Proporção de casos nosocomiais de COVID-19 no Brasil: análise de seus fatores associados em 1.631.47 registros de 2020 a 2022 / Proporción de casos nosocomiales de COVID-19 en Brasil: análisis de sus factores asociados en 1.631.47 registros de 2020 a 2022 / Proportionof nosocomial cases of COVID-19 in Brazil: analysisof1.631.47 case records from 2020 to 2022

Introdução: Infecções nosocomiais, adquiridas após a internação hospitalar, são o evento adverso mais comum que ameaça a saúde dos pacientes hospitalizados, sendo a pneumonia, incluindo a causada pelo SARS-Cov-2, responsável por mais de 80% das infecções nosocomiais. A pandemia declarada pela OMS em março de 2020 reflete o rápido aumento de casos, impulsionado pela disseminação do vírus através de gotículas e aerossóis. A transmissão nosocomial do SARS-Cov-2 foi observada desde o início do surto em Wuhan, representando um desafio adicional na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Estudos internacionais em hospitais reportam incidências de infecção nosocomial por COVID-19 entre 11% e 44%.Objetivo: Identificar a proporção de infecção nosocomial por SARS-COV-2 no Brasil entre março de 2020 até dezembro de 2022.Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo analítico, retrospectivo, de corte transversal, sobre a proporção de infecção nosocomial por Sars-Cov-2 no Brasil, através de dados secundários oriundos do Sistema de Informação da Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe. No presente estudo a variável dependente analisada foi a proporção de infecção nosocomial por Sars-cov-2. Como variáveis independentes exploratórias foram utilizadas: faixa etária, sexo, comorbidades e macrorregião de residência. Resultados: O estudo identificou uma proporção de casos nosocomiais de 2,58%, sendo maior no terceiro ano da pandemia 2022 (5,5%) na região Norte (7,57%), entre os indivíduos de 18-59 anos de idade (6,93%)Conclusões: Este estudo sobre casos nosocomiais de COVID-19 no Brasil revela uma proporção de 2,58% entre 2020 e 2022, com associações identificadas em relação à região, idade e comorbidades. Diferenças em relação a estudos internacionais sugerem questões metodológicas específicas. Essa pesquisa é de importância crítica, visto ser de abrangência nacional com grande amplitude, e estabelece uma base sólida para futuros estudos epidemiológicos (AU).

Introduction: Nosocomial infections, acquired after hospital admission, are the most common adverse events threatening patient health, with pneumonia, including that caused by SARS-CoV-2, responsible for over 80% of nosocomial infections. The pandemic declared by the WHO in March 2020 reflects the rapid rise in cases driven by the virus's spread through droplets and aerosols. Nosocomial transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has been observed since the outbreak's onset in Wuhan, posing an additional challenge to patient quality of life. International hospital studies report nosocomial COVID-19 infection rates between 11% and 44%. Objective: Identifying the proportion of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil between March 2020 and December 2022.Methodology:This is an analytical, retrospective, cross-sectional study on the proportion of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection in Brazil, using secondary data from the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System. In this study, the analyzed dependent variable was the proportionof nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection. The exploratory independent variables included: age group, gender, comorbidities, and macro-region of residence.Results:The study identified a proportion of nosocomial cases of 2.58%, with a higher proportion in the third year of the pandemic, 2022 (5.5%) in the North region (7.57%), among individuals aged 18-59 years (6.93%). Conclusions: This study on nosocomial cases of COVID-19 in Brazil reveals a proportion of 2.58% between 2020 and 2022, with associations identified regarding region, age, and comorbidities. Differences compared to international studies suggest specific methodological issues. This research is of critical importance, given its national scope and broad coverage, and establishes a solid foundation for future epidemiological studies (AU).

Introducción: Las infecciones nosocomiales, adquiridas tras la hospitalización, son el evento adverso más común que amenaza la salud de los pacientes hospitalizados, siendo la neumonía, incluida la causada por el SARS-Cov-2, la responsable de más del 80% de las infecciones. La pandemia declarada por la OMS en marzo de 2020 refleja el rápido aumento de casos, impulsado por la propagación del virus a través de gotitas y aerosoles. La transmisión nosocomial del SRAS-Cov-2 se ha observado desde el inicio del brote en Wuhan, lo que supone un reto adicional para la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Estudios internacionales realizados en hospitales informan de incidencias de infecciones nosocomiales por COVID-19 de entre el 11% y el 44%. Objetivo: Identificar la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV-2 en Brasil entre marzo de 2020 y diciembre de 2022. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio analítico, retrospectivo y transversal sobre la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV -2 en Brasil, utilizando datos secundarios del Sistema de Información de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de Influenza. La variable dependiente analizada fue la proporción de infección nosocomial por SARS-CoV-2. Como variables independientes exploratorias se utilizaron: grupo de edad, sexo, comorbilidades y macrorregión de residencia. Resultados:El estudio identificó una proporción de casos nosocomiales del 2,58%, siendo mayor en el tercer año de la pandemia de 2022 (5,5%) en la región Norte (7,57%), entre individuos de 18 a 59 años (6,93%). Conclusiones:Este estudio de casos de COVID-19 hospitalizados en Brasil revela una proporción de 2,58% entre 2020 y 2022, con asociaciones identificadas en relación a la región, edad y comorbilidades. Las disparidades en relación a estudios internacionales sugieren la presencia de cuestiones metodológicas específicas. Esta investigación es de extrema importancia para orientar estrategias preventivas y mejorar el control de las infecciones hospitalarias (AU).

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding COVID-19 skin manifestations among doctors working at Khartoum dermatology and venereology teaching Hospital, 2021

Background: COVID-19 is a global pandemic caused by SARS_COV2. The symptoms of covid-19 include: fever, dyspnea, fatigue, a recent loss of smell and taste, sore throat, cough, and cutaneous lesions. In addition, some skin manifestations were reported to be associated with COVID-19. Methods: The study design is a descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study. The study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and practice about skin manifestations of COVID-19 among doctors working at Khartoum dermatology and venereology teaching hospital. A self-administrated questionnaire was used for data collection after an informed consent was taken. Results: Among 140 doctors working in the dermatology and venereology teaching hospital, 75.7% of the doctors had knowledge that COVID-19 can present with skin manifestations. The study results showed that about half of the participants have poor knowledge about COVID-19 skin manifestations while 25% have no knowledge, and that 35 (25%) doctors have good knowledge. From a total of 140 doctors; 46.4% reported that when patients present with COVID-19 skin lesions, they will isolate them in separate rooms and call the epidemiology center, whereas, 61 doctors (43.6%) did not know if they have a protocol for COVID-19 suspected cases. This study reported a significant association between job category and level of knowledge toward COVID-19 skin manifestations measured by Chi-square test, the P-value was 0.003 (significant at 0.05), and the same significant association was found between the year of rotation and knowledge. Conclusion: Half of the doctors covered by this study had poor knowledge about COVID-19 skin manifestations, and therefore, educating doctors in dermatology hospitals about skin manifestations of COVID-19 is recommended, besides clear and precise guidelines and protocols for diagnosis and management.

