Vaccinated COVID-19 Index Cases Are Less Likely to Transmit SARS-CoV-2 to Their Household Contacts: A Cohort Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of index case vaccination on SARS-CoV-2 transmission to household contacts. In our epidemiological cohort study (May 2022-November 2023), we surveyed registered index case vaccination status and test results for contacts (testing on day 0, and on day 7 for negative contacts) and calculated the secondary attack rate (SAR), i.e., newly infected contacts/susceptible included contacts. The association of the independent variable, index case COVID-19 vaccination (yes/no), with household contact infection was determined using the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI). We recorded 181 index cases and 314 contacts, of whom 250 agreed to participate; 16 contacts were excluded upon testing positive on day 0. Of the 234 included contacts, 49.1% were women, and the mean (SD) age was 51.9 (19.8) years. The overall SAR of 37.2% (87/234) was lower in the contacts of both vaccinated index cases (34.9% vs. 63.2%; p = 0.014) and index cases with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection history (27.0% vs. 46.3%; p = 0.002). Index case vaccination showed a protective effect against infection for their household contacts (aOR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.67). The household SAR was high when the Omicron variant circulated. Vaccinated index cases were less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to their contacts.

[Level of knowledge, attitudes and the use of preventive measures among household contacts of COVID-19 cases after the acute phase of the pandemic].

BACKGROUND: Assessment of the level of knowledge and attitudes regarding COVID-19 and preventive measures in household contacts of COVID-19 cases after the acute phase of the pandemic. METHODS: Survey among household contacts of COVID-19 cases conducted in healthcare centers in Navarre (1) and Catalonia (8) between May 2022 and July 2023. The frequency of use of preventive measures and the knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 were assessed through 12 items. RESULTS: 215 contacts participated who correctly used the preventive measures (>85%), except for facemasks (35.8%) and interpersonal distance (47%); >85% showed adequate knowledge (5/6 items) and >80% had a positive attitude (3/6 items). Moreover, 54.7% considered that COVID-19 negatively affected their life and 54.1% that it is better to develop immunity by getting infected than by vaccination. CONCLUSIONS: Household contacts show a correct level of knowledge and positive attitude towards the disease and its preventive measures.

Effectiveness of one and two doses of acellular pertussis vaccines against laboratory-confirmed pertussis requiring hospitalisation in infants: Results of the PERTINENT sentinel surveillance system in six EU/EEA countries, December 2015 - December 2019.

BACKGROUND: Monitoring effectiveness of pertussis vaccines is necessary to adapt vaccination strategies. PERTINENT, Pertussis in Infants European Network, is an active sentinel surveillance system implemented in 35 hospitals across six EU/EEA countries. We aim to measure pertussis vaccines effectiveness (VE) by dose against hospitalisation in infants aged <1 year. METHODS: From December 2015 to December 2019, participating hospitals recruited all infants with pertussis-like symptoms. Cases were vaccine-eligible infants testing positive for Bordetella pertussis by PCR or culture; controls were those testing negative to all Bordetella spp. For each vaccine dose, we defined an infant as vaccinated if she/he received the corresponding dose >14 days before symptoms. Unvaccinated were those who did not receive any dose. We calculated (one-stage model) pooled VE as 100*(1-odds ratio of vaccination) adjusted for country, onset date (in 3-month categories) and age-group (when sample allowed it). RESULTS: Of 1,393 infants eligible for vaccination, we included 259 cases and 746 controls. Median age was 16 weeks for cases and 19 weeks for controls (p < 0.001). Median birth weight and gestational age were 3,235 g and week 39 for cases, 3,113 g and week 39 for controls. Among cases, 119 (46 %) were vaccinated: 74 with one dose, 37 two doses, 8 three doses. Among controls, 469 (63 %) were vaccinated: 233 with one dose, 206 two doses, 30 three doses. Adjusted VE after at least one dose was 59 % (95 %CI: 36-73). Adjusted VE was 48 % (95 %CI: 5-71) for dose one (416 eligible infants) and 76 % (95 %CI: 43-90) for dose two (258 eligible infants). Only 42 infants were eligible for the third dose. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest moderate one-dose and two-dose VE in infants. Larger sample size would allow more precise estimates for dose one, two and three.

