A Modeling Study on the Effect of Interstate Mobility Restrictions on the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.

Mobility is a crucial element in comprehending the possible expansion of the transmission chain in an epidemic. In the initial phases, strategies for containing cases can be directly linked to population mobility restrictions, especially when only non-pharmaceutical measures are available. During the pandemic of COVID-19 in Brazil, mobility limitation measures were strongly opposed by a large portion of the population. Hypothetically, if the population had supported such measures, the sharp rise in the number of cases could have been suppressed. In this context, computational modeling offers systematic methods for analyzing scenarios about the development of the epidemiological situation taking into account specific conditions. In this study, we examine the impacts of interstate mobility in Brazil. To do so, we develop a metapopulational model that considers both intra and intercompartmental dynamics, utilizing graph theory. We use a parameter estimation technique that allows us to infer the effective reproduction number in each state and estimate the time-varying transmission rate. This makes it possible to investigate scenarios related to mobility and quantify the effect of people moving between states and how certain measures to limit movement might reduce the impact of the pandemic. Our results demonstrate a clear association between the number of cases and mobility, which is heightened when states are closer to each other. This serves as a proof of concept and shows how reducing mobility in more heavily trafficked areas can be more effective.

Mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 durante la primera ola en una institución de tercer nivel de Neuquén / Mortality in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19 during the First Wave in a Tertiary Care Institution in Neuquén

Introducción: En diciembre de 2019, se detectó un brote de enfermedad por un nuevo coronavirus que evolucionó en pandemia con severa morbilidad respiratoria y mortali- dad. Los sistemas sanitarios debieron enfrentar una cantidad inesperada de pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria. En Argentina, las medidas de cuarentena y control sani - tario retrasaron el primer pico de la pandemia y ofrecieron tiempo para preparar el sis- tema de salud con infraestructura, personal y protocolos basados en la mejor evidencia disponible en el momento. En una institución de tercer nivel de Neuquén, Argentina, se desarrolló un protocolo de atención para enfrentar la pandemia adaptado con la evo- lución de la mejor evidencia y evaluaciones periódicas de la mortalidad hospitalaria. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte observacional para evaluar la evolución de pacientes con COVID-19 con los protocolos asistenciales por la mortalidad hospitalaria global y al día 28 en la Clínica Pasteur de Neuquén en 2020. Resultados: Este informe describe los 501 pacientes diagnosticados hasta el 31 de di- ciembre de 2020. La mortalidad general fue del 16,6% (83/501) y del 12,2% (61/501) al día 28 de admisión. En los 139 (27,7%) pacientes con ventilación mecánica, la mortali- dad general y a los 28 días fue de 37,4% (52/139) y 28,1% (38/139) fallecieron, respec- tivamente. Los factores de riesgo identificados fueron edad, comorbilidades y altos re- querimientos de oxígeno al ingreso. Conclusión: La mortalidad observada en los pacientes hospitalizados en nuestra insti- tución en la primera ola de la pandemia COVID-19 fue similar a los informes internacio- nales y menor que la publicada en Argentina para el mismo período.

Introduction: In December 2019, an outbreak of disease due to a new coronavirus was detected that evolved into a pandemic with severe respiratory morbidity and mortality. Health systems had to face an unexpected number of patients with respiratory failure. In Argentina, quarantine and health control measures delayed the first peak of the pan - demic and offered time to prepare the health system with infrastructure, personnel and protocols based on the best evidence available at the time. In a third level institution of Neuquén, Argentina, a care protocol was developed to confront the pandemic adapted by evolving best evidence and periodic evaluations of hospital mortality. Methods: Observational cohort study to evaluate the evolution of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 with care protocols in terms of overall hospital mortality and at day 28 at the Pasteur Clinic in Neuquén in 2020. Results: This report describes the 501 patients diagnosed until December 31, 2020. Mortality was 16.6% (83/501) and 12.2% (61/501) on day 28 of admission. Among the 139 (27.7%) patients with mechanical ventilation, overall mortality and at 28 days it was 37.4% (52/139) and 28.1% (38/139), respectively. The risk factors identified were age, comorbidities and high oxygen requirements on admission. Conclusion: The mortality observed in patients hospitalized in our institution during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic was similar to international reports and lower than other publications in Argentina for the same period.

Exceso de mortalidad durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador. Análisis espacio temporal del exceso de mortalidad durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador / Excess Mortality during the COVID- 19 Pandemic in Ecuador. Spatiotemporal Analysis of Excess Mortality During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Ecuador

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 causó una elevada mortalidad en el mundo y en el Ecuador. Esta investigación se propuso analizar el exceso de mortalidad debido a la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador. Método: Estudio observacional, longitudinal, cuantitativo y descriptivo. Clasificado como estudio ecológico en el campo de la epidemiología. Este estudio se centra en la medición del exceso de mortalidad durante los años 2020, 2021 y 2022, tomando como período base el promedio de defunciones ocurridas en el intervalo de 2015 a 2019. Resultados: Ecuador, en el período de enero 2020 a octubre 2022, acumuló un exceso total de muertes de 98.915. En el año 2020, el exceso de mortalidad fue mayor a 46.374, siendo el mes de abril el valor más alto de 15.484. En el año 2021, el exceso de muertes fue de 35.859, siendo abril el mes con mayor exceso de 7.330. Y el año 2022 el exceso de mortalidad fue de 16.682, el mes con mayor exceso fue enero con 4.204. Conclusión: Se evidenció un subregistro de defunciones, así como variaciones temporales y geográficas en el exceso de mortalidad. La provincia con mayor número de fallecidos y exceso de mortalidad fue Guayas seguida de Pichincha. Los resultados proporcionan un análisis del panorama durante la emergencia sanitaria, destacando la importancia de evaluar la capacidad de respuesta de los sistemas de salud en momentos de crisis y la necesidad imperativa de implementar medidas correctivas para el futuro.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant mortality in the world and in Ecuador. This research aimed to analyze the excess mortality due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador. Method: An observational, longitudinal, quantitative and descriptive study, classified as an ecological study in the field of epidemiology. This study focuses on measuring excess mortality during the years 2020, 2021 and 2022, using the average number of deaths that occurred in the period from 2015 to 2019 as the baseline. Results: From January 2020 to October 2022, Ecuador accumulated a total excess of deaths of 98,915. In 2020, the excess mortality was higher at 46,374, with the highest value occurring in April at 15,484. In 2021, the excess deaths amounted to 35,859, with April having the highest excess of 7,330. In 2022, the excess mortality was 16,682, with January recording the highest excess at 4,204. Conclusion: Evidence of underreporting of deaths, as well as temporal and geographi-cal variations in excess mortality, was observed. The province with the highest number of deaths and excess mortality was Guayas, followed by Pichincha. The results provide an analysis of the situation during the health emergency, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the healthcare system's capacity to respond during times of crisis and the imperative need to implement corrective measures for the future.

