The Potential of Surveillance Data for Dengue Risk Mapping: An Evaluation of Different Approaches in Cuba.

To better guide dengue prevention and control efforts, the use of routinely collected data to develop risk maps is proposed. For this purpose, dengue experts identified indicators representative of entomological, epidemiological and demographic risks, hereafter called components, by using surveillance data aggregated at the level of Consejos Populares (CPs) in two municipalities of Cuba (Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos) in the period of 2010-2015. Two vulnerability models (one with equally weighted components and one with data-derived weights using Principal Component Analysis), and three incidence-based risk models were built to construct risk maps. The correlation between the two vulnerability models was high (tau > 0.89). The single-component and multicomponent incidence-based models were also highly correlated (tau ≥ 0.9). However, the agreement between the vulnerability- and the incidence-based risk maps was below 0.6 in the setting with a prolonged history of dengue transmission. This may suggest that an incidence-based approach does not fully reflect the complexity of vulnerability for future transmission. The small difference between single- and multicomponent incidence maps indicates that in a setting with a narrow availability of data, simpler models can be used. Nevertheless, the generalized linear mixed multicomponent model provides information of covariate-adjusted and spatially smoothed relative risks of disease transmission, which can be important for the prospective evaluation of an intervention strategy. In conclusion, caution is needed when interpreting risk maps, as the results vary depending on the importance given to the components involved in disease transmission. The multicomponent vulnerability mapping needs to be prospectively validated based on an intervention trial targeting high-risk areas.

Adverse Drug Reactions during COVID-19 Treatment: A Comprehensive Analysis Focused on Hospitalized Patients, with the Use of a Survey in Cuba in 2020.

Aims: To evaluate the prevalence and type of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), together with associated risk factors, among Cuban COVID-19 patients treated with chloroquine (CQ), lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r), or interferon α2b (IFN α2b), according to the Cuban protocol. Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive analysis of ADRs was performed on 200 COVID-19 patients who were admitted consecutively to three hospitals in Havana and Pinar del Río from April to July 2020. Information on demographics, ADRs, outcomes, behavioral, and health-related factors was collected using a validated questionnaire and clinical records. Each potential ADR case was assessed for causality based on the WHO-UMC algorithm, concomitant drug influences, and the presence of any drug-drug interactions (DDI). Results: The total frequency of ADRs was 55%, with predominantly gastrointestinal disorders and general symptoms (23% vs 20%). 95.1% of ADRs occurred within 10 days after treatment and 42 potential DDI in 55.5% of patients (61/110) were observed. The prevalence of ADRs was: 44%, 30.4%, and 26.4% for IFN α2b, LPV/r, and CQ, respectively. Sex (odds ratio (OR): 0.40 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.211-0.742), age (OR: 2.36 (95% CI: 1.02-5.44)), and underlying diseases (OR: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.06-0.23)) were independently associated factors for ADRs (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The frequency of ADRs and potential DDI was high compared to their use during nonpandemic times (e.g., for malaria, HIV, or inflammatory diseases). The safety profile of these drugs when used for COVID-19 treatment showed similar characteristics. Comorbidities, age >37 years old, and female sex were associated with ADRs.

Safety and efficacy of the two doses conjugated protein-based SOBERANA-02 COVID-19 vaccine and of a heterologous three-dose combination with SOBERANA-Plus: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled phase 3 clinical trial.

Background: SOBERANA-02 is a COVID-19 conjugate vaccine (recombinant RBD conjugated to tetanus toxoid). Phases 1/2 clinical trials demonstrated high immunogenicity, promoting neutralising IgG and specific T-cell response. A third heterologous dose of SOBERANA-Plus (RBD-dimer) further increased neutralising antibodies. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of two immunisation regimes: two doses of SOBERANA-02 and a heterologous three-dose combination with SOBERANA-Plus added to it. Methods: From March 8th to June 24th, 2021 we conducted in Havana, Cuba a multicentre randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase-3 trial evaluating a two doses SOBERANA-02 scheme and a heterologous scheme with one dose SOBERANA-Plus added to it (RPCEC00000354). Participants 19-80 years were randomly assigned to receiving 28 days apart either the two or three dose scheme or placebo. The main endpoint was vaccine efficacy in preventing the occurrence of RT-PCR confirmed symptomatic COVID-19 at least 14 days after the second or third dose in the per-protocol population. We also assessed efficacy against severe disease and, in all participants receiving at least one vaccine/placebo dose, safety for 28 days after each dose. Findings: We included 44,031 participants (52.0% female, 48.0% male; median age 50 years, range 19-80 years; 7.0% black, 24.0% mixed-race, 59.0% white) in a context of initial Beta VOC predominance, with this variant being partially replaced by Delta near the trial's end. Vaccine efficacy in the heterologous combination was 92.0% (95%CI 80.4-96.7) against symptomatic disease. There were no severe COVID-19 cases in the vaccine group against 6 in the placebo group. Two doses of SOBERANA-02 was 69.7% (95%CI 56.5-78.9) and 74.9% (95%CI 33.7-90.5) efficacious against symptomatic and severe COVID-19, respectively. The occurrence of serious and severe adverse events (AE) was very rare and equally distributed between placebo and vaccine groups. Solicited AEs were slightly more frequent in the vaccine group but predominantly local and mostly mild and transient. Interpretation: Our results indicate that the straightforward to manufacture SOBERANA vaccines are efficacious in a context of Beta and Delta VOC circulation, have a favourable safety profile, and may represent an attractive option for use in COVID-19 vaccination programmes. Funding: This study received funds from the National Fund for Science and Technology (FONCI-CITMA-Cuba, contract 2020-20) of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment of Cuba.

