.88 doses per 100 people, respectively. Conclusion The study highlights the important role of vaccination patterns and the VTMR in reducing the epidemic spread and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tui Chen
- Department of Health Care Management, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, No.365, Ming-te Road, Peitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Education and Research, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
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Fialho BC, Gauss L, Soares PF, Medeiros MZ, Lacerda DP. Vaccine Innovation Meta-Model for Pandemic Contexts. J Pharm Innov 2023; 18:1-49. [PMID: 36818394 PMCID: PMC9924881 DOI: 10.1007/s12247-023-09708-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Over the past decade, successive outbreaks and epidemics of infectious diseases have challenged the emergency preparedness and response systems of global public health institutions, a context in which vaccines have become the centerpiece to strengthening global health security. Nevertheless, vaccine research and development (R&D) is a complex, lengthy, risky, uncertain, and expensive process. Alongside strict, time-consuming regulatory compliance, it takes multiple candidates and many years to register a new vaccine. This is certainly not welcome in a global health crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aims to understand the R&D paradigm shift in pandemic contexts and its impacts on the value chain of vaccine innovation. Methods To that end, this paper carried out a systematic literature review and meta-synthesis of 27 articles and reports (2011-2021) that addressed vaccine R&D in contexts of global health threats, disease outbreaks, epidemics, or pandemics. Results The research findings are synthesized in a meta-model, which describes a fast-track R&D for pandemic contexts, its driving forces, innovations, mechanisms, and impacts in the value chain of vaccine innovation. Conclusions The study demonstrates that, in pandemic contexts, a fast-track R&D process based on close collaboration among regulators, industry, and academia and leveraging enabling technologies can drastically reduce the time required to bring safe, stable, and effective vaccines to market by an average of 11 years compared to the traditional R&D process. Furthermore, pharmacovigilance and rigorous monitoring of real-world evidence became critical to ensuring that quality and safe products were authorized for use during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz C. Fialho
- Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz Immunobiological Technology Institute, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Leandro Gauss
- Production and Systems Engineering Graduate Program, Unisinos, São Leopoldo, RS Brazil
| | - Priscila F. Soares
- Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz Immunobiological Technology Institute, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Maurício Z. Medeiros
- Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz Immunobiological Technology Institute, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Daniel P. Lacerda
- Production and Systems Engineering Graduate Program, Unisinos, São Leopoldo, RS Brazil
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Sanchez T, Mavragani A, Gilcrease W, Macciotta A, Saugo C, Manfredi L, Gnavi R, Strippoli E, Zengarini N, Caramello V, Costa G, Sacerdote C, Ricceri F. Multimorbidity and SARS-CoV-2-Related Outcomes: Analysis of a Cohort of Italian Patients. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e41404. [PMID: 36626821 PMCID: PMC9951075 DOI: 10.2196/41404] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying the main risk factors has been imperative to properly manage the public health challenges that the pandemic exposes, such as organizing effective vaccination campaigns. In addition to gender and age, multimorbidity seems to be 1 of the predisposing factors coming out of many studies investigating the possible causes of increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and adverse outcomes. However, only a few studies conducted have used large samples. OBJECTIVE The objective is to evaluate the association between multimorbidity, the probability to be tested, susceptibility, and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Piedmont population (Northern Italy, about 4 million inhabitants). For this purpose, we considered 5 main outcomes: access to the swab, positivity to SARS-CoV-2, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death within 30 days from the first positive swab. METHODS Data were obtained from different Piedmont health administrative databases. Subjects aged from 45 to 74 years and infections diagnosed from February to May 2020 were considered. Multimorbidity was defined both with the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and by identifying patients with previous comorbidities, such as diabetes and oncological, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. Multivariable logistic regression models (adjusted for age and month of infection and stratified by gender) were performed for each outcome. Analyses were also conducted by separating 2 age groups (45-59 and 60-74 years). RESULTS Of 1,918,549 subjects, 85,348 (4.4%) performed at least 1 swab, of whom 12,793 (14.9%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Of these 12,793 subjects, 4644 (36.3%) were hospitalized, 1508 (11.8%) were admitted to the ICU, and 749 (5.9%) died within 30 days from the first positive swab. Individuals with a higher CCI had a higher probability of being swabbed but a lower probability of testing positive. We observed the same results when analyzing subjects with previous oncological and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, especially in the youngest group, we identified a greater risk of being hospitalized and dying. Among comorbidities considered in the study, respiratory diseases seemed to be the most likely to increase the risk of having a positive swab and worse disease outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that patients with multimorbidity, although swabbed more frequently, are less likely to get infected with SARS-CoV-2, probably due to greater attention on protective methods. Moreover, a history of respiratory diseases is a risk factor for a worse prognosis of COVID-19. Nonetheless, whatever comorbidities affect the patients, a strong dose-response effect was observed between an increased CCI score and COVID-19 hospitalization, ICU admission, and death. These results are important in terms of public health because they help in identifying a group of subjects who are more prone to worse SARS-CoV-2 outcomes. This information is important for promoting targeted prevention and developing policies for the prioritization of public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Winston Gilcrease