Primer caso de sida en el hospital de enfermedades Infecciosas "Francisco J. Muñiz" / First case of aids in the "Francisco J. Muñiz" hospital for infectious diseases

Entre julio de 1979 y abril de 1981 se conocieron en Nueva York y en Los Ángeles (EEUU) los primeros casos de neumonía por Pneumocystis carinii en hombres jóvenes homosexuales previamente sanos, con importantes alteraciones de la inmunidad celular. Simultáneamente se informaron nuevos casos de enfermos con dos o más infecciones oportunistas y sarcoma de Kaposi. El sida era una nueva enfermedad cuyo agente causal, el actualmente conocido como virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH), fue identificado en 1983. En 2023 se cumplieron 40 años del diagnóstico del primer caso de sida asistido en el Hospital de Enfermedades Infecciosas "Francisco J. Muñiz" de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Se presenta a dicho paciente y se realiza un comentario sobre los inicios de la pandemia en el país

Between July 1979 and April 1981, the first cases of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in previously healthy young homosexual men, with significant alterations in cellular immunity, were reported in New York and Los Angeles (USA). New cases of patients with two or more opportunistic infections and Kaposi's sarcoma were simultaneously reported. AIDS was a new disease whose causal agent, currently known as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), was identified in 1983. In 2023, 40 years have passed since the diagnosis of the first case of AIDS assisted at the "Francisco" Hospital for Infectious Diseases. J. Muñiz" of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Said patient is introduced and a comment is made about the beginnings of the pandemic in the country

Contaminação pelo Covid-19 em profissionais de hospital de referência no Pará / Contamination by Covid-19 in professionals of a reference hospital in Para's state / Contaminación por Covid-19 en profesionales de un hospital de referencia del estado de Pará

A pandemia do novo coronavírus colocou em alerta os sistemas de saúde, estabelecendo sentimentos de instabilidade e de medo. O trabalho é e importante pilar para o traçado de políticas públicas. Objetivo: analisar a contaminação pelo COVID-19 em profissionais de hospital de referência no Pará. Metodologia: Trata-se de estudo retrospectivo, quantitativo, observacional, com aplicação de série temporal no período de março de 2020 a março de 2022. Foram incluídos todos os servidores atuantes durante a pandemia, que apresentaram atestados médicos com diagnóstico de COVID, e/ou testagem positiva, ou atestados por suspeita de contaminação. O perfil de servidores foi analisado, explorando as variáveis sexo, idade, convivência ou não com parceiros, grau de escolaridade, cargo e setor; juntamente com a incidência de casos confirmados e incidência total (suspeitos e confirmados). Resultados: O total de afastamentos do trabalho devido ao diagnóstico de COVID-19 foi de 1.420 casos, mais 839 casos suspeitos; sendo que 173 trabalhadores apresentaram reincidência. A incidência foi maior nos meses de maio de 2020, março de 2021 e janeiro de 2022. Houve predominância do sexo feminino e da categoria de enfermagem. Setores administrativos e financeiros apresentaram maior porcentagem de contaminados durante a pandemia (73,40%), proporcionalmente ao quantitativo de servidores atuantes na lotação. Entretanto, foram servidores da assistência direta ao paciente que apresentaram maior porcentagem de reinfecção. Conclusão: Foi possível visualizar três ondas na distribuição temporal dos casos de COVID-19, com destaque para elevação nos primeiros meses de 2022. O declínio no diagnóstico de casos novos no hospital estudado após dois anos de pandemia pode representar esforços individuais e coletivos em resistir às dificuldades da conjuntura. É importante observar o comportamento da pandemia em distintas regiões do Brasil para atualização de estratégias de enfrentamento como um todo.

The new coronavirus pandemic has put health systems on alert, establishing feelings of instability and fear. Working is an important pillar for the design of public policies. Objective: to analyze the contamination by COVID-19 in professionals of a reference hospital in Para's State. Methodology: This is a retrospective, quantitative, observational study, with the application of a time series from March 2020 to March 2022. All civil servants working during the pandemic, who presented medical certificates with a diagnosis of COVID, and/or or positive test, or attestations for suspected contamination. The servants' profile was analyzed, exploring the variables sex, age, living or not with partners, education level, position and sector; along with the incidence of confirmed cases and total incidence (suspected and confirmed). Results: The total number of absences from work due to the diagnosis of COVID-19 was 1,420 cases, plus 839 suspected cases; 173 workers presented recurrence. The incidence was higher in the months of May 2020, March 2021 and January 2022. There was a predominance of females and the nursing category. Administrative and financial sectors had a higher percentage of people infected during the pandemic (73.40%), proportionally to the number of servers working in the capacity. However, it was direct patient care workers who had the highest percentage of reinfection. Conclusion: It was possible to visualize three waves in the temporal distribution of COVID-19 cases, with emphasis on an increase in the first months of 2022. The decline in the diagnosis of new cases in the hospital studied after two years of the pandemic may represent individual and collective efforts to resist to the difficulties of the situation. It is important to observe the behavior of the pandemic in different regions of Brazil to update coping strategies in a general scenery.