Development, Histological, and Ultrastructural Evaluation of Sheep Hyperimmune Serum Therapy for COVID-19 / Desarrollo, Evaluación Histológica y Ultraestructural de la Terapia con Suero Hiperinmune de Oveja para COVID-19

SUMMARY: In response to the threat posed by new variants of SARS-CoV-2 and the urgent need for effective treatments in the absence of vaccines, the aim of this study was to develop a rapid and cost-effective hyperimmune serum (HS) derived from sheep and assess its efficacy. The utilization of a halal-certified, easily maintained in certain geographic regions, easy-to-handle animal such as sheep could provide a viable alternative to the expensive option of horses. Sheep were immunized with a whole inactivated SARS-CoV- 2 antigen to produce HS, which was evaluated for neutralizing potency using the PRNT50 assay. K18-hACE2 transgenic mice (n=35) were divided into three groups: control, SARS-CoV-2 exposure through inhalation, and SARS-CoV-2 exposed mice treated with HS. HS efficacy was assessed through serum proinflammatory cytokine levels, qRT-PCR analysis, histopathological examination of lungs and hearts, and transmission electron microscopy. Purified HS exhibited significant neutralizing activity (1/24,576). The SARS-CoV-2+HS group showed lower levels of TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-6 (P<0.01) and relatively lower levels of MCP-1 compared to the SARS-CoV-2 group. HS prevented death, reduced viral RNA levels in the lungs and hearts, protected against severe interstitial pneumonia, preserved lung tissue integrity, and prevented myocyte damage, while the SARS-CoV-2 group exhibited viral presence in the lungs. This study successfully developed a sheep-derived HS against the entire SARS-CoV-2 virus, resulting in a significant reduction in infection severity, inflammation, and systemic cytokine production. The findings hold promise for treating severe COVID-19 cases, including emerging viral variants, and immunocompromised patients.

En respuesta a la amenaza que suponen las nuevas variantes del SARS-CoV-2 y la urgente necesidad de tratamientos eficaces en ausencia de vacunas, el objetivo de este estudio fue desarrollar un suero hiperinmune (HS) rápido y rentable derivado de ovejas. y evaluar su eficacia. La utilización de un animal con certificación halal, de fácil mantenimiento en determinadas regiones geográficas y de fácil manejo, como las ovejas, podría proporcionar una alternativa viable a la costosa opción de los caballos. Las ovejas fueron inmunizadas con un antígeno de SARS-CoV-2 completamente inactivado para producir HS, cuya potencia neutralizante se evaluó mediante el ensayo PRNT50. Los ratones transgénicos K18-hACE2 (n = 35) se dividieron en tres grupos: control, exposición al SARS-CoV-2 mediante inhalación y ratones expuestos al SARS-CoV-2 tratados con HS. La eficacia de HS se evaluó mediante niveles de citoquinas proinflamatorias en suero, análisis qRT-PCR, examen histopatológico de pulmones y corazones y microscopía electrónica de transmisión. El HS purificado exhibió una actividad neutralizante significativa (1/24,576). El grupo SARS-CoV-2+HS mostró niveles más bajos de TNF-α, IL-10 e IL-6 (P<0,01) y niveles relativamente más bajos de MCP-1 en comparación con el grupo SARS-CoV-2. HS evitó la muerte, redujo los niveles de ARN viral en los pulmones y el corazón, protegió contra la neumonía intersticial grave, preservó la integridad del tejido pulmonar y evitó el daño de los miocitos, mientras que el grupo SARS-CoV-2 exhibió presencia viral en los pulmones. Este estudio desarrolló con éxito un HS derivado de ovejas contra todo el virus SARS-CoV-2, lo que resultó en una reducción significativa de la gravedad de la infección, la inflamación y la producción sistémica de citocinas. Los hallazgos son prometedores para el tratamiento de casos graves de COVID- 19, incluidas las variantes virales emergentes y los pacientes inmunocomprometidos.

Clinical and sociodemographic aspects of cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome in southern Brazil / Aspectos clínicos e sociodemográficos dos casos de Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave no sul do Brasil / Aspectos clínicos y sociodemográficos de casos de Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Severo en el sur de Brasil

Background and objectives: to compare the clinical and sociodemographic aspects of individuals with SARS reported in the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul in 2020 and 2021. Methods: a cross-sectional study, from March 2020 to October 2021. Clinical and sociodemographic variables of individuals with SARS symptoms were analyzed, compared through descriptive, univariate analyses, according to the year of reporting. Results: a total of 4,710 cases of SARS were reported; 53.4% were SARS related to COVID-19 in 2020 and 87.5% in 2021 (p<0.001). Comparing 2020 and 2021, the sociodemographic profile changed in terms of age group, skin color and education (p<0.001). Regarding clinical aspects, there was a reduction in prevalence of pre-existing health conditions, except obesity, changes in reported signs and symptoms and reduction in hospital and Intensive Care Unit admissions. Conclusion: the changes in the profile may reflect the effect of the different variants and the start of immunization for SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Justificativa e objetivos: comparar, entre os anos de 2020 e 2021, os aspectos clínicos e sociodemográficos dos indivíduos com Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave (SRAG) notificados em uma região de saúde do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. Métodos: estudo transversal descritivo, realizado de março de 2020 a outubro de 2021. Foram analisadas variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas de indivíduos com sintomas de SRAG, comparadas através de análises descritivas, univariadas, conforme o ano de notificação. Resultados: foram notificados 4.710 casos com SRAG; 53,4% foram SRAG relacionados à COVID-19 em 2020 e, 87,5%, em 2021 (p<0,001). Comparando os anos 2020 e 2021, o perfil sociodemográfico modificou quanto faixa etária, cor da pele e escolaridade (p<0,001). Quanto aos aspectos clínicos, houve redução da prevalência de condições de saúde preexistente, exceto obesidade, alterações nos sinais e sintomas relatados e diminuição de internações hospitalares e na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Conclusão: as mudanças no perfil podem refletir o efeito das diferentes variantes e o início da imunização para SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Justificación y objetivos: comparar los aspectos clínicos y sociodemográficos de individuos con SARS notificados en el interior de Rio Grande do Sul en los años 2020 y 2021. Métodos: estudio descriptivo transversal, realizado de marzo de 2020 a octubre de 2021. Se analizaron variables clínicas y sociodemográficas de individuos con síntomas de SARS, comparadas mediante análisis descriptivos univariados, según el año de notificación. Resultados: se notificaron 4.710 casos de SARS; el 53,4% fueron SARS relacionados con COVID-19 en 2020 y el 87,5% en 2021 (p<0,001). Comparando los años 2020 y 2021, el perfil sociodemográfico cambió en cuanto a grupo de edad, color de piel y escolaridad (p<0,001). En cuanto a los aspectos clínicos, hubo reducción en la prevalencia de condiciones de salud preexistentes, excepto obesidad, cambios en los signos y síntomas reportados y reducción en los ingresos hospitalarios y en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Conclusión: los cambios en el perfil pueden reflejar el efecto de las diferentes variantes y el inicio de la inmunización para el SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Mpox: Aspectos epidemiológicos, imunopatogênicos e manejo pré e pós-infecção / Mpox: Epidemiological, immunopathogenic aspects and pre- and post-infection management