Nivel de conocimientos, de actitudes y utilización de medidas preventivas entre los contactos domiciliarios de casos de COVID-19 tras la fase aguda de la pandemia / Level of knowledge, attitudes and the use of preventive measures among household contacts of COVID-19 cases after the acute phase of the pandemic

Fundamento. Describir el nivel de conocimiento y actitudes sobre la COVID-19 y sus medidas preventivas en contactos domiciliarios de casos de COVID-19 tras la fase aguda de la pandemia. Métodos. Encuesta a contactos domiciliarios de casos de COVID-19 realizada en centros de salud de Navarra (1) y Cataluña (8) entre mayo/2022 y julio/2023. Se evaluó el uso de medidas preventivas y, mediante 12 ítems, los conocimientos y actitudes frente a COVID-19. Resultados. Participaron 215 contactos que usaron correctamente las medidas preventivas (>85%), exceptuando mascarilla (35,8%) y distancia interpersonal (47%); >85% mostraron conocimientos adecuados en 5/6 ítems y >80% mostraron actitud positiva en 3/6 ítems. El 54,7% consideró que la COVID-19 influyó negativamente en su vida y el 54,1% que es mejor desarrollar inmunidad enfermando que mediante la vacunación. Conclusiones. Los contactos domiciliarios mostraron un correcto nivel de conocimiento y una actitud positiva frente a la COVID-19 y sus medidas preventivas. (AU)

Background. Assessment of the level of knowledge and attitudes regarding COVID-19 and preventive measures in household contacts of COVID-19 cases after the acute phase of the pandemic. Methods. Survey among household contacts of COVID-19 cases conducted in healthcare centers in Navarre (1) and Catalonia (8) between May 2022 and July 2023. The frequency of use of preventive measures and the knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 were assessed through 12 items. Results. 215 contacts participated who correctly used the preventive measures (>85%), except for facemasks (35.8%) and interpersonal distance (47%); >85% showed adequate knowledge (5/6 items) and >80% had a positive attitude (3/6 items). Moreover, 54.7% considered that COVID-19 negatively affected their life and 54.1% that it is better to develop immunity by getting infected than by vaccination. Conclusions. Household contacts show a correct level of knowledge and positive attitude towards the disease and its preventive measures. (AU)

Hospitalisations and Deaths Averted by COVID-19 Vaccination in Navarre, Spain, 2021-2022.

In 2021-2022, most of the Spanish population received COVID-19 vaccines and a high proportion of them had SARS-CoV-2 infection. We estimated the rate of hospitalisations and deaths that were averted by risk reduction among vaccinated COVID-19 cases. Hospitalisations and deaths were analysed among COVID-19 cases confirmed in 2021 and 2022 in Navarre, Spain. To calculate the number of prevented outcomes by sex, age, comorbidities, and semester, the difference in the risk of each outcome between unvaccinated and vaccinated cases was multiplied by the number of vaccinated cases. COVID-19 vaccination coverage with any dose reached 88%, 86% with full vaccination, and 56% with a booster dose. The cumulative rates per 1000 inhabitants were 382 COVID-19 confirmed cases, 6.70 hospitalisations, and 1.15 deaths from COVID-19. The estimated rates of prevented events by vaccination were 16.33 hospitalisations and 3.39 deaths per 1000 inhabitants, which was 70.9% and 74.7% of expected events without vaccination, respectively. People aged 80 years and older or with major chronic conditions accounted for the majority of hospitalizations and deaths prevented by COVID-19 vaccination. One hospitalisation and death due to COVID-19 were averted for every 53 and 258 people vaccinated, respectively. The high COVID-19 vaccine effect in reducing the risk of severe outcomes and the high vaccination coverage in risk populations prevented three out of four hospitalisations and deaths due to COVID-19 during a period of intense circulation of SARS-CoV-2.

