Molecular epidemiology identifies the expansion of the DENV2 epidemic lineage from the French Caribbean Islands to French Guiana and mainland France, 2023 to 2024.

In 2023, dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV2) affected most French overseas territories. In the French Caribbean Islands, viral circulation continues with > 30,000 suspected infections by March 2024. Genome sequence analysis reveals that the epidemic lineage in the French Caribbean islands has also become established in French Guiana but not Réunion. It has moreover seeded autochthonous circulation events in mainland France. To guide prevention of further inter-territorial spread and DENV introduction in non-endemic settings, continued molecular surveillance and mosquito control are essential.

Phylogenetic Investigations of Dengue 2019-2021 Outbreak in Guadeloupe and Martinique Caribbean Islands.

Dengue fever has been a public health problem in the Caribbean region since 1981, when it first reappeared in Cuba. In 1989, it was reported in Martinique and Guadeloupe (two French islands 200 km apart); since then, DENV has caused several epidemics locally. In 2019-2021, DENV-1, DENV-2, and DENV-3 were detected. Serotype distribution was differentiated, with DENV-2 and DENV-3 predominating in Guadeloupe and Martinique, respectively. Complete genome sequencing was carried out on 32 specimens, and phylogenic analysis identified the circulation of genotype V for DENV-1, cosmopolitan genotype for DENV-2, and genotype III for DENV-3. However, two distinct circulating groups were identified for DENV-1 and DENV-3, suggesting independent introductions. Overall, despite the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated travel restrictions, these results confirm the active circulation of DENV and specific epidemiological features on each of the two islands. Such differences may be linked to the founder effect of the various introduction events, and to local factors such as the population immunity and the transmission capacity of the vectors. Further genomic and epidemiological characterization of DENV strains remains essential to understand how dengue spreads in each specific geographical context and to prevent future epidemics.

Fundus Changes in the Offspring of Mothers With Confirmed Zika Virus Infection During Pregnancy in French Guiana, Guadeloupe, and Martinique, French West Indies.

Importance: Most ocular lesions have been described for children with congenital Zika syndrome. The frequency of finding ocular abnormalities is unknown among children exposed to Zika virus (ZIKV) during pregnancy. This study was conducted on newborns whose mothers were positive for ZIKV, confirmed with reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing. Objective: To report ocular fundus manifestations in newborns with congenital ZIKV exposure in French Guiana, Martinique, and Guadeloupe, French West Indies, to assess its prevalence. Risk factors, such as the presence of extraocular fetopathies and the gestational term at infection, were sought. Design, Setting, and Participants: This was a cross-sectional multicentric study, conducted from August 1, 2016, to April 30, 2019, for which data were collected prospectively. The study inception was at the beginning of 2016 from the onset of the ZIKV epidemic in the French West Indies. Newborns whose mothers tested positive (by RT-PCR) for ZIKV during pregnancy were included. Interventions: Fundus examination was performed using widefield retinal imaging after pupil dilation. Infection date, delivery mode, and newborn measurements were collected. Main Outcomes and Measures: Anomalies of the vitreous, choroid, retina, and optic disc. Results: A total of 330 children (mean [SD] age, 68 [IQR, 22-440] days; 170 girls [51.5%]) were included. Eleven children (3.3%) had perivascular retinal hemorrhages, and 3 (0.9%) had lesions compatible with congenital ZIKV infection: 1 child had torpedo maculopathy, 1 child had a chorioretinal scar with iris and lens coloboma, and 1 child had a chorioretinal scar. Retinal hemorrhages were found at childbirth during early screening. Lesions compatible with congenital ZIKV infection were not associated with the presence of extraocular fetopathy. Microcephaly was not associated with lesions compatible with congenital ZIKV infection (odds ratio [OR], 9.1; 95% CI, 0.8-105.3; P = .08), but severe microcephaly was associated with an OR of 81 (95% CI, 5.1-1297.8; P = .002). Conclusions and Relevance: Results of this cross-sectional study suggest that the ocular anomalies found may be associated with ZIKV in 0.9% of the exposed population. Ocular lesions were rare, affected mostly the choroid and retina, and seemed to be associated with choroiditis-related scarring that developed during fetal growth.

Visualization of scientific collaboration and themes for arbovirus disease in the caribbean: A forty-year trend analysis with focus on dengue, Zika and Chikungunya.