Mpoxou Varíola M é uma zoonose causada por vírus do gênero Orthopoxvirus, causadores também da varíola comum. É uma doença considerada rara e autolimitada, sendo endêmica em países africanos. Entretanto, no ano de 2022 ganhou destaque devido ao surto global que se iniciou, quando o mundo ainda se recuperava da pandemia da COVID-19. Dessa forma, por se tratar de uma doença emergente, a presente revisão visa pontuar aspectos gerais do que se sabe até o momento sobre a Mpox, desde sua imunopatogenia até as formas atuais de prevenção e cuidados pós-infecção

Mpox or Variola M is a zoonosis caused by viruses of the genus Orthopoxvirus, which also cause smallpox. It is a disease considered rare and self-limiting, being endemic in African countries. However, in 2022, it gained prominence due to the global outbreak that began when the world was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, as it is an emerging disease, this review aims to point out general aspects of what is known so far about Mpox, from its immunopathogenesis to current forms of prevention and post-infection care

Perfil de casos e óbitos confirmados de síndrome respiratória aguda grave por covid-19 no interior da Bahia / Profile of confirmed cases and deaths of severe acute respiratory syndrome by COVID-19 in the interior of Bahia / Perfil de casos y muertes confirmadas por síndrome respiratorio agudo grave por COVID-19 en el interior de Bahía

A síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) pode ser causada pelo SARS-CoV-2, doença infectocontagiosa que afeta os pulmões, reconhecida como ameaça global e com morbimortalidade significativa. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o perfil epidemiológico de casos e óbitos confirmados por síndrome respiratória aguda grave por covid-19 em Juazeiro, município da Bahia, entre os meses de janeiro e dezembro de 2020. Trata-se de um estudo transversal que utilizou dados secundários dos casos notificados no Sistema de Informação da Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe (Sivep-Gripe) por residência. Os dados foram coletados em junho de 2021 e analisados por meio de estatística descritiva e inferencial. Os resultados apontaram 16.760 casos suspeitos de covid-19, 6.180 casos confirmados através de testes laboratoriais, e, entre os casos confirmados, 142 faleceram. A maioria dos óbitos por covid-19 foi de homens, idosos e pardos, com sintomatologia de coriza, dispneia, tosse, febre e outros sintomas. As comorbidades analisadas estavam mais presentes em mulheres, contudo, essa característica frequentemente é observada em homens. Condições como doenças cardíacas crônicas, diabetes, doenças renais em estágio avançado e obesidade predominaram em pessoas pardas que faleceram por conta da covid-19. Compreender as características dos casos de covid-19 pode fornecer subsídios para profissionais da saúde e gestores desenvolverem estratégias principalmente voltadas à prevenção de complicações e óbitos relacionados à doença.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) can be caused by SARS-CoV-2, an infectious disease that affects the lungs, recognized as a global threat and with significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological profile of confirmed cases and deaths of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by COVID-19 in Juazeiro, municipality from Bahia, between January and December 2020. It is a cross-sectional study that used secondary data from cases reported in the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System (SIVEP-Gripe) by household. Data were collected in June 2021 and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated 16,760 suspected cases of COVID-19 with 6,180 cases confirmed by laboratory tests, and, of the confirmed cases, 142 died. Most deaths from COVID-19 were of male, older, and mixed race people, with symptoms of coryza, dyspnea, cough, fever, and other symptoms. The analyzed comorbidities were more present in women; however, this characteristic is often observed in men. Conditions such as chronic heart disease, diabetes, advanced kidney disease, and obesity predominated in mixed race people who died from COVID-19. Understanding these characteristics of the COVID-19 cases can provide subsidies for health professionals and managers to develop strategies mainly aimed at preventing complications and deaths related to the disease.

El síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SRAS) es probablemente causado por el SARS-CoV-2, una enfermedad infecciosa que afecta los pulmones considerada una amenaza global, con significativa morbimortalidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el perfil epidemiológico de los casos positivados y de las muertes por síndrome respiratorio agudo grave causado por la covid-19 en Juazeiro, municipio de Bahía (Brasil), en el período entre enero y diciembre de 2020. Se trató de un estudio transversal, que utilizó datos secundarios de casos notificados en el Sistema de Información de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de Influenza (SIVEP-Gripe) por hogar. Los datos se recopilaron en junio de 2021 y se analizaron mediante estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Los resultados arrojaron 16.760 casos sospechosos de la covid-19, con 6.180 casos confirmados mediante pruebas de laboratorio; de los cuales 142 fallecieron. La mayoría de los pacientes que fallecieron por covid-19 eran del sexo masculino, de edad avanzada, pardos, con síntomas de coriza, disnea, tos, fiebre y otros síntomas. Las comorbilidades analizadas estuvieron más presentes en mujeres, sin embargo, esta característica se observa con frecuencia en hombres. Las condiciones como cardiopatía crónica, diabetes, enfermedad renal avanzada y obesidad predominaron en pardos que fallecieron por la covid-19. La comprensión de estas características puede proporcionar subsidios para que los profesionales y gestores de la salud desarrollen estrategias dirigidas principalmente a la prevención de complicaciones y muertes relacionadas con la enfermedad.