La nueva pandemia de coronavirus ha puesto en alerta a los sistemas de salud, estableciendo sentimientos de inestabilidad y miedo. El trabajo es un pilar importante para el diseño de políticas públicas. Objetivo: analizar la contaminación por COVID-19 en profesionales de un hospital de referencia en el Estado de Pará. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo, cuantitativo, observacional, con la aplicación de una serie de tiempo de marzo de 2020 a marzo de 2022. Todos los funcionarios que trabajaron durante la pandemia, que presentaron certificados médicos con diagnóstico de COVID, y/o o test positivo, o atestados por sospecha de contaminación. Se analizó el perfil de los funcionarios, explorando las variables sexo, edad, convivencia o no con la pareja, nivel de escolaridad, cargo y sector; junto con la incidencia de casos confirmados y la incidencia total (sospechosos y confirmados). Resultados: El número total de bajas laborales por diagnóstico de COVID-19 fue de 1.420 casos, más 839 casos sospechosos; 173 trabajadores presentaron recurrencia. La incidencia fue mayor en los meses de mayo de 2020, marzo de 2021 y enero de 2022. Hubo predominio del sexo femenino y de la categoría de enfermería. Los sectores administrativo y financiero presentaron mayor porcentaje de infectados durante la pandemia (73,40%), proporcionalmente al número de servidores que trabajaban en esa función. Sin embargo, fueron los trabajadores de atención directa al paciente los que presentaron el mayor porcentaje de reinfección. Conclusiones: Fue posible visualizar tres olas en la distribución temporal de los casos de COVID-19, destacándose un aumento en los primeros meses de 2022. La disminución en el diagnóstico de nuevos casos en el hospital estudiado después de dos años de pandemia puede representar esfuerzos individuales y colectivos para resistir a las dificultades de la situación. Es importante observar el comportamiento de la pandemia en diferentes regiones de Brasil para actualizar las estrategias de afrontamiento en un escenario general.

Hunger in French Guiana, an endemic plague worsened by the health crisis / La faim en Guyane française : un fléau endémique amplifié par la crise sanitaire

In 2020, food shortages occurred at the beginning of the confinement period that was supposed to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. In French Guiana, where a major part of the population lives under the poverty line, health workers voiced major concerns. Alongside massive food aid distributions, a first transversal study was carried out in August 2020 targeting poor neighborhoods in Cayenne. The results were particularly worrying. More than 80% of households had been suffering from hunger during that month, with a median decrease of 46% in revenue. Two other investigations followed in February and then in August of 2021. With the relaxing of the health measures, the situation improved in the Cayenne region, but two out of three were still affected, showing signs of quantitative deficiencies and insufficient food diversity. The situation seemed particularly grave for children. In light of this situation, we propose to create an observatory of food insecurity in Guiana, while maintaining this topic as a health priority. In addition, the fight against food insecurity cannot be limited to multi-sectorial material and strategic aide. It must be thought about in a more global manner, including health and social questions, territorial management policies, access to land and water, access to rights and social inclusion. Targeted actions helping the most exposed and vulnerable people is also an important stake, independent of the administrative situation and residency rights of the concerned people.

En 2020, des pénuries alimentaires sont survenues dès l'entrée en vigueur du confinement destiné à contrôler la pandémie de COVID-19. En Guyane Française, où une forte proportion de la population vivait déjà sous le seuil de pauvreté, des alertes préoccupantes ont émané d'acteurs de santé. En parallèle du déploiement d'une aide alimentaire massive, une première enquête transversale a été menée en août 2020, ciblant les quartiers précaires des environs de Cayenne. Les résultats étaient particulièrement inquiétants : plus de 80 % des ménages avaient souffert de la faim dans le mois, avec une baisse médiane de revenus de 46 %. Deux autres enquêtes ont suivi, en février, puis en août 2021. Avec l'allègement des mesures sanitaires, la situation s'était sensiblement améliorée dans la région de Cayenne, mais deux ménages sur trois restaient impactés, avec des carences quantitatives et une diversité alimentaire insuffisante. La situation semblait particulièrement critique parmi les enfants. Au vu de cette situation, nous proposons de créer un observatoire de l'insécurité alimentaire en Guyane, tout en maintenant ce sujet en tête des priorités sanitaires. En outre, la lutte contre l'insécurité alimentaire ne peut se limiter à l'aide matérielle : la stratégie, multisectorielle, doit être pensée en globalité, intégrant les problématiques sanitaires et sociales, les enjeux de l'aménagement du territoire, de l'accès à la terre et à l'eau, de l'accès aux droits et à l'insertion sociale. Un ciblage juste des actions vers les publics les plus exposés et vulnérables est également un enjeu important, indépendamment de la situation administrative et du droit au séjour des personnes concernées.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence and clinical outcomes of diabetic ketoacidosis among male and female children with type 1 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Some studies suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic increased the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, the impact of this pandemic on pediatric T1DM is still mostly unknown. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical outcomes in children with T1DM. Methods: We systematically searched for six databases up to 31 August 2022. We included 46 observational studies, 159,505 children of both sexes with T1DM, and 17,547 DKA events. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased, in both sexes, the incidence of 1) DKA (OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.44-1.96), 2) severe DKA (OR 1.84; 95% CI 1.59-2.12), 3) DKA in newly diagnosed T1DM (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.51-2.03), and 4) ICU admissions (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.60-2.26). However, we did not find a significant association between this pandemic and 1) the incidence of T1DM, 2) the incidence of DKA in established T1DM, 3) the incidence of KDA complications, 4) the length of hospitalization stay, and 5) mortality. Subgroup analysis showed that the study design and the continent of origin accounted for the heterogeneity. Conclusions: The pandemic SARS-CoV-2 raised, in both sexes, the risk of DKA, severe DKA, DKA de novo, and ICU admissions.