Brote de transmisión comunitaria de COVID-19 en un municipio de La Habana (marzo-abril, 2021)

Introducción: Una oportuna investigación de los eventos epidemiológicos de la COVID-19 garantiza minimizar la propagación de la enfermedad en la población. Objetivos: Caracterizar el brote de transmisión comunitaria de COVID-19 en un municipio de La Habana. Métodos: Estudio transversal de casos positivos de infección por SARS-CoV-2 del brote Catedral en La Habana Vieja, en 2021. Las variables analizadas fueron: edad, sexo, manzana de residencia, fecha de inicio de síntomas, fecha de diagnóstico, forma clínica, tipo de caso. Se utilizó la metodología para el estudio de brotes. Se calcularon porcentajes, diferencias de proporciones, tasas, número reproductivo efectivo y parámetro de dispersión con intervalos de confianza de 95 %. Resultados: Se notificó el brote el 23 de marzo y se cerró el 22 de abril con 106 casos (tasa de ataque 4,51 %), el pico en la notificación se produjo el 29 de marzo con 40 casos (37,73 %). La edad media fue de 43 años. Resultaron más afectados los adultos de 60 y más años (30,18 %), las mujeres (58,49 %) y la manzana 0024 (45,28 % de los casos). El 77,3 % no presentó síntomas, entre ellos dos superdispersores; los sintomáticos fueron leves y no hubo fallecidos. El número reproductivo efectivo global fue de 0,94 (IC: 0,70-1,21); superior en los asintomáticos (11,43 versus 4,00); y el parámetro de dispersión de 0,89 (IC: 0,51-2,09), superior en los sintomáticos (1,06 versus 0,69). Conclusiones: El control epidemiológico oportuno ante cada caso permitió la corta duración del brote y que no hubiesen fallecidos.

Introduction: A timely investigation of COVID-19 epidemiological events guarantees to minimize the spread of the disease in the population. Objective: To characterize the COVID-19 outbreak of community transmission in a municipality in Havana. Methods: Cross-sectional study of positive cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection of the "Cathedral" outbreak in Old Havana in 2021. The variables analyzed were: age, sex, city block of residence, date of symptom onset, date of diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and type of case. The methodology for the study of outbreaks was used. Percentages, differences in proportions, rates, effective reproductive number, and dispersion parameter with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: The outbreak was reported on March 23 and closed on April 22 with 106 cases (attack rate of 4.51%). The peak was notified on March 29 with 40 cases (37.73%). The mean age was 43 years. Adults aged 60 years and older (30.18%), women (58.49%), and block 0024 (45.28% of cases) were most affected. A total of 77.3% were asymptomatic, including two superspreaders; symptomatic cases were mild and there were no deaths. The overall effective reproductive number was 0.94 (CI: 0.70-1.21); higher in asymptomatic cases (11.43 versus 4.00); and the dispersion parameter was 0.89 (CI: 0.51-2.09), higher in symptomatic cases (1.06 versus 0.69). Conclusions: Timely epidemiological control of each case ensured the short duration of the outbreak and no deaths.

Mortalidad y factores asociados en pacientes cubanos infectados con VIH-1

Objetivo: Determinar las principales causas de muerte y los factores asociados en los pacientes infectados con el VIH ingresados en el hospital del Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" durante los años 2017-2018. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles para determinar las causas de la muerte y algunos factores asociados a ella, en el hospital del Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí", en el período 2017-2018. Para determinar estos factores se utilizó un análisis multivariado basado en un modelo de regresión logística binaria. Resultados: Las causas de muerte más frecuentes fueron las asociadas al SIDA, fundamentalmente las infecciones oportunistas del sistema respiratorio (41,4%), seguidas por las neoplasias no asociadas al SIDA (25,1%). Los factores que mayor influencia tuvieron sobre la mortalidad fueron la presencia de enfermedad oportunista (OR 14,07 p<0,001) y de neoplasias no asociadas al SIDA (OR 6,76 p=0,005), la alteración de las funciones renal (3,54 p=0,019) y hepática (OR 2,90 p=0,054) y tener mayor carga viral (OR 1,50 p=0,001) y menos tiempo de diagnóstico al momento del ingreso (OR 0,793 p<0,001). El modelo matemático resultante del análisis permitió identificar los principales factores asociados a la mortalidad y explicar su relación con la misma. Conclusiones: Las enfermedades asociadas al SIDA, principalmente las infecciones oportunistas del sistema respiratorio, seguidas por las neoplasias no asociadas al SIDA fueron las causas predominantes de muerte en los pacientes infectados con el VIH que fallecieron en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" durante el período de estudio. La presencia de neoplasias no asociadas al SIDA, de enfermedades oportunistas, de alteraciones de las funciones renal y hepática, el aumento de la carga viral y el tener menos años de diagnóstico al momento del ingreso, fueron los factores que más contribuyeron a la mortalidad en los pacientes ingresados e infectados con el VIH. El modelo matemático resultante se ajustó bien a los datos y explicó de manera consistente los factores asociados a la mortalidad.

Aim: To determine the main causes of death and associated factors in HIV-infected patients admitted to the Tropical Medicine Institute "Pedro Kourí" hospital during the years 2017-2018. Methods: A retrospective case-control study was carried out to determine the causes of death and some factors associated with it, in the Tropical Medicine Institute "Pedro Kourí" hospital, in the period 2017-2018. To determine these factors, a multivariate analysis based on a binary logistic regression model was used. Results: The most frequent causes of death were those associated with AIDS, mainly opportunistic infections of the respiratory system (41.4%), followed by neoplasms not associated with AIDS (25.1%). The factors that had the greatest influence on mortality were the presence of opportunistic disease (OR 14.07 p <0.001) and neoplasms not associated with AIDS (OR 6.76 p = 0.005), alteration of renal functions (3, 54 p = 0.019) and liver (OR 2.90 p = 0.054) and have a higher viral load (OR 1.50 p = 0.001) and less time to diagnosis at admission (OR 0.793 p <0.001). The mathematical model resulting from the analysis made it possible to identify the main factors associated with mortality and explain their relationship with it. Conclusions: AIDS-associated diseases, mainly opportunistic infections of the respiratory system, followed by non-AIDS-associated neoplasms were the predominant causes of death in HIV-infected patients who died in the Tropical Medicine Institute "Pedro Kourí" during the study period. The presence of neoplasms not associated with AIDS, opportunistic diseases, alterations in kidney and liver functions, increased viral load and having fewer years of diagnosis at the time of admission, were the factors that most contributed to mortality in patients admitted and infected with HIV. The resulting mathematical model fitted the data well and consistently explained the factors associated with mortality.