Rinovirus en pandemia. Ciudad de Santa Fe, Argentina. Bienio 2020-2021 / Rhinovirus in pandemic. Santa Fe city, Argentina. Biennium 2020-2021

En el contexto de la pandemia de COVID-19, a partir de 2020, la Unidad Centinela de Enfermedades Tipo Influenza (UC-ETI) (Santa Fe, Argentina) integró la vigilancia clínica y por laboratorio de SARS-CoV-2 y rinovirus (HRV) a la habitual vigilancia de influenza y otros virus respiratorios (OVR). El objetivo de este estudio transversal y retrospectivo fue describir las características clínico-epidemiológicas de casos de ETI de la ciudad de Santa Fe, con diagnóstico de HRV confirmado durante 2020-2021, en el marco de la UC-ETI. Del total de 600 casos de ETI cuyas muestras fueron analizadas, más del 50,0% fueron mujeres; y la mayor proporción se concentró en el grupo de 15 a 39 años (40,2%). El 33,7% registró al menos una comorbilidad o factor de riesgo, siendo la hipertensión arterial, asma, diabetes, obesidad y EPOC las más frecuentes. Además de fiebre y tos, los signos/síntomas predominantes fueron odinofagia, mialgia y cefalea. El porcentaje de positividad fue de 41,3% en 2020, 27,8% en 2021 y 35,5% en 2020-2021. De las muestras positivas del bienio (213), 59,0% fue SARS-CoV-2, 40,0% HRV y 1,0% OVR. La mayor proporción de diagnósticos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 se concentró en pacientes de 15 años y más, y la de HRV en menores de 15. Los periodos en los que predominó la circulación de HRV no lo hizo la de SARS-CoV-2, y viceversa. El aporte a la carga real de las infecciones virales respiratorias y su impacto en la salud pública destaca la importancia de sostener la vigilancia de HRV

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020, the influenza-like illness Sentinel Unit (ILI-SU) (Santa Fe, Argentina), integrated clinical and laboratory surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 and Rhinovirus (HRV) to the usual surveillance of Influenza and other respiratory viruses (ORV). The objective of this cross-sectional and retrospective study was to describe the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of ILI cases of Santa Fe city, who had a confirmed HRV diagnosis during 2020-2021, by the ILI-SU. Of a total of 600 ILI cases whose samples were analyzed, more than 50.0% were women; and the highest proportion was concentrated in the group between 15 and 39 years of age (40.2%). 33.7% of the cases registered at least one comorbidity or risk factor, among which arterial hypertension, asthma, diabetes, obesity and COPD were the most frequent. In addition to fever and cough, the predominant signs/symptoms were sore throat, myalgia and headache. The percentage of positivity was 41.3% in 2020, 27.8% in 2021, and 35.5% in 2020-2021. Of the biennium positive samples (213), 59.0% were SARS-CoV-2, 40.0% HRV, and 1.0% ORV. The highest proportion of SARS-CoV-2 positive diagnoses were concentrated in patients 15 years of age and older, while the highest proportion of HRV positive diagnoses were concentrated in patients under 15 years of age. The periods in which the circulation of HRV predominated did not predominated SARS-CoV-2, and vice versa. The contribution to the real burden of respiratory viral infections and its impact on public health, highlight the importance of sustaining HRV surveillance

COVID-19: presentación clínica inicial y su correlación con la gravedad de la enfermedad / COVID-19: initial clinical presentation and its correlation with the severity of the disease

Los pacientes con COVID-19 tienen un amplio espectro de presentación clínica y las tasas de mortalidad en los casos graves son relativamente altas. La identificación tem prana de los factores de riesgo que se relacionan con la gravedad de la enfermedad es de vital importancia. Con el objetivo de correlacionar los síntomas iniciales de COVID-19 con la gravedad de la enfermedad, se realizó el presente estudio de cohorte transversal retrospectivo y observacional de 413 pacientes con diagnóstico de COVID-19 entre enero y marzo 2021. De todos los síntomas iniciales estudiados, la disnea (p < 001), fiebre (p 0,001), tos (p 0,002), odinofagia (p 0,01), cefalea (p 0,01) y síntomas gastrointestinales (p 0,03), se asociaron con el desarrollo de una enfermedad grave. Las comorbilidades que se asociaron con peor pronóstico fueron: hipertensión arterial (p < 0,001), obesidad (p < 0,001), EPOC (p < 0,001), extabaquismo (p < 0,001), diabetes (p 0,01), enfermedad cardiovascular previa (p 0,03), y enfermedad oncológica activa (p 0,04). En conclusión, los pacientes con diagnóstico de COVID-19, cuya manifestación inicial es disnea, fiebre, tos, odinofagia, cefalea y síntomas gastrointestinales, deben ser monitoreados de cerca para prevenir el deterioro de la enfermedad.

Patients with COVID-19 have a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, and mortal ity rates are relatively high in severe cases. Early identification of risk factors that are related to the severity of the disease is of vital importance. In order to correlate the initial symptoms of COVID-19 with disease severity, the present retrospective, cross-sectional, observational cohort study was conducted, including 413 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between January and March, 2021. Of all the initial symptoms that were studied, dyspnea (p < 001), fever (p 0.001), cough (p 0.002), odynophagia (p 0.01), headache (p 0.01), and gastrointestinal symptoms (p 0.03) were associated with the development of severe illness. The comorbidities that were associated with the worst prognoses were: arterial hypertension (p < 0.001), obesity (p < 0.001), COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) (p < 0.001), former smoking (p < 0.001), diabetes (p 0.01), previous cardiovascular disease (p 0.03), and active oncological disease (p 0.04). In conclusion, patients diagnosed with COVID-19 whose initial manifestations include dyspnea, fever, cough, odynophagia, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms should be closely monitored to prevent disease deterioration.

Epidemiological survey on the benefit of neuraminidase inhibitors on severe acute respiratory syndrome due to COVID-19 / Levantamento epidemiológico do benefício de inibidores de neuraminidase na síndrome respiratória aguda grave por COVID-19 / Encuesta epidemiológica del beneficio de inhibidores de neuraminidase en síndrome respiratorio agudo severo por COVID-19

Background and objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic and its consequent severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) have taken the lives of millions since 2020. The use of neuraminidase inhibitors is a promising alternative in treating this disease, with several studies on off-label use being conducted since the beginning of the pandemic, but none of them have a large sample size and analyze multiple risk factors. The purpose of this article is to identify possible associations between various factors and risk of hospitalization, need for ventilation and death, as well as the influence of the prescription of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir on these same indicators. Methods: In this transversal study, approximately 900,000 medical records from all regions of Brazil were collected from the Ministry of Health database, and after that, proper statistical analysis of the variables was performed. Results: Hospitalization was associated with gender, ethnicity, education, local urbanization, State, and its percentage of elderly, as well as the climate. The prescription of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir was associated with higher incidence of symptoms, lower hospitalization and death rate, and lower need for invasive and non-invasive ventilation. Medical records from146,160 patients were excluded due to SARS not caused by COVID-19. Conclusion: From this data, it is possible to draw a risk profile for hospitalization by SARS and consider the use of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir as a treatment for these patients.(AU)