BACKGROUND: The (re-)emergence of arboviruses in the Caribbean, and worldwide, is a major public health issue of concern to all scientific research stakeholders. This study aimed to use bibliometric analysis to identify the contribution of Caribbean countries to scientific production regarding the three arboviruses with the greatest impact, namely zika, chikungunya and dengue. METHOD: Bibliographic data related to arbovirus diseases were collected from three international databases (Web of Science, Pubmed, and Scopus), filtered by Caribbean islands of affiliation. VosViewer was used to identify scientific connections between countries or institutions and to identify research themes. RESULTS: The dataset comprised 1332 indexed articles, with 50% of articles categorized in the top quartile of quality. Cuba was found to lead research on dengue, with a total of 300 articles, and 18 international connections. The USA-Puerto Rico duo was found to be the leader on emerging arboviruses (Zika and Chikungunya), followed by a predominantly French-language cluster (mainland France, Guadeloupe, Martinique). Key research topics were related to clinical presentations, epidemiology, and research on mosquito-borne viruses CONCLUSIONS: Co-authorship network analysis on emerging arboviruses revealed the dynamics of collaboration, and provides insights into Caribbean collaborations that deserve to be created and consolidated in case of resurgence of new arbovirus epidemics.

Research challenges and opportunities in the Caribbean area: first bibliometric study in the French West Indies, from 1989 to 2018

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To analyze, describe, and quantify the collaborations and scientific output of the two university teaching hospitals of Martinique and Guadeloupe, at the regional, national, and international level. Methods. A bibliometrics analysis was performed from the international databases Web of Science and PubMed, for the period from 1989 to 2018, inclusive (30 years). Three types of bibliometric indicators were used, namely quantitative indicators, performance indicators, and organization-specific indicators. Affiliations of the first and last authors were identified from PubMed. Results. Between 1989 and 2018, a total of 1 522 indexed articles were published with at least one author affiliated to either the University Hospital of Martinique (n = 827) or the University Hospital of Guadeloupe (n = 685). The majority of articles were in category Q1 (35.8% for Martinique and 35.2% for Guadeloupe). In Martinique, over the last 30 years, the three main research areas have been clinical neurology, ophthalmology, and surgery, together representing 28.7% of all research areas, with the highest number of articles published in the field of clinical neurology (n = 81). In the University Hospital of Guadeloupe, the area of hematology was largely represented, with 79 articles published. For both hospitals, the first and last authors of the articles published were mainly from mainland France. Conclusions. This quantitative analysis shows the development of medical and scientific research in Martinique and Guadeloupe over the last three decades, as well as the extent of their collaborative partnerships at the national and international levels.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Analizar, describir y cuantificar las colaboraciones y la producción científica de los dos hospitales docentes universitarios de Martinica y Guadalupe, al nivel regional, nacional e internacional. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un análisis de bibliometría de las bases de datos internacionales Web of Science y PubMed, en el período de 1989 al 2018, inclusive (30 años). Se emplearon tres tipos de indicadores bibliométricos, a saber: indicadores cuantitativos, indicadores de rendimiento e indicadores específicos de organización. Se establecieron las afiliaciones de los primeros y últimos autores de PubMed. Resultados. Entre 1989 y el 2018, se publicaron en total 1 522 artículos indizados con al menos un autor afiliado al Hospital Universitario de Martinica (n = 827) o bien al Hospital Universitario de Guadalupe (n = 685). La mayoría de los artículos estaban en el cuartil 1 (35,8 % en Martinica y 35,2 % en Guadalupe). En Martinica, en los últimos 30 años las tres principales áreas de investigación han sido la neurología clínica, la oftalmología y la cirugía, que juntas representan 28,7 % de todas las áreas de investigación, con el número más alto de artículos publicado en el campo de la neurología clínica (n = 81). En el Hospital Universitario de Guadalupe, el ámbito de la hematología estaba ampliamente representado, con 79 artículos publicados. En ambos hospitales, los primeros y los últimos autores de los artículos publicados eran principalmente de Francia continental. Conclusiones. Este análisis cuantitativo demuestra el desarrollo de la investigación médica y científica en Martinica y Guadalupe en los treinta últimos años, así como el alcance de sus asociaciones colaborativas a los niveles nacional e internacional.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Analisar, descrever e quantificar as colaborações e a produção científica dos dois hospitais universitários de Martinica e Guadalupe, no âmbito regional, nacional e internacional. Métodos. Foi realizada uma análise bibliométrica das bases de dados internacionais Web of Science e PubMed, no período de 1989 a 2018, inclusive (30 anos). Três tipos de indicadores bibliométricos foram utilizados: quantitativos, de desempenho e específicos da organização. Afiliações dos primeiros e últimos autores foram identificadas na base PubMed. Resultados. Entre 1989 e 2018, um total de 1 522 artigos indexados foram publicados com pelo menos um autor afiliado ao Hospital Universitário de Martinica (n = 827) ou ao Hospital Universitário de Guadalupe (n = 685). A maioria dos artigos estava na categoria Q1 (35,8% para Martinica e 35,2% para Guadalupe). Na Martinica, nos últimos 30 anos, as três principais áreas de pesquisa foram neurologia clínica, oftalmologia e cirurgia, representando, juntas, 28,7% de todas as áreas de pesquisa, com o maior número de artigos publicados no campo da neurologia clínica (n = 81). No Hospital Universitário de Guadalupe, a área de hematologia foi amplamente representada, com 79 artigos publicados. Para ambos os hospitais, os primeiros e os últimos autores dos artigos publicados eram principalmente da França continental. Conclusões. Esta análise quantitativa demonstra o desenvolvimento da pesquisa médica e científica na Martinica e em Guadalupe nas três últimas décadas, bem como a extensão de suas parcerias colaborativas no âmbito nacional e internacional.