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy.,UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Development and Territory Management, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Macciotta
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Carlo Saugo
- Klinik für Innere Medizin - Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie & Infektiologie, Helios Klinikum Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | - Luca Manfredi
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Roberto Gnavi
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASLTO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Elena Strippoli
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASLTO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Nicolás Zengarini
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASLTO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Valeria Caramello
- Emergency Department and High Dependency Unit, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Costa
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy.,Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASLTO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Carlotta Sacerdote
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Fulvio Ricceri
- Centre for Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano (TO), Italy.,Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASLTO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
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Hunt LS, Sullivan EE, Susa J, Chaufournier R, Joseph C, Phillips RS, Meisinger K. Using Rapid-Cycle Change to Improve COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy in Primary Care. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2902. [PMID: 36833600 PMCID: PMC9957472 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation and distrust exacerbated disparities in vaccination rates by race and ethnicity throughout the United States. Primary care, public health systems, and community health centers have shifted their vaccination outreach strategies toward these disparate, unvaccinated populations. To support primary care, we developed the SAVE Sprint model for implementing rapid-cycle change to improve vaccination rates by overcoming community outreach barriers and workforce limitations. Participants were recruited for the 10-week SAVE Sprint program through partnerships with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) and the Resilient American Communities (RAC) Initiative. The majority of the participants were from community health centers. Data were evaluated during the program through progress reports and surveys, and interviews conducted three months post-intervention were recorded, coded, and analyzed. The SAVE Sprint model of rapid-cycle change exceeded participants' expectations and led to improvements in patient education and vaccination among their vulnerable populations. Participants reported building new skills and identifying strategies for targeting specific populations during a public health emergency. However, participants reported that planning for rapid-pace change and trust-building with community partners prior to a health care crisis is preferable and would make navigating an emergency easier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay S. Hunt
- Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, Dallas, TX 75214, USA
| | - Erin E. Sullivan
- Sawyer Business School, Suffolk University, Boston, MA 02108, USA
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jordan Susa
- Sawyer Business School, Suffolk University, Boston, MA 02108, USA
| | | | | | - Russell S. Phillips
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kirsten Meisinger
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA 02143, USA
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Alamoodi AH, Zaidan BB, Albahri OS, Garfan S, Ahmaro IYY, Mohammed RT, Zaidan AA, Ismail AR, Albahri AS, Momani F, Al-Samarraay MS, Jasim AN, R.Q.Malik. Systematic review of MCDM approach applied to the medical case studies of COVID-19: trends, bibliographic analysis, challenges, motivations, recommendations, and future directions. COMPLEX INTELL SYST 2023; 9:1-27. [PMID: 36777815 PMCID: PMC9895977 DOI: 10.1007/s40747-023-00972-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
When COVID-19 spread in China in December 2019, thousands of studies have focused on this pandemic. Each presents a unique perspective that reflects the pandemic's main scientific disciplines. For example, social scientists are concerned with reducing the psychological impact on the human mental state especially during lockdown periods. Computer scientists focus on establishing fast and accurate computerized tools to assist in diagnosing, preventing, and recovering from the disease. Medical scientists and doctors, or the frontliners, are the main heroes who received, treated, and worked with the millions of cases at the expense of their own health. Some of them have continued to work even at the expense of their lives. All these studies enforce the multidisciplinary work where scientists from different academic disciplines (social, environmental, technological, etc.) join forces to produce research for beneficial outcomes during the crisis. One of the many branches is computer science along with its various technologies, including artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, big data, decision support systems (DSS), and many more. Among the most notable DSS utilization is those related