Justificativa e objetivos: A pandemia de COVID-19 e sua consequente síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) levaram milhões de pessoas a óbito desde 2020. O uso de inibidores da neuraminidase é uma alternativa promissora no tratamento dessa doença, com vários estudos sobre o uso off-label sendo conduzidos desde o início da pandemia, mas nenhum que tenha um grande tamanho amostral e que analise vários fatores de risco. O objetivo deste artigo é identificar possíveis associações entre diversos fatores e risco de hospitalização, necessidade de ventilação e óbito, assim como a influência da prescrição de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir nos mesmos indicadores. Métodos: Neste estudo transversal, foi feito o levantamento de aproximadamente 900 mil prontuários de todas as regiões do Brasil, provenientes de dados do Ministério da Saúde, e em seguida foi realizado o tratamento estatístico adequado das variáveis. Resultados: A hospitalização foi associada a sexo, etnia, escolaridade, urbanização do local, Estado e porcentagem de idosos do mesmo, assim como o clima. Já a prescrição de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir foi associada a maior incidência de sintomas, menor taxa de hospitalização e óbito e menor necessidade de ventilação invasiva e não-invasiva. Foram excluídos 146.160 prontuários devido a SRAG não ocasionada pela COVID-19. Conclusão: Com esses dados, é possível traçar um perfil de risco para hospitalização por SRAG e considerar o uso de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir como tratamento para esses pacientes.(AU)

Justificación y objetivos: la pandemia Covid-19 y su consiguiente síndrome respiratorio agudo severo (SRAS) han muerto millones de personas desde 2020. El uso de inhibidores de la neuraminidasa es una alternativa prometedora en el tratamiento de esta enfermedad, con varios estudios sobre el uso off-label que se realiza desde el principio de la pandemia, pero ninguno que tenga un tamaño de muestra grande y analice múltiples factores de riesgo. El propósito de este artículo es identificar posibles asociaciones entre varios factores y el riesgo de hospitalización, necesidad de ventilación y muerte, así como la influencia de la prescripción de Zanamivir y Oseltamivir en los mismos indicadores. Métodos: En este estudio transversal, se encuestaron a los datos del Ministerio de Salud de aproximadamente 900,000 registros de todas las regiones de Brasil, después de que se realizó un tratamiento estadístico adecuado de las variables. Resultados: La hospitalización se asoció con género, etnia, educación, urbanización del sitio, Estado y porcentaje de ancianos, así como el clima. La prescripción de zanamivir y oseltamivir se asoció con la mayor incidencia de síntomas, menor hospitalización y tasa de mortalidad y menor necesidad de ventilación invasiva y no invasiva. Se excluyeron 146,160 registros médicos debido a SRAS no causado por Covid-19. Conclusión: con estos datos, es posible dibujar un perfil de riesgo para la hospitalización por SRAS y considerar el uso de zanamivir y oseltamivir como tratamiento para estos pacientes.(AU)

Gender-based incidence, recovery period, and mortality rate of COVID-19 among the population of district Attock, Pakistan / Incidência baseada em gênero, período de recuperação e taxa de mortalidade de COVID-19 entre a população do distrito de Attock, Paquistão

COVID-19 is reported as an extremely contagious disease with common symptoms of fever, dry cough, sore throat, and tiredness. The published literature on incidence and gender-wise prevalence of COVID-19 is scarce in Pakistan. Therefore, the present study was designed to compare the distribution, incubation period and mortality rate of COVID-19 among the male and female population of district Attock. The data were collected between 01 April 2020 and 07 December 2020 from the population of district Attock, Pakistan. A total of 22,962 individuals were screened and 843 were found positive for RT-qPCR for SARS-CoV-2. The confirmed positive cases were monitored carefully. Among the positive cases, the incidence of COVID-19 was 61.7% among males and 38.2% among females. The average recovery period of males was 18.89±7.75 days and females were 19±8.40 days from SARS-CoV-2. The overall mortality rate was 8.06%. The death rate of male patients was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to female patients. Also, the mortality rate was higher (P<0.05) in male patients of 40-60 years of age compared to female patients of the same age group. Moreover, the mortality rate significantly increased (P<0.05) with the increase of age irrespective of gender. In conclusion, the incidence and mortality rate of COVID-19 is higher in males compared to the female population. Moreover, irrespective of gender the mortality rate was significantly lower among patients aged <40 years.

Covid-19 é relatada como uma doença extremamente contagiosa com sintomas comuns de febre, tosse seca, dor de garganta e cansaço. A literatura publicada sobre incidência e prevalência de Covid-19 com base no gênero é escassa no Paquistão. Portanto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo comparar a distribuição, o período de incubação e a taxa de mortalidade de Covid-19 entre a população masculina e feminina do distrito de Attock. Os dados foram coletados entre 1 de abril de 2020 e 7 de dezembro de 2020 da população do distrito de Attock, Paquistão. Um total de 22.962 indivíduos foi selecionado, e 843 foram considerados positivos para RT-qPCR para SARS-CoV-2. Os casos positivos confirmados foram monitorados cuidadosamente. Entre os casos positivos, a incidência de Covid-19 foi de 61,7% no sexo masculino e 38,2% no feminino. O período médio de recuperação dos homens foi de 18,89 ± 7,75 dias e das mulheres 19 ± 8,40 dias do SARS-CoV-2. A mortalidade geral foi de 8,06%. A taxa de mortalidade de pacientes do sexo masculino foi significativamente maior (P < 0,05) em comparação com pacientes do sexo feminino. Além disso, a taxa de mortalidade foi maior (P < 0,05) em pacientes do sexo masculino com 40-60 anos de idade em comparação com pacientes do sexo feminino da mesma faixa etária. Além disso, a taxa de mortalidade aumentou significativamente (P < 0,05) com o aumento da idade, independentemente do sexo. Em conclusão, a incidência e a taxa de mortalidade de Covid-19 são maiores no sexo masculino em comparação com a população feminina. E também, independentemente do sexo, a taxa de mortalidade foi significativamente menor entre os pacientes com idade < 40 anos.

Death caused by covid-19 in top ten countries in Asia affected by covid-19 pandemic with special reference to Pakistan / Morte causada por covid-19 nos dez principais países da Ásia afetados pela pandemia de covid-19, com referência especial ao Paquistão

The COVID-19 is a contagious viral disease, was first emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and became the whole world on alert. The mortality rate in top most countries in Asia with special reference to Pakistan has been focused. Since February 26 to September 2020 the total confirmed cases and mortality rate was measured through Wikipedia and the notable journals. Iran is the only country having highest number of deaths (5.73%) followed by Indonesia (3.77%) while Saudi Arabia shows the lowest number of deaths as 1.39%. In Pakistan the first case was confirmed in 26th February, 2020. The nCov-19 has closely related to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) hence SARS COV-2 was named. This virus is responsible for more than 33.9 million deaths in over all the world as of 20th September, 2020. The number of new cases is increasing time to time. Sindh province of Pakistan has reported the highest number of cases till September, 20, 2020 as compared to other parts of the country and has the highest number of death followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Because of the person to person contact the disease is spreading rapidly. The individuals who has already infected with other diseases like cancer or diabetic etc. are vulnerable. The nCOV-19 is the most contagious due to its mode of transmission. There is still no vaccine is available for the treatment of disease caused by nCoV-2019. It is therefore the only option to control this pandemic is to adopt effective preventive measures.

