[Ranking of immunization programs in Latin America, 2020Ranking dos programas de vacinação na América Latina, 2020]. / Ranking de los programas de vacunación en América Latina, 2020.

Objective: Construct a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America in 2020 and compare it with the previous year. Methods: Eighteen national immunization programs were evaluated on the basis of public information obtained from official sites of the countries' ministries of health, the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, and local sources. The ranking was based on the 2020 vaccination schedule for different life stages, special situations, vaccination against influenza, 2019 vaccination coverage, and programmatic aspects. Results: Vaccination coverage decreased in most countries. The average regional declined in 2020, as did the scores for most countries, except Chile and Colombia. Chile leads the ranking, followed by Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica. Chile stands out for its full calendar, higher vaccination coverage rates, and programmatic achievements. Conclusions: The lower overall score in 2020 highlights the need to recover the Region's vaccination coverage rates. This analysis seeks to motivate countries to address pending challenges.

Objetivo: Construir e comparar o ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNIs) na América Latina em 2020 com o ano anterior. Métodos: Foram avaliados 18 PNIs com base em informações públicas obtidas de sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde dos países, da Organização Mundial da Saúde, da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde, do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância e de fontes locais. O ranking foi compilado com base no calendário de vacinação de 2020 para diferentes fases da vida, situações especiais, vacinação contra a gripe, cobertura vacinal (CV) de 2019 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados: As CVs diminuíram na maioria dos países. A pontuação média regional e a pontuação da maioria dos países também caíram em 2020, exceto no Chile e na Colômbia. O Chile lidera o ranking, seguido do Uruguai, do Panamá e da Costa Rica, e se destaca por ter um calendário completo, maiores CVs e êxitos programáticos. Conclusões: A pontuação global mais baixa em 2020 destaca a necessidade de recuperar a CV da região. Esta análise busca motivar os países a enfrentar os desafios pendentes.

[Ranking of immunization programs in Latin America, 2019Ranking dos programas de imunização na América Latina, 2019]. / Ranking de los programas de inmunización en América Latina, 2019.

Objective: To establish a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that compares the various realities, identifies challenges and unachieved goals, and encourages countries to search for strategies to overcome the obstacles they face. Methods: Ten countries with the most innovative national vaccination schedules (NVCs) were selected. Information published on official websites of ministries of health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) were used, as well as interviews with experts from each country. A ranking was constructed, based on domains linked to the 2019 NVC (vaccinations given at different life stages, influenza vaccination, and vaccination in special situations); vaccination coverage in 2018; and programmatic aspects. Results: The general ranking is led by Chile and Panama, due to vaccination in the first and second year of life. They are followed by Argentina, Uruguay, and Costa Rica, which stand out for vaccination of other groups, influenza vaccination, and programmatic aspects. Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico have more delays in their NVCs, as well as programmatic gaps and lower vaccination coverages. Finally, Paraguay and Peru have similar deficiencies and bigger information gaps. However, when the domains are analyzed individually, the ranking changes and the same pattern is not repeated. Conclusions: This is the first ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that highlights strengths and weaknesses in each country. The periodicity of this exercise will be key when comparing the evolution and positioning of these programs over time.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi construir um ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNI) da América Latina que comparasse as distintas realidades, identificasse os desafios e as metas não alcançadas e estimulasse os países a buscarem melhores estratégias. Métodos: Foram selecionados 10 países com os Calendários Nacionais de Vacinação (CNV) mais inovadores. Foram utilizadas informações publicadas nos sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde, da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde (OPAS) e do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância (UNICEF), e entrevistas com lideranças de cada país. Foi construído um ranking com base nos domínios vinculados aos CNV de 2019 em diferentes fases da vida, vacinação contra influenza, situações especiais, cobertura vacinal (CV) em 2018 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados: O ranking geral é liderado pelo Chile e pelo Panamá, com a vacinação no primeiro e no segundo ano de vida. Seguem-se Argentina, Uruguai e Costa Rica, que se destacam na vacinação de outros grupos, na vacinação contra a influenza e em aspectos programáticos. Brasil, Colômbia e México apresentam CNV mais atrasados, lacunas programáticas e CV mais baixas. Por último, Paraguai e Peru apresentam deficiências semelhantes e mais lacunas de informação. No entanto, ao se analisar os domínios individualmente, o ranking se modifica e não se repete um mesmo padrão. Conclusões: Este é o primeiro ranking dos PNI da América Latina em que são destacados os pontos fortes e fracos de cada país. A periodicidade deste exercício será fundamental para comparar a evolução e o posicionamento destes programas ao longo do tempo.

[Assessment of the use in adults of four vaccines: a population survey in Argentina]. / Evaluación del uso en adultos de cuatro vacunas: una encuesta poblacional en Argentina.

Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies for disease prevention. Argentina initiated the transition from child vaccination to family vaccination through the incorporation of an adult schedule. One of the difficulties with this last group is to assess the percentage of use (PU) of the vaccines. With the aim of determining the PU of adult vaccines in Argentina, a vaccination module was included in the National Survey of Risk Factors carried out in 2013 by the National Ministry of Health. The sampling had a stratified multistage design. A total of 32 365 people = 18 year-old were surveyed about the use of four vaccines included in the National Vaccination Calendar: hepatitis B, tetanus, influenza, and pneumococcus. The entire population was surveyed for tetanus and hepatitis B while certain groups at risk were evaluated for influenza and pneumococcus, according to current recommendations. PU varied according to the vaccine analyzed: tetanus 49.8%, hepatitis B 21.7%, influenza 51.6% and pneumococcus 16.2%. The main information sources on adult vaccination were media (television, internet, etc.) followed by health personnel (70.8% and 27.9%, respectively). The survey is a suitable tool to assess the use of vaccines by adults, identify low coverage populations, and to plan and implement strategies to improve coverage.

The economic rationale for cell-based influenza vaccines in children and adults: A review of cost-effectiveness analyses.

Seasonal influenza significantly affects both health and economic costs in children and adults. This narrative review summarizes published cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs) of cell-based influenza vaccines in children and adults <65 years of age, critically assesses the assumptions and approaches used in these analyses, and considers the role of cell-based influenza vaccines for children and adults. CEAs from multiple countries demonstrated the cost-effectiveness of cell-based quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIVc) compared with egg-based trivalent/quadrivalent influenza vaccines (TIVe/QIVe). CEA findings were consistent across models relying on different relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) estimate inputs, with the rVE of QIVc versus QIVe ranging from 8.1% to 36.2% in favor of QIVc. Across multiple scenarios and types of analyses, QIVc was consistently cost-effective compared with QIVe, including in children and adults across different regions of the world.

Epidemiology of Dengue in Argentina during the 2010/11 to 2019/20 Seasons: A Contribution to the Burden of Disease.

BACKGROUND: Dengue is an important public health problem in Argentina, as in many other countries. We reviewed and updated information on the dengue disease burden in Argentina over a 10-year period. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study from 2010 to 2020 based on data from the National Health Surveillance System. The main outcomes included dengue cases, incidence rates, deaths, and serotype distribution by season, age group, and region. RESULTS: A total of 109,998 confirmed cases of dengue were reported. Seasonality stands out, prevailing during summer and autumn. Two main outbreaks (seasons 2015/16 and 2019/20), with increasing magnitude, were observed. The 2019/20 season showed the highest number of cases (58,731) and incidence rate (135/100,000). The Northeast region had the highest number of cases and incidence rate. In 2020, for the first time, autochthonous cases were registered in the Cuyo region. The only region with no autochthonous cases was the South. Adolescents and young adults showed the highest incidence rate. The case fatality rate for the period was 0.05%. Four serotypes circulated, but the predominant one was DEN-1 (78%). CONCLUSIONS: Dengue has been expanding temporally and spatially. Although the DEN-1 serotype widely predominated, the increasing circulation of other serotypes raises concerns regarding re-exposure and the severity of future cases. Understanding epidemiological trends is key to defining public prevention and control policies.

Meningococcal burden of disease in Argentina: 10 years epidemiologic review.

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is an uncommon but serious and potentially fatal condition, mainly affecting infants. In 2017, Argentina introduced a vaccination program against serogroups A, C, W and Y (MenACWY) for infants aged 3, 5 and 15 months and adolescents aged 11 years. The objective of this study was to review the burden of IMD in Argentina in 2010-2019. Data were obtained from national surveillance databases, and the study estimated IMD incidence, mortality, case-fatality rates, and serogroup distributions across age groups. A total of 1,972 IMD cases were reported in the study period, with the highest incidence in infants aged < 1 year. Incidence peaked in 2013 and subsequently declined. Mortality rates were 18 times higher in infants than in other age groups, reflecting the high impact of IMD in this age group. The case-fatality rate was 8.5% on average and increased with age. The proportion of notified cases with serogroup identification increased over the period, reaching 91% in 2019. The most common serogroups over the study period were serogroup B (48%) and serogroup W (42%), with an increase in B relative to W since 2015. In infants aged < 1 year, the proportion of serogroup B increased in recent years, reaching around 70% of characterized cases in 2018-2019. These results show the dynamism of IMD and indicate the importance of vaccination at an early age and offering protection against predominant serogroups. These data are valuable to support evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.

Real-World Evidence in Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Enhanced Influenza Vaccines in Adults ≥ 65 Years of Age: Literature Review and Expert Opinion.