Genotype distribution of cervical HPV among Caribbean women in a population-based study in Martinique: The DEPIPAPUFR study.

The Caribbean ranks seventh among the world regions most affected by cervical cancer. HPV-prevalence and genotype distributions also differ from regions. Knowledge of HPV genotype profiles is important for patients care and HPV vaccination implementation. The objective of this study was to describe HPV genotype distribution and risk factors in a population-based cohort of women in Martinique. In this study, 1312 women were included and underwent cervical cancer screening with successful sample collection between 2009 and 2014. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were recorded. Cytological examination of cervical vaginal smear was performed and classified(Bethesda). Detection of HPV DNA was performed with the PapilloCheck© Kit from Greiner Bio-one. Genotypes were analyzed for18 high-risk HPV (hrHPV) and 6low-risk HPV(lrHPV) types. A total of 1075 women were included with a mean age of 49.1±10.5 years. HPV prevalence was 27.6% (297/1075) with 19.4% (209/1075) women with only hrHPV, 5.3% (57/1075) with only lrHPV. Multiple infections (hrHPV/lrHPV) were detected in 31/240 cases of hrHPV (12.9%). A total of 353 hrHPV genotypes were analyzed; the most common HPV types were HPV51 (11.0%), HPV68 (10.8%), HPV53 (9.1%) and HPV 52 (7.1%). HPV16 and HPV18 represented respectively 4.8% and 4.0% of hrHPV genotypes. Abnormal cytology was observed in 34 cases (3.2%), with 14 ASCUS (1.3%), 10 LSIL (0.9%), 5 HSIL (0.5%), 3 ASC-H (0.3%) and 2 AGC (0.2%). Fifteen (44.1%) were hrHPV and 4 (14.7%) lrHPV; 7 cases of hrPHV were in the age-group 25-34 years. Among 1041cases of normal cytology, 225 had positive hrHPV detection (21.6%). This is the first population-based study of HPV profiles in our country, and we found a high prevalence of hrHPV. The most common genotypes were HPV51, 68, 53. These results could serve for cancer vaccination strategies and HPV surveillance in Martinique.

Seroprevalence of chikungunya virus infection among HIV-infected adults in French Caribbean Islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe in 2015: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: In 2014, a first outbreak of chikungunya hit the Caribbean area where chikungunya virus (CHIKV) had never circulated before. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We conducted a cross-sectional study to measure the seroprevalence of CHIKV immediately after the end of the 2014 outbreak in HIV-infected people followed up in two clinical cohorts at the University hospitals of Guadeloupe and Martinique. Study patients were identified during the first months of 2015 and randomly selected to match the age and sex distribution of the general population in the two islands. They were invited to complete a survey that explored the symptoms consistent with chikungunya they could have developed during 2014 and to have a blood sample drawn for CHIKV serology. The study population consisted of 377 patients (198 in Martinique and 179 in Guadeloupe, 178 men and 199 women), 182 of whom reported they had developed symptoms consistent with chikungunya. CHIKV serology was positive in 230 patients, which accounted for an overall seroprevalence rate of 61% [95%CI 56-66], with only 153 patients who reported symptoms consistent with chikungunya. Most frequent symptoms included arthralgia (94.1%), fever (73.2%), myalgia (53.6%), headache (45.8%), and skin rash (26.1%). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: This study showed that the seroprevalence of CHIKV infection was 61% after the 2014 outbreak, with one third of asymptomatic infections. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02553369.

