Evaluation of Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Heartworm Infection for Dogs in Rio de Janeiro with Access to Veterinary Care.

Heartworm infection is a chronic disease with clinical signs and effects ranging from an asymptomatic condition to severe disease and death. The prevalence of heartworm disease in the state of Rio de Janeiro has been reported to be high (21.3%). The present study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence and risk factors of heartworm infection for the canine population with access to veterinary services in different areas of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 1787 canine blood samples were obtained from 135 practices across 8 different areas of Rio de Janeiro state (Rio de Janeiro municipality, São Gonçalo municipality, Niterói municipality, Baixada Fluminense, and the northern, southern, eastern, and mountainous areas) and tested for the presence of Dirofilaria immitis antigens and antibodies against several tick-borne disease pathogens using a commercial immunochromatography technique (Vetscan® Flex 4 Rapid Test; Zoetis; NJ USA). Pet owners reported living conditions, physical characteristics, demographics, and clinical signs for evaluation of risk factors for heartworm infection. Only two evaluated risk factors were shown to enhance the risk for D. immitis infection, including having a short hair coat vs. having a medium or long hair coat (OR 2.62) or positive for antibodies to tick-borne disease parasites (OR 3.83). Clinical signs reported for dogs with heartworm disease were typical for that condition. The overall prevalence of heartworm disease in the state was 8.2%, ranging from 2.4% in the mountainous region to 29.4% in the eastern area. It could not be determined if veterinarians were not diligent about dispensing heartworm preventatives or if poor levels of compliance by dog owners were responsible for higher infection rates in some areas of the state.

Factores condicionantes de las varices en miembros inferiores y medidas preventivas en profesionales de enfermería de un hospital público del Perú / ConditioningfactorsofvaricoseveinsinlowerlimbsandpreventivemeasuresinnursingprofessionalsofapublichospitalinPerú

Objetivo: Analizar los factores condicionantes de las varices en miembros inferiores y el nivel de medidas preventivas en profesionales de enfermería del Hospital San Juan de Dios ­Pisco 2022. Material y métodos: Estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo, no experimental y transversal, con muestra de 92 profesionales de enfermería, con técnica de encuesta y como instrumento un cuestionario validado. Resultados: El 58,7% tuvo regular proporción de factores condicionantes de las várices, 47,8% con alta proporción, y 19,5% con baja proporción, por dimensiones se halló en cuanto a factores no modificables que el 55,4% tenía antecedentes familiares, 68,5% tuvo más de dos embarazos, y 79,3% con labor asistencial mayor de 5 años en factores modificables el 90,2% permanece 5 o más horas de pie, y 55,4% no realiza actividad física al menos 30 minutos diario. Las medidas preventivas fueron regulares en el 69,6%, buenas 20,7% y deficientes en el 9,7%, por dimensiones la alimentación fue mayormente regular 71,7%, actividad física deficiente 67,4%, y cuidados personales regulares 56,5%. Conclusiones: Los factores condicionantes de las várices son de regular proporción en los profesionales de enfermería del Hospital San Juan de Dios de Pisco, y las medidas preventivas son con mayor predominio regulares, existiendo brechas significativas que muestran la necesidad de mejorar las medidas preventivas a un nivel bueno para hacer frente a la gran proporción de factores condicionantes de las várices en este grupo de la población.

Objective: Analyze the determining factors of varicose veins in the lower limbs and the level of preventive measures in nursing professionals at the San Juan de Dios Hospital -Pisco 2022. Material and methods: Quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental and cross-sectional study, with a sample of 92 nursing professionals, using a survey technique and a validated questionnaire as an instrument. Results: 58.7% had a regular proportion of conditioning factors for varicose veins, 47.8% with a high proportion, and 19.5% with a low proportion, by dimensions it was found in terms of non-modifiable factors that 55.4% had a family history, 68.5% had more after two pregnancies, and 79.3% with care work for more than 5 years, in non-modifiable factors, 90.2% remain 5 or more hours on their feet, and 55.4% do not perform physical activity for at least 30 minutes daily. Preventive measures were regular in 69.6%, good in 20.7% and deficient in 9.7%. By dimensions, food was mostly regular 71.7%, physical activity deficient 67.4%, and regular personal care 56.5%. Conclusions: The conditioning factors of varicose veins are of a regular proportion in nursing professionals at the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pisco, and preventive measures are more prevalently regular, with significant gaps showing the need to improve preventive measures at a good level to deal with the large proportion of conditioning factors of varicose veins in this population group.

Biosecurity practices in the dairy farms of southern Brazil.

Biosecurity refers to a set of practices that prevents and/or controls the introduction, spread, and elimination of harmful biological agents in a production system. In this study, we aimed to survey the biosecurity practices and determine their correlation with the size of production systems. A biosecurity assessment form was provided to 69 farms in the Campos Gerais region of Paraná, Brazil. The questionnaire was divided into two sections: general and bovine viral diarrhea virus- and bovine herpesvirus type-1-specific sections. The general section covered topics on traffic control, quarantine and animal isolation, hygiene practices, carcass disposal, and disease monitoring/control. The specific section consisted of questions on the reproductive and respiratory factors, use of antimicrobials, and vaccination schedule. The 69 farms were also classified into small (≤ 61), medium (62-201), and large (≥ 202) size farms based on the number of lactating cows. Moreover, multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was performed between the biosecurity measures and farm size. The main risk factors and variability were related to the traffic control of people, animals, and vehicles/equipment, animal quarantine/isolation, and hygiene practices. MCA revealed that the small farms exhibited a lack of biosecurity measures, including those related to traffic control, animal quarantine, and hygiene. In medium-size farms, contact between bovine animals of different ages and difficulty in animal isolation in the quarantine system were among the main risk factors. In contrast, isolation of sick animals was easy, but the need to frequently purchase cattle was an important risk factor in large farms. These results highlight the relationship between biosecurity measures and farm size, providing valuable insights for the development of better biosecurity plans for production systems.