Evaluation of antibody-based preventive alternatives for respiratory syncytial virus: a novel multi-criteria decision analysis framework and assessment of nirsevimab in Spain.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly infectious disease that poses a significant clinical and medical burden, as well as social disruption and economic costs, recognized by the World Health Organization as a public health issue. After several failed attempts to find preventive candidates (compounds, products, including vaccines), new alternatives might be available, one being nirsevimab, the first and only option approved for RSV prevention in neonates and infants during their first RSV season. The objective of this study was to develop a novel multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework for RSV antibody-based preventive alternatives and to use it to assess the value of nirsevimab vs. placebo as a systematic immunization approach to prevent RSV in neonates and infants during their first RSV season in Spain. METHODS: Based on a pre-established model called Vaccinex, an ad-hoc MCDA framework was created to reflect relevant attributes for the assessment of current and future antibody-based preventive measures for RSV. The estimated value of nirsevimab was obtained by means of an additive linear model combining weights and scores assigned by a multidisciplinary committee of 9 experts. A retest and three sensitivity analyses were conducted. RESULTS: Nirsevimab was evaluated through a novel framework with 26 criteria by the committee as a measure that adds value (positive final estimated value: 0.56 ± 0.11) to the current RSV scenario in Spain, by providing a high efficacy for prevention of neonates and infants. In addition, its implementation might generate cost savings in hospitalizations and to the healthcare system and increase the level of public health awareness among the general population, while reducing health inequities. CONCLUSIONS: Under a methodology with increasing use in the health field, nirsevimab has been evaluated as a measure which adds value for RSV prevention in neonates and infants during their first RSV season in Spain.

Effectiveness of Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavaria Nordic Vaccination in a Population at High Risk of Mpox: A Spanish Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: With more than 7500 cases reported since April 2022, Spain has experienced the highest incidence of mpox in Europe. From 12 July onward, the modified vaccinia Ankara-Bavaria Nordic (MVA-BN) smallpox vaccine was offered as pre-exposure prophylaxis for those receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-PrEP). Our aim was to assess the effectiveness of 1 dose of MVA-BN vaccine as pre-exposure prophylaxis against mpox virus (MPXV) infection in persons on HIV-PrEP. METHODS: National retrospective cohort study between 12 July and 12 December 2022. Individuals aged ≥18 years receiving HIV-PrEP as of 12 July with no previous MPXV infection or vaccination were eligible. Each day, we matched individuals receiving a first dose of vaccine and unvaccinated controls of the same age and region. We used a Kaplan-Meier estimator, calculated risk ratios (RR) and vaccine effectiveness (VE = [1 - RR]x100). RESULTS: We included 5660 matched pairs, with a median follow-up of 62 days (interquartile range, 24-97). Mpox cumulative incidence was 5.6 per 1000 (25 cases) in unvaccinated and 3.5 per 1000 (18 cases) in vaccinated. No effect was found during days 0-6 post-vaccination (VE, -38.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], -332.7 to 46.4), but VE was 65% at ≥7 days (95% CI, 22.9 to 88.0) and 79% at ≥14 days (95% CI, 33.3 to 100.0) post-vaccination. CONCLUSIONS: One dose of MVA-BN vaccine offered protection against mpox in most-at-risk population shortly after the vaccination. Further studies need to assess the VE of a second dose and the duration of protection over time.

Assessment of Knowledge and Attitudes Over Time in Postacute COVID-19 Environments: Protocol for an Epidemiological Study.