A covid-19 é uma doença viral contagiosa, que surgiu pela primeira vez em Wuhan, China, em dezembro de 2019, e deixou o mundo todo em alerta. A taxa de mortalidade na maioria dos principais países da Ásia, com referência especial ao Paquistão, foi enfocada. De 26 de fevereiro a setembro de 2020, o total de casos confirmados e a taxa de mortalidade foram medidos por meio da Wikipedia e de periódicos notáveis. O Irã é o único país com maior número de mortes (5,73%), seguido pela Indonésia (3,77%), enquanto a Arábia Saudita mostra o menor número de mortes, 1,39%. No Paquistão, o primeiro caso foi confirmado em 26 de fevereiro de 2020. O nCov-19 está intimamente relacionado à síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS), daí o nome SARS COV-2. Esse vírus é responsável por mais de 33,9 milhões de mortes em todo o mundo em 20 de setembro de 2020. O número de novos casos está aumentando de tempos em tempos. A província de Sindh, no Paquistão, registrou o maior número de casos até 20 de setembro de 2020, em comparação com outras partes do país, e tem o maior número de mortes, seguida por Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Por causa do contato pessoa a pessoa, a doença está se espalhando rapidamente. Indivíduos que já foram diagnosticados com outras doenças, como câncer ou diabetes, etc. são mais vulneráveis. O nCOV-19 é o mais contagioso devido ao seu modo de transmissão. Ainda não há vacina disponível para o tratamento da doença causada pelo nCoV-2019. Portanto, a única opção para controlar essa pandemia é a adoção de medidas preventivas eficazes.

Vigilância epidemiológica hospitalar de Goiás: 1ª coletânea de boletins dos núcleos hospitalares de epidemiologia / Hospital epidemiological surveillance in Goiás: 1st collection of bulletins from hospital epidemiology centers

Coletânea de 13 boletins publicados no site da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de Goiás, que se destacaram por descrever o perfil de morbimortalidade da unidade e apresentar temas relevantes para a população do Estado de Goiás. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, realizado com dados do período de janeiro a março de 2023, com informações provenientes das declarações de óbitos e prontuário eletrônico do paciente

Collection of 13 bulletins published on the Goiás State Department of Health website, which stood out for describing the unit's morbidity and mortality profile and presenting relevant themes for the population of the State of Goiás. This is a descriptive study, carried out with data from January to March 2023, with information from death certificates and the patient's electronic medical record

Boletim epidemiológico: perfil epidemiológico dos casos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave notificados no Centro Estadual de Reabilitação e Readaptação Dr. Henrique Santillo - CRER, janeiro a setembro/2023 / Epidemiological bulletin: epidemiological profile of cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome reported at the State Center for Rehabilitation and Readaptation Dr. Henrique Santillo - CRER, January to September/2023

Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico descritivo retrospectivo, realizado a partir dos casos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave notificados em um hospital de referência em reabilitação do Estado de Goiás no período de janeiro a setembro de 2023. Os dados utilizados foram extraídos do SIVEP - Gripe (Sistema de Informação da Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe), que integra a base dos sistemas de informação do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde (DATASUS)

This is a retrospective descriptive epidemiological study, carried out based on cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome reported in a reference hospital for rehabilitation in the State of Goiás from January to September 2023. The data used were extracted from SIVEP - Gripe (Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System), which forms part of the information systems base of the Information Technology Department of the Unified Health System (DATASUS)

Hospital mortality from covid-19 in children and adolescents in Brazil in 2020-2021 / Mortalidade hospitalar por covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil em 2020-2021

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe cases, deaths, and hospital mortality from covid-19 in children and adolescents in Brazil, according to age group, during the evolving phases of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. METHODS Census of patients aged up to 19 committed with severe acute respiratory syndrome, due to covid-19 or unspecified, notified to the Brazilian Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System, from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021. The two years were divided into six phases, covering the spread of the disease—first, second and third wave—as well as the impact of vaccination. The pediatric population was categorized into infants, preschoolers, schoolchildren, and adolescents. Hospital mortality was assessed by pandemic phase and age group. RESULTS A total of 144,041 patients were recorded in the two years, 18.2% of whom had confirmed cases of covid-19. Children under 5 years old (infants and preschoolers) accounted for 62.8% of those hospitalized. A total of 4,471 patients died, representing about 6.1 deaths per day. Infants were the ones who most progressed to the intensive care unit (24.7%) and had the highest gross number of deaths (n = 2,012), but mortality was higher among adolescents (5.7%), reaching 9.8% in phase 1. The first peak of deaths occurred in phase 1 (May/2020), and two other peaks occurred in phase 4 (March/2021 and May/2021). There was an increase in cases and deaths for younger ages since phase 4. Hospital mortality in the pediatric population was higher in phases 1, 4, and 6, following the phenomena of dissemination/interiorization of the virus in the country, beginning of the second wave and beginning of the third wave, respectively. CONCLUSION The absolute number of cases of covid-19 in children and adolescents is significant. Although complete vaccination in descending order of age provided a natural deviation in age range, there was a greater gap between the curve of new hospitalized cases and the curve of deaths, indicating the positive impact of immunization.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Descrever casos, óbitos e mortalidade hospitalar por covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil, conforme faixa etária, durante as fases de evolução da pandemia em 2020 e 2021. MÉTODOS Censo de pacientes de até 19 anos internados com síndrome respiratória aguda grave, por covid-19 ou não especificada, notificados ao Sistema de Informação de Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe do Brasil, entre 1 de janeiro de 2020 e 31 de dezembro de 2021. Os dois anos foram divididos em seis fases, abrangendo a disseminação da doença − primeira, segunda e terceira onda −, bem como o impacto da vacinação. A população pediátrica foi categorizada em lactentes, pré-escolares, escolares e adolescentes. A mortalidade hospitalar foi avaliada por fase da pandemia e faixa etária. RESULTADOS Foram contabilizados 144.041 pacientes nos dois anos, sendo 18,2% casos de covid-19 confirmados. Menores de 5 anos (lactentes e pré-escolares) corresponderam a 62,8% dos hospitalizados. Evoluíram a óbito 4.471, representando cerca 6,1 óbitos por dia. Os lactentes foram os que mais evoluíram para unidade de terapia intensiva (24,7%) e apresentaram o maior número bruto de óbito (n = 2.012), porém a mortalidade foi maior entre os adolescentes (5,7%), chegando a 9,8% na fase 1. O primeiro pico de óbitos ocorreu na fase 1 (maio/2020), e outros dois picos ocorreram na fase 4 (março/2021 e maio/2021). Verificou-se avanço de casos e óbitos para as idades inferiores desde a fase 4. A mortalidade hospitalar na população pediátrica foi maior nas fases 1, 4 e 6, acompanhando os fenômenos de disseminação/interiorização do vírus no país, início da segunda onda e início da terceira onda, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO O número absoluto de casos de covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes é expressivo. Embora a vacinação completa em ordem decrescente de idade tenha proporcionado um desvio natural de faixa etária, ocorreu um distanciamento maior entre a curva de novos casos hospitalizados e a curva de óbitos, indicando o impacto positivo da imunização.