Factores de riesgo y medidas preventivas del cáncer de mama en pacientes mujeres atendidas en el Centro de Salud Subtanjalla, Ica ­2019 / Risk factors and preventive measures for breast cancer in female patients treated at the Subtanjalla health center, Ica ­2019

El estudio tuvo como Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo y medidas preventivas del cáncer de mama en pacientes mujeres atendidas en el centro de salud Subtanjalla de Ica -2019. Material y métodos: De tipo no experimental, descriptivo, transversal, con muestra de 108 mujeres, aplicándose un cuestionario estructurado de 15 preguntas, validado por expertos, y con Alfa de Cronbach de 0.77. Resultados: Los factores más relevantes menarquia precoz, que fue a los 12 años en el 35%, los antecedentes familiares con cáncer con un 51%, el 44% utiliza el inyectable como método anticonceptivo, el 65% a veces consume bebidas alcohólicas; en las medidas preventivas el 75% no realiza actividad física, el 49% no consume frutas y verduras frecuentemente, el 44% no se realiza el autoexamen de mama; según los factores de riesgo; el 44% de mujeres tienen entre 21 a 30 años; el 35% de mujeres tuvo su primera menstruación a los 12 años; el 32% de mujeres no utiliza ningún método anticonceptivo;, el 51% de mujeres tienen antecedentes de cáncer; el 81% de mujeres no consume cigarrillos, el 69% de mujeres consume bebidas alcohólicas a veces. El 75% de mujeres no realiza actividad preventiva, el 49% de mujeres tienen dieta saludable; el 44% de mujeres refiere realizar cada mes el autoexamen de mama. Conclusiones: Los datos estadísticos demuestran que existen factores de riesgo y medidas preventivas del cáncer de mama.

The study was Objective: To identify the risk factors and preventive measures of breast cancer in female patients treated at the Subtanjalla health center in Ica -2019. Material and methods:Non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional, with a sample of 108 women, applying a structured questionnaire of 15 questions, validated by experts, and with Cronbach's Alpha of 0.77. Results:The most relevant factors were early menarche, which was at 12 years of age in 35%, a family history of cancer with 51%, 44% used injectables as a contraceptive method, 65% sometimes consumed alcoholic beverages; In preventive measures, 75% do not perform physical activity, 49% do not consume fruits and vegetables frequently, 44% do not perform breast self-examination; according to risk factors; 44% of women are between 21 and 30 years old; 35% of women had their first menstruation at age 12; 32% of women do not use any contraceptive method; 51% of women have a history of cancer; 81% of women do not consume cigarettes, 69% of women sometimes consume alcoholic beverages. 75% of women do not carry out preventive activity, 49% of women have a healthy diet; 44% of women report performing a breast self-examination every month. Conclusions:Statistical data demonstrate that there are risk factors and preventive measures for breast cancer.Keywords: Risk factors, preventive measures, cancer.

Influenza aviar H5N1. ¿Debemos preocuparnos? / Avian influenza H5N1. Should we worry?

Desde la segunda mitad de 2022 se ha reportado un aumento de casos de influenza en aves migratorias en Latinoamérica. Los virus influenza A y B son los principales agentes asociados a influenza estacional epidémica en humanos. Los virus influenza A circulan no solo en humanos sino también en animales, incluyendo aves migratorias. El intercambio de segmentos de ARN genómico entre dos virus del mismo tipo aumenta la diversidad de los subtipos circulantes e incluso puede facilitar la generación de progenie viral potencialmente pandémica. La naturaleza zoonótica del virus influenza A puede generar infecciones en humanos con virus de origen animal. El virus influenza A de origen aviar ha ocasionado transmisiones en humanos, incluyendo casos graves y muertes, siendo la influenza A H5N1 la más destacada. Es importante tomar medidas de prevención y control en caso de aumento de casos de influenza en aves migratorias para prevenir posibles pandemias en Chile y el mundo.

Since the second half of 2022, an increase in influenza cases in migratory birds has been reported in Latin America. Influenza A and B viruses are the main agents associated with seasonal epidemic influenza in humans. Influenza A viruses circulate not only in humans but also in animals, including migratory birds. The exchange of genomic RNA segments among two viruses increases the diversity of circulating subtypes and may even facilitate the generation of potentially pandemic viral progeny. The zoonotic nature of influenza A virus can generate infections in humans with animal-origin viruses. Avian-origin influenza A virus has caused transmissions in humans, including severe cases and deaths, with influenza A H5N1 being the most prominent. It is important to take preventive and control measures in case of an increase in influenza cases in migratory birds to prevent possible pandemics in Chile and the world.