Influenza vaccination can benefit most populations, including adults ≥ 65 years of age, who are at greater risk of influenza-related complications. In many countries, enhanced vaccines, such as adjuvanted, high-dose, and recombinant trivalent/quadrivalent influenza vaccines (aTIV/aQIV, HD-TIV/HD-QIV, and QIVr, respectively), are recommended in older populations to provide higher immunogenicity and increased relative vaccine efficacy/effectiveness (rVE) than standard-dose vaccines. This review explores how efficacy and effectiveness data from randomized controlled trials and real-world evidence (RWE) are used in economic evaluations. Findings from published cost-effectiveness analyses (CEA) on enhanced influenza vaccines for older adults are summarized, and the assumptions and approaches used in these CEA are assessed alongside discussion of the importance of RWE in CEA. Results from many CEA showed that adjuvanted and high-dose enhanced vaccines were cost-effective compared with standard vaccines, and that differences in rVE estimates and acquisition price may drive differences in cost-effectiveness estimates between enhanced vaccines. Overall, RWE and CEA provide clinical and economic rationale for enhanced vaccine use in people ≥ 65 years of age, an at-risk population with substantial burden of disease. Countries that consider RWE when making vaccine recommendations have preferentially recommended aTIV/aQIV, as well as HD-TIV/HD-QIV and QIVr, to protect older individuals.

Adverse events and SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses after immunization with Sputnik V, ChAdOx1-S, and BBIBP-CorV vaccines in people with HIV.

OBJECTIVE: This study describes adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) and the development of SARS-COV-2 antibodies after Sputnik V, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccination in people with HIV (PWH). METHODS: In total, 595 adult PWH at an HIV center in Argentina from March to December 2021 were enrolled. Analysis included participants who received COVID-19 vaccination with Sputnik V, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm, and did not receive mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Clinical data, and local or systemic AEFI variables were collected using an online questionnaire after the first dose. Detection of S1-RBD IgG antibodies was performed between days 28 and 60 after the second dose in a subsample (SARS-CoV-2 IgG chemiluminescent immunoassay; Siemens). A multivariable logistic regression and spearman test were used for analyses. RESULTS: Mean age was 46.1 years (SD = 11.8); 70.4% were men; and median CD4 + T cells count was 659 (500-852) cells/µl. AEFIs were reported in 214 (36.0%) participants. More participants reported AEFIs after Sputnik V (29.4%) and AstraZeneca (47.5%) than Sinopharm (13.9%) (χ 2  = 35.85, P  < 0.001). Higher odds of reporting an AEFIs were associated with receiving Sputnik V [aOR = 2.90; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.40-6.04; P  = 0.004] and AstraZeneca (aOR = 5.38; 95% CI = 2.63-11.01; P  < 0.001) compared with Sinopharm. Lower odds were associated with age (aOR = 0.97; 95% CI = 0.95-0.99; P  < 0.001). Overall, 76 (95.0%) individuals assessed for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody reached S1-RBD IgG antibody titers at least 1 U/ml; mean titer was 51.3 (SD = 51.07) U/ml. Higher antibody titers correlated with higher CD4 + T cells count (Rho = 0.280; P  = 0.012). CONCLUSION: NonmRNA vaccines showed a good safety profile and adequate SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses among PWH suggesting adequate protection to SARS-CoV-2.

Opinions, Attitudes and Factors Related to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Uptake in Eight South American Countries.

This article presents attitudes and practices regarding COVID-19 vaccination in the South American population. The study collected data from a self-administered survey distributed through social media platforms between February and April 2022 (N = 6555). The survey included questions related to participants' sociodemographic background, flu vaccination practices, sources of information about COVID-19, and opinions regarding pandemic management and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The respondents agreed with the statement that COVID-19 vaccines were necessary (86.4%), effective (79.8%), safe (79.1%), and should be mandatory (64%). Overall, 83.4% accepted vaccination and 12.3% refused it completely. Main rejection reasons were safety (65.8%) and efficacy (54.9%) issues, and rushed development and approvals (49.1%). Vaccine uptake was associated with being ≥60 years, being a healthcare worker, previous influenza vaccine uptake, adherence to preventive measures, the death of ≥1 close people from COVID-19, and being informed through mass media or health authorities' channels. Vaccine uptake inversely correlated with male gender, low educational level, and use of closed social networks for COVID-19 information purposes. This study provides valuable insights into COVID-19 vaccination attitudes and practices in South America that may be used to promote vaccine uptake in the region. Higher COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among people with previously acquired prevention habits reinforces the importance of routine health promotion strategies.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Cell Versus Egg-Based Seasonal Influenza Vaccination in Children and Adults in Argentina.

