Quality of life of Venezuelan migrants in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The economic, social, and health crisis in Venezuela has resulted in the largest forced migration in recent Latin American history. The general scenario in host countries influence migrants' self-perception of quality of life, which can be understood as an indicator of their level of integration. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated socioeconomic and health vulnerabilities, especially for forced migrants. We hypothesized that the adverse circumstances faced by Venezuelan migrants during the pandemic have deepened their vulnerability, which may have influenced their perception of quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the quality of life of Venezuelan migrants in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed the quality of life of 312 adult Venezuelan migrants living in Brazil using the World Health Organization WHOQOL-BREF quality of life assessment, which was self-administered online from October 20, 2020, to May 10, 2021. The associations of quality of life and its domains with participants' characteristics were analyzed via multiple linear regression models. Mean quality of life score was 44.7 (±21.8) on a scale of 0 to 100. The best recorded mean was in the physical domain (66.2±17.8) and the worst in the environmental domain (51.1±14.6). The worst quality of life was associated with being a woman, not living with a partner, lower household income, and discrimination based on nationality. Factors associated with overall quality of life and respective domains, especially income and discrimination, were also observed in other studies as obstacles to Venezuelan migrants. The unsatisfactory quality of life among Venezuelans living in Brazil may have been worsened by the pandemic during the study period.

Obstetrical Complications in Venezuelan Refugee and Migrant Women: Analysis of Ecuadorian National Hospital Discharge Data, 2018-2021.

An estimated 7.7 million Venezuelans have fled a severe humanitarian crisis in their country, most (70%) to other middle-income host countries in the same Andean region. Migration-related exposures during periconception and other critical gestational periods can adversely impact maternal-perinatal outcomes. Emerging evidence suggests that Venezuelan refugee and migrant women (VRMW) who migrate to Andean host countries are at-risk for delivering preterm and low birthweight infants and for Cesarean-sections. However, relatively few studies have examined obstetrical complications that could contribute to these or other short- and longer-term health outcomes of VRMW and/or their offspring. Our exploratory study analyzed four recent years of national hospital discharge data (2018-2021) from Ecuador to compare the primary discharge diagnoses of VRMW (n = 29,005) and Ecuadorian nationals (n = 1,136,796) for ICD-10 O code obstetrical complications related to or aggravated by pregnancy, childbirth, or the puerperium. Our findings indicated that VRMW were hospitalized for 0.5 days longer than Ecuadorian reference group women and they had higher adjusted odds (aOR) for a primary discharge diagnosis for obstetrical complications including preeclampsia (aOR:1.62, 95% CI:1.55,1.69), preterm labor (aOR:1.20, 95% CI:1.11,1.31), premature rupture of membranes (aOR: 1.72, 95% CI:1.63,1.83), oligohydraminos (aOR:1.24, 95% CI:1.12,1.36), obstructed labor (aOR: 1.39, 95% CI:1.31,1.47), perineal lacerations/other obstetric trauma (aOR:1.76, 95% CI:1.63, 1.91), STIs (aOR:2.59, 95% CI:1.29,2.92), anemia (aOR:1.33, 95% CI:1.24,1.42), and ectopic pregnancy (aOR:1.16 95% CI:1.04,1.28). They had similar aOR for diagnosed gestational diabetes and spontaneous abortion (SAB) compared to the reference group but a reduced aOR for genitourinary infections (aOR:0.79, 95% CI:0.74,0.84) and early pregnancy hemorrhage not ending in SAB (aOR:0.43, 95% CI:0.36,0.51). Our findings underscore the vulnerability of VRMW for a number of potentially serious obstetrical complications with the potential to adversely impact the short- and longer-term health of mothers and their offspring. Future studies should collect more detailed information on the migration status, experiences, and exposures of MRMW that influence their risk for obstetrical complications. These are needed to expand our findings to better understand why they have excess risk for these and to inform social and public health policies, programs and targeted interventions aimed at reducing the risk of this vulnerable refugee and migrant group.

Necesidades en salud sexual y reproductiva en migrantes de origen venezolano en el municipio de Cali (Colombia) / Sexual and reproductive health needs of Venezuelan migrants in the municipality of Cali, Colombia / Necessidades de saúde sexual e reprodutiva de migrantes de origem venezuelana no município de Cali (Colômbia)