Research challenges and opportunities in the Caribbean area: first bibliometric study in the French West Indies, from 1989 to 2018.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze, describe, and quantify the collaborations and scientific output of the two university teaching hospitals of Martinique and Guadeloupe, at the regional, national, and international level. METHODS: A bibliometrics analysis was performed from the international databases Web of Science and PubMed, for the period from 1989 to 2018, inclusive (30 years). Three types of bibliometric indicators were used, namely quantitative indicators, performance indicators, and organization-specific indicators. Affiliations of the first and last authors were identified from PubMed. RESULTS: Between 1989 and 2018, a total of 1 522 indexed articles were published with at least one author affiliated to either the University Hospital of Martinique (n = 827) or the University Hospital of Guadeloupe (n = 685). The majority of articles were in category Q1 (35.8% for Martinique and 35.2% for Guadeloupe). In Martinique, over the last 30 years, the three main research areas have been clinical neurology, ophthalmology, and surgery, together representing 28.7% of all research areas, with the highest number of articles published in the field of clinical neurology (n = 81). In the University Hospital of Guadeloupe, the area of hematology was largely represented, with 79 articles published. For both hospitals, the first and last authors of the articles published were mainly from mainland France. CONCLUSIONS: This quantitative analysis shows the development of medical and scientific research in Martinique and Guadeloupe over the last three decades, as well as the extent of their collaborative partnerships at the national and international levels.

Adaptation of WHO Definitions of Clinical Forms of Chikungunya Virus Infection for the Elderly.

The WHO defined three clinical forms for chikungunya virus infection (CHIKV, namely, acute, atypical, and severe cases) and a chronic form. These definitions seemed inappropriate for the elderly. So, we propose an adapted definition for elderly people. A cross-sectional analysis was performed including patients aged ≥ 65 years, who attended the emergency department with a positive biological diagnosis of CHIKV in 2014. A total of 267 elderly patients (80 ± 8 years) were included. When using the 2015 WHO definitions, 114 patients could not be classified (42.7%) in any of the category, of whom 43 (37.7%) reported absence of fever, 85 (74.6%) reported absence of joint pain, and 14 (12.3%) reported absence of both fever and joint pain. After adaptation of the WHO definitions, the 114 unclassifiable patients were reclassified as follows: eight as typical cases, 50 as atypical cases, 42 as severe cases, and 14 remained unclassifiable. The atypical clinical form was the most common form. The 2015 WHO definitions of the clinical forms at the acute phase of CHIKV are ill suited to the elderly. The adapted definition we propose here appears to be more appropriate and could help improved management of older patients with CHIKV.

Increasing prevalence and local transmission of non-B HIV-1 subtypes in the French Antilles and French Guiana between 1995 and 2018.

The Caribbean and South American French Overseas Territories (CSAFOT) are the regions most heavily affected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) epidemic in France. Although dominated by HIV-1 subtype B, the detection of non-B subtypes and the great proportion of HIV-positive persons born abroad demonstrated the potential for local spread of non-B subtype strains in CSAFOT. To reconstruct the epidemiologic dynamics of major non-B subtype clusters spreading in CSAFOT, we conducted phylogenetic and evolutionary analyses of 2,523 HIV-1 pol sequences collected from patients living in Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana from 1995 to 2018. A large variety of HIV-1 non-B subtype strains (eight subtypes, twelve CRFs, and multiple URFs) have been introduced in CSAFOT and their prevalence significantly increases over time in Martinique and Guadeloupe. We identified twelve major transmission networks of non-B subtypes (CRF02_AG and subtypes A3, C, D, and F1) that probably arose in Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, and mainland France between the late 1970s and the middle 2000s. Phylogeographic analyses support frequent non-B subtype viral transmissions within CSAFOT as well as transatlantic transmission between CSAFOT and mainland France. Domestic transmission networks of non-B subtype variants in CSAFOT comprise both men having sex with men and heterosexual individuals from different age groups. Different HIV-1 non-B subtype variants were sequentially introduced in CSAFOT between the late 1970s and the middle 2000s and are currently spreading through domestic, regional, and/or transatlantic networks of individuals from different age and risk groups.