Síndrome de Guillain barre asociado a infección por sars-cov-2: a propósito de un caso / Guillain-Barré Syndrome Associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: A pediatric presentation

Introducción: la pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 exige una medicina fiable, basada en evidencia para poder comprender y tratar oportunamente las nuevas manifestaciones de esta enfermedad, previniendo así las complicaciones y la mortalidad infantil. Materiales y método: femenina de seis años ingresada en urgencias con síntomas neurológicos de entumecimiento en extremidades inferiores y superiores, ataxia, somnolencia y disartria. Después de un análisis de sangre, un examen del líquido cefalorraquídeo y una prueba de electromiografía, la paciente fue diagnosticada con síndrome de Guillain-Barré e infección concomitante por COVID-19. Resultados y discusión: se obtuvieron resultados positivos, tanto para el anticuerpo IgM como para la RT-PCR, para infección por SARS-CoV-2. No se encontró evidencia de celularidad en el examen del líquido cefalorraquídeo, pero se observó un alto nivel de proteína de 100 mg/dL y un nivel anormal de glucosa (58 mg/dL) en este paciente. Por último, se administró una terapia consistente en dexametasona 3,5 mg/kg, paracetamol 315 mg/kg, azitromicina 105 mg/kg y 50 mg/kg de inmunoglobulina intravenosa. Conclusión: considerando este caso clínico, reforzamos la hipótesis de la asociación entre el síndrome de Guillain-Barré y la infección por el virus SARS-CoV-2, como ya han documentado otros autores, tanto en adultos como en pacientes pediátricos.

Introduction: Ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic calls for trustworthy, evidence-based medicine to be able to comprehend and treat opportunely new manifestations of this disease, therefore preventing complications and children mortality. Materials and methods: This case report adresses a unique presentation of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) & COVID-19. Results: The patient was a 6-year-old girl admitted to the emergency room with neurological symptoms numbness in lower and upper extremities, ataxia, drowsiness, and dysarthria. After blood work, cerebrospinal fluid examination, and electromyography test, the patient was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome and concomitant COVID-19 infection. Both IgM antibody and RT-PCR were positive for SARS-coV-2 infection and no evidence of cellularity was found in cerebrospinal fluid examination, but a high protein level of 100 mg/dL and an abnormal glucose level (58mg/dL) was observed within this patient. Lastly, a therapy consisted of dexamethasone 3.5mg/kg, acetaminophen 315 mg/kg, azithromycin 105mg/kg and 50 mg/kg of intravenous immune globulin was administered. Conclusion: Considering this clinical case, we reinforce the hypothesis of the association between Guillain-Barré syndrome and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, as has already been documented by other authors in both adults and pediatrics patients.

Fugulin scale for classifying pediatric patients in a respiratory inpatient unit: experience report / Escala de Fugulin para la clasificación de pacientes pediátricos en una unidad de hospitalización respiratoria: relato de experiencia / Escala de Fugulin para classificação de pacientes pediátricos em unidade de internação respiratória: relato de experiência

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the use of the Fugulin scale to classify pediatric patients hospitalized in a respiratory unit as a subsidy for the allocation of human resources given the increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. Method: Experience report conducted in a children's hospital in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba with data collection from medical records and approved by the Institution and by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Between February and May 2022, the percentage of patients categorized in minimal and intermediate care decreased by 53 and 11.4%, respectively, while those in high dependency and semi-intensive care expanded by 31.2 and 84.2%. In addition, in just four months, there was a considerable increase in the positivity of virologies compared to the twelve months of 2021. The susceptibility of children to the development of severe respiratory infection was proven through the decrease in virologies with undetectable results. Conclusion: The results obtained allowed us to conclude there was a significant increase in the complexity of patients admitted to the respiratory unit, showing it is essential to provide a nursing team compatible with the care needs.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir el uso de la escala de Fugulin para la clasificación de pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados en una unidad respiratoria como subsidio para la asignación de recursos humanos, ante el aumento de casos de Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Grave. Método: Relato de experiencia con recolección de datos de registros médicos, realizado en un hospital infantil de la región metropolitana de Curitiba, aprobado por la Institución y por el Comité de Ética en Investigación con Seres Humanos. Resultados: Entre febrero y mayo de 2022, el porcentaje de pacientes categorizados en cuidados mínimos e intermedios disminuyó en 53 y 11,4%, respectivamente, mientras que los de alta dependencia y cuidados semiintensivos se expandieron a un 31,2 y un 84,2%. Además, en tan solo cuatro meses se registró un aumento considerable de la positividad de virologías respecto a los doce meses de 2021. Se comprobó la susceptibilidad de los niños al desarrollo de infección respiratoria grave a través de la disminución de virologías con resultados indetectables. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos permitieron concluir que hubo un aumento significativo en la complejidad de los pacientes ingresados en la unidad respiratoria, demostrando que es fundamental disponer de un equipo de enfermería compatible con las necesidades asistenciales.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever sobre a utilização da escala de Fugulin para classificação de pacientes pediátricos internados em uma unidade respiratória como subsídio para a alocação de recursos humanos, diante do aumento de casos de Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave. Método: Relato de experiência com coleta de dados em prontuário, realizado em um hospital infantil da região metropolitana de Curitiba, aprovado pela Instituição e pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Seres Humanos. Resultados: Entre fevereiro a maio de 2022, a porcentagem dos pacientes categorizados em cuidados mínimos e intermediários decaiu em 53 e 11,4%, respectivamente, ao passo que os de cuidados de alta dependência e semi-intensivos expandiram 31,2 e 84,2%. Além disso, em apenas quatro meses, houve aumento considerável na positividade das virologias em comparação aos doze meses de 2021. A suscetibilidade das crianças ao desenvolvimento de infecção respiratória grave foi comprovada através da diminuição de virologias com resultados não detectáveis. Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos permitiram concluir que houve um aumento expressivo da complexidade dos pacientes admitidos na unidade respiratória, sendo essencial o provimento de equipe de enfermagem compatível com as necessidades de cuidados.