Outbreaks of Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Acanthocephala) infection in raised semi-intensively Colossoma macropomumin Theobroma, Rondônia state, Western Amazon / Surtos de infecção por Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Acanthocephala) em Colossoma macropomum cultivado semi-intensivamente em Theobroma, estado de Rondônia, Amazônia Ocidental

The aim of this study was to describe two outbreaks of Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae parasitizing Colossoma macropomum raised semi-intensively in the Theobroma municipality, Rondônia state, Brazil. It was reported by owner that the animals had a history of poor weight gain and decreased food intake. C. macropomum that weighed around 1.5 kg were clinically evaluated where the body surface, fins, buccal and brachial cavity were carefully analyzed and no changes were found. N. buttnerae was the only intestinal parasite found in the specimens studied, and its distribution pattern showes a preference for the posterior portion of the intestine of C. macropomum. All 50 fish examined were parasitized by at least one N. buttnerae. This parasite was found in the digestive system of the examined fish. 100% of prevalence, 430 of intensity, 8.6 of average intensity and average abundance were found. Although there was no record of mortalities due to acanthocephalosis, damage that compromised the feed conversion of the fish was recorded. C. macropomum were infected by ingesting a crustacean containing cystacanth, the infective larval form of the parasite. Damage, such as presence of nodules, hypertrophy of goblet cells, thickening of the muscle layer, metaplasia in muscle tissue, severe edema from leukocyte infiltration in blood vessels and necrotic foci, were found in the intestine due to high infection rates of N. buttnerae. That said, inspection activities are essential for the preservation of consumer and animal health.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever dois surtos de Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae parasitando Colossoma macropo-mum em cultivo semi-intensivo no município de Theobroma, estado de Rondônia, Brasil. Foi relatado pelo proprietário que os animais apresentavam histórico de baixo ganho de peso e diminuição da ingestão alimentar. C. macropomum que pesavam em torno de 1,5 kg foram avaliados clinicamente onde a superfície corporal, nadadeiras, cavidade bucal e braquial foram cui-dadosamente analisadas e não foram encontradas alterações. N. buttnerae foi o único parasita intestinal encontrado nos espé-cimes estudados, e seu padrão de distribuição mostra uma preferência pela porção posterior do intestino do C. macropomum. Todos os 50 peixes examinados estavam parasitados por pelo menos um N. buttnerae. Este parasita foi encontrado no sistema digestivo dos peixes examinados. Foram encontrados 100% de prevalência, 430 de intensidade, 8,6 de intensidade média e de abundância média. Apesar de não haver registro de mortalidade por acantocefalose, foram registrados danos que comprome-teram a conversão alimentar dos peixes. C. macropomum foram infectados pela ingestão de um crustáceo contendo cistacanto, a forma larval infectante do parasita. No intestino foram encontrados danos como presença de nódulos, hipertrofia de células caliciformes, espessamento da camada muscular, metaplasia no tecido muscular, edema grave por infiltração leucocitária nos vasos sanguíneos e focos necróticos devido às altas taxas de infecção de N. buttnerae. Dito isso, as atividades de fiscalização são essenciais para a preservação da saúde do consumidor e do animal.(AU)

Medidas de prevenção da progressão da disfagia em pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço submetidos a radioterapia: uma revisão sistemática com meta-análise / Preventive measures for the progression of dysphagia in patients with cancer of head and neck subjected to radiotherapy: a systematic review with meta-analysis

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar os efeitos de medidas profiláticas, não farmacológicas, sobre a progressão da disfagia em pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço submetidos a radioterapia. Estratégia de pesquisa A busca foi realizada nas bases de dados Medline (via PubMed), Scopus e Embase, assim como na literatura cinzenta. Critérios de seleção Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados, com pacientes adultos (≥ 18 anos) e diagnóstico de câncer de cabeça e pescoço, tratados com radioterapia (associada ou não à cirurgia e quimioterapia) submetidos a protocolos não farmacológicos de prevenção da disfagia. Análise dos dados O risco de viés foi avaliado por meio da escala PEDRO e a qualidade global da evidência foi avaliada de acordo com o instrumento GRADE. Resultados Foram considerados elegíveis 4 estudos, e desses, dois foram incluídos na metanálise. O resultado favoreceu o grupo intervenção, com diferença média de 1,27 [IC 95%: 0,74 à 1,80]. Houve baixa heterogeneidade e a pontuação média para risco de viés foi de 7,5 de um total de 11 pontos. A falta de detalhamento nos cuidados com os vieses de seleção, performance, detecção, atrito e de relato contribuíram para o julgamento da qualidade da evidência, considerada baixa. Conclusão Medidas profiláticas de contenção da disfagia podem promover importantes benefícios sobre a ingesta oral dos pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço, quando comparados aqueles que não realizaram tal medida terapêutica ao longo da radioterapia.

ABSTRACT Purpose To identify the effects of prophylactic, non-pharmacological measures on the progression of dysphagia in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Research strategies The search was performed in Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, and Embase databases, as well as in the gray literature. Selection criteria Randomized clinical trials were included, with adult patients (≥ 18 years old) and diagnosed with head and neck cancer, treated with radiotherapy (with or without surgery and chemotherapy), and submitted to non-pharmacological protocols for the prevention of dysphagia. Data analysis The risk of bias was assessed using the PEDRO scale and the overall quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE instrument. Results Four studies were considered eligible, and of these, two were included in the meta-analysis. The result favored the intervention group, with a mean difference of 1.27 [95% CI: 0.74 to 1.80]. There was low heterogeneity and the mean score for risk of bias was 7.5 out of 11 points. The lack of detail in the care with selection, performance, detection, attrition, and reporting biases contributed to the judgment of the quality of the evidence, considered low. Conclusion Prophylactic measures to contain dysphagia can promote important benefits on the oral intake of patients with head and neck cancer when compared to those who did not undergo such a therapeutic measure during radiotherapy.