E6/E7 Sequence Diversity of High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses in Two Geographically Isolated Populations of French Guiana.

Amerindian and Maroon populations of French Guiana have been living in isolation for generations and sexual networks remained mostly endogamous. The present study aimed to describe the phylogeny of E6 and E7 sequences of the most common high-risk HPV genotypes in these regions, to ascertain the diversity of intra-type variants and describe evolutionary relationships. There were 106 women with at least one of HPV16, 18, 31, 52, 58, and 68 genotypes. The most clear-cut phylogenetic pattern was obtained for HPV18 and HPV58 for which the major branches were crisply divided between Amerindian villages on the Oyapock and Maroon villages on the Maroni. Such clustering was less clear for HPV31 and 52. For HPV16, there was also some evidence of clustering on the Oyapock with type A European viruses and on the Maroni with type B and C African viruses among Maroon women. HPV68 showed the largest sequence heterogeneity of the six genotypes at both nucleotide and amino acid levels and was restricted to Maroon women. The present results show that there were significant geographically based differences of E6 and E7 oncogenes. These differences were compatible with different ancestral virus populations and local virus evolution in a context of prolonged population isolation.

Is Chikungunya Virus Infection an Independent Risk Factor for 2-Year Mortality in Older Afro-Caribbean Subjects?

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether Chikungunya virus infection (CVI) was an independent risk factor for 2-year mortality in Afro-Caribbean subjects aged 65 years or older. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed from January 2014 to December 2016 in the University Hospital of Martinique. Subjects aged ≥65 years admitted to the hospital were included. Baseline characteristics and concurrent manifestations at admission were collected. Subjects were followed up by phone for 2 years. RESULTS: A total of 687 old Afro-Caribbean subjects (80.4±8.0 years) were included: 467 positive for CVI (Chik+) and 220 negative for CVI (Chik-). During the follow-up, 180 (26.2%) died. The proportion of deaths was higher among Chik- (40.9%) than among Chik+ subjects (21.6%) (p<0.0001). By multivariable analysis, when adjusted for age polyarthralgia, neurological troubles, cardiovascular disorders, absence of neutrophilia, thrombocytopenia, hypernatremia, and hospital stay, Chik+ subjects had significantly higher survival rates (HR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.40-0.85) than Chik- ones. CONCLUSION: Within the two years following hospital admission of subjects aged ≥65 years or older, Chik+ subjects had significantly higher survival rates than Chik- ones.

Seasonality and coinfection of bronchiolitis: epidemiological specificity and consequences in terms of prophylaxis in tropical climate.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the viruses involved, seasonality and coinfection in hospitalised children with suspected bronchiolitis. METHODS: Over the period 1/07/2007 to 31/12/2008, all children hospitalised for bronchiolitis in the paediatric ward were prospectively included, and had respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) screenings. We retrospectively tested all samples for RSVA, RSVB, rhinovirus (RV), human metapneumovirus, parainfluenza 1, 2, 3, 4, influenza A and influenza B. RESULTS: 198 children were tested, and 23% were negative for all viruses. RSVA was predominant in 2008 (64% of all viruses) and RSVB in 2007 (66% of all viruses). RV was frequent during both seasons (24% of all viruses). Flu was not found during the study period. Virus distribution was similar regardless of season or age, and identical to typical patterns in temperate countries. Coinfections were less frequent than in temperate regions because respiratory virus seasons seem to be better separated. The bronchiolitis season started in August and finished in December with a peak in October. CONCLUSION: The specific seasonality of bronchiolitis infection requires palivizumab prophylaxis starting in early July for high-risk infants.

OBJECTIF: Décrire les virus impliqués, la saisonnalité et la coinfection chez les enfants hospitalisés avec une suspicion de bronchiolite. MÉTHODES: Au cours de la période du 01/07/2007 au 31/12/2008, tous les enfants hospitalisés pour bronchiolite dans le service de pédiatrie ont été prospectivement inclus et soumis à un dépistage du virus respiratoire syncytial (VRS). Nous avons testé rétrospectivement tous les échantillons pour RSVA, RSVB, rhinovirus (RV), métapneumovirus humain, Parainfluenza 1, 2, 3, 4, Influenza A, et Influenza B. RÉSULTATS: 198 enfants ont été testés et 23% étaient négatifs pour tous les virus. RSVA était prédominant en 2008 (64% de tous les virus) et RSVB en 2007 (66% de tous les virus). RV était fréquent pendant les deux saisons (24% de tous les virus). La grippe n'a pas été trouvée pendant la période d'étude. La distribution des virus était similaire quelle que soit la saison ou l'âge, et identique aux modèles typiques dans les pays tempérés. Les coinfections étaient moins fréquentes que dans les régions tempérées car les saisons virales respiratoires semblent mieux séparées. La saison des bronchiolites a commencé en août et s'est terminée en décembre avec un pic en octobre. CONCLUSION: La saisonnalité spécifique de l'infection bronchiolite nécessite une prophylaxie au palivizumab débutant en juillet pour les nourrissons à haut risque.