A Retrospective Study of Risk Factors, Mortality, and Treatment Outcomes for Infections with Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacterales in a Tertiary Hospital in Havana, Cuba.

(1) Background: The spread of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales in hospitals constitutes an important epidemiological and therapeutic problem that especially affects vulnerable patients such as perioperative patients. (2) Methods: We conducted a descriptive, observational, retrospective case-control study of patients infected with carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CP-CRE) and carbapenem-susceptible Enterobacterales during the perioperative period in a tertiary hospital. (3) Results: Metallo-ß-lactamase was detected in all 124 CRE isolates, with NDM-type carbapenemase being dominant, while 3 isolates coproduced KPC-type enzyme and showed high resistance rates against all antibiotics except colistin (25.2%). By analyzing the risk factors for infection, steroid use (OR: 3.22, p < 0.01), prior use of two or more antibiotics (OR: 4.04, p = 0.01), prior use of broad-spectrum cephalosporins (OR: 2.40, p = 0.04), and prior use of carbapenem (OR: 4.77, p = 0.03) were found to be independent risk factors for CP-CRE infection. In addition, in this study, we observed that the clinical outcomes of bloodstream infections and pneumonia associated with CP-CRE posed higher mortality risks. However, by analyzing the associations between treatment options and mortality, it was found that, in bloodstream infections caused by CP-CRE, colistin-based regimens showed a significant advantage (PR = 0.40, p = 0.03). (4) Conclusions: High mortality is associated with nosocomial infections in the perioperative period caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales, the dissemination of which in health care settings in Cuba remains a public health challenge.

Tendencias y desigualdades de la tuberculosis en provincias cubanas para potenciar intervenciones diferenciadas / Tuberculosis trends and inequalities in Cuban provinces to promote differentiated interventions

Introducción: El análisis de tendencias y desigualdades en la ocurrencia de la tuberculosis en Cuba resulta importante para realizar intervenciones diferenciadas. Objetivo: Valorar las tendencias y desigualdades del comportamiento de la tuberculosis en las provincias La Habana, Mayabeque y Ciego de Ávila. Métodos: Estudio ecológico de series temporales de las tasas de notificaciones de tuberculosis en el periodo 2009-2017. Se utilizó la base de datos de vigilancia de tuberculosis del Ministerio de Salud Pública. Se analizaron las tendencias de las tasas de notificación en periodos trienales mediante regresión lineal simple. Se calcularon variaciones totales y anuales de las tasas, proporciones de tuberculosis por trienios en personas con VIH y privados de libertad, medias geométricas y desigualdades de las tasas. Se categorizaron las provincias y municipios según metas hacia la eliminación de la enfermedad. Resultados: La tendencia en Mayabeque y La Habana fue ascendente, la variación total fue del 70,0 por ciento y del 9,0 por ciento, respectivamente. Ciego de Ávila mostró valores relativos dos veces más que Cuba. En La Habana predominaron personas con VIH (38 por ciento); en Mayabeque se incrementaron los dos grupos vulnerables, mientras que en Ciego de Ávila fueron los privados de libertad. La Habana y Mayabeque categorizaron en ultra control avanzado; Ciego de Ávila en control satisfactorio consolidado; del total de los 36 municipios estudiados, 8 (22,2 por ciento) se encontraban en ultracontrol muy avanzado y ninguno en preeliminación. Conclusiones: Los resultados sobre la tendencia de las tasas de tuberculosis y sus desigualdades en las tres provincias sugieren la realización de intervenciones diferenciadas para avanzar hacia la eliminación de esta enfermedad(AU)

Introduction: The analysis of trends and inequalities in the occurrence of tuberculosis in Cuba is important for differentiated interventions. Objective: Assess the trends and inequalities of tuberculosis in the provinces of Havana, Mayabeque and Ciego de Ávila. Methods: Ecological study of time series of tuberculosis. notification rates in the period 2009-2017. The Tuberculosis surveillance database of the Ministry of Public Health was used. Trends in reporting rates in triennial periods were analyzed using simple linear regression. The following were calculated: total and annual variations in rates, proportions of tuberculosis by triennium in people with HIV and deprived of liberty, geometric means and inequalities of rates. The provinces and municipalities were categorized according to goals towards the elimination of the disease. Results: The trend in Mayabeque and Havana was upward, the total variation was 70.0percent and 9.0percent, respectively. Ciego de Ávila showed relative values twice as much as Cuba. In Havana, people with HIV predominated (38percent); in Mayabeque the two vulnerable groups increased, while in Ciego de Ávila they were those deprived of liberty. Havana and Mayabeque categorized in advanced ultra control; Ciego de Ávila in consolidated satisfactory control; of the total of the 36 municipalities studied, 8 (22.2percent) were in very advanced ultracontrol and none in pre-elimination. Conclusions: The results obtained on the trend of tuberculosis rates and their inequalities in the three provinces suggest the realization of differentiated interventions to advance towards the elimination of this disease(AU)

Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Havana, Cuba, March-June 2020: Epidemiological Implications.