Factores asociados al conocimiento y medidas preventivas de mordedura de Loxosceles laeta en la población de la Encuesta Nacional de Programas Presupuestales (ENAPRES) en el Perú 2017-2019 / Factors associated with knowledge and preventive measures of Loxosceles laeta bite in the population of the National Survey of Budgetary Programs (ENAPRES) in Peru 2017-2019

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las enfermedades metaxénicas y zoonóticas, son consideradas prioridades nacionales de investigación en salud en Perú 2019-2023. De estas, los casos reportados por loxoscelismo han ido aumentando progresivamente. OBJETIVO: Determinar los factores asociados al conocimiento y medidas preventivas de mordedura de Loxosceles laeta en la población de la ENAPRES en el Perú 2017-2019. MÉTODOS: Estudio de tipo observacional, transversal, analítico y retrospectivo, basado en la información de la ENAPRES. RESULTADOS: Se analizó una muestra total de 285.354 personas. De estas, aquellos con 60 a más años (RPa=1,48; IC95%: 1,45-1,51), los costeños (RPa=1,37; IC95%: 1,33-1,40), las mujeres (RPa=1,12; IC95%: 1,11-1,13), con primaria o secundaria (RPa=1,12; IC95%: 1,09-1,15), con viviendas inadecuadas [techo (RPa=1,07; IC95%: 1,05-1,10), piso (RPa=1,02; IC95%: 1,00-1,04)], se asociaron con mayor posibilidad de tener más conocimiento sobre mordedura de L. laeta. Por otra parte, los encuestados de 60 a más años (RPa=1,49; IC95%: 1,46-1,52), los costeños (RPa=1,39; IC95%: 1,35-1,43), con estudios superiores no universitarios (RPa=1,19; IC95%: 1,15-1,22), las mujeres (RPa=1,13; IC95%: 1,12-1,14) y con viviendas con techos inadecuados (RPa=1,07; IC95%: 1,05-1,10) se asociaron con mayor posibilidad de realizar adecuadas medidas preventivas. En ambas, se halló asociación con el desechar los residuos orgánicos en calle o vía pública (RPa=0,97; IC95%: 0,96-0,99). CONCLUSIONES: Se encontró aquellos factores asociados a conocimientos y a las medidas preventivas de mordedura de L. laeta.

BACKGROUND: Metaxenic and zoonotic diseases are one of the ten national priorities for health research in Peru 2019-2023. Of these, the cases reported by loxoscelism have been increasing progressively. AIM: To determine the factors associated with the knowledge and preventive measures of Loxosceles laeta bite in the population of the ENAPRES in Peru 2017-2019. METHODS: Observational, cross-sectional, analytical and retrospective study, based on information from ENAPRES. RESULTS: A total sample of 285,354 people was analyzed. Of these, those aged 60 or over (PRa=1,48; 95%CI: 1,45-1,51), those from the coast (PRa=1,37; 95%CI: 1,33-1,40), women (PRa=1,12; 95%CI: 1,11-1,13), with primary or secondary education (PRa=1,12; 95%CI: 1,09-1,15), with inadequate housing [ceiling (PRa=1,07; 95%CI: 1,05-1,10), floor (PRa=1,02; 95%CI: 1,00-1,04)], were associated with higher possibility ofhaving more knowledge about L. laeta bite. On the other hand, those aged 60 or over (PRa=1,49; 95%CI: 1,46-1,52), those from the coast (PRa=1,39; 95%CI: 1,35-1,43), with non-university higher education (PRa=1,19; 95%CI: 1,15-1,22), women (PR a=1,13; 95%CI: 1,12-1,14) and with inadequate housing ceilings (PRa=1,07; 95%CI 1,05-1,10) were associated with a greater possibility of taking adequate preventive measures. In both, an association was found between disposing of organic waste on the street or on public roads (RPa=0.97; 95%CI: 0.96-0.99) CONCLUSIONS: It were found factors associated with knowledge and preventive for L. laeta bite.

"Flattening the curve": effective measures from Niterói city (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) for COVID-19 control / "Achatando a curva": medidas eficazes da cidade de Niterói (RJ, Brasil) para o controle da COVID-19

Abstract Background In Brazil, some local city government's adopted several measures, which probably had a positive impact on COVID-19 control. Objective To report the distribution of COVID-19 cases in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro state and Niterói city. In parallel, we aimed to demonstrate the preventive strategies adopted by Niterói city. Method Data provided by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and Municipal Health Foundation of Niterói were used to report COVID-19 cases and deaths. For some analysis, data were grouped by week and normalized for 100,000 inhabitants. Results By July 18th, 2020, Brazil reported 2,074,860 cases and 78,772 deaths and Rio de Janeiro state registered 135,230 cases and 11,919 deaths; both still presenting ascendant curves for COVID-19 deaths. In contrast, the rate of new deaths per 100,000 inhabitants is consistently lower in Niterói city. Importantly, we estimated that 712 deaths were prevented by the measures adopted by Niterói city, in comparison to which was observed in Rio de Janeiro. Conclusion The early preventive measures adopted in Niterói city were effective in reducing both the viral spread and rate of deaths. In this regard, this discussion could be relevant for making future decisions during the COVID-19 outbreak in Brazil.