RESUMEN Objetivo. Este estudio busca comprender las necesidades asociadas con la salud sexual y reproductiva (SSR) de migrantes de origen venezolano asentados de forma temporal o permanente en Santiago de Cali, Colombia. Método. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo con migrantes de origen venezolano de entre 15 y 60 años. Los participantes se seleccionaron mediante la técnica de bola de nieve, y la recopilación de la información se inició con personas referenciadas por las organizaciones de personas migrantes y luego con recorridos en zonas de alta concentración de personas migrantes de origen venezolano. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad y análisis de contenido temático. Resultados. Participaron 48 personas migrantes, de las cuales 70,8% no tenía regularizada su condición migratoria y se hallaban en condiciones de vulnerabilidad socioeconómica. Las personas participantes contaban con pocos recursos económicos, tenían falta de oportunidades de trabajo, precariedad de capital humano y niveles variables de capital social, sumado a una integración social débil que limitaba su apropiación como titulares de derechos. El estatus migratorio se constituye en una barrera para el acceso a los servicios de salud y otros servicios sociales. Sobresalen las necesidades de información sobre derechos de salud sexual y reproductiva, un mayor riesgo entre jóvenes de 15 y 29 años y en la comunidad LGBTIQ+, debido a la mayor vulnerabilidad y la exposición a espacios inseguros para su autocuidado, aseo personal e intimidad, necesidades de atención y tratamiento de infecciones de transmisión sexual, apoyo psicosocial por violencia, consumo de sustancias psicoactivas, conflictos familiares y procesos de transición de género. Conclusiones. Las necesidades en temas de salud sexual y reproductiva de las personas migrantes de origen venezolano están determinadas por sus condiciones de vida y trayectorias migratorias.

ABSTRACT Objective. This study seeks to understand the needs associated with the sexual and reproductive health of migrants of Venezuelan origin settled temporarily or permanently in Santiago de Cali, Colombia. Methods. A qualitative study was conducted with Venezuelan migrants between 15 and 60 years old. Participants were selected using the snowball technique. Information was initially gathered from people identified by migrant organizations, followed by information gathering in areas with high concentrations of migrants of Venezuelan origin. In-depth interviews were held, and thematic content was analyzed. Results. Of the 48 migrants who participated, 70.8% did not have legal migratory status and were living in conditions of socioeconomic vulnerability. The participants had scarce economic resources, a lack of job opportunities, precarious human capital, and varying levels of social capital, coupled with weak social integration that limited their awareness and appropriation of their rights. Immigration status constituted an access barrier to health services and other social services. There was a particular need for information on sexual and reproductive health rights, with increased risk among young people 15 to 29 years old and members of the LGBTIQ+ community, due to their greater vulnerability and exposure to unsafe spaces for self-care, personal hygiene, and privacy, in addition to their greater need for health care, treatment of sexually transmitted infections, psychosocial support for violence, substance abuse, family conflicts, and gender transition processes. Conclusions. The sexual and reproductive health needs of Venezuelan migrants are determined by their living conditions and migratory experiences.

RESUMO Objetivo. Compreender as necessidades associadas à saúde sexual e reprodutiva (SSR) dos migrantes de origem venezuelana estabelecidos temporária ou permanentemente em Santiago de Cali, Colômbia. Método. Foi realizado um estudo qualitativo com migrantes de origem venezuelana entre 15 e 60 anos. Os participantes foram selecionados pela técnica de bola de neve. A coleta de informações começou com pessoas encaminhadas por organizações de migrantes e, posteriormente, percorrendo áreas com alta concentração de migrantes de origem venezuelana. Foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade e análise de conteúdo temático. Resultados. Participaram 48 migrantes, dos quais 70,8% não tinham sua situação imigratória regularizada e se encontravam em situação de vulnerabilidade socioeconômica. Os participantes tinham poucos recursos econômicos, falta de oportunidades de trabalho, capital humano precário e níveis variáveis de capital social, somados a uma fraca integração social que limitava a efetivação dos direitos dos quais são titulares. O status migratório é uma barreira ao acesso aos serviços de saúde e outros serviços sociais. Destacam-se as necessidades de informação sobre direitos à saúde sexual e reprodutiva, maior risco entre jovens de 15 a 29 anos e na comunidade LGBTIQ+ - devido à maior vulnerabilidade e exposição a espaços inseguros para autocuidado, higiene pessoal e privacidade -, necessidade de cuidados e tratamento de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis, apoio psicossocial em casos de violência, consumo de substâncias psicoativas, conflitos familiares e processos de transição de gênero. Conclusões. As necessidades em matéria de saúde sexual e reprodutiva dos migrantes de origem venezuelana são determinadas por suas condições de vida e trajetórias migratórias.

Health care access and migration experiences among Venezuelan female sex workers living in the Dominican Republic / Experiencias en materia de migración y acceso a la atención de salud en trabajadoras sexuales venezolanas residentes en República Dominicana / Acesso à atenção à saúde e experiências de migração entre trabalhadoras do sexo venezuelanas que vivem na República Dominicana

ABSTRACT Objective. To identify sexual risk behaviors and barriers to sexual and reproductive health care (SRH) among Venezuelan female sex workers living in the Dominican Republic. Methods. This was a mixed-methods study using four focus group discussions (FGDs) and a cross-sectional quantitative survey with Venezuelan migrant female sex workers. The study was conducted from September through October 2021 in two urban areas (Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata) in the Dominican Republic. Information collected from the FGDs was analyzed using thematic content analysis, and quantitative data were analyzed using univariate descriptive statistics. Data analysis was conducted from 30 November 2021 to 20 February 2022. Results. In all, 40 Venezuelan migrant female sex workers with a median (range) age of 33 (19-49) years participated in the FGDs and survey. The FDGs identified barriers to SRH services, including immigration status and its implications for formal employment and health access, mental wellbeing, quality-of-life in the Dominican Republic, navigating sex work, perceptions of sex work, SRH knowledge, and limited social support. Findings of the quantitative analysis indicated that most participants reported feeling depressed (78%), lonely/isolated (75%), and having difficulty sleeping (88%). Participants reported an average of 10 sexual partners in the past 30 days; 55% had engaged in sexual practices while under the influence of alcohol; and only 39% had used a condom when performing oral sex in the past 30 days. Regarding AIDS/HIV, 79% had taken an HIV test in the past 6 months, and 74% knew where to seek HIV services. Conclusions. This mixed-methods study found that nationality and social exclusion have a multilayered influence on migrant female sex workers, sexual risk behaviors, and access to health care. Recommendations for effective evidence-based interventions to address sexual health knowledge need to be implemented to address risky sexual behaviors, improve access to SRH, and reduce affordability barriers.