INTRODUCTION: The percentage of asymptomatic COVID-19 cases worldwide is estimated at 18-50%; 53% in Cuba specifically, and 58% in Havana, the Cuban capital and the 2020 epicenter of the country's COVID-19 epidemic. These figures, however, do not represent the transmission capacity or behavior of asymptomatic cases. Understanding asymptomatic transmission's contribution to SARS-CoV-2 spread is of great importance to disease control and prevention. OBJECTIVE: Identify the epidemiological implications of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in Havana, Cuba, during the first wave of the epidemic in 2020. METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional study of all confirmed COVID-19 cases diagnosed in Havana, Cuba, from March 16 through June 30, 2020. The information was obtained through review of the standardized form for investigation of suspected and confirmed cases. Examined variables included age, sex, occupation, case type and source of infection. Cases were divided into asymptomatic and symptomatic groups, and transmission was characterized through the creation of a contact matrix. Analysis was carried out in Epidat and R. RESULTS: We studied 1287 confirmed cases, of which 57.7% (743) were asymptomatic, and 42.3% (544) were symptomatic. Symptomatic presentation was the most common for both imported and introduced cases, while asymptomatic presentation was more common in autochthonic cases and infections from an undetermined source. Asymptomatic infection was more common in groups aged ⟨20 and 20-59 years, while symptomatic infection was more common in those aged ⟩60 years. In the contact matrix, 34.6% of cases (445/1287) were not tied to other cases, and 65.4% (842/1287) were infectious-infected dyads, with symptomatic-symptomatic being the most common combination. The majority of primary cases (78.5%; 1002/1276) did not generate secondary cases, and 85.6% (658/743) of asymptomatic cases did not lead to other cases (although one asymptomatic superspreader led to 90 cases in a single event). However, 63.2% (344/544) of symptomatic primary cases generated secondary cases, and 11 symptomatic superspreaders spawned 100 secondary cases in different events. CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection was the most common form of COVID-19 in Havana during the study period, but its capacity for contagion was lower than that of symptomatic individuals. Superspreader events under specific conditions played an important role in sustaining the epidemic.

Transmisión intrahospitalaria de SARS-CoV-2

RESUMEN Introducción: La alta transmisión de la COVID-19 propicia que el personal de salud contraiga la infección durante la atención a los pacientes con la probabilidad de propagarla a otros pacientes hospitalizados y compañeros de trabajo. Objetivo: Describir un brote intrahospitalario de COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal realizado en el Hospital Universiario Clínico Quirúrgico " General Calixto García" , La Habana en marzo de 2020. Se estudiaron 545 personas entre pacientes y trabajadores. Los datos se recolectaron mediante fichas clínico-epidemiológicas e historias clínicas. Los casos se describieron según: tipo de personal de salud, servicios que atienden, sexo, síntomas, signos y comorbilidades. Se realizó una matriz de contactos y para evaluar la intensidad del brote se calculó el número reproductivo y el valor de dispersion. Resultados: De los 545 estudiados, 30 % fueron pacientes y 70 % trabajadores de siete servicios, 30 tuvieron el diagnóstico confirmado de SARS-CoV-2. Las acciones de control de foco se dirigieron a la identificacion, notificacion y aislamiento de los enfermos. La edad promedio fue de 45 años, el cuadro clínico caracterizado por tos, disnea y astenia. Las comorbilidades más frecuentes (60 %) fueron hipertensión arterial, cardiopatia isquémica y diabetes mellitus, asintomaticos 53,3 % y tres fallecidos. La tasa de ataque fue de 5,5 %. Conclusiones: Los trabajadores más afectados son los médicos y las enfermeras. La oportunidad en las acciones del control de foco y la calidad en la investigacion epidemiológica son esenciales para lograr un control efectivo.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The high transmission of COVID-19 has resulted in healthcare workers becoming infected while caring for patients and spreading the disease to other hospital patients or coworkers. Objective: To describe an in-hospital COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in March 2020 at the "General Calixto García Íñiguez" Clinical-Surgical University Hospital, Havana. The study included 545 individuals among patients and healthcare workers. The data was collected from the clinical-epidemiological profiles and the medical records. Each case was described using the following criteria: type of health worker, service provided, sex, signs, symptoms, and comorbidities. To determine the outbreak intensity, a contact matrix was created and the reproductive number and the dispersion value were calculated. Results: Of the 545 studied individuals, 30% were patients and 70% workers of seven services, 30 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Outbreak control actions were aimed at identifying, reporting and isolating sick individuals. The average age was 45 years. The clinical pictures was characterized by cough, dyspnea and asthenia. The most common comorbidities (60%) were hypertension, ischemic cardiopathology, and diabetes mellitus; 53.3% were asymptomatic and three people died. The attack rate was 5.5%. Conclusions: During the outbreak, medical doctors and nurses were the most affected. The timeliness of outbreak control actions and the quality of the epidemiological investigation are essential to ensure effective control.

Manifestaciones oftalmológicas del dengue, el zika y el chikungunya / Ophthalmic manifestations of dengue, zika and chikungunya

Las infecciones por arbovirus constituyen un reto significativo para los sistemas de salud. Cada vez se incrementa el reconocimiento de complicaciones del sistema nervioso central secundarias a ellas, lo que puede ser un dilema para su diagnóstico y tratamiento. Los arbovirus pueden alterar los mecanismos de inmunidad innatos del ojo al dañar las barreras óculo-hemáticas. En esta revisión nos propusimos caracterizar los principales hallazgos oftalmológicos de las enfermedades transmitidas por mosquito, como el dengue, el zika y el chikungunya, y su posible fisiopatología. Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura sobre el tema en la base de datos de PubMED. En los pacientes con zika y chikungunya se reconocieron frecuentemente la conjuntivitis no purulenta y la queratitis. En los casos de dengue el edema macular y las hemorragias retinianas maculares fueron frecuentes; causaron disminución de la visión y defectos campimétricos; la vasculitis y coriorretinitis periférica podía ser asintomática si la mácula no estaba comprometida. Estuvieron implicados la trombocitopenia y otros procesos fisiopatológicos. En las enfermedades estudiadas se reportaron casos raros con parálisis de nervios oculomotores o neuritis óptica como respuesta autoinmune tardía. Recientemente se reportó el síndrome de zika congénito que incluyó múltiples anomalías del desarrollo. En los neonatos afectados se describió la atrofia macular, así como la pigmentación macular bilateral, la hipoplasia del nervio óptico, la catarata, entre otros. Existen diversas lesiones oculares secundarias a infecciones por dengue, zika y chikungunya que merecen reconocimiento, pues deterioran la función visual temporal o permanentemente(AU)