The effects of chikungunya virus infection on people living with HIV during the 2014 Martinique outbreak.

Our objective was to describe the clinical presentation of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection in patients living with HIV (PLHIV) during the 2014 Martinique outbreak. During the outbreak and the 6 following months, all PLHIV coming in our unit for a medical evaluation answered questions about potential CHIKV related symptoms, and had blood tests to assess the diagnosis. For patients coming in at the acute phase of infection, we are able to provide and analyze CD4+, CD8+ T-cells and HIV viral load evolution before, during and after CHIK infection. Among the 1 003 PLHIV in care in the center at the time of the outbreak, 188 (94 men and 94 women) had confirmed (following the WHO definition) CHIKV infection. Clinical presentation was common in 63% of the cases, severe and atypical forms were scarce. During the acute phase, CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells (evaluated in 30 PLHIV, 15 men and 15 women) absolute numbers dropped significantly, but returned to pre-CHIKV values after the acute phase. Reassuringly, CD4 and CD8 T cells proportions did not decrease during the acute phase. CHIKV infection had no significant impact on this anti-retroviral treated population.

Prevalence of chronic chikungunya and associated risks factors in the French West Indies (La Martinique): A prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging alphavirus that can cause chronic and potentially incapacitating rheumatic musculoskeletal disorders known as chronic chikungunya arthritis (CCA). We conducted a prospective cohort study of CHIKV-infected subjects during the 2013 chikungunya outbreak in Martinique. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of CCA at 12 months and to search for acute phase factors significantly associated with chronicity. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: A total of 193 patients who tested positive for CHIKV RNA via qRT-PCR underwent clinical investigations in the acute phase (<21 days), and then 3, 6, and 12 months after inclusion. The Asian lineage was identified as the circulating genotype. A total of 167 participants were classified as either with or without CCA, and were analyzed using logistic regression models. The overall prevalence of CCA at 12 months was 52.1% (95%CI: 44.5-59.7). In univariate analysis, age (RD 9.62, 95% CI, 4.87;14.38, p<0.0001), female sex (RD 15.5, 95% CI, 1.03;30.0, p = 0.04), headache (RD 15.42, 95% CI, 0.65;30.18 p = 0.04), vertigo (RD 15.33, 95% CI, 1.47;29.19, p = 0.03), vomiting (RD 12.89, 95% CI, 1.54;24.24, p = 0.03), dyspnea (RD 13.53, 95% CI, 0.73;26.33, p = 0.04), intravenous rehydration (RD -16.12, 95% CI, -31.58; -0.66 p = 0.04) and urea (RD 0.66, 95% CI, 0.12;1.20, p = 0.02) were significantly associated with the development of CCA. For the subpopulation with data on joint involvement in the acute phase, the risk factors significantly associated with CCA were at least one 1 enthesitis (RD 16.7, 95%CI, 2.8; 30.7, p = 0.02) and at least one tenosynovitis (RD 16.8, 95% CI, 1.4-32.2, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: This cohort study conducted in Martinique confirms that CCA is a common complication of acute chikungunya disease. Our analysis emphasized the importance of age and female sex for CCA occurrence, and highlighted the aggravating role of dehydration during the acute phase. Early and adequate hydration were found to reduce the risk chronic chikungunya disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01099852).

High prevalence of human papillomavirus infection in HIV-infected women living in French Antilles and French Guiana.