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RESUMO Objetivo. Identificar comportamentos sexuais de risco e barreiras aos cuidados de saúde sexual e reprodutiva (SSR) entre trabalhadoras do sexo venezuelanas que vivem na República Dominicana. Métodos. Estudo de métodos mistos. Foram realizadas quatro discussões com grupos focais e uma pesquisa quantitativa transversal com trabalhadoras do sexo migrantes venezuelanas. O estudo foi realizado de setembro a outubro de 2021 em dois áreas urbanas (Santo Domingo e Puerto Plata) da República Dominicana. As informações coletadas dos grupos focais foram analisadas por meio de análise temática de conteúdo, e os dados quantitativos foram analisados por meio de estatísticas descritivas univariadas. A análise dos dados foi realizada de 30 de novembro de 2021 a 20 de fevereiro de 2022. Resultados. No total, 40 trabalhadoras do sexo migrantes venezuelanas, com mediana de idade de 33 anos (mínimo, 19; máximo, 49), participaram dos grupos focais e da pesquisa. Os grupos focais identificaram barreiras aos serviços de SSR, incluindo status de imigração e suas repercussões para o emprego formal e o acesso à saúde, bem-estar mental, qualidade de vida na República Dominicana, navegação do trabalho sexual, percepções do trabalho sexual, conhecimento de SSR e apoio social limitado. Conforme a análise quantitativa, a maioria das participantes relatou sentir-se deprimida (78%), solitária/isolada (75%) e com dificuldade para dormir (88%). As participantes relataram uma média de 10 parceiros sexuais nos últimos 30 dias; 55% praticaram sexo sob efeito de álcool; e apenas 39% usaram preservativo na prática de sexo oral nos últimos 30 dias. Em relação ao HIV/aids, 79% fizeram teste de HIV nos últimos 6 meses e 74% sabiam onde procurar serviços de HIV. Conclusões. Este estudo de métodos mistos constatou que a nacionalidade e a exclusão social têm uma influência multifacetada nas trabalhadoras do sexo migrantes, nos comportamentos sexuais de risco e no acesso à atenção à saúde. É preciso implementar recomendações para intervenções eficazes e baseadas em evidências para abordar o conhecimento da saúde sexual, visando a abordar comportamentos sexuais de risco, melhorar o acesso aos serviços de SSR e reduzir as barreiras de acessibilidade.

Análisis bifactorial y validez de constructo de la Escala de Percepción de Amenaza exogrupal frente a los inmigrantes VIH positivos en una muestra de adultos peruanos / Bifactorial analysis and construct validity of the Out-group Threat Perception Scale against HIV-positive immigrants in a sample of Peruvian adults

En la actualidad se evidenciado aumento de los desplazamientos provocados por conflictos, persecuciones, falta de oportunidades, seguridad, entre otras razones, inscrementando la población de migrante en países de América Latina. Se destaca los desplazados venezolanos, siendo Perú el segundo país de Latinoamérica con más de esta población de migrantes. Estudios han alertado sobre la desvalorización de los migrantes y especialmente aquellos que vivan con enfermedades infectocontagiosas como es el VIH. Los ciudadanos autóctonos del país receptor, percirbe la presencia del exogrupo como amenazas a sus derechos sociales relacionándose con actitudes negativas, que se ha ido poteciando por los medios de comunicación. Por tanto, es importante realizar estudios que estimen el discernimiento de amenazas exogrupal estrechamente hacia los migrantes. El objetivo evaluar las evidencias psicométricas del instrumento de medición EPAE en una muestra de adultos peruanos frente a los inmigrantes VIH. El análisis de los ítems y de confiabilidad demostró un adecuado funcionamiento a excepción de los ítems 4, 5, 11 y 12. Se propone utilizar el modelo 2, el cual consta de 9 agregados, confirmado por los diferentes índices estadísticos (X2/gl=3.49; WMRM=1.124; NFI=0.993; CFI=0.995; GFI=0.997; RMSEA=0.045; SRMR=0.035). Según los valores del análisis bifactor no existe suficiente evidencia para asumir un factor general, se recomienda trabajar con dimensiones independientes. Es importante la identificación de percepción de amenazas reales, debido a que investigaciones han evidenciado que el estigma asociado con el VIH constituye uno de los mayores obstáculos para la prevención de nuevas infecciones(AU)