Resumo Introdução No Brasil, algumas cidades adotaram várias medidas que provavelmente tiveram um impacto positivo no controle da Covid-19. Objetivo Relatar a distribuição dos casos de Covid-19 no Brasil, no estado do Rio de Janeiro e na cidade de Niterói. Paralelamente, buscamos demonstrar as estratégias preventivas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói para o controle da Covid-19. Método Dados fornecidos pelo Ministério da Saúde e Fundação Municipal de Saúde de Niterói foram usados ​​para relatar o número de casos e óbitos causados pela Covid-19. Para algumas análises, os dados foram agrupados por semana e normalizados para 100.000 habitantes. Resultados Até 18 de julho de 2020, o Brasil registrou 2.074.860 casos e 78.772 mortes e o estado do Rio de Janeiro registrou 135.230 casos e 11.919 mortes; ambos ainda apresentando curvas ascendentes para mortes por Covid-19. Em contrapartida, a taxa de novos óbitos/100.000 habitantes é consistentemente menor na cidade de Niterói. Estimamos que 712 mortes foram evitadas pelas medidas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói, em comparação com o que foi observado no Rio de Janeiro. Conclusão As medidas preventivas adotadas pela cidade de Niterói foram eficazes na redução tanto da disseminação do vírus quanto da taxa de óbitos. Portanto, esta discussão se mostra relevante para a tomada de decisões futuras durante o surto de Covid-19 no Brasil.

Use of preventive measures, beliefs and information received about COVID-19 and their effects on mental health, in two stages of the pandemic in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have highlighted the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on both physical and mental health. The aim of this study is to analyse the effects on mental health in two phases of the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020 and February 2021) in the population of Colombia. METHODS: Observational, prospective, cross-sectional study along two periods, April 2020 and February 2021. The sample (N = 1309) was extracted from the Colombian population, only including individuals over the age of 18 and residing in Colombia during the pandemic. The IMPACTCOVID-19 questionnaire was used, previously validated in Spain and cross-culturally adapted to the Colombian population, which included sociodemographic data, use of preventive measures, information received and the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) for psychological distress (PD). Participants had to sign an informed consent before taking part in the investigation. RESULTS: A higher level of PD was observed among women (M = 3.99, SD = 3.39) (p < .001), in those who lived without a partner (M = 3.83, SD = 3.47) (p = .036), and in those with a worse perception of health (M = 6.27, SD = 3.51) (p < .001). PD decreased in the second period from M = 3.99 (SD = 3.36) to M = 2.98 (SD = 3.30) (p < .001), coinciding with a higher use of preventive measures, less distress caused by COVID-19 and greater confidence in healthcare professionals and clinical structures. In the second period, the time spent in getting informed decreased, but the sources of information were the same, principally social media and official sources. CONCLUSIONS: Better information on the effects and preventive measures to prevent the pandemic improves confidence in the health system and its professionals, reducing the level of PD. There is a need for quality information on social networks and an adaptation of telemedicine to address the pandemic effects on mental health.Key messagesPsychological distress (PD) decreased in February 2021, as compared to April 2020, due to a greater use of preventive measures against COVID-19, and the confidence on the recommendations made by health officials and professionals.Higher PD has been found in women and people who lived without a partner, in line with studies performed in other countries.The accessibility to quality information on the pandemic should be promoted by the Official Health Authorities, thus counteracting data that could be classified as "fake news".

Conocimientos y medidas preventivas sobre arbovirosis en estudiantes universitarios de una zona endémica del Perú / Knowledge and preventive measures on arbovirus infections among university students in an endemic area of Peru / Conhecimento e medidas preventivas sobre arboviroses em estudantes universitários de uma área endêmica do Peru

RESUMEN Introducción: Las arbovirosis constituyen un grave problema sanitario en el Perú. Un mayor conocimiento y participación de la población en actividades preventivas puede minimizar su impacto. Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de conocimientos y su relación con las medidas preventivas sobre arbovirosis en estudiantes universitarios de una zona endémica del Perú, septiembre a noviembre de 2020. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional, transversal, correlacional y con diseño no experimental. La población estuvo conformada por 325 estudiantes de tecnología médica y la muestra por 176 estudiantes de ambos sexos. El nivel de conocimiento se categorizó en deficiente, regular y alto. Mientras que las medidas preventivas se clasificaron en adecuadas e inadecuadas. El cuestionario contenía 23 preguntas de opción múltiple, validadas por juicio de expertos. Resultados: El 69,9 % de los estudiantes presentó un nivel de conocimientos regular, observándose medidas preventivas inadecuadas en el 44,3 %. Un 92,0 % de encuestados consideró que las arbovirosis son enfermedades graves, pero solo 10,2 % reconoció el signo de alarma del zika. Las principales medidas preventivas fueron: la fumigación (50,6 %) y el uso de repelentes (49,6 %). Además, el 92,6 % de estudiantes consideró importante eliminar los criaderos de mosquitos para evitar la propagación de los arbovirus. Sin embargo, solo el 51,1 % revisó la presencia de criaderos y limpió diaria e interdiariamente su domicilio (43,8 %). Conclusiones: El nivel de conocimientos fue regular y se relacionó con medidas preventivas inadecuadas como no revisar frecuentemente la presencia de criaderos de mosquitos ni realizar limpieza en las viviendas.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Arbovirus infections are a serious health problem in Peru. Higher population awareness and their participation in preventive activities can minimize their impact. Objective: Assessment on the level of knowledge and its relationship with preventive measures concerning arbovirus infections in university students in an endemic area of Peru, September to November 2020. Method: An observational, cross-sectional, correlational and non-experimental design study was carried out. The population consisted of 325 medical technology students and the sample consisted of 176 students of both sexes. The level of knowledge was categorized as deficient, regular and high. Preventive measures were classified as adequate and inadequate. The questionnaire contained 23 multiple-choice questions, validated by expert judgment. Results: The knowledge level in 69.9% of the students was fair, and inadequate preventive measures were observed in 44.3%. The 92.0% of surveyed personnel considered the arbovirus infection as a serious disease, but only 10.2% recognized the warning sign of zika. The main preventive measures were: fumigation (50.6%) and the use of repellents (49.6%). In addition, 92.6% of students considered as an important action the act to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in order to prevent the spread of infection. However, only 51.1% checked for the presence of breeding sites and cleaned their homes on a daily and inter-daily basis (43.8%). Conclusions: The level of knowledge was regular and was related to inadequate preventive measures such as not frequently checking for the presence of mosquito breeding sites and not cleaning houses.

