Noise-induced hearing loss in the pre-industrial era: early contributions in De Morbis Artificum by Bernardino Ramazzini (1633-1714).

OBJECTIVE: Noise-induced hearing loss is the most prevalent occupational disease worldwide and is historically associated with the Industrial Revolution. This study analyses early descriptions of this disorder during the pre-industrial period in the work of the Italian physician Bernardino Ramazzini (1633-1714). METHOD: Primary and secondary historical literature were reviewed. RESULTS: Ramazzini described hearing loss in corn millers and in coppersmiths and recognised that this disorder is irreversible and progressive when exposure to noise continues. He also seemed to describe tinnitus. He further suggested the use of earplugs as a preventive measure for these classes of workers. Ramazzini's anatomical and pathological knowledge appears to be based on ancient authors; he did not discuss contemporaneous medical authors' work on hearing function. CONCLUSION: Despite some limitations, Ramazzini's work appears pioneering for his time and represents an important milestone in the history of otolaryngology.

The sponge-bearer suffers from goiter: "The Passion of Christ" (c. 1530) by Fermo Stella.

In the partition of the church of San Bernardino in Caravaggio (Lombardy), Fermo Stella (c. 1490-1562) depicted a cycle of frescoes of "The Passion of Christ". In the central panel, "The Crucifixion" one of the tortures of Christ, the sponge-bearer, shows a large goiter and other signs of hypothyroidism (macroglossia, expressionless face, and puffiness around the eyes), confirming that the Renaissance artists often represented sinful and wicked individuals as affected by thyroid diseases.

Association between seasonal flu vaccination and COVID-19 among healthcare workers.

BACKGROUND: In next fall and winter, SARS-CoV-2 could circulate in parallel with seasonal influenza. The dual epidemics will result in considerable morbidity and mortality; therefore, influenza vaccination may be essential. Recent studies found increased risk of coronavirus in individuals receiving influenza vaccination. AIMS: Our aim is to analyse the association between influenza vaccination and COVID-19 in a population of healthcare workers (HCWs). METHODS: IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 3520 HCWs at a large hospital in Northern Italy. For each participant, we collected data on flu immunization status for the last five flu seasons. Logistic regression was used to test associations between seasonal flu vaccination status and a positive serology tests for COVID-19. RESULTS: During the last five flu seasons, 2492 vaccinations were administered. Serology tests were negative for 3196 (91%) HCWs and residents and only 21 (1%) people had an equivocal test (12.0-15.0 AU/mL). Only 128 (4%) people received a diagnosis of COVID-19, with a positive swab test. No flu vaccinations for the last five flu seasons were specifically associated with diagnosis of COVID-19 or with positive results of serology tests. CONCLUSIONS: Flu vaccinations did not appear to be associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Influenza vaccination should continue to be recommended for HCWs and for individuals at increased risk for severe illness from respiratory infection.