Arbovirus infections pose a significant challenge to health systems. Awareness of the secondary central nervous system complications caused by these infections is on the increase, which may be a dilemma for their diagnosis and treatment. Arboviruses may alter the innate immunity mechanisms of the eye by damaging blood-retinal barriers. The objective of this review was to characterize the main ophthalmological findings of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue, zika and chikungunya, and their possible physiopathology. A bibliographic search about the topic was conducted in the database PubMed. Non-purulent conjunctivitis and keratitis were frequently found in zika and chikungunya patients. Dengue cases often presented macular edema and macular retinal hemorrhage, which caused vision reduction, as well as campimetric defects. Vasculitis and peripheral chorioretinitis could be asymptomatic if the macula was not involved. Thrombocytopenia and other physiopathological processes were also present. Oculomotor nerve palsy and optic neuritis as a late autoimmune response were rarely reported in the diseases studied. Recent reports refer to congenital zika syndrome, which causes multiple developmental abnormalities. Macular atrophy, bilateral macular pigmentation, optic nerve hypoplasia and cataract, among other disorders, were described in affected neonates. A variety of ocular lesions secondary to dengue, zika and chikungunya infection deserve recognition, for they damage visual function either temporarily or permanently(AU)

Selección del tratamiento de rescate en pacientes con VIH-1: respuesta y supervivencia / Selection method of rescue treatment in patients with HIV-1: response and survival

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar el impacto del uso de la prueba genotípica de resistencia en la respuesta y supervivencia a largo plazo de los pacientes infectados con el VIH-1 que presentaron fracaso a la terapia antirretroviral. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte, retrospectivo, se definieron dos grupos basados en la forma de selección de la terapia de rescate utilizada: en base al resultado de la prueba genotípica de resistencia (grupo A) y en base al criterio de expertos (grupo B). Los pacientes fueron evaluados antes del cambio de la terapia de rescate según variables demográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio y evaluados a los 6, 12, 18, y 24 meses del cambio de tratamiento según respuesta virológica, respuesta de células CD4+, incidencia de enfermedades oportunistas y supervivencia. La información fue obtenida de las actas de la Comisión Nacional de Terapia Antirretroviral, la base de datos del IPK y las Historias Clínicas. Se utilizaron números absolutos y porcentajes, media y mediana, con sus respectivas desviaciones estándares (DE), Chi2, se aplicó el Riesgo Relativo (RR), prueba U de Mann-Whitney, y el método de Kaplan-Meier. Resultados: Los pacientes de grupo A tuvieron 1,44 veces mayor probabilidad de alcanzar supresión virológica completa que los pacientes del grupo B a los 6 meses, RR 1,44 (1,046- 2,054) p=0,017. El incremento promedio de Linfocitos T CD4+ fue de 117,40 células/mm3 en pacientes del grupo A y de 30,04 células/mm3 en pacientes del grupo B, p<0,005 a los 12 meses de iniciado el tratamiento. La incidencia de enfermedades oportunistas fue de 25,7% en el grupo B y de 5,6% en grupo A. El mayor porcentaje de sobrevida acumulada se observó en el grupo el grupo A (98,1%), en comparación con el grupo B (79%). Conclusiones: Los pacientes en los cuales el tratamiento de rescate se escogió basado en una prueba genotípica de resistencia tuvieron una mejor respuesta virológica, un mayor incremento de Linfocitos T CD4+ y una mayor supervivencia que aquellos en los que el tratamiento se eligió basado en el criterio de expertos.

Abstract Objective: To determine the impact of the use of genotypic resistance testing on the response and long-term survival of HIV-1 infected patients who have failed antiretroviral therapy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out; two groups were defined based on the method of selection of the rescue therapy used: based on the result of the genotypic resistance test (group A) and based on the criteria of experts (group B). The patients were evaluated before the change of rescue therapy according to demographic, clinical and laboratory variables and evaluated at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after the change of treatment according to virological response, CD4 + cell response, incidence of opportunistic diseases. and survival. The information was obtained from the minutes of the National Commission for Antiretroviral Therapy, the IPK database and the Medical Records. Absolute numbers and percentages, mean and median, with their respective standard deviations (SD), Chi2, were used, the Relative Risk (RR), the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Kaplan-Meier method were applied. Results: Group A patients were 1.44 times more likely to achieve complete virological suppression than group B patients at 6 months, RR 1.44 (1.046-2.054) p = 0.017. The average increase in CD4 + T lymphocytes was 117.40 cells / mm3 in group A patients and 30.04 cells / mm3 in group B patients, p <0.005 12 months after startin treatment. The incidence of opportunistic diseases was 25.7% in group B and 5.6% in group A. The highest percentage of cumulative survival was observed in group A (98.1%), compared to the group B (79%). Conclusions: Patients in whom salvage treatment was chosen based on a genotypic resistance test had a better virological response, a greater increase in CD4 + T lymphocytes, and a longer survival than those in whom treatment was chosen based on expert judgment.

Estrategia de capacitación para el diagnóstico y manejo de arbovirosis en Cienfuegos / Training strategy for the diagnosis and management of arbovirosis in Cienfuegos

RESUMEN Fundamento La introducción de dos nuevas arbovirosis (Chikungunya y Zika), además del dengue, ha creado un nuevo desafío para la salud pública en las Américas. Por ello es importante conocer el grado de asimilación por los profesionales de la salud respecto a las estrategias implementadas para enfrentar dicha problemática. Objetivo describir los resultados de una estrategia de capacitación dirigida a médicos y enfermeros, sobre diagnóstico y manejo clínico de arbovirosis. Métodos estudio cuasi-experimental, del tipo antes y después, desarrollado en Cienfuegos, Cuba, en el período comprendido entre julio de 2018 y enero del 2019. Se tomó una muestra de 95 profesionales, a quienes se aplicaron encuestas antes y después del estudio del documento instructivo (Instrumento para el diagnóstico y la atención a pacientes con sospecha de arbovirosis, publicado por la Organización Panamericana de la Salud) por los participantes; las cuales cubrieron los dominios: cuadro clínico, diagnóstico diferencial, manejo de casos y pronóstico. Resultados se obtuvo un valor medio de respuestas correctas de 70,93. Transcurrido el tiempo destinado a la preparación, y aplicadas nuevas encuestas, la media de respuestas correctas fue de 78,34, diferencia que fue estadísticamente significativa. Se identificaron las principales necesidades de aprendizaje. Conclusión el ejercicio realizado y la evaluación global de las respuestas fueron satisfactorios, según mostraron los valores medios de respuestas correctas antes y después del estudio del documento instructivo en temas de diagnóstico y manejo de arbovirosis.