Excesso de óbitos em adultos de Santa Catarina: estudo ecológico durante a pandemia de covid-19, 2020-2021 / Excess deaths among adults in the state of Santa Catarina: an ecological study during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brazil, 2020-2021 / Exceso de muertes en adultos en el estado de Santa Catarina: un estúdio ecológico en el período de la pandemia de COVID-19, Brasil, 2020-2021

Objetivo: estimar o excesso de óbitos durante a pandemia de covid-19 em Santa Catarina e suas macrorregiões, Brasil, 2020-2021. Métodos: estudo ecológico, com dados do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade; o excesso de óbitos em adultos foi calculado pela diferença entre óbitos observados e óbitos esperados, considerando-se a média das mortes ocorridas entre 2015 e 2019; foram analisadas as variáveis "macrorregião de residência", "trimestre", "mês", "sexo" e "faixa etária"; os dados foram analisados descritivamente. Resultados: excesso de 6.315 óbitos em 2020 e de 17.391 em 2021, majoritariamente no sexo masculino (57,4%) e nas idades acima de 60 anos (74,0%); as macrorregiões e períodos com maior excedente foram aqueles com mais mortes por covid-19; o maior excesso ocorreu em março de 2021 (n = 4.207), com queda progressiva até o final do ano. Conclusão: houve excesso de óbitos em Santa Catarina e todas as suas macrorregiões durante a pandemia de covid-19.

Objective: to estimate excess deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic in the state of Santa Catarina and its macro-regions, Brazil, 2020-2021. Methods: this was an ecological study, using data from the Mortality Information System; excess deaths in adults were calculated by the difference between the observed number of deaths and expected number of deaths, taking into account the average of deaths that occurred between 2015 and 2019; the variables "macro-region of residence", "quarter", "month", "sex" and "age group" were analyzed; data were analyzed in a descriptive manner. Results: a total of 6,315 excess deaths in 2020 and 17,391 in 2021, mostly in males (57.4%) and those aged 60 years and older (74.0%); macro-regions and periods with the greatest excess deaths were those in which there were most deaths due to COVID-19; the greatest excess deaths occurred in March 2021 (n = 4,207), with a progressive decrease until the end of the year. Conclusion: there were excess deaths in the state of Santa Catarina and in all its macro-regions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objetivo: estimar el exceso de muertes en Santa Catarina y macrorregiones durante la pandemia de COVID-19, en los años 2020 y 2021. Métodos: estudio ecológico utilizando Sistema de Información de Mortalidad. El exceso de defunciones en adultos se calculó por la diferencia entre defunciones observadas y esperadas, considerando el promedio de defunciones entre 2015 y 2019. Las variables analizadas fueron: macrorregión de residencia, trimestre, mes, sexo y grupo de edad. Los datos se analizaron descriptivamente. Resultados: el exceso fue de 6.315 defunciones en 2020 y 17.391 en 2021, mayor en varones (57,4%) y mayores de 60 años (74,0%). Las macrorregiones y periodos con mayor superávit fueron los que registraron más muertes por COVID-19. El mayor exceso de muertes ocurrió en marzo de 2021 (n=4.207), con una disminución progresiva hasta el final del año. Conclusión: hubo exceso de muertes en Santa Catarina y en todas macrorregiones durante la pandemia de COVID-19.

Impactos reais e/ou potenciais da pandemia de Covid-19 na saúde mental de idosos / Real and/or potential impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health in older adults / Impactos reales y/o potenciales de la pandemia de Covid-19 en la salud mental de los ancianos

A pandemia de COVID-19 e as medidas de controle para conter a disseminação do vírus, como o distanciamento social, trouxeram mudanças à rotina das pessoas, mundialmente. Esse contexto pode gerar impactos adversos para a saúde mental dos indivíduos, especialmente, àqueles em maior vulnerabilidade, os idosos. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar na literatura os impactos reais e/ou potenciais da pandemia de COVID-19 na saúde mental de idosos. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura com buscas realizadas na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, que utilizou a seguinte estratégia de busca: (Coronavírus OR "Infecções por Coronavirus" OR "Coronavirus Infections" OR COVID-19) AND (idoso OR elderly OR aged) AND ("Saúde Mental" OR "Mental Health"). Foram critérios de inclusão: artigos acessados na íntegra, sem distinção de ano e idioma, indexados até o dia 11 de novembro de 2020; e os critérios de exclusão: artigos com fuga do escopo da pesquisa, revisões de literatura, arquivos multimídia e duplicados. Foram encontrados 241 registros, e após a aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade estabelecidos restaram 27 artigos para discussão. Dentre os impactos reais/potenciais da pandemia de COVID-19 na saúde mental dos idosos, abordados nos estudos, destaca-se a ansiedade, depressão, solidão, estresse, sensação de medo ou pânico, tristeza, suicídio/ideação suicida e insônia. Apesar disso, considera-se que há uma quantidade ainda escassa de estudos voltados especificamente para a população idosa que permitam aprofundar as discussões sobre esse tema.

The COVID-19 pandemic and control measures to contain the spread of the virus, such as social detachment, have brought changes to people's routine, worldwide. This context can generate adverse impacts on the mental health of individuals, especially those most vulnerable, the older adults. The aim of this study was to analyze in the literature the real and / or potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the older adults. It is an integrative literature review with searches performed in the Virtual Health Library, which used the following search strategy: (Coronavírus OR "Infecções por Coronavirus" OR "Coronavirus Infections" OR COVID- 19) AND (idoso OR elderly OR aged) AND ("Saúde Mental" OR "Mental Health"). Inclusion criteria were: articles accessed in full, without distinction of year and language, indexed until November 11, 2020; and exclusion criteria: articles with escape the scope of the research, literature reviews, multimedia and duplicate files, 241 records were found, and after applying the established eligibility criteria, 27 articles remained for discussion, among the actual / potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on older people, addressed in the studies, anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, feeling of fear or panic, sadness, suicide / suicidal ideation and insomnia stand out. Despite this, there is still a small amount studies specifically aimed at the older population that allow further discussions on this topic.