Background: Quadrivalent cell-based influenza vaccines (QIVc) avoid egg-adaptive mutations and can be more effective than traditional quadrivalent egg-based influenza vaccines (QIVe). This analysis compared the cost-effectiveness of QIVc and QIVe in Argentinian populations < 65 years old from the payer and societal perspectives. Methods: A static decision tree model compared the costs and health benefits of vaccination with QIVc vs. QIVe using a one-year time horizon. The relative vaccine effectiveness of QIVc vs. QIVe was assumed to be 8.1% for children and 11.4% for adults. An alternative high egg-adaptation scenario was also assessed. Model inputs were sourced from Argentina or the international literature. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: Compared to QIVe, QIVc would prevent 17,857 general practitioner visits, 2418 complications, 816 hospitalizations, and 12 deaths per year. From the payers' perspective, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio per quality-adjusted life years gained was USD12,214 in the base case and USD2311 in the high egg-adaptation scenario. QIVc was cost-saving from the societal perspective in both scenarios. Conclusions: QIVc in Argentina would be cost-effective relative to QIVe. The potential health benefits and savings would be even higher in high egg-adaptation seasons.

HIV and pregnancy: maternal and neonatal evolution.

Data regarding epidemiological aspects, antiretroviral drug safety, and outcomes of HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborns are limited in Argentina. We underwent a retrospective analysis of registries of HIV-infected pregnant women assisted at Helios Salud, Buenos Aires, Argentina (1997-2006). Variables associated with preterm delivery and neonatal complications were analyzed by univariate and logistic regression analyses. A total of 204 mother-child binomium were included. Maternal age (median): 29 years; 32.5% without prior diagnosis of HIV-infection. Baseline median CD4 T-cell count: 417 cell/ul; 98% received antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy [2 nucleoside analogs plus either nevirapine (55%) or a protease inhibitor (32%)]. Overall incidence of toxicity was 12.5%: rash (8%), anemia (3.5%) and hepatotoxicity (1%). Rash was associated with exposure to nevirapine. Eighty one percent and 50% reached HIV-viral loads <1000 and <50 copies/ml at the end of pregnancy, respectively. Twenty six percent had obstetric complications and 16% had preterm delivery. Of the newborns, 1.6% had congenital defects and 9% had neonatal complications. Overall neonatal mortality was 1% and perinatal transmission was 0.7%. Protease inhibitor use and obstetric complications were associated to preterm delivery while obstetric complications were associated with neonatal complications. In our population, hepatotoxicity was low despite frequent use of nevirapine. Protease inhibitor use was associated to preterm delivery. A favorable virological response and a low rate of perinatal transmission was observed, what supports the consensus that antiretroviral therapy benefits during pregnancy outweigh risks of maternal and neonatal adverse events.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Switching from Trivalent to Quadrivalent Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Argentina.

The burden of seasonal influenza disease in Argentina is considerable. The cost-effectiveness of trivalent (TIV) versus quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIV) in Argentina was assessed. An age-stratified, static, decision-tree model compared the costs and benefits of vaccination for an average influenza season. Main outcomes included: numbers of influenza cases; general practitioner (GP) visits; complicated ambulatory cases; hospitalizations; deaths averted; and costs per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Epidemiological data from Argentina for 2014-2019 were used to determine the proportion of A and B strain cases, and the frequency of mismatch between vaccine and circulating B strains. To manage uncertainty, one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Switching from TIV to QIV would prevent 19,128 influenza cases, 16,164 GP visits, 2440 complicated ambulatory cases, 524 hospitalizations, and 82 deaths. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) per QALY were 13,590 and 11,678 USD from the payer's and societal perspectives, respectively. The greatest health benefits and direct medical cost savings would occur in ≥ 65-year-olds. One-way sensitivity analyses demonstrated the principal drivers of ICER to be vaccine acquisition costs, environmental B strain predominance, and B strain mismatch. Introducing QIV in Argentina would be beneficial and cost-effective relative to TIV, particularly in older adults.

Prolonged Posttreatment Virologic Control and Complete Seroreversion After Advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Infection.

BACKGROUND: Possible human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 clearance has rarely been reported. In this study, we describe a unique case of an HIV-positive, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)-experienced woman with prior acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) who has not experienced viral rebound for over 12 years since discontinuing cART. METHODS: Leukapheresis, colonoscopy, and lymph node excision were performed for detailed examination of virologic (including HIV reservoir) and immunologic features. Comparisons were made with chronically infected patients and healthy controls. RESULTS: No HIV-specific antibodies were detected in serum. Plasma HIV ribonucleic acid (RNA) levels were <0.2 copies/mL, and, except for low-frequency HIV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)+ cells in lymph node tissue (1 copy/3 × 106 cells), HIV antigen could not be detected by quantitative virus outgrowth (<0.0025 infectious units/106 CD4+ T cells) or by most measurements of HIV RNA or DNA in blood, lymph node, or gut-associated mononuclear cells. Human immunodeficiency virus-specific T-cell responses were detectable but low. Brain imaging revealed a prior biopsy site and persistent white matter disease since 1996. Human immunodeficiency virus DNA+ cells in the 1996 brain biopsy specimen confirmed her identity and initial HIV diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: This represents the first report of complete seroreversion, prolonged posttreatment virus suppression, a profoundly small HIV reservoir, and persistent HIV-specific T cells in an adult with prior AIDS.