ABSTRACT Background The introduction of two new arboviruses (Chikungunya and Zika), in addition to dengue, has created a new challenge for public health in the Americas. For this reason, it is important to know the assimilation degree by health professionals regarding the strategies used to face this problem. Objective to describe the results of training strategy aimed at doctors and nurses, on the arboviruses diagnosis and clinical management. Methods a quasi-experimental study, of the before and after type, developed in Cienfuegos, Cuba, in the period between July 2018 and January 2019. A sample of 95 professionals was taken, to whom surveys were applied before and after the study of the instructive document (Instrument for the diagnosis and care of patients with suspected arbovirosis, published by the Pan American Health Organization) by the participants; who covered the domains: clinical picture, differential diagnosis, case management and prognosis. Results a mean value of correct answers of 70.93 was obtained. After the time assigned to preparation, and new surveys were applied, the mean of correct responses was 78.34, a difference that was statistically significant. The main learning needs were identified. Conclusion the exercise carried out and the global evaluation of the responses was satisfactory, as shown by the mean values of correct responses before and after the study of the instructional document on issues of arbovirosis diagnosis and management.

COVID-19: presentación clínica en pacientes hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" / COVID-19: clinical presentation in patients admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute

. Introducción: Con los primeros casos de COVID-19 en Cuba era necesario el reconocimiento temprano de los pacientes con riesgo de evolucionar hacia formas graves de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Describir el comportamiento clínico de la COVID-19 en pacientes hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kourí" e identificar factores asociados a la gravedad. Métodos: Se presentaron los primeros 73 casos de COVID-19 hospitalizados en el Instituto de Medicina Tropical Pedro Kourí desde el 11 de marzo al 5 mayo de 2020. Los pacientes se clasificaron en dos grupos: graves y con enfermedad ligera. Se compararon variables clínicas, demográficas, de laboratorio e imagenológicas en el momento del ingreso, y su posible asociación con la gravedad de la enfermedad. Resultados: Hubo siete pacientes graves (9,6 por ciento), cinco fallecieron. La edad > 60 años, tener más de una comorbilidad, hipertensión arterial y asma bronquial, fueron más frecuentes en pacientes graves. La fiebre más de seis días (p= 0,00), disnea (p= 0,00), presencia de estertores húmedos (p= 0,00), frecuencia respiratoria > 24/min (p= 0,00) y valores de linfocitos < 0,8 x109/L (p= 0,00), de ferritina > 500µg/L (p =0,00), proteína C reactiva ( 10μg/L (p= 0,01) y LDH ( 500 U/L (p= 0,01) se relacionaron con la gravedad. El 18,2 por ciento de las radiografías de tórax mostró alteraciones, con predominio de focos de condensación inflamatoria bilateral. Las complicaciones más frecuentes fueron: distrés respiratorio, choque, sepsis bacteriana y afecciones cardíacas. Conclusiones: Existen características clínicas y de laboratorio, identificables al ingreso, que están relacionadas con la gravedad de la enfermedad; lo que puede ser útil para la estratificación del riesgo y el manejo adecuado de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Upon appearance of the first COVID-19 cases in Cuba, early identification of patients at risk of developing severe forms of the disease became a necessity. Objective: Describe the clinical behavior of COVID-19 in patients admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute and identify factors associated to severity. Methods: A presentation was made of the first 73 COVID-19 cases admitted to Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute from 11 March to 5 May 2020. The patients were divided into two groups: severe and mild disease. A comparison was made of clinical, demographic, laboratory and imaging variables at admission, and their possible association to disease severity. Results: Seven patients (9.6%) were critically ill; five died. Age > 60 years, more than one comorbidity, arterial hypertension and bronchial asthma were more common among critical patients. Fever for more than six days (p= 0.00), dyspnea (p= 0.00), presence of humid stertors (p= 0.00), respiratory rate > 24/min (p= 0.00) and lymphocytes < 0.8 x109/l (p= 0.00), ferritin > 500 µg/L (p =0.00), C-reactive protein 10 μg/l (p= 0.01) and LDH 500 U/l (p= 0.01) were related to disease severity. 18.2 percent of the chest radiographs showed alterations, with a predominance of bilateral foci of inflammatory condensation. The most common complications were respiratory distress, shock, bacterial sepsis and heart disorders. Conclusions: Some clinical and laboratory characteristics identifiable at admission may be associated to disease severity, which makes them useful for risk stratification and the appropriate management of patients(AU)

Characterization of Adverse Events Following Childhood Immunizations in Pinar del Río, Cuba.