La pandemia de covid-19 y las medidas de control para contener la propagación del virus, como el distanciamiento social, han supuesto cambios en la rutina de las personas en todo el mundo. Este contexto puede generar impactos adversos a la salud mental de los individuos, especialmente a los más vulnerables, los ancianos. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar en la literatura los impactos reales y/o potenciales de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la salud mental de los ancianos. Se trata de una revisión bibliográfica integradora con búsquedas realizadas en la Biblioteca Virtual de Salud, que utilizó la siguiente estrategia de búsqueda: (Coronavirus OR "Coronavirus Infections" OR "Coronavirus Infections" OR COVID-19) AND (elderly OR aged) AND ("Mental Health" OR "Mental Health"). Los criterios de inclusión fueron: artículos accedidos en su totalidad, independientemente del año y el idioma, indexados hasta el 11 de noviembre de 2020; y los criterios de exclusión: artículos que estuvieran fuera del ámbito de la investigación, revisiones bibliográficas, archivos multimedia y duplicados. Se encontraron un total de 241 registros, y tras aplicar los criterios de elegibilidad establecidos, quedaron 27 artículos para su discusión. Entre los impactos reales/potenciales de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la salud mental de los ancianos, abordados en los estudios, destacan la ansiedad, la depresión, la soledad, el estrés, la sensación de miedo o pánico, la tristeza, la ideación suicida/suicida y el insomnio. A pesar de ello, se considera que todavía hay una escasa cantidad de estudios dirigidos específicamente a la población de edad avanzada que permitan profundizar en las discusiones sobre este tema.

Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes hospitalizados com covid-19 no município de Mossoró - RN / Epidemiological profile of COVID-19 hospitalized patients in the municipality of Mossoró-RN / Perfil Epidemiológico de pacientes con COVID-19 en el municipio de Mossoró-RN

Introdução: Assim como observado no cenário nacional, o município de Mossoró apresentou altas taxas de letalidade nos primeiros meses de pandemia. Todavia, o conhecimento epidemiológico em torno da COVID-19 no município tem ocorrido, sobretudo, através de documentos institucionais das Secretarias de Saúde. Desse modo, a finalidade deste estudo é fornecer evidências que permitam ampliar a compreensão da ocorrência da doença em nível local, ofertar dados e informações que venham a subsidiar as políticas públicas de saúde municipais e gerar hipóteses sobre a morbimortalidade da doença para futuras investigações científicas. Objetivo: Analisar o perfil epidemiológico dos casos internados e confirmados de COVID-19 no município de Mossoró no estado do Rio Grande do Norte/Brasil. Metodologia: Estudo observacional transversal, baseado em dados secundários de casos internados de COVID-19 registrados no Sistema Único de Saúde entre março e outubro de 2020.Resultados:Foram incluídos na amostra 664 pacientes, dos quais 46,5% evoluíram para óbito. Entre as internações, 63,1% resultaram em internações em unidades de terapia intensiva. Observamos diferenças estatísticas significativas entre 'admissão na unidade de terapia intensiva e evolução para óbito' e 'faixa etária e evolução para óbito' e, maior risco entre idosos acima de 60 anos, com comorbidades, dispneia e saturação de O2 <95%. A necessidade de suporte ventilatório invasivo foi considerada fator predisponente para óbito. O risco de internação na unidade de terapia intensiva foi maior entre as idosas. Conclusões: A hospitalização e o óbito de pacientes com COVID-19foram maiores em pacientes idosos com comorbidades (AU).

Introduction:As observed in the national scenario, the city of Mossoró showed high lethality rates in the first months of the pandemic. However, the epidemiological knowledge around COVID-19 in the municipality has occurred mostly through institutional documents from the Health Secretariats. Thus, the purpose of this study is to provide evidence to broaden the understanding of the occurrence of the disease at the local level, provide data and information that will support municipal health public policies and generate hypotheses about the morbidity and mortality of the disease for future scientific investigations. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalized and confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the municipality of Mossoró in the state of Rio Grande do Norte/Brazil. Methodology:This is a cross-sectional and observational study, based on secondary data from the hospitalized COVID-19 cases recorded in the Unified Health System (Sistema Unificado de Saúde, SUS) between March and October 2020. Results:664 patients were included in the sample, of which 46.5% evolved to death. Among hospitalizations, 63.1% resulted in intensive care units admissions. We observed significant differences between intensive care unit admission and evolution to death' and 'age group and evolution to death' and, higher risk among elderly individuals over 60 years, with comorbidities, dyspnea and O2 saturation<95%. Need for invasive ventilatory support was considered a predisposing factor for death. The risk of intensive care unit admission was higher among eldery women.Conclusions:Hospitalization and death of patients with COVID-19 were higher in elderly patients with comorbidities (AU).

Introducción: Como se observó en el escenario nacional, el municipio de Mossoró presentó altas tasas de letalidad en los primeros meses de la pandemia. Sin embargo, el conocimiento epidemiológico en torno al COVID-19 en el municipio se ha dado principalmente a través dedocumentos institucionales de las Secretarías de Salud. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio es proporcionar evidencias para ampliar el conocimiento de la ocurrencia de la enfermedad en el ámbito local, proporcionar datos e informaciones que apoyen las políticas públicas municipales de salud y generar hipótesis sobre la morbilidad y mortalidad de la enfermedad para futuras investigaciones científicas. Objetivo: Analizar el perfil epidemiológico de los casos hospitalizados y confirmados de COVID-19 en el municipio de Mossoró en el estado de Rio Grande do Norte/Brasil.Metodología: Se trata de un estudio transversal y observacional, basado en datos secundarios de los casos hospitalizados de COVID-19 registrados en el Sistema Unificado de Salud (SUS) entre marzo y octubre de 2020. Resultados: La muestra incluyó 664 pacientes, de los cuales el 46,5% falleció. Entre los ingresos, el 63,1% resultaron en ingresos en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Se observaron diferencias estadísticas significativas entre el "ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos y la evolución hasta la muerte" y el "grupo de edad y la evolución hasta la muerte", y un mayor riesgo entre los pacientes mayores de 60 años, con comorbilidades, disnea y saturación de O2 <95%. La necesidad de soporte ventilatorio invasivo se consideró un factor predisponente para la muerte. El riesgo de ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos fue mayor entre las mujeres de edad avanzada. Conclusiones: La hospitalización y la muerte de los pacientes con COVID-19 fueron mayores en los pacientes de edad avanzada con comorbilidades (AU).