RESUMO Introdução: As arboviroses constituem um grave problema de saúde no Peru. Maior conhecimento e participação da população em atividades preventivas podem minimizar seu impacto. Objetivo: avaliar o nível de conhecimento e sua relação com medidas preventivas sobre arboviroses em estudantes universitários em uma área endêmica do Peru, de setembro a novembro de 2020. Método: Estudo observacional, transversal, correlacional com desenho não experimental foi realizado. A população foi composta por 325 estudantes de tecnologia médica e a amostra por 176 estudantes de ambos os sexos. O nível de conhecimento foi categorizado em deficiente, regular e alto. Enquanto as medidas preventivas foram classificadas como adequadas e inadequadas. O questionário continha 23 questões de múltipla escolha, validadas por julgamento de especialistas. Resultados: 69,9% dos alunos apresentaram nível regular de conhecimento, observando medidas preventivas inadequadas em 44,3%. 92,0% dos pesquisados consideraram que as arboviroses são doenças graves, mas apenas 10,2% reconheceram o sinal de alerta do Zika. As principais medidas preventivas foram: fumigação (50,6%) e uso de repelentes (49,6%). Além disso, 92,6% dos alunos consideraram importante eliminar os criadouros do mosquito para evitar a propagação de arboviroses. No entanto, apenas 51,1% verificaram a presença de criadouros e limparam suas casas diariamente e em dias alternados (43,8%). Conclusões: O nível de conhecimento foi regular e relacionado a medidas preventivas inadequadas, como não verificar com frequência a presença de criadouros do mosquito ou limpeza das residências.

SARS-CoV-2 in a tropical area of Colombia, a remarkable conversion of presymptomatic to symptomatic people impacts public health.

BACKGROUND: The ability of SARS-CoV-2 to remain in asymptomatic individuals facilitates its dissemination and makes its control difficult. OBJECTIVE: To establish a cohort of asymptomatic individuals, change to the symptomatic status, and determine the most frequent clinical manifestations.  METHODS: Between April 9 and August 9, 2020, molecular diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed in 154 asymptomatic people in contact with subjects diagnosed with COVID-19. Nasopharyngeal swabs were performed on these people in different hospitals in Córdoba, the Caribbean area of Colombia. The genes E, RdRp, and N were amplified with RT-qPCR. Based on the molecular results and the Cq values, the patients were subsequently followed up through telephone calls to verify their health conditions. RESULTS: Overall, of 154 asymptomatic individuals, 103 (66.9%) remained asymptomatic, and 51 (33.1%) changed to symptomatic. The most frequent clinical manifestations in young people were anosmia and arthralgia. Adults showed cough, ageusia, and odynophagia; in the elderly were epigastralgia, dyspnea, and headache. Mortality was 8%. CONCLUSIONS: A proportion of 33% of presymptomatic individuals was found, of which four of them died. This high rate could indicate a silent transmission, contributing significantly to the epidemic associated with SARS-CoV-2.

Viruela símica: revisión bibliográfica / Monkeypox: Bibliographic Review

La viruela símica es una enfermedad que ocurre en los monos, sin embargo también se han presentado casos en humanos desde 1970, transformándose en una zoonosis de origen viral, la sintomatología es similar a la viruela pero menos grave. Objetivo: Proporcionar información actualizada sobre la viruela símica, situación epidemiológica, sintomatología, letalidad, diagnóstico, tratamiento y medidas de prevención Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda de literatura científica en las bases de datos Organización Mundial de la Salud, Google Académico y PubMed, se eligieron los descriptores o palabras relacionadas con la enfermedad y se realizó la búsqueda para la descripción de reportes de casos y brotes producidas por la viruela símica. Resultados: Desde que se reportó el primer caso en humanos, han existido brotes en el continente africano, fuera de éste, se han reportados varios casos y brotes en otros países, la mayoría en los Estados Unidos. El último evento se reporta en mayo de 2022 y es de preocupación mundial, debido a la aparición en varios países no endémicos. Conclusiones: La presencia de casos de viruela símica en humanos se ha mantenido desde su aparición, la ausencia de un tratamiento específico y vacunas autorizadas para su administración, podrían generar un aumento en la morbimortalidad(AU)

Monkeypox is a disease that occurs in monkeys, however there have also been cases in humans since 1970, becoming a zoonosis of viral origin, the symptoms are similar to smallpox but less severe. Objective: To provide updated information on monkeypox, epidemiological situation, symptomatology, lethality, diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures. Materials and methods: A search of scientific literature was carried out in the World Health Organization, Google Scholar and PubMed databases. , the descriptors or words related to the disease were chosen and the search was performed for the description of case reports and outbreaks caused by monkeypox. Results: Since the first human case was reported, there have been outbreaks on the African continent, outside of Africa, several cases and outbreaks have been reported in other countries, most in the United States. The last event is reported in May 2022 and is of global concern, due to the appearance in several non-endemic countries. Conclusions: The presence of cases of monkeypox in humans has been maintained since its appearance, the absence of a specific treatment and vaccines authorized for its administration, could generate an increase in morbidity and mortality(AU)

Back pain and body posture of non-professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners.