to multicriterion decision making (MCDM), which is applied in various applications and across many contexts, including business, social, technological and medical. Owing to its importance in developing proper decision regimens and prevention strategies with precise judgment, it is deemed a noteworthy topic of extensive exploration, especially in the context of COVID-19-related medical applications. The present study is a comprehensive review of COVID-19-related medical case studies with MCDM using a systematic review protocol. PRISMA methodology is utilized to obtain a final set of (n = 35) articles from four major scientific databases (ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Web of Science). The final set of articles is categorized into taxonomy comprising five groups: (1) diagnosis (n = 6), (2) safety (n = 11), (3) hospital (n = 8), (4) treatment (n = 4), and (5) review (n = 3). A bibliographic analysis is also presented on the basis of annual scientific production, country scientific production, co-occurrence, and co-authorship. A comprehensive discussion is also presented to discuss the main challenges, motivations, and recommendations in using MCDM research in COVID-19-related medial case studies. Lastly, we identify critical research gaps with their corresponding solutions and detailed methodologies to serve as a guide for future directions. In conclusion, MCDM can be utilized in the medical field effectively to optimize the resources and make the best choices particularly during pandemics and natural disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. H. Alamoodi
- Faculty of Computing and Meta-Technology (FKMT), Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Perak, Malaysia
| | - B. B. Zaidan
- Future Technology Research Center, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, 123 University Road, Section 3, Douliu, Yunlin 64002 Taiwan, ROC
| | - O. S. Albahri
- Computer Techniques Engineering Department, Mazaya University College, Nasiriyah, Iraq
| | - Salem Garfan
- Department of Computing, Faculty of Arts, Computing and Creative Industry, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Tanjung Malim, Malaysia
| | - Ibraheem Y. Y. Ahmaro
- Computer Science Department, College of Information Technology, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
| | - R. T. Mohammed
- Department of Computing Science, Komar University of Science and Technology (KUST), Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - A. A. Zaidan
- SP Jain School of Global Management, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amelia Ritahani Ismail
- Department of Computer Science, Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - A. S. Albahri
- Iraqi Commission for Computers and Informatics (ICCI), Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Fayiz Momani
- E-Business and Commerce Department, Faculty of Administrative and Financial Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, 961343 Jordan
| | - Mohammed S. Al-Samarraay
- Department of Computing, Faculty of Arts, Computing and Creative Industry, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Tanjung Malim, Malaysia
| | | | - R.Q.Malik
- Medical Intrumentation Techniques Engineering Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Iraq
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Zaufishan Z, Usman M, Fishan Mumtaz K, Bilal R, Arshad A, Khan HM. Safety, effectiveness and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccination in children: A cross-sectional study in Pakistan. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1084017. [PMID: 36733278 PMCID: PMC9886880 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1084017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The elevated risk of serious complications like myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination, especially in adolescent has been reported in some instances that need to be tested in regional populations and different ethnicity groups. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the side effects, hesitancy, and effectiveness outcomes following COVID-19 vaccination among children in Pakistan. Methods The study was planned using a cross-sectional design and data from Children and Adolescents (CA) was collected through a convenient sampling method using a validated questionnaire between February to July 2022. A total of 1,108 CA between the age of 12-18 years who received one or two doses of vaccine were selected and data were collected through direct interviews with respondents. Results The results showed that among 99.8% of respondents who received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, 72.3% of respondents were partially vaccinated (with one dose) while 27.7% were fully vaccinated (with two doses). COVID vaccination regime had a favorable safety profile in children as compared to adults. Vaccine hesitancy in children was reported to be 52.4% and the most common reasons for hesitance were the assumption that the vaccine is not safe (23.7%), the vaccine is not required (19.6%) and the vaccine is not effective (10.4%). The reported side effects were mainly mild (88.5%) followed by moderate (10.6%) and only 0.8% were of severe intensity. Post-vaccination local side effects of mild intensity were common with an onset of an average of 24 h (68%) and a duration of 2-3 days (60.6%). The reported side effects were significantly associated with gender (p = 0.00) while age had no significant effect on the occurrence of side effects. Overall, the vaccine was well tolerated by children and adolescents and was effective in preventing the reoccurrence of COVID-19 infection in 99.9% of participants. Conclusion COVID-19 vaccine by Pfizer approved by the FDA for use in CA 12-18 years of age was well tolerated with a good safety profile and no serious adverse drug reactions were reported. The vaccine side effects were mild (88.5%) and lasted for an average of 2-3 days only (60.4%). The vaccine was effective in safeguarding Children against COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaufishan Zaufishan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Pharmacy, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Khandah Fishan Mumtaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Continental Medical College/ Hayat Memorial Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Rabiea Bilal