Nível de atividade física de fisioterapeutas de um hospital público / Level of physical activity of physical therapists at a public hospital

Objetivo: avaliar o nível de atividade física dos fisioterapeutas e identificar o perfil socioeconômico desses profissionais de um hospital público de grande porte em Goiânia. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal e quantitativo realizado de abril a agosto de 2020. Foram incluídos fisioterapeutas de ambos os sexos, contratados há no mínimo seis meses, e que assinaram o termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido. Excluídos da pesquisa aqueles em férias ou licença médica no período da coleta de dados. Para avaliar o nível de atividade física utilizou-se o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ), e um questionário para conhecer o perfil socioeconômico desses profissionais. As variáveis contínuas foram apresentadas como média e desvio padrão, enquanto as categóricas, em frequência absoluta e relativa. Resultados: Grande parte dos indivíduos é do sexo feminino (73,5%) com maior prevalência de inativos (76%), sendo que (49,9%) cumprem carga horária maior que 30 horas semanais. Do total da amostra (61,8%) tem pelo menos especialização na sua formação profissional. Conclusão: Os fisioterapeutas do serviço público apresentam o nível de atividade física reduzido, com maior proporção classificados como inativos, segundo a OMS.

Purpose: evaluate the level of physical activity of physical therapists and identify the socioeconomic profile of these professionals in a large public hospital in Goiânia. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional and quantitative study carried out from April to August 2020. Physical therapists of both sexes, hired for at least six months, and who signed a free and informed consent form, were included. The research excluded those on vacation or sick leave during the data collection period. In order to assess the level of physical activity, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used, as well as a questionnaire to learn about the socioeconomic profile of these professionals. Continuous variables were presented as mean and standard deviation, while categorical variables were in absolute and relative frequency. Results: Most of the individuals are female (73.5%) with a higher prevalence of inactive people (76%), and (49.9%) working more than 30 hours per week. From the total sample, 61.8% were at least specialists in their areas. Conclusion: Public service physical therapists have a reduced level of physical activity, with a greater proportion being classified as inactive, according to WHO.

Forecasting the Severity of COVID-19 Pandemic Amidst the Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Adoption of ARIMA Model.

Currently, the global report of COVID-19 cases is around 110 million, and more than 2.43 million related death cases as of February 18, 2021. Viruses continuously change through mutation; hence, different virus of SARS-CoV-2 has been reported globally. The United Kingdom (UK), South Africa, Brazil, and Nigeria are the countries from which these emerged variants have been notified and now spreading globally. Therefore, these countries have been selected as a research sample for the present study. The datasets analyzed in this study spanned from March 1, 2020, to January 31, 2021, and were obtained from the World Health Organization website. The study used the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model to forecast coronavirus incidence in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, and Nigeria. ARIMA models with minimum Akaike Information Criterion Correction (AICc) and statistically significant parameters were chosen as the best models in this research. Accordingly, for the new confirmed cases, ARIMA (3,1,14), ARIMA (0,1,11), ARIMA (1,0,10), and ARIMA (1,1,14) models were chosen for the UK, South Africa, Brazil, and Nigeria, respectively. Also, the model specification for the confirmed death cases was ARIMA (3,0,4), ARIMA (0,1,4), ARIMA (1,0,7), and ARIMA (Brown); models were selected for the UK, South Africa, Brazil, and Nigeria, respectively. The results of the ARIMA model forecasting showed that if the required measures are not taken by the respective governments and health practitioners in the days to come, the magnitude of the coronavirus pandemic is expected to increase in the study's selected countries.

The importance of environments and surfaces hygienization in pandemic times (Covid-19): a microbiological analysis in places for physical activity practice

The objective of this study was to analyse microbiological organisms in different locations and regions for physical activity in the city of João Pessoa, Brazil. Samples were collected on various objects used, such as: mattresses, drinking fountains, gloves, cell phones and others. The samples were collected in João Pessoa-PB, following the Standard Operating Procedure-SOP/ Microbiology of a specialized laboratory. The collection took place in the five macro-regions: North, South, East, West and Center. Foreach region samples were collected in one public place (square), a private one (gym) and one school (public or private), totaling fifteen collected sites and 450 samples. The following microorganisms were studied in all analyzed surfaces: Bacillus sp, Escherichia Coli, Klebsiella sppor Enterobacter sppand Coag. Neg. Staphylococcus.All regions had a high contamination level by some microorganism. The highest rates were found in the western, central and northern regions -96, 94 and 93% respectively. The Coag. Neg.Staphylococcus presented the highest and lowest incidence rates in the South and East regions, with 43.33 and 6.67%, respectively, as well as Klebsiella sppor Enterobacter spp, which presented high levels. It is concluded that there is a microorganisms' contamination in the most varied places and regions where physical activity practices are developed, with a predominance of Coag. Neg.Staphylococcusand Klebsiella sppor Enterobacter spp. These results lead to a warning about the hygiene importance in places for physical activity practice, especially in pandemic times (COVID-19), since almost all the evaluated surfaces were contaminated.