BACKGROUND: Globally, COVID-19 is in transition from the acute pandemic phase into a postacute phase, and special attention should be paid at this time to COVID-19 control strategies. Understanding public knowledge and attitudes plays a pivotal role in controlling COVID-19's spread and provides information about the public's adherence to preventive and control measures. OBJECTIVE: This study protocol describes the planning and management of a survey to investigate the persistent or changing trends in knowledge and attitudes regarding COVID-19, vaccination, and nonpharmaceutical preventive measures among COVID-19 cases' household contacts aged 18 years and older, after the acute phase of the pandemic in Catalonia and Navarre in Spain. The secondary objectives include investigating the rate of secondary transmission in households, taking into account the demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and preventive measures toward COVID-19. METHODS: A telephone questionnaire was designed to assess the changing trends in knowledge, preventive measures, and attitudes toward COVID-19 in 3 rounds (after identification as a household contact, 3 months later, and 6 months later). The questionnaire was developed following an extensive literature review and through discussions with a panel of experts who designed and assessed the validity of the questionnaire in terms of relevance, consistency, completeness, and clarity. The questionnaire consists of the following 7 sections: social and demographic characteristics (ie, gender, age, educational level, and workplace), comorbidities and risk factors (according to the recommendations from the COVID-19 vaccination strategy), epidemiological data (ie, exposure time, relationship with index cases, and frequency of use of nonpharmaceutical preventive measures), COVID-19 vaccination status (ie, the number and date of doses received), knowledge and attitudes toward COVID-19 (assessed using a 5-point Likert scale-totally agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, and totally disagree), and sources of information (including traditional mass media, social media, and official sources). RESULTS: A pilot study was performed in May 2022 to evaluate the questionnaire with 22 household contacts. Preliminary findings indicated that the questionnaire was feasible and acceptable in the general population. The average response time was 15 minutes, with greater variations in responses by older participants. After the pilot study, recruitment of participants began and is expected to be completed at the end of the year 2023, after which the final results will be available in 2024. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the low transmission levels of SARS-CoV-2 and the relaxation of containment measures, the implementation of the survey during the postacute phase will provide valuable insight to assist public health decision-making and control the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses, thereby attenuating the negative effects of COVID-19 at individual and population level. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/52114.

[COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and mortality in Navarre (Spain) between February 2020 and September 2022].

BACKGROUND: Between February 2020 and September 2022, SARS-CoV-2 has circulated uninterruptedly throughout Spain. This study analyses COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths in Navarre. METHODS: Enhanced epidemiological surveillance and results of seroepidemiological surveys were used to analyze COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, based on the vaccination coverage and other preventive measures applied from February 2020 to September 2022. RESULTS: A total of 295,424 COVID-19 cases were confirmed (45% of the population in Navarre); 8,594 required hospital admission (1.3%), 832 were admitted to intensive care units (1.3‰) and 1,725 died (2.6‰). Over the first wave of the pandemic, there were 1,934 hospitalizations and 529 deaths from confirmed COVID-19 cases over a few weeks; these figures dropped rapidly following lockdown. Until October 2021, SARS-CoV-2 circulation was modulated by non-pharmacological preventive measures. The subsequent relaxation of these measures led to a wide circulation of the omicron variant, increasing the number of cases by three-fold. The high vaccination coverage against COVID-19 introduced decisive changes in the epidemiology of the disease, reducing to less than 2%, 0.1%, and 0.5% the cases requiring hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, or that died, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Initial lockdown and non-pharmacological preventive measures helped control SARS-CoV-2 transmission until vaccination was extended. Vaccination achieved a decisive reduction of the COVID-19 severity and lethality.

Infecciones, hospitalizaciones y mortalidad por COVID-19 en Navarra entre febrero de 2020 y septiembre de 2022 / COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and mortality in Navarre (Spain) between February 2020 and September 2022

Fundamento: El SARS-CoV-2 circuló ininterrumpidamente enEspaña durante el período comprendido entre febrero de 2020y septiembre de 2022. Este estudio analiza su repercusión en lasinfecciones, hospitalizaciones y defunciones en Navarra. Métodos: A partir de la vigilancia epidemiológica reforzada yde los resultados de encuestas sero-epidemiológicas, se hananalizado las infecciones, hospitalizaciones y defunciones porCOVID-19 en función de la cobertura vacunal y otras medidaspreventivas aplicadas durante el período del estudio.Resultados: Se confirmaron 295.424 personas con COVID-19(45% de la población navarra), 8.594 requirieron ingreso hospitalario (1,3%), 832 ingresaron en unidades de cuidados intensi-vos (1,3‰) y 1.725 fallecieron (2,6‰). Durante la primera ondapandémica, en pocas semanas se registraron 1.934 hospitalizaciones y 529 defunciones por COVID-19 confirmado; dicha cifrase redujo significativamente tras el confinamiento domiciliario. Hasta octubre de 2021, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 estuvomodulada por las medidas preventivas no farmacológicas. Laposterior relajación de las mismas dio paso a una amplia circulación de la variante ómicron, triplicando el número de casosregistrados hasta entonces. La alta cobertura vacunal frente ala COVID-19 introdujo cambios decisivos en su epidemiología,reduciendo la proporción de casos que requirieron hospitalización, ingreso en unidades de cuidados intensivos y fallecimientos a menos del 2%, 0,1% y 0,5%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: El confinamiento domiciliario inicial y las medidas preventivas no farmacológicas contuvieron la circulación delSARS-CoV-2 hasta extenderse la vacunación, con la cual se logróuna reducción decisiva en la gravedad y letalidad de la COVID-19.(AU)