An association between HIV infection and cervical cancer, a major public health issue worldwide, has been reported. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the distribution of HPV genotypes in HIV-infected women living in French Antilles and Guiana and to determine HIV-related characteristics associated with HPV infection. This cross-sectional study included 439 HIV-infected women who were followed between January 2011 and May 2014. Variables related to HIV infections were collected, and cervical samples were analysed to determine HPV genotypes. The median age of the population was 46 years. Estimated prevalence of HPV and high-risk (HR)-HPV infection were 50.1% IC95 [45.4-54.7] and 42% IC95 [37.3-46.6], respectively. HR-HPV 16, 52, 53 or intermediate risk-HPV-68 were found in 25% to 30% of the HPV-infected patients. Gynaecological screening revealed abnormal cervical smear in 24% and 42% of HR-HPV-negative and HPV-positive women, respectively (p = 0.003). Approximately 90% of women were on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Demographic characteristics associated with a higher prevalence of HPV infection included alcohol consumption. Regarding HIV-related characteristics, current therapy on ART, its duration, and undetectable plasma concentrations of RNA-HIV1 were associated with a lower risk of HPV infection. Infection rate with HR-HPV was higher than what is commonly reported in HIV-negative women worldwide and was more likely in women with incomplete HIV suppression. These results highlight the need for supporting adherence to ART, cervical cytology, HPV testing and HPV vaccination.

Phylogeographic Analyses Reveal the Early Expansion and Frequent Bidirectional Cross-Border Transmissions of Non-pandemic HIV-1 Subtype B Strains in Hispaniola.

The human immunodeficiency virus-type 1 (HIV-1) subtype B has probably been circulating on the island of Hispaniola since the 1960s, but information about the early viral history on this Caribbean island is scarce. In this study, we reconstruct the dissemination dynamics of early divergent non-pandemic subtype B lineages (designated BCAR) on Hispaniola by analyzing a country-balanced dataset of HIV-1 BCAR pol sequences from Haiti (n = 103) and the Dominican Republic (n = 123). Phylogenetic analyses supported that BCAR strains from Haiti and the Dominican Republic were highly intermixed between each other, although the null hypothesis of completely random mixing was rejected. Bayesian phylogeographic analyses placed the ancestral BCAR virus in Haiti and the Dominican Republic with the same posterior probability support. These analyses estimate frequent viral transmissions between Haiti and the Dominican Republic since the early 1970s onwards, and the presence of local BCAR transmission networks in both countries before first AIDS cases was officially recognized. Demographic reconstructions point that the BCAR epidemic in Hispaniola grew exponentially until the 1990s. These findings support that the HIV-1 epidemics in Haiti and the Dominican Republic have been connected by a recurrent bidirectional viral flux since the initial phase, which poses a great challenge in tracing the geographic origin of the BCAR epidemic within Hispaniola using only genetic data. These data also reinforce the notion that prevention programs have successfully reduced the rate of new HIV-1 transmissions in Hispaniola since the end of the 1990s.

Assessing Zika Virus Transmission Within Households During an Outbreak in Martinique, 2015-2016.

Since 2015, Zika virus (ZIKV) has caused large epidemics in the Americas. Households are natural targets for control interventions, but quantification of the contribution of household transmission to overall spread is needed to guide policy. We developed a modeling framework to evaluate this contribution and key epidemic features of the ZIKV epidemic in Martinique in 2015-2016 from the joint analysis of a household transmission study (n = 68 households), a study among symptomatic pregnant women (n = 281), and seroprevalence surveys of blood donors (n = 457). We estimated that the probability of mosquito-mediated within-household transmission (from an infected member to a susceptible one) was 21% (95% credible interval (CrI): 5, 51), and the overall probability of infection from outside the household (i.e., in the community) was 39% (95% CrI: 27, 50). Overall, 50% (95% CrI: 43, 58) of the population was infected, with 22% (95% CrI: 5, 46) of infections acquired in households and 40% (95% CrI: 23, 56) being asymptomatic. The probability of presenting with Zika-like symptoms due to another cause was 16% (95% CrI: 10, 23). This study characterized the contribution of household transmission in ZIKV epidemics, demonstrating the benefits of integrating multiple data sets to gain more insight into epidemic dynamics.