Currently, there is evidence of an increase in displacement caused by conflicts, persecution, lack of opportunities, security, among other reasons, increasing the migrant population in Latin American countries. The displaced Venezuelans stand out, with Peru being the second country in Latin America with more than this population of migrants. Studies have warned about the devaluation of migrants and especially those who live with infectious diseases such as HIV. The autochthonous citizens of the receiving country perceive the presence of the outgroup as threats to their social rights, related to negative attitudes, which has been promoted by the media. Therefore, it is important to carry out studies that estimate the discernment of out-group threats closely towards migrants. The objective is to evaluate the psychometric evidence of the EPAE measurement instrument in a sample of Peruvian adults compared to HIV immigrants. The analysis of the items and reliability showed an adequate functioning with the exception of items 4, 5, 11 and 12. It is proposed to use model 2, which consists of 9 aggregates, confirmed by the different statistical indices (X2/df= 3.49; WMRM=1.124; NFI=0.993; CFI=0.995; GFI=0.997; RMSEA=0.045; SRMR=0.035). Given the values of the bifactor analysis, there is not enough evidence to assume a general factor, it is recommended to work with independent dimensions. It is important to identify the perception of real threats, since research has shown that the stigma associated with HIV constitutes one of the greatest obstacles to the prevention of new infections(AU)

Impacto epidemiológico fronterizo del flujo migratorio venezolano en el Perú 2017-2021 / Border epidemiological impact of the Venezuelan migratory flow in Peru 2017-2021

Las migraciones, aunque pueden ser beneficiosas para la sociedad, también pueden acarrear repercusiones, y desde una perspectiva humanitaria deben ser consideradas como un determinante transversal de la salud. Los informes de propagación de enfermedades importadas son cada vez más comunes, especialmente en los límites fronterizos donde es mayor la demanda sanitaria. Durante la última década Venezuela ha pasado a ser un país de emigrantes donde más del 15% de la población son inmigrantes, y siendo Perú el segundo país con más residentes venezolanos. Según las estadísticas para el 2021 la mayoría de los migrantes venezolanos establecidos en las regiones fronterizas de Perú se encuentran en Piura con 27.359 residentes (el 55% de las zonas fronterizas), seguido de Tumbes (16,5%) y Tacna (12,9%), demostrando la asidua preferencia del flujo de ingreso por la frontera norte del Perú y planteándose como un desafío máxime si se considera que la mayoría lo hace de forma irregular, dando como resultado diversas repercusiones epidemiológicas, sanitarias y humanitarias. Durante los dos últimos decenios, se han identificado problemas de salud priorizados (PSP) en las zonas de frontera peruanas, como la malaria, el dengue, la rabia humana, y más recientemente, la Covid-19; requiriendo el desarrollo de programas para la prevención y control de PSP. Investigar sobre la epidemiología migratoria actual nos ayuda a vislumbrar acerca de la relación entre la migración y la salud; lo cual resulta de utilidad para conocer su morbilidad, identificar áreas de mayor interés, y definir políticas preventivas según prioridades en las fronteras(AU)

Migrations, although they can be beneficial for society, can also have repercussions, and from a humanitarian perspective they must be considered as a cross-cutting determinant of health. Reports of the spread of imported diseases are becoming more common, especially at the border limits where the health demand is greatest. During the last decade Venezuela has become a country of emigrants where more than 15% of the population are immigrants, and Peru being the country with the second most Venezuelan residents. According to statistics for 2021, the majority of Venezuelan migrants established in the border regions of Peru are in Piura with 27,359 residents (55% of the border areas), followed by Tumbes (16.5%) and Tacna (12, 9%), demonstrating the assiduous preference of the flow of entry through the northern border of Peru and posing as a challenge especially if it is considered that the majority do so irregularly, resulting in various epidemiological, health and humanitarian repercussions. During the last two decades, prioritized health problems (PHP) have been identified in the Peruvian border areas, such as malaria, dengue, human rabies, and more recently, Covid-19; requiring the development of programs for the prevention and control of PHP. Investigating about the current migratory epidemiology helps us to get a glimpse of the relationship between migration and health, which is useful to know their morbidity, identify areas of greatest interest, and define preventive policies according to priorities at the borders(AU)

Immigrants resettlement in developing countries: A data-driven decision tool applied to the case of Venezuelan immigrants in Colombia.

Immigrants' choice of settlement in a new country can play a fundamental role in their socio-economic integration. This is especially relevant if there are important gaps among these locations in terms of significant factors such as job opportunities, quality of health service, among others. This research presents a methodology to perform a recommended geographic redistribution of immigrants to improve their chances of socio-economic integration. The proposed methodology adapts a data-driven algorithm developed by the Immigration Policy Lab at Stanford University to allocate immigrants based on a socio-economic integration outcome across available locations. We extend their approach to study the immigration process between two developing countries. Specifically, we focus on the case of the arrival of immigrants from Venezuela to Colombia. We consider the absorptive capacity of locations in Colombia and include the health and education needs of immigrants in our analysis. From the application in the Venezuelan-Colombian context, we find that the proposed redistribution increases the probability that immigrants access formal employment by more than 50%. Furthermore, we identify variables associated with immigrants' formal employment and discuss specific strategies to improve the probability of success of vulnerable immigrants.