Background: Between February 2020 and September 2022,SARS-CoV-2 has circulated uninterruptedly throughout Spain.This study analyses COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, anddeaths in Navarre. Methods: Enhanced epidemiological surveillance and results ofseroepidemiological surveys were used to analyze COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, based on the vaccinationcoverage and other preventive measures applied from February2020 to September 2022. Results: A total of 295,424 COVID-19 cases were confirmed (45%of the population in Navarre); 8,594 required hospital admission (1.3%), 832 were admitted to intensive care units (1.3‰)and 1,725 died (2.6‰). Over the first wave of the pandemic,there were 1,934 hospitalizations and 529 deaths from confirmed COVID-19 cases over a few weeks; these figures droppedrapidly following lockdown. Until October 2021, SARS-CoV-2circulation was modulated by non-pharmacological preventivemeasures. The subsequent relaxation of these measures led to awide circulation of the omicron variant, increasing the numberof cases by three-fold. The high vaccination coverage againstCOVID-19 introduced decisive changes in the epidemiology ofthe disease, reducing to less than 2%, 0.1%, and 0.5% the casesrequiring hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, or thatdied, respectively. Conclusions: Initial lockdown and non-pharmacological preventive measures helped control SARS-CoV-2 transmission untilvaccination was extended. Vaccination achieved a decisive reduction of the COVID-19 severity and lethality.(AU)

Estrategia de vacunación frente a COVID-19 del ISPLN / Vaccination strategy against COVID-19 of the ISPLN

La Estrategia de vacunación frente a la COVID ha sido el primer programa de vacunación queha implicado prácticamente a toda la población, por ello ha supuesto un esfuerzo muy impor-tante para el Ministerio de Sanidad en coordinación con las CCAA. También en Navarra ha sidonecesario coordinar todas las fases tanto de planificación como de operativización.En este artículo se introduce la gobernanza del programa de vacunación, se describe el pro-ceso de recepción de la vacuna en el Instituto de Salud Pública y Laboral de Navarra (ISPLN),el mantenimiento de la cadena del frío y la preparación para la distribución a los puntos deadministración y las coberturas de vacunación alcanzadas. A 30 de octubre de 2022, se habían recibido 1.406.169 dosis de vacunas. El 86,5% de la pobla-ción había recibido una dosis de vacuna, el 85,8% la pauta completa de primovacunación yel 56,6% una dosis de refuerzo (>95% de los mayores de 60 años). A 22 de febrero de 2023, enNavarra han recibido la segunda dosis de recuerdo de la vacuna el 86,3% de las personas de 80y más años, el 75,8% de las de 70 a 79 años y el 57,7% de las de 60 a 69 años, frente al 76,1%, el66,2% y el 46,8%, respectivamente, en el conjunto del estado. El éxito de este programa de vacunación se debe a la implicación de la organización y delpersonal que ha participado en cada eslabón del proceso, a haber mantenido una estrategiacomún y unos criterios similares en todas las CCAA, a haber monitorizado continuamente lascoberturas alcanzadas en los distintos grupos de población y a la adherencia de la poblaciónnavarra, que tiene impregnada la cultura de la prevención mediante la vacunación.(AU)

Impacto de la vacunación frente a la COVID-19 en Navarra, 2021-2022 / Impact of vaccination against COVID-19 in Navarre, 2021-2022