INTRODUCTION: The Cuban national program for childhood immunizations began in 1962 and has included a surveillance system for monitoring adverse events following immunization since 1999. The expected rate of adverse events following childhood immunization in Cuba is 50 per 100,000 vaccine doses administered. In 2017, Pinar del Río Province reported higher-than-expected rates of adverse events, which motivated this study on their frequency and types. OBJECTIVE: Characterize adverse events following immunization reported in children in Pinar del Río Province in 2017. METHODS: We examined reports of adverse events following immunization in children from 2 months through 14 years of age in Pinar del Río Province, Cuba, from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017. We found 487 adverse events that met the criteria established by the national surveillance system. Information was obtained from epidemiological surveys of adverse events following immunization in Pinar del Río Province municipalities. Recorded were age, municipality, signs and symptoms, vaccine type, number of doses, anatomical site and route of vaccine administration, and the institution where the child was vaccinated. We estimated proportions for intensity and frequency related to vaccination, and calculated rates for 100,000 vaccine doses administered. We then compared the rates of observed adverse events with those of expected events. RESULTS: The overall rate of adverse events was 305.6 per 100,000 doses administered. Highest rates were reported in children aged ⟨1 year (580.9 per 100,000 doses administered); in Guane Municipality (610 per 100,000 doses), for the pentavalent (DTwP-HB-Hib) vaccine (1567.7 per 100,000 doses), and in applications to the anterolateral quadrant of the thigh (772.5 per 100,000 doses). Symptoms classifi ed as moderate, common, and general occurred more often, with fever being the most frequent. Severe induration, hypotonic and hyporesponsive episodes, persisten crying and rashes were observed more frequently than expected. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of adverse events following childhood immunization is similar to that reported in other provinces and elsewhere in the world. Of all childhood vaccines, the pentavalent vaccine is the most reactogenic. The absence of serious adverse events demonstrates the safety of childhood immunization in Cuba.

Epidemiología del desprendimiento de la retina regmatógeno / Epidemiology of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

RESUMEN Objetivos: Determinar los factores epidemiológicos, sistémicos y oculares del desprendimiento de la retina regmatógeno. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo transversal de los casos nuevos con desprendimiento de la retina regmatogéno que requirieron cirugía y se presentaron de forma consecutiva en la Consulta de Vítreo-Retina del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer", desde mayo del año 2016 hasta mayo de 2017. Se estudiaron las variables demográficas y los antecedentes patológicos sistémicos y oculares. Los resultados se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y relativas (variables cualitativas) y se calculó la media y la desviación estándar en las cuantitativas. Resultados: En el período estudiado se atendieron 237 casos nuevos de desprendimiento de la retina regmatogéno que requirieron cirugía. La edad media de estos fue de 57,79 años (desviación estándar 11,98). Prevaleció el sexo masculino (62 por ciento). La mayor cantidad de casos provenía de las provincias occidentales, fundamentalmente de La Habana (43,9 por ciento) y los primeros síntomas se presentaron en los meses primaverales (48,1 por ciento). La hipertensión arterial se reportó en el 54,4 por ciento. Entre los antecedentes oculares predominó la cirugía de catarata (65,8 por ciento), seguida de la degeneración reticular en la retina periférica (36,3 por ciento). Conclusiones: El desprendimiento de la retina regmatógeno se presenta en edades avanzadas y la cirugía de catarata es un antecedente frecuente en estos casos(AU)

ABSTRACT Objectives: Determine the epidemiological, systemic and ocular factors of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Methods: A cross-sectional observational descriptive study was conducted of the new cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment requiring surgery and presenting consecutively at the Vitreous-Retina Service of Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology from May 2016 to May 2017. Analysis was performed of demographic variables and systemic and ocular pathological antecedents. Results were expressed as absolute and relative frequencies (qualitative variables), whereas quantitative variables underwent mean and standard deviation estimation. Results: During the study period, 237 new cases were seen of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment requiring surgery. Mean age was 57.79 years (standard deviation 11.98). The male sex prevailed (62 percent). Most cases were from the western provinces, mainly Havana (43.9 percent), and the first symptoms appeared in the spring months (48.1 percent). Hypertension was reported in 54.4 percent of the cases. The prevailing ocular antecedents included cataract surgery (65.8 percent), followed by lattice degeneration in the peripheral retina (36.3 percent). Conclusions: Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment presents in advanced ages. Cataract surgery is a common antecedent in these cases(AU)

Instrumento para la pesquisa de los problemas del desarrollo psicomotor en niños menores de seis años / Instrument for the screening of psychomotor development's problems in children under six years old

Introducción: En la detección temprana de los problemas del desarrollo resulta importante emplear instrumentos de pesquisa. Objetivo: Describir el diseño de un instrumento para la pesquisa de los problemas del desarrollo psicomotor en niños menores de seis años. Métodos: Investigación de desarrollo realizada en La Habana, en niños sanos menores de seis años (n=1 333). El instrumento se diseñó a partir de la estimación de las edades de cumplimiento de un conjunto de pautas de desarrollo. Se estimaron los percentiles 25, 50, 75 y 90 (± IC95 por ciento) de la edad de cumplimiento de 80 pautas del desarrollo psicomotor mediante una regresión logística con transformación inversa. Se comparó el percentil 50 con el de las pautas de otras pruebas similares. El instrumento se diseñó con un método gráfico con el programa Microsoft Excel 2010. Resultados: Se estimaron todos los percentiles en 93,8 por ciento de las pautas seleccionadas; en tres de ellas no fue posible obtener el percentil 25, el 50 o ambos y en dos casos fueron cumplidas por todos los niños, por lo que su comportamiento no fue acorde a un modelo madurativo. En las comparaciones respecto a pruebas foráneas predominaron las pautas cumplidas a edades similares y adelantadas. Conclusiones: El instrumento diseñado constituye una herramienta útil para la pesquisa de los problemas del desarrollo psicomotor en la primera infancia, tanto en la práctica asistencial como en estudios epidemiológicos. Su aplicación en estos escenarios contribuye a elevar la calidad de la atención pediátrica(AU)

Introduction: In the early detection of development problems, it is important to use screening instruments. Objective: To describe the design of an instrument for the screening of psychomotor development's problems in children under six years old. Methods: Development research conducted in Havana, in healthy children under six years old (n= 1 333). The design of instrument was based on the estimation of the ages of compliance related to a set of development guidelines. The 25th, 50th, 75th and 90th percentiles (± 95 percent CI) of the compliance age of 80 psychomotor development patterns were estimated by means of a logistic regression with inverse transformation. The 50th percentile was compared with that of other similar tests. The instrument was designed with a graphical method with Microsoft Excel 2010 program. Results: All percentiles were estimated in 93.8 percent of the selected guidelines; in three of them it was not possible to obtain the 25th percentile, the 50th or both, and in two cases they were fulfilled by all the children, so their behavior was not according to a maturational model. In the comparisons with respect to foreign tests, the patterns fulfilled at similar and advanced ages prevailed. Conclusions: The instrument designed is a useful tool for the investigation of psychomotor development problems in early childhood, both in care practice and epidemiological studies, and their application in these scenarios contributes to raising the quality of pediatric care(AU)