Cost-effectiveness of introducing an MF59-adjuvanted trivalent influenza vaccine for older adults in Argentina.

INTRODUCTION: Influenza surveillance in Argentina reported influenza-like illness at a rate of 3500/100,000, a hospitalization rate of 15.5/100,000, and a death rate of 0.32/100,000 annually in adults aged over 65 years. The high burden of disease may be due to a combination of immunosenescence and the suboptimal clinical effectiveness of conventional, non-adjuvanted influenza vaccines in this age group. There is a clinical need for more effective influenza vaccines in this population. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of an MF59®-adjuvanted trivalent influenza vaccine (aTIV) in adults aged over 65 years in Argentina compared with the non-adjuvanted trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV) used under the current national vaccination policy. METHODS: A decision tree cost-effectiveness model was developed to estimate the cost-effectiveness of switching from TIV to aTIV in Argentinian older adults. The model compared cost and health benefits of vaccination in one influenza season from the payer perspective. The main predictions included survival, quality-adjusted survival, and costs. Model inputs were sourced from Argentina or internationally where local data was considered inaccurate. Vaccine efficacy assumptions were extracted from recently published, peer-reviewed scientific literature. RESULTS: Switching from TIV to aTIV would result in 170 deaths averted and 1310 incremental quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio per QALY was US $2660.59 from the payer perspective. In all sensitivity analyses, aTIV remained highly cost-effective. The probabilistic sensitivity analyses showed a 95% CI per QALY of US $113.74-7721.67. CONCLUSION: Introducing an adjuvanted influenza vaccine in Argentina is potentially beneficial and cost-effective relative to the currently-used TIV through the reduction of disease burden and utilization of healthcare resources.

Ranking de los programas de vacunación en América Latina, 2020. Rev Panam Salud Publica / Ranking of immunization programs in Latin America, 2020 / Ranking dos programas de vacinação na América Latina, 2020

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Construir y comparar el ranking de los programas nacionales de inmunizaciones (PNI) de América Latina del año 2020 con el año anterior. Métodos. Se evaluaron 18 PNI con base en la información pública obtenida de sitios oficiales de los ministerios de salud de los países, la Organización Mundial de la Salud, la Organización Panamericana de la Salud, el Fondo de las Naciones Unidas para la Infancia y referentes locales. El ranking se elaboró con base en el calendario de vacunación del año 2020 en distintas etapas de la vida, situaciones especiales, vacunación antigripal, coberturas vacunales (CV) del 2019 y aspectos programáticos. Resultados. Las CV disminuyeron en la mayoría de los países. El puntaje promedio regional y de la mayoría de los países también bajó en el 2020 excepto en Chile y Colombia. Chile lidera el ranking, seguido por Uruguay, Panamá y Costa Rica, y se destaca por su calendario completo, mayores CV y logros programáticos. Conclusiones. El menor puntaje global del 2020 resalta que es necesario recuperar la CV en la Región. Este análisis busca motivar a los países a abordar los desafíos pendientes.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. Construct a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America in 2020 and compare it with the previous year. Methods. Eighteen national immunization programs were evaluated on the basis of public information obtained from official sites of the countries' ministries of health, the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, and local sources. The ranking was based on the 2020 vaccination schedule for different life stages, special situations, vaccination against influenza, 2019 vac- cination coverage, and programmatic aspects. Results. Vaccination coverage decreased in most countries. The average regional declined in 2020, as did the scores for most countries, except Chile and Colombia. Chile leads the ranking, followed by Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica. Chile stands out for its full calendar, higher vaccination coverage rates, and programmatic achievements. Conclusions. The lower overall score in 2020 highlights the need to recover the Region's vaccination cove- rage rates. This analysis seeks to motivate countries to address pending challenges.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Construir e comparar o ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNIs) na América Latina em 2020 com o ano anterior. Métodos. Foram avaliados 18 PNIs com base em informações públicas obtidas de sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde dos países, da Organização Mundial da Saúde, da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde, do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância e de fontes locais. O ranking foi compilado com base no calendário de vacinação de 2020 para diferentes fases da vida, situações especiais, vacinação contra a gripe, cobertura vacinal (CV) de 2019 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados. As CVs diminuíram na maioria dos países. A pontuação média regional e a pontuação da maioria dos países também caíram em 2020, exceto no Chile e na Colômbia. O Chile lidera o ranking, seguido do Uruguai, do Panamá e da Costa Rica, e se destaca por ter um calendário completo, maiores CVs e êxitos programáticos. Conclusões. A pontuação global mais baixa em 2020 destaca a necessidade de recuperar a CV da região. Esta análise busca motivar os países a enfrentar os desafios pendentes.