Cross-border malaria in the triple border region between Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana.

The state of Roraima, in Brazil, has recently seen an increase in the number of reported Plasmodium falciparum infections believed to be imported from neighboring countries. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium species among patients attending malaria health posts in Roraima and quantify the infections attributable to imported malaria. This cross-sectional case study was carried out between March 2016 and September 2018. Study participants were recruited as they exited the malaria health post. Information about residence, occupation and travel history was collected using a questionnaire. A dried blood spot was collected and used for malaria diagnosis by PCR. A total of 1222 patients were enrolled. Of the 80% Plasmodium positive samples, 50% were P. falciparum, 34% P. vivax, 8% mixed P. falciparum/P. vivax and 0.2% mixed P. falciparum/P. ovale infections and 8% tested positive for Plasmodium, but the species could not be identified. 80% of the malaria patients likely acquired infections in Venezuela and the remaining 20% acquired in Guyana, Brazil, Suriname and French Guyana. 50% of the study participants reported to be working in a mine. Results from this study support the hypothesis that imported malaria contribute to the bulk of malaria diagnosed in Roraima. These findings are in keeping with previous findings and should be considered when developing malaria control interventions.

Feeling prepared to face COVID-19 pandemic among Venezuelans in Chile: findings from an opinion poll.

INTRODUCTION: International migration is a social determinant of health. The past decade has seen a large exodus of Venezuelans within Latin America, including Chile. In the past months, the world has been facing the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic and its respiratory disease COVID-19. OBJECTIVE: To explore what factors are associated with feeling prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic among the Venezuelan population residing in Chile. METHODS: Cross-sectional quantitative study with an opinion poll design. An online self-reported survey in Spanish and Creole was designed and piloted with experts and international migrants. It was disseminated to various international migrant groups through networks of migrant and pro-migrant organizations and the Chilean public health care network across the national territory. An effective sample size for analysis of 1690 participants was reached, of which 1008 (60%) were from Venezuela and included in this analysis. Feeling prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic (yes/no) among Venezuelan migrants was described, as well as relevant variables like sex, level of education, length of stay, healthcare provision, anxiety or depression due to COVID-19, confinement, and evaluation of the quality of the information provided by the COVID-19 government. RESULTS: 65% of the Venezuelan participants reported not feeling prepared for the pandemic. Compared to Venezuelan migrants who feel prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic, migrants who reported not feeling prepared were in a higher proportion female, with secondary education level, had arrived in Chile in the past year, do not have a job but want to work, and belong to the public healthcare provision. DISCUSSION: Receiving good quality information on the pandemic and mental health symptoms are important factors associated with feeling prepared to face COVID-19 in Venezuelan migrants in Chile, suggesting that increased attention towards the physical and mental health of Venezuelan migrants in Chile and the region is needed.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La migración internacional es un determinante social de la salud que puede influir en los resultados de salud de un individuo y su comunidad. La última década ha experimentado un gran éxodo desde Venezuela a otros países de la región, incluido Chile. En los últimos meses, el mundo se ha enfrentado a la pandemia de coronavirus del SARS-CoV-2 y su enfermedad respiratoria COVID-19. OBJETIVO: Explorar qué factores están asociados con sentirse preparado para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 entre la población venezolana que reside en Chile. MÉTODOS: Estudio cuantitativo transversal, siguiendo el diseño de una encuesta de opinión. Encuesta auto-aplicada en línea en español y Creol haitiano, que fue diseñada y puesta a prueba con expertos y migrantes internacionales. Se difundió a varios grupos internacionales de migrantes a través de redes de organizaciones de migrantes y pro-migrantes, así como a través de la red chilena de atención de salud pública en todo el territorio nacional. Tamaño de muestra de 1690 participantes, de los cuales 1008 (60%) eran de Venezuela y se incluyeron en este análisis descriptivo. Se analizó en forma descriptiva la variable principal sentirse preparado para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 (sí/no) así como las variables sexo, nivel educacional, tiempo de estadía en Chile, tipo de previsión de salud, ansiedad o depresión debido a COVID-19, cumplimiento de confinamiento y evaluación de calidad de la información sobre COVID-19 que se ha recibido de autoridades y equipos de salud. RESULTADOS: 65% de los participantes venezolanos informaron no sentirse preparados para la pandemia. En comparación con los migrantes venezolanos que se sienten preparados para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19, los migrantes venezolanos que reportaron no sentirse preparados eran en mayor proporción mujeres, con nivel de educación secundaria, habían llegado a Chile en el último año, no tienen trabajo pero quieren trabajar, y pertenecer a la prestación sanitaria pública. DISCUSIÓN: Recibir información de buena calidad sobre la pandemia y la salud mental son factores importantes asociados con sentirse preparado para enfrentar COVID-19 en migrantes venezolanos en Chile, lo cual sugiere que se necesita más atención en la salud física y mental de los migrantes venezolanos en Chile y en la región.

Malaria among migrants in a university hospital in Colombia during 2018: A case series.