Long-term outcome in neuroZika: When biological diagnosis matters.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the full spectrum, relative frequency, and prognosis of the neurologic manifestations in Zika virus (ZIKV) postnatal infection. METHODS: We conducted an observational study in consecutive ZIKV-infected patients presenting with neurologic manifestations during the French West Indies 2016 outbreak. RESULTS: Eighty-seven patients, including 6 children, were enrolled. Ninety-five percent of all cases required hospitalization. Guillain-Barré syndrome was the most frequent manifestation (46.0%) followed by encephalitis or encephalomyelitis (20.7%), isolated single or multiple cranial nerve palsies (9.2%), other peripheral manifestations (6.9%), and stroke (1.1%). Fourteen patients (16.1%), including one child, developed a mixed disorder involving both the central and peripheral nervous system. Mechanical ventilation was required in 21 cases, all of whom had ZIKV RNA in at least one biological fluid. Two adult patients died due to neuroZika. Clinical follow-up (median 14 months; interquartile range, 13-17 months) was available for 76 patients. Residual disability (modified Rankin Scale score ≥2) was identified in 19 (25.0%) patients; in 6 cases (7.9%), disability was severe (modified Rankin Scale score ≥4). Among patients with ZIKV RNA detected in one biological fluid, the risk of residual disability or death was higher (odds ratio 9.19; confidence interval 1.12-75.22; p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: NeuroZika spectrum represents a heterogeneous group of clinical neurologic manifestations. During an outbreak, clinicians should consider neuroZika in patients presenting with cranial nerve palsies and a mixed neurologic disorder. Long-term sequelae are frequent in NeuroZika. ZIKV reverse-transcription PCR status at admission can inform prognosis and should therefore be taken into consideration in the management of hospitalized patients.

Long-term survival and clinical forms in the acute phase of Chikungunya virus infection in older Caribbeans.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the long-term survival in elderly patients with prior Chikungunya virus infection (CVI) is associated with the clinical form presented in the acute phase, as defined by the WHO classification. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study performed in Martinique University Hospitals. Patients who attended the emergency department for suspected CVI, and who had a positive biological diagnosis of CVI by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on a plasma sample between 10 January and 31 December 2014 were eligible for inclusion. Time-to-death was the primary outcome. The independent relationship between clinical forms and time-to-death was analysed using a Cox model. RESULTS: In total, 268 patients were included. Mean age was 80 ± 8 years, 53% were women. Median length of follow-up was 28 months (range: 0-39). During follow-up, 53 (19.8%) patients died. Median survival time was 13.2 months (range: 0-33.6). At the end of follow-up, death rates were 4.6% for acute clinical cases, 19.0% for atypical cases, 19.2% for severe acute cases and 23.5% for unclassifiable cases. By multivariable analysis, the clinical form of CVI at admission was found to be independently associated with long-term survival (atypical form: HR = 2.38; 95% CI = 2.15-2.62; severe acute form: HR = 2.40; 95% CI = 2.17-2.64; unclassifiable form: HR = 2.28; 95% CI = 2.06-2.51). CONCLUSION: The clinical form at presentation with CVI has a significant impact on long-term survival. Management of CVI patients should be tailored according to their clinical form at admission.

OBJECTIF: Etudier si la survie à long terme chez les patients âgés avec une infection antérieure par le virus du chikungunya (IVC) est associée à la forme clinique présente dans la phase aiguë, telle que définie par la classification de l'OMS. MÉTHODES: Etude de cohorte rétrospective réalisée dans les hôpitaux universitaires de la Martinique. Les patients qui se présentaient au service des urgences en cas de suspicion d'IVC et qui avaient un diagnostic biologique positif d'ICV par la PCR à transcription inverse sur un échantillon plasmatique entre le 10 janvier et le 31 décembre 2014 étaient éligibles à l'inclusion. Le temps jusqu'au décès était le résultat principal. La relation indépendante entre les formes cliniques et le temps jusqu'au décès a été analysée à l'aide d'un modèle de Cox. RÉSULTATS: Au total, 268 patients ont été inclus. L'âge moyen était de 80 ± 8 ans, 53% étaient des femmes. La durée médiane du suivi était de 28 mois (intervalle: 0 à 39 ans). Au cours du suivi, 53 patients (19,8%) sont décédés. La durée médiane de survie était de 13,2 mois (intervalle: 0 à 33,6). A la fin du suivi, les taux de décès étaient de 4,6% pour les cas cliniques aigus, 19,0% pour les cas atypiques, 19,2% pour les cas aigus sévères et 23,5% pour les cas non classifiables. L'analyse multivariée a révélé que la forme clinique de l'IVC à l'admission était indépendamment associée à la survie à long terme (forme atypique: HR = 2,38; IC95%: 2,15-2,62; forme aiguë sévère: HR = 2,40; IC95%: 2,17-2,64; forme inclassable: HR = 2,28; IC95%: 2,06-2,51). CONCLUSION: La forme clinique lors de la présentation avec IVC a un impact significatif sur la survie à long terme. La prise en charge des patients atteints d'ICV devrait être adaptée à la forme clinique lors de l'admission.