Ranking de los programas de vacunación en América Latina, 2020 / Ranking of immunization programs in Latin America, 2020 / Ranking dos programas de vacinação na América Latina, 2020

RESUMEN Objetivo. Construir y comparar el ranking de los programas nacionales de inmunizaciones (PNI) de América Latina del año 2020 con el año anterior. Métodos. Se evaluaron 18 PNI con base en la información pública obtenida de sitios oficiales de los ministerios de salud de los países, la Organización Mundial de la Salud, la Organización Panamericana de la Salud, el Fondo de las Naciones Unidas para la Infancia y referentes locales. El ranking se elaboró con base en el calendario de vacunación del año 2020 en distintas etapas de la vida, situaciones especiales, vacunación antigripal, coberturas vacunales (CV) del 2019 y aspectos programáticos. Resultados. Las CV disminuyeron en la mayoría de los países. El puntaje promedio regional y de la mayoría de los países también bajó en el 2020 excepto en Chile y Colombia. Chile lidera el ranking, seguido por Uruguay, Panamá y Costa Rica, y se destaca por su calendario completo, mayores CV y logros programáticos. Conclusiones. El menor puntaje global del 2020 resalta que es necesario recuperar la CV en la Región. Este análisis busca motivar a los países a abordar los desafíos pendientes.

ABSTRACT Objective. Construct a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America in 2020 and compare it with the previous year. Methods. Eighteen national immunization programs were evaluated on the basis of public information obtained from official sites of the countries' ministries of health, the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, and local sources. The ranking was based on the 2020 vaccination schedule for different life stages, special situations, vaccination against influenza, 2019 vaccination coverage, and programmatic aspects. Results. Vaccination coverage decreased in most countries. The average regional declined in 2020, as did the scores for most countries, except Chile and Colombia. Chile leads the ranking, followed by Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica. Chile stands out for its full calendar, higher vaccination coverage rates, and programmatic achievements. Conclusions. The lower overall score in 2020 highlights the need to recover the Region's vaccination coverage rates. This analysis seeks to motivate countries to address pending challenges.

RESUMO Objetivo. Construir e comparar o ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNIs) na América Latina em 2020 com o ano anterior. Métodos. Foram avaliados 18 PNIs com base em informações públicas obtidas de sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde dos países, da Organização Mundial da Saúde, da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde, do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância e de fontes locais. O ranking foi compilado com base no calendário de vacinação de 2020 para diferentes fases da vida, situações especiais, vacinação contra a gripe, cobertura vacinal (CV) de 2019 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados. As CVs diminuíram na maioria dos países. A pontuação média regional e a pontuação da maioria dos países também caíram em 2020, exceto no Chile e na Colômbia. O Chile lidera o ranking, seguido do Uruguai, do Panamá e da Costa Rica, e se destaca por ter um calendário completo, maiores CVs e êxitos programáticos. Conclusões. A pontuação global mais baixa em 2020 destaca a necessidade de recuperar a CV da região. Esta análise busca motivar os países a enfrentar os desafios pendentes.

[Incidence variation in malignancies associated or not with AIDS at an outpatient care center, 1997-2005]. / Variacion de la incidencia de tumores asociados o no al sida en un centro ambulatorio, 1997-2005.

In Argentina there are no published data on the incidence of AIDS (ARM) and non-AIDS related malignancies (non-ARM) in the HIV positive population. Our aim was to establish the incidence of these malignancies at an ambulatory care center between 1997 and 2005. We describe 103 cases of malignancies, 73 out of them were ARM and 30 were non-ARM. There were no differences in terms of age, gender and proportion of patients on highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). Among those patients with ARM, simultaneous diagnosis of malignancy and HIV infection was more frequently seen (p <0.001) and the proportion of patients with AIDS was higher (p = 0.015). Among those patients with non-ARM the mean duration of HIV infection and HAART was higher (p = 0.038 and 0.002 respectively); also was higher the mean CD4 count nadir (p = 0.009), and CD4 count at the time of malignancy diagnosis (p <0.001). The incidence of ARM was 18 cases/1000 patients-year in 1997 and dropped to 3.1 cases/1000 patients-year in 2005 (p = 0.001). The incidence of non-ARM was always lower than ARM, and similar in each year. In conclusion, ARM were more frequent than non-ARM, but their incidence dropped significantly because of massive use of HAART, while non-ARM remained stable. The high proportion of simultaneous diagnosis of ARM and HIV infection should enable much earlier HIV diagnosis.