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of back pain in non-professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners (NP-BJJ practitioners), and to assess the relationship between their back pain and postural disorders. Methods: The study involved 61 subjects (age: 30.7 ± 4.9 years old; body mass: 79.4 ± 12.9 kg; body height: 179.6 ± 8.4 cm; 8 woman and 53 man), 31 who trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and 30 subjects who had never trained any combat sport. The mean time of training BJJ in the study population was 3.9 ± 4.1 years. Postural assessments were conducted with the use of the photogrammetric method. The assessment of back pain and injuries was conducted with the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and with our proprietary questionnaire. Results: Among both populations, 37 subjects reported back pain. There were no differences in back pain location between the two groups or in functional state on the ODI. Significant differences between the groups in the values of the postural parameters (spinal height, length of kyphosis, length of lordosis, pelvis inclination angle) were observed. Statistically significant differences between the NP-BJJ practitioners with and without back pain in the length of the thoracic kyphosis and the differences in the height of the waist triangles were found. Conclusions: Both in the study population and in the control group the spinal pain was minimal or moderate on the ODI. BJJ practitioners who reported back pain had characteristic postural changes in some of the analysed postural parameters in comparison to BJJ practitioners who did not report back pain.

A COVID-19 mathematical model of at-risk populations with non-pharmaceutical preventive measures: The case of Brazil and South Africa.

This work examines a mathematical model of COVID-19 among two subgroups: low-risk and high-risk populations with two preventive measures; non-pharmaceutical interventions including wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and washing hands regularly by the low-risk group. In addition to the interventions mentioned above, high-risk individuals must take extra precaution measures, including telework, avoiding social gathering or public places, etc. to reduce the transmission. Those with underlying chronic diseases and the elderly (ages 60 and above) were classified as high-risk individuals and the rest as low-risk individuals. The parameter values used in this study were estimated using the available data from the Johns Hopkins University on COVID-19 for Brazil and South Africa. We evaluated the effective reproduction number for the two countries and observed how the various parameters affected the effective reproduction number. We also performed numerical simulations and analysis of the model. Susceptible and infectious populations for both low-risk and high-risk individuals were studied in detail. Results were displayed in both graphical and table forms to show the dynamics of each country being studied. We observed that non-pharmaceutical interventions by high-risk individuals significantly reduce infections among only high-risk individuals. In contrast, non-pharmaceutical interventions by low-risk individuals have a significant reduction in infections in both subgroups. Therefore, low-risk individuals' preventive actions have a considerable effect on reducing infections, even among high-risk individuals.

Assessing impacts of COVID-19 and their responses among smallholder farmers in Brazil, Madagascar and Tanzania.

This study investigates the impacts of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on smallholder farmers and their coping strategies in three contrasting Low- and Middle-Income Countries. The case studies include Brazil (South region), Madagascar (Atsimo Atsinanana region), and Tanzania (Morogoro/Eastern Tanzania). These countries were chosen because i) the economies are strongly influenced by the agricultural sector; ii) their national food security is strongly affected by smallholder production, and, iii) they represent a set of contrasting government responses to COVID-19 including the denial of the pandemic. Data were collected through semi-structured household interviews in all three countries in rural areas. COVID-19 induced effects were found in all three countries, including in Brazil and Tanzania where both national governments initially neglected the existence of COVID-19 and introduced few containment measures only. Here, mobility and trade restrictions of other countries impact also on agricultural trade and production in countries in which governments took less action to COVID-19 and also people remained home and practiced social distancing even if no official government policy was issued. The findings in all three countries suggest that the COVID-19 crisis had negatively affected smallholders' agricultural production, leading to a vicious cycle of low production, low incomes, and higher food insecurity. Results of this study raise the thorny issue of how best to balance containment of pandemic and future shocks against the well-being of the vulnerable rural population in lower- and middle-income countries; especially considering also the degree of global interconnected and the potential of polices to effect people beyond the national scale.

Prospect of microbial food borne diseases in Pakistan: a review / Perspectiva de doenças microbianas transmitidas por alimentos no Paquistão: uma revisão

Abstract Nowadays food borne illness is most common in people due to their epidemic nature. These diseases affect the human digestive system through bacteria, viruses and parasites. The agents of illness are transmitted in our body through various types of food items, water and uncooked. Pathogens show drastic changes in immunosuppressant people. This review gives general insights to harmful microbial life. Pakistan is a developed country and because of its improper food management, a lot of gastrointestinal problems are noted in many patients. Bacteria are most common agents to spread diarrhoea, villi infection, constipation and dysenteric disease in human and induce the rejection of organ transplant. Enhancement of their lifestyle, properly cooked food should be used and to overcome the outbreak of the diseases.