- CMH Lahore Medical College and IOD, NUMS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Alina Arshad
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Pharmacy, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Humaira Majeed Khan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Pharmacy, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan,*Correspondence: Humaira Majeed Khan ✉
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Promoting COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance through Community Engagement: An Ethnographic Study in Ghana. ADVANCES IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/3626862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. To successfully manage COVID-19 and to meet the target of vaccinating 22.9 million people in Ghana, the government has adopted community engagement as one of the strategies. Yet, the Volta Region continues to record the lowest rate of vaccine acceptance in Ghana. This study explored how government institutions engaged communities on COVID-19 vaccine preparedness and acceptance in two administrative municipalities in Ghana. Methods. This qualitative study employed face-to-face in-depth interviews among thirty-six respondents comprising of government officials and community leaders and ten focus group discussions among 87 people made up of men and women most of whom were natives and some migrants in two administrative municipalities in Ghana. Data were collected from June to September 2021. Audio interviews were transcribed and uploaded to Nvivo 12 to support triangulation, coding, and thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the requisite authority, and all COVID-19 restrictions were observed. Results. Government institutions focused on informing communities of vaccines and vaccination with little input from the communities. The Ghana Health Service carried out the most extensive engagement because they had more decentralized institutions. Successful engagement activities resulted in vaccine acceptance among some community members. Challenges in community engagement included insufficient logistics and myths and misconceptions about vaccines, which accounted for some community members’ lack of trust in vaccines, resulting in their unwillingness to vaccinate. Government officials used innovative approaches such as comparing the safety of COVID-19 vaccines to vaccines designed for children under the age of five years to deal with misinformation. Conclusion. Government needs to provide more resources to institutions that are mandated to carry out engagement activities to enable them carry out their tasks. It is further recommended that government institutions should intensify community engagement in distant communities to support the country to meet the target.
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Taghioff SM, Slavin BR, Mehra S, Holton T, Singh D. The impact of influenza vaccination on surgical outcomes in COVID-19 positive patients: An analysis of 43,580 patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281990. [PMID: 36897891 PMCID: PMC10004617 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple recent studies suggest a possible protective effect of the influenza vaccine against severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This effect has yet to be evaluated in surgical patients. This study utilizes a continuously updated federated electronic medical record (EMR) network (TriNetX, Cambridge, MA) to analyze the influence of the influenza vaccine against post-operative complications in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients. METHODS The de-identified records of 73,341,020 patients globally were retrospectively screened. Two balanced cohorts totaling 43,580 surgical patients were assessed from January 2020-January 2021. Cohort One received the influenza vaccine six months-two weeks prior to SARS-CoV-2-positive diagnosis, while Cohort Two did not. Post-operative complications within 30, 60, 90, and 120 days of undergoing surgery were analyzed using common procedural terminology(CPT) codes. Outcomes were propensity score matched for characteristics including age, race, gender, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2-positive patients receiving the influenza vaccine experienced significantly decreased risks of sepsis, deep vein thrombosis, dehiscence, acute myocardial infarction, surgical site infections, and death across multiple time points(p<0.05, Bonferroni Correction p = 0.0011). Number needed to vaccinate (NNV) was calculated for all significant and nominally significant findings. CONCLUSION Our analysis examines the potential protective effect of influenza vaccination in SARS-CoV-2-positive surgical patients. Limitations include this study's retrospective nature and reliance on accuracy of medical coding. Future prospective studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M. Taghioff
- Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, Luminis Health-Anne Arundel Medical Center, Annapolis, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Benjamin R. Slavin
- Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shefali Mehra
- Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Tripp Holton
- Department of Surgery, Luminis Health-Anne Arundel Medical Center, Annapolis, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Devinder Singh
- Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Berdida DJE, Franco FMC, Santos XAG, Dacol CB, Dimaano M, Rosario ESD, Lantin CC. Filipinos' COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy comments in TikTok videos: A manifest content analysis. Public Health Nurs 2023; 40:135-143. [PMID: 36300833 PMCID: PMC9874770 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vaccine hesitancy is one of the top 10 threats to world health. The ongoing pandemic highlighted this health threat. The COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy remains underreported in the Philippines. Thus, this study aimed to describe and analyze the comments of Filipinos in TikTok videos about COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. DESIGN Manifest content analysis. SAMPLE A total of 25 TikTok videos and their comments (n = 4564) were analyzed. METHODS We collected data between July 2021 and October 2021. Bengtsson's approach to content analysis was utilized to analyze the data. Data were validated using member-checking and intercoder reliability. RESULTS This study afforded three themes of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: (a) fear and mistrust (subthemes: influence of Dengvaxia vaccine, the influence of people who refuse to be vaccinated, lack of trust in the government, lack of trust in healthcare workers, doubts on vaccines' effectiveness), (b) misinformation and disinformation (subthemes: misbeliefs, insufficient knowledge), and (c) adamant attitudes (subthemes: unwillingness to be vaccinated, picky on vaccine brand). CONCLUSION Our study established Filipinos' diverse reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. TikTok, as a social media platform, is used for COVID-19 vaccine discussions and the dissemination of misinformation. To prepare for the next pandemic or public health disaster, the government, HCWs, and the public must efficiently convey timely, accurate health information and dispel misinformation on social media platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Joseph E. Berdida
- College of NursingUniversity of Santo TomasManilaPhilippines,Department of NursingCollege of Health SciencesUniversidad de ManilaManilaPhilippines
| | | | | | - Camille B. Dacol
- Department of NursingCollege of Health SciencesUniversidad de ManilaManilaPhilippines
| | - Michaela Dimaano
- Department of NursingCollege of Health SciencesUniversidad de ManilaManilaPhilippines
| | - Erika S. Del Rosario
- Department of NursingCollege of Health SciencesUniversidad de ManilaManilaPhilippines
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Thaivalappil A, Young I, MacKay M, Pearl DL, Papadopoulos A. A qualitative study exploring healthcare providers’ and trainees’ barriers to COVID-19 and influenza vaccine uptake. Health Psychol Behav Med 2022; 10:695-712. [PMID: 35957955 PMCID: PMC9359157 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2022.2106231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vaccines are effective biological interventions which reduce health burdens and protect healthcare providers from vaccine-preventable diseases. However, there are concerns about varying levels of vaccination coverage of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines among those working in healthcare. The aim of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators to COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations among healthcare providers and trainees using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Methods Semi-structured interviews (n = 18) were carried out with healthcare providers and trainees in Canada. A thematic analysis approach was used to code interview transcripts and match findings to TDF domains and broader categories. Results Three overarching themes were generated from six TDF domains and three inductively generated categories: (1) making informed health decisions with an added responsibility to protect oneself and patients; (2) a pro-vaccine social network, widespread accessibility, and pursuing a sense of normalcy; and (3) seeking a more nuanced, respectful, and calculated approach to vaccine communication and policy implementation. Conclusion These findings help to identify factors associated with influenza and COVID-19 vaccine uptake among individuals in the healthcare field. Addressing these factors may improve healthcare provider sentiments surrounding vaccines, lead to better patient education, and increased uptake of vaccinations with the potential for seasonal booster doses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ian Young
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Melissa MacKay
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - David L. Pearl
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
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Kumar P, Bird C, Holland D, Joshi SB, Volkin DB. Current and next-generation formulation strategies for inactivated polio vaccines to lower costs, increase coverage, and facilitate polio eradication. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2154100. [PMID: 36576132 PMCID: PMC9891683 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2154100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Implementation of inactivated polio vaccines (IPV) containing Sabin strains (sIPV) will further enable global polio eradication efforts by improving vaccine safety during use and containment during manufacturing. Moreover, sIPV-containing vaccines will lower costs and expand production capacity to facilitate more widespread use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review focuses on the role of vaccine formulation in these efforts including traditional Salk IPV vaccines and new sIPV-containing dosage forms. The physicochemical properties and stability profiles of poliovirus antigens are described. Formulation approaches to lower costs include developing multidose and combination vaccine formats as well as improving storage stability. Formulation strategies for dose-sparing and enhanced mucosal immunity include employing adjuvants (e.g. aluminum-salt and newer adjuvants) and/or novel delivery systems (e.g. ID administration with microneedle patches). The potential for applying these low-cost formulation development strategies to other vaccines to further improve vaccine access and coverage in LMICs is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Christopher Bird
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - David Holland
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Sangeeta B. Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - David B. Volkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA,CONTACT David B. Volkin Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Multidisciplinary Research Building, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS66047, USA
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