Fundamento: La COVID-19 tuvo un impacto importante en la salud de la población. Desdeenero de 2021, una proporción creciente de la población ha recibido vacunas frente a laCOVID-19 (vacunación COVID) que han demostrado una alta efectividad para prevenir formasgraves de esta enfermedad. Este estudio ha evaluado el impacto de la vacunación COVID paraprevenir hospitalizaciones y defunciones en Navarra. Métodos: A partir de la vigilancia epidemiológica reforzada y de estimaciones de efectividadde las vacunas se calculó el número de infecciones, ingresos hospitalarios y en unidades decuidados intensivos (UCI) y defunciones que se han prevenido mediante la vacunación COVID entre enero de 2021 y septiembre de 2022. Resultados. Hasta septiembre de 2022, el 88% de la población había recibido alguna dosisde vacuna COVID. Se estima que la vacunación ha prevenido el 15% (n=45.320) de los casosconfirmados, el 75% (n=12.703) de los ingresos hospitalarios, el 66% (n=877) de los ingresosen UCI y el 82% (n=3.367) de las defunciones. Durante 2021 descendió progresivamente laproporción de ingresos y defunciones por COVID-19 observados respecto a las que hubieranpodido producirse sin vacunación. En ausencia de vacunación COVID, los ingresos y defuncionesen las ondas de la variante Ómicron habrían superado ampliamente las cifras registradas en2020. Se estima que se evitó un caso de COVID-19 confirmado por cada 13 personas vacunadas,una hospitalización por cada 45, un ingreso en UCI por cada 656 y una defunción por cada 171. Conclusiones: La vacunación COVID ha tenido un papel muy importante en la prevención dehospitalizaciones y defunciones en Navarra, cambiando totalmente la gravedad y letalidad deesta enfermedad.(AU)

Infección, hospitalización y mortalidad por COVID-19 en Navarra, febrero de 2020 a septiembre de 2022 / Infection, hospitalization and mortality from COVID-19 in Navarra, February 2020 to September 2022

Fundamento. El SARS-CoV-2 ha circulado ininterrumpidamente en España desde febrero de 2020 hasta septiembre de 2022. El presente estudio estima y describe su repercusión en infecciones, hospitalizaciones y defunciones. Métodos. A partir de la vigilancia epidemiológica reforzada, los resultados de encuestas seroepidemiológicas y los datos de mortalidad diaria, se han analizado las infecciones, hospitalizaciones y defunciones por COVID-19 entre febrero de 2020 y septiembre de 2022 en Navarra. Resultados. Se confirmaron 295.424 personas con COVID-19 (45% de la población), 8594 requirieron ingreso hospitalario (1,3% habitantes), 832 ingresaron en unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) (1,3 por 1000) y 1725 fallecieron (2,6 por 1000). La primera onda pandémica produjo 1934 hospitalizaciones y 529 defunciones por COVID-19 confirmado en pocas semanas, y su número descendió rápidamente tras el confinamiento domiciliario. Hasta octubre de 2021 la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 estuvo modulada por las medidas preventivas no farmacológicas. La extensión de la vacunación frente a la COVID-19 introdujo cambios decisivos en la epidemiología de la enfermedad, reduciendo a menos del 2% los casos que requerían hospitalización, del 0,1% los que ingresaban en UCI y del 0,5% la letalidad. Conclusiones. Coincidiendo con la generalización de la vacunación se produjo una reducción importante de la gravedad y letalidad de la COVID-19, que pasó de comportarse inicialmente como una pandemia, a acabar asemejándose a otras infecciones endémicas por virus respiratorios. El confinamiento domiciliario inicial, las medidas preventivas no farmacológicas y la vacunación de la COVID-19 han sido intervenciones eficaces y oportunas para reconducir el curso de la pandemia en diferentes momentos.(AU)

Executive summary – Diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus infection – Consensus statement of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), the Spanish Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SEIP), the Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV), the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (SEMFYC) and the Spanish Society of Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Health Management (SEMPSPGS) / Resumen ejecutivo – Diagnóstico, tratamiento y profilaxis de la infección por virus de la Gripe – Documento de Consenso de la Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), la Sociedad Española de Infectología Pediátrica (SEIP), la Asociación Española de Vacunología (AEV), la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Familia y Comunitaria (SEMFYC) y la Sociedad Española de Medicina Preventiva, Salud Pública y Gestión Sanitaria (SEMPSPGS)