Ranking de los programas de inmunización en América Latina, 2019 / Ranking of immunization programs in Latin America, 2019 / Ranking dos programas de imunização na América Latina, 2019

RESUMEN Objetivo. El objetivo del presente trabajo ha sido construir un ranking de los programas nacionales de inmunizaciones (PNI) de América Latina que compare las diversas realidades, identifique los desafíos y metas no alcanzadas, y estimule a los países a la búsqueda de estrategias superadoras. Métodos. Se seleccionaron 10 países con los calendarios nacionales de vacunación (CNV) más innovadores. Se utilizó la información publicada en sitios oficiales de los ministerios de salud, la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS), el Fondo de las Naciones Unidas para la Infancia (UNICEF, por su sigla en inglés) y entrevistas a referentes de cada país. Se construyó un ranking con base en los dominios vinculados al CNV 2019 en diferentes etapas de la vida, vacunación antigripal, en situaciones especiales, coberturas de vacunación (CV) de 2018 y aspectos programáticos. Resultados. El ranking general lo lideran Chile y Panamá, con la vacunación del primer y segundo año de vida. Les siguen Argentina, Uruguay y Costa Rica, que se destacan en vacunación de otros grupos, antigripal y aspectos programáticos. Brasil, Colombia y México muestran CNV más atrasados, brechas programáticas y CV más bajas. Por último, Paraguay y Perú presentan carencias similares y mayores vacíos de información. Sin embargo, al analizar los dominios de manera individual, el ranking se modifica y no se repite un mismo patrón. Conclusiones. Este es el primer ranking de los PNI de América Latina en el que se destacan las fortalezas y debilidades de cada país. La periodicidad de este ejercicio será clave para comparar la evolución y el posicionamiento de estos programas en el tiempo.

ABSTRACT Objective. To establish a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that compares the various realities, identifies challenges and unachieved goals, and encourages countries to search for strategies to overcome the obstacles they face. Methods. Ten countries with the most innovative national vaccination schedules (NVCs) were selected. Information published on official websites of ministries of health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) were used, as well as interviews with experts from each country. A ranking was constructed, based on domains linked to the 2019 NVC (vaccinations given at different life stages, influenza vaccination, and vaccination in special situations); vaccination coverage in 2018; and programmatic aspects. Results. The general ranking is led by Chile and Panama, due to vaccination in the first and second year of life. They are followed by Argentina, Uruguay, and Costa Rica, which stand out for vaccination of other groups, influenza vaccination, and programmatic aspects. Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico have more delays in their NVCs, as well as programmatic gaps and lower vaccination coverages. Finally, Paraguay and Peru have similar deficiencies and bigger information gaps. However, when the domains are analyzed individually, the ranking changes and the same pattern is not repeated. Conclusions. This is the first ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that highlights strengths and weaknesses in each country. The periodicity of this exercise will be key when comparing the evolution and positioning of these programs over time.

RESUMO Objetivo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi construir um ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNI) da América Latina que comparasse as distintas realidades, identificasse os desafios e as metas não alcançadas e estimulasse os países a buscarem melhores estratégias. Métodos. Foram selecionados 10 países com os Calendários Nacionais de Vacinação (CNV) mais inovadores. Foram utilizadas informações publicadas nos sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde, da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde (OPAS) e do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância (UNICEF), e entrevistas com lideranças de cada país. Foi construído um ranking com base nos domínios vinculados aos CNV de 2019 em diferentes fases da vida, vacinação contra influenza, situações especiais, cobertura vacinal (CV) em 2018 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados. O ranking geral é liderado pelo Chile e pelo Panamá, com a vacinação no primeiro e no segundo ano de vida. Seguem-se Argentina, Uruguai e Costa Rica, que se destacam na vacinação de outros grupos, na vacinação contra a influenza e em aspectos programáticos. Brasil, Colômbia e México apresentam CNV mais atrasados, lacunas programáticas e CV mais baixas. Por último, Paraguai e Peru apresentam deficiências semelhantes e mais lacunas de informação. No entanto, ao se analisar os domínios individualmente, o ranking se modifica e não se repete um mesmo padrão. Conclusões. Este é o primeiro ranking dos PNI da América Latina em que são destacados os pontos fortes e fracos de cada país. A periodicidade deste exercício será fundamental para comparar a evolução e o posicionamento destes programas ao longo do tempo.