Challenges of contact tracing during COVID-19 pandemic response in a tertiary hospital in Northwestern Nigeria

Background: Contact tracing is a traditional pillar of infectious disease control, especially for illnesses involving direct transmission from person to person, such as COVID-19. Several challenges have arisen from COVID-19 contact tracing activities, particularly in low-resource settings. These include refusal of positive clients to disclose their close contacts, difficulties in conducting risk assessment for contacts traced, among others. Objectives: To explore the activities and identify challenges of contact tracing during COVID -19 pandemic response in a tertiary hospital in Northwestern Nigeria from May, 2020 to March, 2021. Methodology: Amixed method approach was done with quantitative secondary data analysis of COVID-19 contacts traced, and qualitative assessment through Key Informant Interviews (KII) of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital staff involved in COVID-19 outbreak response during the period. Results: Atotal of 2,249 clients were tested for COVID-19, of which 925 (41.1%) were healthcare workers. The identified challenges included problems with contact identification, delay in notification of results, refusal to disclose contacts by cases, contacts refusing to allow risk assessment, and health workers being overwhelmed by the task of contact tracing. Conclusion: Challenges identified include refusal of cases to disclose their contacts, overwhelming number of contacts, and delay in notification of results. There is need to institute contact tracing protocols to mandate cases to disclose their contacts, train more manpower to reduce the burden of contact tracing, and improve the notification of results.

Value of baseline radiograph for COVID-19 infected patients

Introduction: A cluster of pneumonia cases of unknown origin was first reported in Wuhan China then the causative pathogen was identified and named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov2) and the associated disease was named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Chest radiograph has lower sensitivity for the detection of lung abnormalities but it has a role in disease progression and also in the late stages of COVID19. This study aims to evaluate the value of baseline radiographs in COVID-19-infected patients. Method: This is a retrospective study of COVID-19 patients with RT-PCR confirmation who were admitted to Eka Kotebe General Hospital and had baseline chest x-ray between April and May 2020. Baseline chest x-ray of all patients who have confirmed COVID-19 infection was reviewed and analyzed. Result: The study included 355 patients, 224 (63.1%) were male and 131 (36.9%) were female. Patient age ranged from 4 - 82 years with a mean age of 35. Two hundred twelve patients were symptomatic; the rest 143 were asymptomatic. Of the 355 baseline CXR, only 60 (16.9%) had abnormal radiographs and the rest 295 (83.1%) had normal radiographs. A combination of interstitial changes and GGO were the predominant descriptive finding accounting for 33.3% . Conclusion: Even if chest radiographs are important in the workup of patients with COVID-19 infection, the use of baseline radiographs in COVID-19 infection should not be a routine practice. Disease severity and timing of imaging appear to impact the rates of normal baseline imaging.

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among health personnel in Yaounde, Cameroon

Background. Health care personnel constitute a group at high risk of contracting COVID-19. However, the vaccination rate in this group in our context remains low. The objective of our study was to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among health care workers in Yaounde. Methods.We conducted a cross-sectional study of 360 health personnel in three hospitals in the city of Yaounde from January to March 2022, i.e., 3 months. All health personnel who gave their free consent were included. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics and Research Committee of the Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Yaounde I. A logistic regression was performed to search for factors associated with reluctance to vaccinate, with a significance level of 0.05. Results.The vaccination rate against COVID-19 was 34% (123). Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy were female gender (OR [95% CI] =3.5[2.2-5.5]; p<0.001), working outside a COVID-19 management unit (OR [95% CI]=6, [2.1-18.5]; p=0.001), fear of the harmfulness of COVID-19 vaccines (OR [CI 95%] =2.7[1.7-4.2]; p<0.001), and doubt of vaccine efficacy (OR [CI 95%] =4.0[2.5-6.4]; p<0.001). Conclusion:Health personnel are still reluctant to vaccinate in our context. Factors associated with hesitancy to vaccination against COVID-19 could help deconstruct apprehensions.

Introduction. La pandémie de la COVID-19 a ajouté un fardeau supplémentaire dans les pays aux systèmes de santé déjà fragiles. Objectif : déterminer la prévalence et la séroprévalence de la COVID-19 en cas de suspicion du paludisme au cours de la deuxième vagueà Yaoundé. Méthodologie. Une étude transversale descriptive a été menée au Centre Médical le Jourdain pendant 8 semaines du 19 Avril au 13 Juin 2021 soit durant la deuxième vague au Cameroun. Pour les 86 patients avec suspicion de paludisme, des prélèvements nasopharyngé et sanguins ont été réalisés pour la recherche d'antigène du SRAS- CoV 2 et des IgG et IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 grâce aux kits STANDARDTM Q COVID-19 Ag de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 et StandardTM Q COVID 19 Ac IgG/IgM de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 respectivement. La confirmation du paludisme a été faite grâce à l'examen microscopique des étalements de sang colorés. Résultats. Le paludisme était confirmé dans 20,9% (18) des cas. Les prévalences de la COVID-19 et de la coïnfection COVID19/Paludisme étaient de 8,1% et de 0,9% respectivement. Sur les 25,6% (54) des patients avec des IgM anti-COVID-19, aucun cas de microscopie positive n'a été retrouvé. Par ailleurs un peu plus de la moitié des patients avaient des anticorps IgG anti-COVID-19 qu'ils aient une goutte épaisse positive ou pas soit 56,0% (42/75) et 52,2% (71/136) respectivement. Conclusion. En cas de suspicion du paludisme en zone impaludée, il parait non négligeable de considérer la COVID-19 comme un diagnostic différentiel.

El papel de la rehabilitación pulmonar en el manejo de los pacientes pos COVID 19 / The role of pulmonary rehabilitation in the management of post-COVID 19 patients

A septiembre de 2022, el SARS COV 2 ha causado cerca de 606 millones de casos confirmados y 6.500.000 muertes de acuerdo con cifras publicadas por la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) (1). Esta pandemia, en su dramática dimensión ha obligado a la comunidad científica a la generación rápida y frenética de conocimiento alrededor de la naturaleza de la COVID 19, su fisiopatología, su transmisibilidad, su presentación y curso clínico, la búsqueda de tratamientos efectivos y el desarrollo de vacunas para su prevención. A pesar de algunos ensayos y publicaciones que en medio del desconcierto ignoraron el rigor científico, la respuesta de la ciencia ha sido rápida como nunca en la historia de la humanidad, oportuna y eficaz, hasta conducirnos a presagiar el sueño de estar transitando hacia el anhelado final.

As of September 2022, SARS COV 2 has caused about 606 million confirmed cases and 6,500,000 deaths according to figures published by the World Health Organization (WHO) (1). This pandemic, in its dramatic dimension, has forced the scientific community to generate rapid and frantic knowledge about the nature of COVID 19, its pathophysiology, its transmissibility, its presentation and clinical course, the search for effective treatments, and the development of vaccines for its prevention. Despite some essays and publications that in the midst of confusion ignored scientific rigor, the response of science has been quick as never in the history of humanity, timely and effective, leading us to foreshadow the dream of moving towards the longed-for final.