Covid-19 and the influence of social restriction on physical activity among children and adolescents / Covid-19 e influência da restrição social na atividade física de crianças e adolescentes

ABSTRACT The objectives of this study were to verify the influence of the procedures adopted to contain the Covid-19 pandemic on the levels of physical activity (PA) of children and adolescents, as well as to check if there are any differences between the sexes and age groups. A quick literature review was carried out by means of a search in journals available in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, using the following keywords: Children, Adolescents, Physical Exercise, Physical Activity, and Covid-19. Of the 449 studies identified, 17 were selected by the criterion of containing data referring to before and during the social restriction period in the same study. With the exception of one article, the synthesis of results indicated a decrease in PA levels and an increase in time spent on screen activities during the social restriction period, in greater proportions for adolescents and for females. Results are similar among countries in the same region than comparing different continents, due to differences in the sociocultural environment in which young people live, mainly encouraged by their guardians. From a public health point of view, there should be a concern about the continuity of this pattern of behavior after the end of the pandemic, which would further increase the risk of already existing problems, such as delays in motor development, overweight, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in adulthood.

RESUMO Os objetivos deste estudo foram verificar a influência dos procedimentos adotados para conter a pandemia da Covid-19 nos níveis de atividade física (AF) de crianças e adolescentes e verificar se há diferenças entre os sexos e faixas etárias. Foi realizada uma revisão rápida de literatura, com busca em periódicos disponíveis nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science, utilizando as palavras-chaves: Crianças, Adolescentes, Exercício Físico, Atividade Física e Covid-19. Dos 449 estudos identificados, 17 foram selecionados pelo critério de conter dados referentes a antes e durante o período de restrição social no mesmo estudo. Com exceção de um artigo, a síntese dos resultados indicou diminuição dos níveis de AF e aumento do tempo em atividades de tela durante o período de restrição social, em maior proporção para adolescentes e para o sexo feminino. Os resultados são mais próximos entre países da mesma região do que entre diferentes continentes, devido às diferenças no ambiente sociocultural em que os jovens vivem, incentivados principalmente pelos seus responsáveis. Do ponto de vista da saúde pública, deve existir uma preocupação com a continuidade desse padrão de comportamento após o término da pandemia, o que aumentaria ainda mais o risco de problemas já existentes, como atrasos no desenvolvimento motor, sobrepeso, obesidade, doenças cardiovasculares e diabetes na vida adulta.

As tecnologias no processo de empoderamento dos cuidados primários de enfermagem em contexto da Covid-19 / Tecnologías en el proceso de empoderamiento de la atención primaria de enfermería en el contexto de Covid-19 / Technologies in the empowerment process of primary nursing care in the Covid-19 context

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender o uso de tecnologias no processo de empoderamento das práticas de enfermagem no âmbito da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) em contexto de isolamento social provocado pela pandemia da Covid-19. Métodos: Estudo descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, realizado de forma online, com 23 enfermeiros e residentes de enfermagem que atuam na Atenção Primária, através da aplicação de um formulário virtual divulgado no período de maio-junho de 2020. Os dados foram analisados pelo Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo, com o aporte dos conceitos teóricos de Merhy e Nietsche. Resultados: Os discursos foram compilados no uso de tecnologias de interação social e ações individuais de educação em saúde, como também no resgate da comunicação em massa para reestruturação da assistência na identificação de indivíduos expostos. Estas tecnologias permeiam as densidades leve, leve-dura e dura, com fins educacionais, assistenciais e gerenciais. Conclusão: Novos modos de construir o processo de trabalho navegam por possibilidades antes invisíveis, com o recurso das tecnologias que empoderamos enfermeiros diante dos cuidados primários à saúde.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender el uso de tecnologías en el proceso de empoderamiento de las prácticas de enfermería en el ámbito de la Atención Primaria de Salud (APS) en contexto de aislamiento social provocado por la pandemia de Covid-19. Métodos: estudio descriptivo y exploratorio, con enfoque cualitativo, realizado de forma online, con 23 enfermeros y residentes de enfermería que actúan en la Atención Primaria, a través de la aplicación de un formulario virtual divulgado en el período de mayo-junio de 2020. Los datos fueron analizados por el Discurso del Sujeto Colectivo, con el aporte de los conceptos teóricos de Merhy y Nietsche. Resultados: los discursos fueron compilados en el uso de tecnologías de interacción social y acciones individuales de educación en salud, así como en el rescate de la comunicación de masas para reestructuración de la asistencia en la identificación de individuos expuestos. Estas tecnologías permean las densidades: blanda, blanda-dura y dura, con fines educativos, asistenciales y de gerencia. Conclusión: nuevos modos de construir el proceso de trabajo navegan por posibilidades antes invisibles, con el recurso de las tecnologías que empoderamos enfermeros ante la atención primaria de salud.

ABSTRACT Objective: Understand the use of technologies in the empowerment process of nursing practices in the Primary Health Care (PHC) context in a social isolation scenarios ulting from the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive and exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, conducted online, with 23 nurses and nursing residents who work in Primary Care, through the application of a virtual form released from May to June 2020. Data analysis was performed using the Collective Subject Discourse, with the contribution of Merhy and Nietsche's theoretical concepts. Results: The speeches were compiled regarding the use of social interaction technologies and individual health education actions, as well as in the recruitment of mass communication to restructure assistance in the identification of exposed individuals. These technologies permeate light, light-hard and hard densities, with educational, care and management objectives. Conclusion: New ways of creating the work process pass through previously unseen possibilities, using technologies that empower nurses in primary health care.

Circulation patterns of human seasonal Influenza A viruses in Chile before H1N1pdm09 pandemic.