Ranking de los programas de inmunización en América Latina, 2019

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. El objetivo del presente trabajo ha sido construir un ranking de los programas nacionales de inmu- nizaciones (PNI) de América Latina que compare las diversas realidades, identifique los desafíos y metas no alcanzadas, y estimule a los países a la búsqueda de estrategias superadoras. Métodos. Se seleccionaron 10 países con los calendarios nacionales de vacunación (CNV) más innovadores. Se utilizó la información publicada en sitios oficiales de los ministerios de salud, la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS), el Fondo de las Naciones Unidas para la Infancia (UNICEF, por su sigla en inglés) y entrevistas a referentes de cada país. Se construyó un ranking con base en los dominios vinculados al CNV 2019 en diferentes etapas de la vida, vacunación antigripal, en situaciones especiales, coberturas de vacunación (CV) de 2018 y aspectos programáticos. Resultados. El ranking general lo lideran Chile y Panamá, con la vacunación del primer y segundo año de vida. Les siguen Argentina, Uruguay y Costa Rica, que se destacan en vacunación de otros grupos, antigripal y aspectos programáticos. Brasil, Colombia y México muestran CNV más atrasados, brechas programáticas y CV más bajas. Por último, Paraguay y Perú presentan carencias similares y mayores vacíos de información. Sin embargo, al analizar los dominios de manera individual, el ranking se modifica y no se repite un mismo patrón. Conclusiones. Este es el primer ranking de los PNI de América Latina en el que se destacan las fortalezas y debilidades de cada país. La periodicidad de este ejercicio será clave para comparar la evolución y el posi- cionamiento de estos programas en el tiempo.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To establish a ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that compares the various realities, identifies challenges and unachieved goals, and encourages countries to search for strate- gies to overcome the obstacles they face. Methods. Ten countries with the most innovative national vaccination schedules (NVCs) were selected. Infor- mation published on official websites of ministries of health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) were used, as well as interviews with experts from each country. A ranking was constructed, based on domains linked to the 2019 NVC (vaccinations given at different life stages, influenza vaccination, and vaccination in special situations); vaccination coverage in 2018; and programmatic aspects. Results. The general ranking is led by Chile and Panama, due to vaccination in the first and second year of life. They are followed by Argentina, Uruguay, and Costa Rica, which stand out for vaccination of other groups, influenza vaccination, and programmatic aspects. Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico have more delays in their NVCs, as well as programmatic gaps and lower vaccination coverages. Finally, Paraguay and Peru have similar deficiencies and bigger information gaps. However, when the domains are analyzed individually, the ranking changes and the same pattern is not repeated. Conclusions. This is the first ranking of national immunization programs in Latin America that highlights stren- gths and weaknesses in each country. The periodicity of this exercise will be key when comparing the evolution and positioning of these programs over time.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi construir um ranking dos programas nacionais de imunização (PNI) da América Latina que comparasse as distintas realidades, identificasse os desafios e as metas não alcançadas e estimulasse os países a buscarem melhores estratégias. Métodos. Foram selecionados 10 países com os Calendários Nacionais de Vacinação (CNV) mais inovado- res. Foram utilizadas informações publicadas nos sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde, da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde (OPAS) e do Fundo das Nações Unidas para a Infância (UNICEF), e entrevistas com lideranças de cada país. Foi construído um ranking com base nos domínios vinculados aos CNV de 2019 em diferentes fases da vida, vacinação contra influenza, situações especiais, cobertura vacinal (CV) em 2018 e aspectos programáticos. Resultados. O ranking geral é liderado pelo Chile e pelo Panamá, com a vacinação no primeiro e no segundo ano de vida. Seguem-se Argentina, Uruguai e Costa Rica, que se destacam na vacinação de outros grupos, na vacinação contra a influenza e em aspectos programáticos. Brasil, Colômbia e México apresentam CNV mais atrasados, lacunas programáticas e CV mais baixas. Por último, Paraguai e Peru apresentam deficiên- cias semelhantes e mais lacunas de informação. No entanto, ao se analisar os domínios individualmente, o ranking se modifica e não se repete um mesmo padrão. Conclusões. Este é o primeiro ranking dos PNI da América Latina em que são destacados os pontos fortes e fracos de cada país. A periodicidade deste exercício será fundamental para comparar a evolução e o posi- cionamento destes programas ao longo do tempo.

Single-dose Universal Hepatitis A Immunization in One-year-old Children in Argentina: High Prevalence of Protective Antibodies up to 9 Years After Vaccination.

BACKGROUND: Single-dose hepatitis A virus (HAV) vaccination was implemented in all Argentinean children 12 months of age in 2005. Previous studies demonstrated high prevalence of protective antibody response 4 years after single-dose vaccination. This study assessed long-term seroprotection against HAV after vaccination. METHODS: Children who received 1 dose of HAV vaccine at 1 year of age at least 6 years before enrollment were included at 5 centers in Argentina between 2013 and 2014. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics were collected through a questionnaire. Blood samples were tested for anti-HAV antibodies. Antibody values ≥10 mIU/mL were considered seroprotective. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between demographic and socioeconomic variables and seroprotection. RESULTS: A total of 1088 children were included, with a median postvaccination interval of 7.7 years (range 6.3-9.2 years). Of these children, 97.4% (95% confidence interval: 96.3%-98.3%) had protective antibodies against HAV. No association between demographic or socioeconomic variables and seroprotection was found. Geometric mean concentration of antibody levels against HAV was 170.5 mUI/mL (95% confidence interval: 163.2-178.2 mUI/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Single-dose universal hepatitis A immunization in 1-year-old children resulted in sustained immunologic protection for up to 9 years in Argentina. These findings, along with the low current disease burden, confirm the success of the intervention.