Imported malaria has increased in Colombia since 2015 and has been attributed to migrants coming from Venezuela. We present a series of malaria cases, nested in a retrospective cross-sectional study between 2017 and 2018, aimed at calculating the prevalence of medical diseases among immigrants in a University Hospital in Colombia. Among 154 immigrants admitted for medical causes between 2017 and 2018, 8 were diagnosed with malaria, all due to Plasmodium vivax. Of these, seven had uncomplicated malaria, five had a previous history of malaria, one was critically ill, but none died. We highlight that, similar to other case series of imported malaria, Latin American migrants were young, with similar clinical profiles, having a low proportion of severe cases, and P. vivax was the most frequent cause.

Surto de varicela entre imigrantes venezuelanos alojados em abrigos e ocupações no estado de Roraima, 2019: um estudo descritivo / Brote de varicela entre inmigrantes venezolanos alojados en albergues y ocupaciones en el estado de Roraima, Brasil, 2019: estudio descriptivo / Chickenpox outbreak among Venezuelan immigrants housed in shelters and occupancies in the state of Roraima, Brazil, 2019: a descriptive study

Objetivo: Descrever o surto de varicela entre imigrantes venezuelanos em abrigos e ocupações nos municípios de Pacaraima e Boa Vista, Roraima, Brasil, e as medidas de controle implementadas. Métodos: Estudo descritivo do tipo 'série de casos', realizado entre 21 de novembro e 13 de dezembro de 2019, sobre banco de dados secundários da investigação do surto disponibilizado pela Coordenação-Geral do Programa Nacional de Imunizações. Na análise descritiva, utilizaram-se medidas de frequência simples e relativa e foram calculadas medidas de tendência central e dispersão. Resultados: Dos 9.591 imigrantes, detectaram-se 38 casos ativos e 1.459 suscetíveis à varicela. Dos casos ativos, 23 eram do sexo feminino e a faixa etária mais acometida foi a de menores de 9 anos (17 casos). Conclusão: Identificaram-se pessoas suscetíveis a varicela na investigação; foram adotadas ações de imunização que controlaram a transmissão, evitando casos graves, óbitos e sobrecarga da rede de assistência à saúde local.

Objetivo: Describir el brote de varicela entre inmigrantes venezolanos en albergues y ocupaciones en los municipios de Pacaraima y Boa Vista, Roraima, Brasil, y las medidas de control implementadas. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo del tipo "serie de casos", entre el 21 de noviembre y 13 de diciembre de 2019, utilizando datos secundarios de la investigación del brote, puesto a disposición por la Coordinación General del Programa Nacional de Inmunizaciones. En el análisis descriptivo, se utilizaron medidas de frecuencia simple y relativa y se calcularon medidas de tendencia central y dispersión. Resultados: Entre los 9.591 inmigrantes se detectaron 38 casos activos y 1.500 susceptibles a la varicela. Entre los casos activos, 23 fueron mujeres y el grupo de edad más afectado fue de menores de 9 años (17 casos). Conclusión: Se identificaron personas susceptibles a la varicela, lo que llevó a adopción de acciones de inmunización que controlaran la transmisión, previniendo casos graves, muertes y sobrecarga de la red local de atención.

Objective: To describe chickenpox outbreak among Venezuelan immigrants in shelters and occupancies in the municipalities of Pacaraima and Boa Vista, the state capital of Roraima, Brazil, and the control measures implemented. Methods: This was a descriptive case series study, conducted between November 21 and December 13, 2019, based on secondary database obtained from the outbreak investigation made available by the General Coordination for the National Immunization Program. Descriptive analysis was performed using simple and relative frequency measurements, and measures of central tendency and dispersion were calculated. Results: Of the 9,591 immigrants, 38 active cases and 1,459 susceptible to varicella were identified. With regard to active cases, 23 were female, and those aged under 9 years (17 cases) were the most affected. Conclusion: People susceptible to chickenpox were identified during the investigation. Immunization actions aimed at reducing transmission were adopted, thus preventing severe cases, deaths and overload in local health care system.

Sentirse preparado para enfrentar la pandemia por COVID-19 en migrantes venezolanos en Chile: resultados de una encuesta de opinión / Feeling prepared to face COVID-19 pandemic among Venezuelans in Chile: findings from an opinion poll