Understanding the diversity and circulation dynamics of seasonal influenza viruses is key to public health decision-making. The limited genetic information of pre-pandemic seasonal IAVs in Chile has made it difficult to accurately reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of these viruses within the country. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of pre-pandemic human seasonal IAVs in Chile. We sequenced the complete genome of 42 historic IAV obtained between 1996 and 2007. The phylogeny was determined using HA sequences and complemented using other segments. Time-scale phylogenetic analyses revealed that the diversity of pre-pandemic human seasonal IAVs in Chile was influenced by continuous introductions of new A/H1N1 and A/H3N2 lineages and constant viral exchange between Chile and other countries every year. These results provide important knowledge about genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns of pre-pandemic human seasonal IAVs in Chile, which can help design optimal surveillance systems and prevention strategies. However, future studies with current sequences should be conducted.

Molecular testing and analysis of disease spreading during the emergence of COVID-19 in Macaé, the Brazilian National Capital of Oil.

The Brazilian strategy to overcome the spread of COVID-19 has been particularly criticized due to the lack of a national coordinating effort and an appropriate testing program. Here, a successful approach to control the spread of COVID-19 transmission is described by the engagement of public (university and governance) and private sectors (hospitals and oil companies) in Macaé, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a city known as the National Oil Capital. In 2020 between the 17th and 38th epidemiological week, over two percent of the 206,728 citizens were subjected to symptom analysis and RT-qPCR testing by the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, with positive individuals being notified up to 48 h after swab collection. Geocodification and spatial cluster analysis were used to limit COVID-19 spreading in Macaé. Within the first semester after the outbreak of COVID-19 in Brazil, Macaé recorded 1.8% of fatalities associated with COVID-19 up to the 38th epidemiological week, which was at least five times lower than the state capital (10.6%). Overall, considering the successful experience of this joint effort of private and public engagement in Macaé, our data suggest that the development of a similar strategy countrywise could have contributed to a better control of the COVID-19 spread in Brazil. Quarantine decree by the local administration, comprehensive molecular testing coupled to scientific analysis of COVID-19 spreading, prevented the catastrophic consequences of the pandemic as seen in other populous cities within the state of Rio de Janeiro and elsewhere in Brazil.

Incidencia de COVID-19 en Cienfuegos. Análisis de un año / Incidence of COVID-19 in Cienfuegos. One-year analysis

Introducción: la COVID-19 se catalogó como pandemia mundial por lo que Cuba no estuvo ajena a la situación. Transmisión autóctona limitada, cuarentena de comunidades y rápido accionar del personal de salud caracterizaron este periodo. Objetivo: describir la incidencia de la COVID-19 en Cienfuegos del mes de marzo de 2020 a marzo de 2021. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal de los casos confirmados de COVID-19 en Cienfuegos de marzo de 2020 a marzo de 2021. El universo estuvo conformado por 1076 casos. Variables empleadas: mes de confirmación, fuente de infección, procedencia del caso, sexo, grupo etario y sintomatología. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva. Resultados: la incidencia del periodo de estudio fue de 265,65 por 100 000 habitantes. Predominó el sexo femenino con una tasa de incidencia de 268,42 por 100 000 habitantes. El grupo etario 50-59 presentó 229 casos (21,28 por ciento). En marzo del 2021 se evidenció la mayor incidencia de casos (84,99 por 100 000 habitantes). El 86,93 por ciento fueron casos autóctonos (936 casos). El municipio de Cienfuegos destacó con una tasa de incidencia de 390,29 por 100 000 habitantes. Los pacientes asintomáticos representaron el 38,94 por ciento (419 pacientes). Conclusiones: el ascenso paulatino de los casos de COVID-19 en Cienfuegos responde al estrecho contacto entre los ciudadanos; incrementado a partir de la nueva normalidad y con amplio abanico de síntomas(AU)

Introduction: COVID-19 was classified as a global pandemic, so Cuba was not oblivious of the situation. This period was characterized by limited autochthonous transmission, quarantine of communities and rapid action of healthcare workers. Objective: To describe the incidence of COVID-19 in Cienfuegos from March 2020 to March 2021. Material and Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study of confirmed COVID-19 cases was carried out in Cienfuegos from March 2020 to March 2021. The universe consisted of 1076 cases. The variables used included: month of confirmation, source of infection, origin of the case, sex, age group and symptoms. Descriptive statistics were used. Results: The incidence of the study period was 265,65 per 100 000 inhabitants. The female sex predominated with an incidence rate of 268,42 per 100 000 inhabitants. The age group of 50-59 presented 229 cases (21,28 percent). In March 2021, the highest incidence of cases was evidenced (84,99 per 100,000 inhabitants). Similarly, 86,93 percent were autochthonous cases (936 cases). Cienfuegos municipality highlights because of an incidence rate of 390,29 per 100,000 inhabitants. Asymptomatic patients represented 38,94 percent (419 patients). Conclusions: The gradual rise in COVID-19 cases in Cienfuegos is a consequence of the close contact between citizens which increased from the "new normality" with a wide range of symptoms.

Psychological distress during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador: Cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The effects of the COVID 19 pandemic on the mental health of citizens from Asia, Europe, or North America begin to be known, but there are fewer publications on its effects in Latin American countries. In this study, its impact in Ecuador is described, with data collected during the first phase of the pandemic. The objective of this study was to analyse the level of psychological distress in the population of Ecuador during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS AND FINDINGS: Cross-sectional observational study. The questionnaires were collected through an online self-developed questionnaire, between April 2 and May 17, 2020, using the non-probabilistic sampling methodology: snowball method. The variables considered were sociodemographic variables, physical symptoms, health status, COVID-19 contact history, preventive measures, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). The percentage with high psychological distress (PD) (GHQ-12 ≥ 3) has been somewhat lower than that found in Europe, being women, young people, people with higher level of education, living without a partner, not living with children or children under 16 years of age, and with worse perception of health the groups with the highest PD. Differences have been observed with European studies regarding common symptoms, preventive measures to avoid contagion, percentage of infected relatives, or diagnostic tests performed. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the same research instrument, validated in Europe and adapted to Ecuador, has facilitated the comparison of the found results and differences, which can be explained by socio-economic or cultural variables, the health system, level of information, or by preventive measures put in place to prevent the pandemic.