Resumo Hoje em dia, as doenças transmitidas por alimentos são mais comuns em pessoas devido à sua natureza epidêmica. Essas doenças afetam o sistema digestivo humano por meio de bactérias, vírus e parasitas. Os agentes das doenças são transmitidos em nosso corpo por meio de diversos tipos de alimentos, água e crus. Os patógenos mostram mudanças drásticas em pessoas imunossupressoras. Esta revisão fornece uma visão geral da vida microbiana prejudicial. O Paquistão é um país desenvolvido e, devido ao seu manejo alimentar inadequado, muitos problemas gastrointestinais são observados em muitos pacientes. As bactérias são os agentes mais comuns para espalhar diarreia, infecção de vilosidades, obstipação e doença disentérica em humanos e induzem a rejeição de transplantes de órgãos. Melhoria de seu estilo de vida, alimentos devidamente cozidos devem ser utilizados e para superar o aparecimento de doenças.

Políticas públicas promovidas para el sistema educativo a partir de propagación del COVID-19 / Public policies promoted for the educational system from the spread of the COVID19

La pandemia por COVID-19 ha evidenciado la deficiencia de los sistemas de salud en América Latina, exponiendo a la población al contagio en ondiciones de desprotección. Con la finalidad de disminuir la propagación del virus, en Perú se decretó la medida de cuarentena nacional con cese de casi todas las actividades, incluyendo clases presenciales en universidades, sugiriendo la necesidad de laborar de manera no presencial. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 248 estudiantes de dos universidades de la provincia de Huancayo, Perú. Para ello, se caracterizó sociodemográficamente 248 estudiantes de ambas universidades, se categorizaron las políticas educativas de acuerdo a los objetivos del plan de acción para centros de educación superior, se establecieron indicadores y se evaluó la eficacia de las políticas públicas educativas para mitigar la propagación del COVID-19 usando los indicadores: adecuación, coherencia, y eficiencia. Las políticas socializables y logísticas arrojaron una eficacia de 76,8% y 73%, respectivamente. La promoción del correcto lavado de manos, hábitos de protección al toser y estornudar y, mantenimiento del mobiliario y equipamiento resultaron en medidas eficaces, mientras que, el monitoreo y reporte de casos sospechosos con posibles síntomas, fue la más ineficaz. El estudio aporta información novel acerca de indicadores para evaluar las políticas públicas promovidas por el sistema educativo Peruano para la contención de la transmisión del COVID-19, en el marco del retorno a la modalidad semipresencial y constituye un material de referencia para la evaluación de protocolos sanitarios implementados en otras universidades(AU)

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the deficiency of health systems in Latin America, exposing the population to contagion in unprotected onditions. In order to reduce the spread of the virus, in Peru a national quarantine measure was decreed with the cessation of almost all activities, including face-to-face classes at universities, suggesting the need to work in a non-face-to-face way. A descriptive study was carried out in 248 students from two universities in the province of Huancayo, Peru. To this end, 248 students from both universities were characterized sociodemographically, educational policies were categorized according to the objectives of the action plan for higher education centers, indicators were established and the effectiveness of public educational policies to mitigate the spread of the disease was evaluated. COVID-19 using the indicators: adequacy, coherence, and efficiency. Socializable and logistics policies yielded an effectiveness of 76.8% and 73%, respectively. The promotion of proper hand washing, coughing and sneezing protective habits, and maintenance of furniture and equipment turned out to be effective measures, while the monitoring and reporting of suspected cases with possible symptoms was the most ineffective. The study provides novel information about indicators to evaluate the public policies promoted by the Peruvian educational system for the containment of the transmission of COVID-19, within the framework of the return to the blended modality and constitutes a reference material for the evaluation of protocols health facilities implemented in other universities(AU)

Prospect of microbial food borne diseases in Pakistan: a review / Perspectiva de doenças microbianas transmitidas por alimentos no Paquistão: uma revisão

Abstract Nowadays food borne illness is most common in people due to their epidemic nature. These diseases affect the human digestive system through bacteria, viruses and parasites. The agents of illness are transmitted in our body through various types of food items, water and uncooked. Pathogens show drastic changes in immunosuppressant people. This review gives general insights to harmful microbial life. Pakistan is a developed country and because of its improper food management, a lot of gastrointestinal problems are noted in many patients. Bacteria are most common agents to spread diarrhoea, villi infection, constipation and dysenteric disease in human and induce the rejection of organ transplant. Enhancement of their lifestyle, properly cooked food should be used and to overcome the outbreak of the diseases.

Resumo Hoje em dia, as doenças transmitidas por alimentos são mais comuns em pessoas devido à sua natureza epidêmica. Essas doenças afetam o sistema digestivo humano por meio de bactérias, vírus e parasitas. Os agentes das doenças são transmitidos em nosso corpo por meio de diversos tipos de alimentos, água e crus. Os patógenos mostram mudanças drásticas em pessoas imunossupressoras. Esta revisão fornece uma visão geral da vida microbiana prejudicial. O Paquistão é um país desenvolvido e, devido ao seu manejo alimentar inadequado, muitos problemas gastrointestinais são observados em muitos pacientes. As bactérias são os agentes mais comuns para espalhar diarreia, infecção de vilosidades, obstipação e doença disentérica em humanos e induzem a rejeição de transplantes de órgãos. Melhoria de seu estilo de vida, alimentos devidamente cozidos devem ser utilizados e para superar o aparecimento de doenças.