The influenza virus has accompanied humans since time immemorial, in the form of annual epidemics and occasional pandemics. It is a respiratory infection with multiple repercussions on people's lives at an individual and social level, as well as representing a significant burden on the health system. This Consensus Document arises from the collaboration of various Spanish scientific societies involved in influenza virus infection. The conclusions drawn are based on the highest quality evidence available in the scientific literature and, failing that, on the opinion of the experts convened. The Consensus Document addresses the clinical, microbiological, therapeutic, and preventive aspects (with respect to the prevention of transmission and in relation to vaccination) of influenza, for both adult and pediatric populations. This Consensus Document aims to help facilitate the clinical, microbiological, and preventive approach to influenza virus infection and, consequently, to reduce its important consequences on the morbidity and mortality of the population.(AU)

El virus de la gripe ha acompañado al ser humano desde tiempo inmemorial, en forma de epidemias anuales y pandemias ocasionales. Se trata de una infección respiratoria con múltiples repercusiones sobre la vida de las personas a nivel individual y social, así como una importante sobrecarga para el sistema sanitario. El presente documento de consenso surge de la colaboración de diversas sociedades científicas españolas implicadas en la atención de la infección por virus de la gripe. Las conclusiones extraídas se han fundamentado en las evidencias de mayor calidad disponibles en la literatura científica y, en su defecto, en la opinión de los expertos convocados. En el documento de consenso se abordan los aspectos clínicos, microbiológicos, terapéuticos y preventivos (respecto de la prevención de la transmisión y con relación a la vacunación) de la gripe, tanto para población pediátrica como para adultos. Este documento de consenso pretende ayudar a facilitar el abordaje clínico, microbiológico y preventivo de la infección por virus de la gripe y, consecuentemente, a disminuir sus importantes consecuencias sobre la morbimortalidad de la población.(AU)

Executive summary - Diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus infection - Consensus statement of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), the Spanish Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SEIP), the Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV), the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (SEMFYC) and the Spanish Society of Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Health Management (SEMPSPGS).

The influenza virus has accompanied humans since time immemorial, in the form of annual epidemics and occasional pandemics. It is a respiratory infection with multiple repercussions on people's lives at an individual and social level, as well as representing a significant burden on the health system. This Consensus Document arises from the collaboration of various Spanish scientific societies involved in influenza virus infection. The conclusions drawn are based on the highest quality evidence available in the scientific literature and, failing that, on the opinion of the experts convened. The Consensus Document addresses the clinical, microbiological, therapeutic, and preventive aspects (with respect to the prevention of transmission and in relation to vaccination) of influenza, for both adult and pediatric populations. This Consensus Document aims to help facilitate the clinical, microbiological, and preventive approach to influenza virus infection and, consequently, to reduce its important consequences on the morbidity and mortality of the population.

Resumen ejecutivo – Diagnóstico, tratamiento y profilaxis de la infección por virus de la Gripe – Documento de Consenso de la Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica (SEIMC), la Sociedad Española de Infectología Pediátrica (SEIP), la Asociación Española de Vacunología (AEV), la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Familia y Comunitaria (SEMFYC) y la Sociedad Española de Medicina Preventiva, Salud Pública y Gestión Sanitaria (SEMPSPGS) / Executive summary - Diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus infection – Consensus statement of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), the Spanish Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SEIP), the Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV), the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (SEMFYC) and the Spanish Society of Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Health Management (SEMPSPGS)