Introducción La migración internacional es un determinante social de la salud que puede influir en los resultados de salud de un individuo y su comunidad. La última década ha experimentado un gran éxodo desde Venezuela a otros países de la región, incluido Chile. En los últimos meses, el mundo se ha enfrentado a la pandemia de coronavirus del SARS-CoV-2 y su enfermedad respiratoria COVID-19. Objetivo Explorar qué factores están asociados con sentirse preparado para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 entre la población venezolana que reside en Chile. Métodos Estudio cuantitativo transversal, siguiendo el diseño de una encuesta de opinión. Encuesta auto-aplicada en línea en español y Creol haitiano, que fue diseñada y puesta a prueba con expertos y migrantes internacionales. Se difundió a varios grupos internacionales de migrantes a través de redes de organizaciones de migrantes y pro-migrantes, así como a través de la red chilena de atención de salud pública en todo el territorio nacional. Tamaño de muestra de 1690 participantes, de los cuales 1008 (60%) eran de Venezuela y se incluyeron en este análisis descriptivo. Se analizó en forma descriptiva la variable principal sentirse preparado para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19 (sí/no) así como las variables sexo, nivel educacional, tiempo de estadía en Chile, tipo de previsión de salud, ansiedad o depresión debido a COVID-19, cumplimiento de confinamiento y evaluación de calidad de la información sobre COVID-19 que se ha recibido de autoridades y equipos de salud. Resultados 65% de los participantes venezolanos informaron no sentirse preparados para la pandemia. En comparación con los migrantes venezolanos que se sienten preparados para enfrentar la pandemia de COVID-19, los migrantes venezolanos que reportaron no sentirse preparados eran en mayor proporción mujeres, con nivel de educación secundaria, habían llegado a Chile en el último año, no tienen trabajo pero quieren trabajar, y pertenecer a la prestación sanitaria pública. Discusión Recibir información de buena calidad sobre la pandemia y la salud mental son factores importantes asociados con sentirse preparado para enfrentar COVID-19 en migrantes venezolanos en Chile, lo cual sugiere que se necesita más atención en la salud física y mental de los migrantes venezolanos en Chile y en la región.

Introduction International migration is a social determinant of health. The past decade has seen a large exodus of Venezuelans within Latin America, including Chile. In the past months, the world has been facing the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic and its respiratory disease COVID-19. Objective To explore what factors are associated with feeling prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic among the Venezuelan population residing in Chile. Methods Cross-sectional quantitative study with an opinion poll design. An online self-reported survey in Spanish and Creole was designed and piloted with experts and international migrants. It was disseminated to various international migrant groups through networks of migrant and pro-migrant organizations and the Chilean public health care network across the national territory. An effective sample size for analysis of 1690 participants was reached, of which 1008 (60%) were from Venezuela and included in this analysis. Feeling prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic (yes/no) among Venezuelan migrants was described, as well as relevant variables like sex, level of education, length of stay, healthcare provision, anxiety or depression due to COVID-19, confinement, and evaluation of the quality of the information provided by the COVID-19 government. Results 65% of the Venezuelan participants reported not feeling prepared for the pandemic. Compared to Venezuelan migrants who feel prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic, migrants who reported not feeling prepared were in a higher proportion female, with secondary education level, had arrived in Chile in the past year, do not have a job but want to work, and belong to the public healthcare provision. Discussion Receiving good quality information on the pandemic and mental health symptoms are important factors associated with feeling prepared to face COVID-19 in Venezuelan migrants in Chile, suggesting that increased attention towards the physical and mental health of Venezuelan migrants in Chile and the region is needed.

Recommendations for the response against COVID-19 in migratory contexts under a closed border: The case of Colombia. / Recomendaciones para la respuesta contra la COVID-19 en contextos migratorios bajo una frontera cerrada: el caso de Colombia

Despite the positive response of Colombia's health system to the arrival of Venezuelan migrants, the new challenges that accompany the COVID-19 pandemic have triggered a closed-borders response that runs the risk of encouraging a negative view of migrants and increasing their health risks. This manuscript discusses the recommendations that could be proposed in the case of a country with limited resources such as Colombia to respond to the needs of the Venezuelan mixed migrant flows.

A pesar de la respuesta positiva del sistema de salud de Colombia a la llegada de migrantes venezolanos, los nuevos desafíos que acompañan la pandemia de COVID-19 han desencadenado una respuesta de fronteras cerradas, con lo que se corre el riesgo de alentar una visión negativa de los migrantes e incrementar sus riesgos en salud. Este manuscrito discute las recomendaciones que podrían proponerse en el caso de un país con recursos limitados, como Colombia, para responder a las necesidades de una población vulnerable como la conformada por los flujos de migrantes mixtos venezolanos.

Maternal health among Venezuelan women migrants at the border of Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Guaranteeing the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of populations living in fragile and humanitarian settings is essential and constitutes a basic human right. Compounded by the inherent vulnerabilities of women in crises, substantial complications are directly associated with increased risks of poor SRHR outcomes for displaced populations. The migration of Venezuelans, displaced due to current economic circumstances, is one of the largest in Latin America's history. This study aims to provide an overview of the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues affecting migrant Venezuelan women in the state of Roraima, Brazil. METHODS: Face-to-face interviews were conducted from 24 to 30 November 2019. Data collection covered various issues involving access to and use of SRH services by 405 migrant Venezuelan women aged 18-49 years. The Minimum Initial Service Package readiness assessment tools, available from the Inter-Agency Working Group on Reproductive Health in Crises, were used in the data collection. RESULTS: Most commonly, the women reported unmet family planning needs. Of these, a significant proportion reported being unable to obtain contraceptive methods, particularly long-acting reversible contraceptives, either due to the woman's inability to access them or their unavailability at healthcare centres. Although a significant proportion of women were largely satisfied with the attention received at the maternity hospital, both before and during childbirth, 24.0% of pregnant or postpartum women failed to receive any prenatal or postnatal care. CONCLUSION: Meeting the essential SRHR needs of migrant Venezuelan women in Roraima, Brazil is a challenge that has yet to be fully addressed. Given the size of this migrant population, the Brazilian healthcare system has failed to adapt sufficiently to meet their needs; however, problems with healthcare provision are similar for migrants and Brazilian citizens. Efforts need to be encouraged not only in governmental health sectors, but also with academic, non-governmental and international organisations, including a coordinated approach to ensure a comprehensive SRHR response. Given the current high risks associated with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, meeting the SRHR needs of migrant populations has become more critical than ever.