Comprensión de decisores sobre la utilidad de la medición de desigualdades de salud en la notificación tuberculosis en La Habana / Decision makers' awareness of the usefulness of measuring health inequalities in tuberculosis reporting in Havana

Introducción: El abordaje de las desigualdades de salud en la notificación de tuberculosis resulta importante para la toma de decisiones preventivas. No obstante, su medición usualmente no es parte de las competencias del personal vinculado a las acciones de prevención y control de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Explorar la comprensión que tienen los decisores de salud vinculados al Programa Nacional de Control de la Tuberculosis de La Habana de las desigualdades en la notificación de tuberculosis y la utilidad que le atribuyen a su medición. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo exploratorio. Se aplicó una entrevista semiestructurada a una muestra exhaustiva de decisores del programa a nivel provincial, municipal y de área de salud. El instrumento utilizado en la entrevista incluyó datos generales de los participantes, ocho preguntas abiertas y una guía de observación de elementos relevantes del proceso de la entrevista. La información se clasificó en categorías de análisis deductivas e inductivas. Resultados: Los decisores vinculados a las acciones de prevención y control de la tuberculosis en La Habana no percibieron la utilidad real que tiene la medición de las desigualdades de salud en su práctica diaria. Asimismo, los conocimientos y capacidades para la medición de estas desigualdades fueron insuficientes en el personal de los niveles gerencial y de implementación del programa de control en la provincia. Conclusiones: Se evidencia la necesidad de un cambio en la connotación que tienen de las desigualdades en salud y en las capacidades para su medición en decisores vinculados a la prevención y control de la tuberculosis en La Habana(AU)

Introduction: Approaching health inequalities in tuberculosis reporting is important for preventive decision making. However, their measurement is usually not included among the competences of the personnel involved in tuberculosis prevention and control actions. Objective: Explore the extent to which health decision makers involved in the National Tuberculosis Control Program in Havana are aware of the inequalities in tuberculosis reporting and the usefulness of their measurement. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted. A semi-structured interview was applied to an exhaustive sample of decision makers from the program on a province, municipality and health area level. The tool used for the interview included personal details of the participants, eight open-ended questions and an observation guide for relevant components of the interview process. The information was classed into deductive and inductive analysis categories. Results: Decision makers involved in tuberculosis prevention and control actions in Havana did not perceive the actual usefulness of measuring health inequalities in their daily practice. On the other hand, the knowledge and capacities required to measure these inequalities were insufficient among the personnel in charge of the management and implementation of the control program in the province. Conclusions: Evidence was found of the need for a change in the connotation of health inequalities and the capacities for their measurement among decision makers involved in tuberculosis prevention and control in Havana(AU)

Diseño y métodos empleados en la obtención de un instrumento para la pesquisa de problemas del desarrollo psicomotor / Design and methods used in obtaining an instrument for the screening of psychomotor development's problems

Introducción: La aplicación de pruebas de pesquisa en los controles de salud de los niños permite la detección temprana de problemas del desarrollo psicomotor. Objetivo: Describir el diseño y los métodos empleados para obtener un instrumento para la pesquisa de problemas del desarrollo psicomotor en niños menores de seis años. Métodos: Investigación de desarrollo realizada entre 2014-2018 y en la que se aplicó un diseño muestral estratificado, trietápico y equiprobabilístico por cada grupo de edad y sexo. Incluyó nueve áreas de salud en igual número de municipios y 256 consultorios. Los criterios de inclusión fueron: niños dispensarizados como sanos, edad entre 15 días y 6,5 años, residencia permanente en el área de atención de los consultorios seleccionados y consentimiento informado de los padres o tutores; se excluyeron aquellos con enfermedades agudas en el momento de la evaluación. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 80 pautas de desarrollo distribuidas en 4 áreas y 25 grupos de edad. Se estudiaron 1 333 niños, el 96,8 por ciento de la muestra estimada. Se evaluaron, como promedio, 53 niños por grupo de edad, el promedio de pautas evaluadas por niño fue de 22. El nivel de educación materna fue elevado. Conclusiones: El diseño y los métodos empleados constituyen una base fiable para el propósito de obtener un instrumento válido para la pesquisa de problemas del desarrollo psicomotor en niños menores de seis años, que permite además, obtener información útil desde el punto de vista asistencial y epidemiológico(AU)

Introduction: The application of screening tests in the health controls of children allows the early detection of psychomotor development's problems. Objective: To describe the design and methods used to obtain an instrument for the detection of psychomotor developmental problems in children under six years old. Methods: A development research was carried out between 2014 and 2018, in which a stratified, three-phase and equiprobabilistic sample design was applied by age group and sex. It included nine health areas (polyclinics) in the same number of municipalities and 256 Family doctor-and-nurse's offices. The inclusion criteria were: children classified as healthy, between 15 days and 6.5 years, with permanent residence in the care area of the selected family doctor-and-nurse's offices and with the consent of parents or guardians; those with acute diseases at the time of evaluation were excluded. Results: 80 developmental guidelines were selected, and those were distributed in 4 areas and 25 age groups. A total of 1 333 children were studied representing the 96.8 percent of the estimated sample. On average, 53 children were evaluated by age group; the average of guidelines evaluated per child was 22. The level of maternal education was high. Conclusions: The design and methods used constitute a reliable base with the purpose of obtaining a valid instrument for the research of psychomotor development's problems in children under six years, which also it allows obtaining useful information from the assistance and epidemiological point of view(AU)