El virus de la gripe ha acompañado al ser humano desde tiempo inmemorial, en forma de epidemias anuales y pandemias ocasionales. Se trata de una infección respiratoria con múltiples repercusiones sobre la vida de las personas a nivel individual y social y supone una importante sobrecarga para el sistema sanitario. El presente documento de consenso surge de la colaboración de diversas sociedades científicas españolas implicadas en la atención de la infección por el virus de la gripe. Las conclusiones extraídas se han fundamentado en las evidencias de mayor calidad disponibles en la literatura científica y, en su defecto, en la opinión de los expertos convocados. En el documento de consenso se abordan los aspectos clínicos, microbiológicos, terapéuticos y preventivos (respecto de la prevención de la transmisión y en relación con la vacunación) de la gripe, tanto en población pediátrica como en adultos. Este documento de consenso aspira a contribuir a facilitar el abordaje clínico, microbiológico y preventivo de la infección por el virus de la gripe y, consecuentemente, a disminuir sus importantes consecuencias sobre la morbimortalidad de la población. (AU)

The influenza virus has accompanied humans since time immemorial, in the form of annual epidemics and occasional pandemics. It is a respiratory infection with multiple repercussions on people's lives at an individual and social level, as well as representing a significant burden on the health system. This Consensus Document arises from the collaboration of various Spanish scientific societies involved in influenza virus infection. The conclusions drawn are based on the highest quality evidence available in the scientific literature and, failing that, on the opinion of the experts convened. The Consensus Document addresses the clinical, microbiological, therapeutic, and preventive aspects (with respect to the prevention of transmission and in relation to vaccination) of influenza, for both adult and pediatric populations. This Consensus Document aims to help facilitate the clinical, microbiological, and preventive approach to influenza virus infection and, consequently, to reduce its important consequences on the morbidity and mortality of the population. (AU)

Executive summary. Diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis of influenza virus infection. Consensus statement of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), the Spanish Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SEIP), the Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV), the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (SEMFYC) and the Spanish Society of Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Health Management (SEMPSPGS).

The influenza virus has accompanied humans since time immemorial, in the form of annual epidemics and occasional pandemics. It is a respiratory infection with multiple repercussions on people's lives at an individual and social level, as well as representing a significant burden on the health system. This Consensus Document arises from the collaboration of various Spanish scientific societies involved in influenza virus infection. The conclusions drawn are based on the highest quality evidence available in the scientific literature and, failing that, on the opinion of the experts convened. The Consensus Document addresses the clinical, microbiological, therapeutic, and preventive aspects (with respect to the prevention of transmission and in relation to vaccination) of influenza, for both adult and pediatric populations. This Consensus Document aims to help facilitate the clinical, microbiological, and preventive approach to influenza virus infection and, consequently, to reduce its important consequences on the morbidity and mortality of the population.

Effectiveness of a Meningococcal Group B Vaccine (4CMenB) in Children.

BACKGROUND: In September 2015, the four-component, protein-based meningococcal serogroup B vaccine (4CMenB; Bexsero) became available for private purchase in Spain. METHODS: We conducted a nationwide matched case-control study to assess the effectiveness of 4CMenB in preventing invasive meningococcal disease in children. The study included all laboratory-confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease in children younger than 60 months of age between October 5, 2015, and October 6, 2019, in Spain. Each case patient was matched with four controls according to date of birth and province. 4CMenB vaccination status of the case patients and controls was compared with the use of multivariate conditional logistic regression. RESULTS: We compared 306 case patients (243 [79.4%] with serogroup B disease) with 1224 controls. A total of 35 case patients (11.4%) and 298 controls (24.3%) had received at least one dose of 4CMenB. The effectiveness of complete vaccination with 4CMenB (defined as receipt of at least 2 doses, administered in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations) was 76% (95% confidence interval [CI], 57 to 87) against invasive meningococcal disease caused by any serogroup, and partial vaccination was 54% (95% CI, 18 to 74) effective. Complete vaccination resulted in an effectiveness of 71% (95% CI, 45 to 85) against meningococcal serogroup B disease. Vaccine effectiveness with at least one dose of 4CMenB was 64% (95% CI, 41 to 78) against serogroup B disease and 82% (95% CI, 21 to 96) against non-serogroup B disease. With the use of the genetic Meningococcal Antigen Typing System, serogroup B strains that were expected to be covered by 4CMenB were detected in 44 case patients, none of whom had been vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS: Complete vaccination with 4CMenB was found to be effective in preventing invasive disease by serogroup B and non-serogroup B meningococci in children younger than 5 years of age.