Data and cooperation required for Venezuela's refugee crisis during COVID-19.

The deteriorating political and economic situation in Venezuela has ramifications far beyond the Latin American country's borders as almost five million Venezuelans fled and migrated into countries in the region due to the crisis at home. The scarcity of health services, the lack of information sharing, and the absence of reliable data in Venezuela create challenges for confronting developing health emergencies and disease outbreaks. The need for accurate data is especially dire given the current COVID-19 pandemic and evolving movement of refugees. While countries and international organizations came together to form a coordinated response to Venezuela's political and humanitarian crisis, this geopolitical progress is threatened by the rapid spread of COVID-19, and the instinct for countries to focus inwards on domestic response priorities, rather than engage in regional cooperation. It is critical that the international community set aside geopolitical differences and cooperate to seek an accurate picture of the conditions on the ground to improve the welfare of Venezuelan migrants and to provide a more robust response to the current pandemic.

Nighttime Blood Pressure Interacts with APOE Genotype to Increase the Risk of Incident Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type in Hispanics.

BACKGROUND: Dementia of the Alzheimer's type (DAT) impacts Hispanics disproportionately, with almost a twofold elevated risk of developing DAT, as well as earlier onset of the disease, than in non-Hispanic Whites. However, the role of main risk factors for DAT, such as APOE-ɛ4 and blood pressure (BP) levels, remains uncertain among Hispanics. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association of APOE-ɛ4 and BP levels, measures with 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring, with incidence of DAT in an elderly cohort of Hispanics. METHODS: 1,320 participants from the Maracaibo Aging Study, free of dementia at the baseline, and with ambulatory BP measurements and APOE genotype available were included. Adjusted Cox proportional models were performed to examine 1) the incidence of DAT and 2) the relationship between BP levels and DAT according to APOE genotypes. Models were adjusted by competing risk of death before the onset of DAT. Model performance was assessed by likelihood test. RESULTS: The average follow-up time was 5.3 years. DAT incidence was 5.8 per 1000 person-year. APOE-ɛ4 carriers had a higher risk of DAT. In unadjusted analyses, conventional, 24-h, and nighttime systolic BP levels were significantly higher in participants who developed DAT and of APOE-ɛ4 carriers (p < 0.05). After adjustment for competing risks, only higher nighttime systolic BP was associated with DAT incidence, but only among subjects carrying APOE-ɛ4. CONCLUSION: In this Hispanic population, both APOE-ɛ4 genotype and assessment of nocturnal systolic BP (rather than diurnal or office BP) were necessary to estimate DAT risk.

COVID-19 in the Americas: Who's Looking After Refugees and Migrants?

Several characteristics of refugee and migrant populations make them susceptible to acquire COVID-19. To fully understand the impact of COVID-19 on refugees and migrants in the Americas, it is important to consider the broader geopolitical context and appreciate the differences among migratory groups. There are three migrant groups in the Americas that are particularly susceptible to COVID-19: Central American migrants at the northern Mexico border, Venezuelans within South America, and Haitians in the Dominican Republic. Refugees and displaced migrants are the world's collective responsibility, and thus, it would be imprudent to displace their care to resource constrained developing nations.

Disconcerting levels of alcohol use among Venezuelan immigrant adolescents in the United States.

BACKGROUND: It is estimated that more than 4 million Venezuelans have left their country as a direct result of their nation's widespread social and economic challenges. Although recent research identifies Venezuela as one of the nations with the highest rates of harmful alcohol consumption in the Americas, no research has been conducted on alcohol use among Venezuelan youth in diaspora. METHODS: Data was collected between November 2018 and June 2019 from 373 Venezuelan immigrant youth ages 12-17 in the United States. The prevalence of past-month and lifetime alcohol use among Venezuelan youth is compared to that of other Hispanic and immigrant youth from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), and the Construyendo Oportunidades Para Adolecentes Latinos (COPAL) study using independent sample t tests. RESULTS: The prevalence of past-month and lifetime alcohol use was significantly higher among Venezuelan immigrant youth (15% and 52%, respectively) compared to other Hispanic (9% and 28%) and immigrant (4.5% and 28%) youth in the NSDUH, and youth ages 14-17 in the COPAL study (4.0% and 22%). Among Venezuelan youth reporting alcohol use initiation, 1.5% of youth ages 12-14 and 19% ages 15-17 report lifetime alcohol intoxication. DISCUSSION: Although preliminary, results indicate that a disconcerting proportion of Venezuelan crisis migrant youth in the US report lifetime alcohol initiation and past-month use. These findings suggest the importance of future research to examine the prevalence and correlates of alcohol use in this population using recruitment and sampling methods that will allow for population-level estimates.