First report of sweepoviruses infecting Ipomeas batatas L. cultivars and landraces in Trinidad.

Root crops, referred to as ground provisions in the Caribbean, are traditional staples in Trinidad. One widely consumed example is sweet potato (Ipomeas batatas L.). The crop is mainly produced by subsistence farming which together with imports from neighboring Caribbean countries meet domestic demand (Singh et al. 2008). The Central Experiment Station, situated in the eastern part of Trinidad, maintains a sweet potato germplasm collection comprising both imported and locally-sourced landraces for cultivar development and distribution of propagules. In May 2017 chlorosis and leaf curling symptoms, typically associated with sweepoviruses, were observed on imported cultivars, Centennial, Jewel, 86 BM 31, TIB 313, TIB 8 21 1, and S128, and the landraces, Kick Up Jenny, John, and Carrot. Leaf samples from these nine symptomatic plants were collected for analysis, along with samples from the asymptomatic landrace, Chickenfoot. Total nucleic acids were extracted (Sharma et al. 2008) and the samples were assayed by PCR using degenerate primers SPG1 and SPG2 (Li et al. 2004) that target the replication associated protein gene (ORF C1), a highly conserved region of sweepoviruses. Amplicons of 912-bp were obtained from two of the nine symptomatic plants (TIB 8 21 1, Kick Up Jenny), but not from the asymptomatic Chickenfoot. The same samples were assayed by PCR amplification using primers SpvF and SpvR (Avelar 2015) which are specific to a highly conserved 632-bp region of the coat protein gene (ORF V1) of sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV). All 10 samples tested positive for SPLCV, including the asymptomatic landrace, Chickenfoot. The ORF V1 PCR products from three of the 10 samples, namely Chickenfoot, TIB 8 21 1, and Kick Up Jenny, were cloned and sequenced (two clones per sample). Comparison of the sequences (GenBank accession nos. OR882007 [Chickenfoot], OR913125 [TIB 8 21 1] and OR913126 [Kick Up Jenny]) identified up to 4% nt sequence variability between samples. In BLASTn analysis, they were most closely related to the SPLCV isolate China:Sichuan (GenBank accession no. KJ013557), sharing 94 to 98% nt identity. Total nucleic extracts from one representative sample (TIB 8 21 1) was used as template for rolling circle amplification (RCA, TempliPhi Amplification Kit, GE Healthcare Life Sciences, Piscataway, NJ, USA). Digestion of the RCA product with StuI (Thermo Scientific, MA, USA) yielded ~2.8 kb DNA fragments indicative of monomeric full length genomes. Digested fragments were cloned, completely sequenced and deposited in GenBank under the accession nos. OR866202 (2,821 nts) and OR866203 (2,828 nts). Two species of sweepoviruses were detected. In BLASTn analysis, OR866202 showed 95% nt identity with sweet potato golden vein associated virus (SPGVaV) US:MS:1B-3 (GenBank accession no. HQ333143.1) which is a recombinant virus comprised of SPLCV and sweet potato leaf curl Georgia virus (SPLCGV) (Zhang and Ling 2011) and in BLASTx analysis OR866202 was most similar (92-99%) to SPLCV isolates from Brazil (GenBank accession nos. ACI23475.1, AGW16179.1, ACY79479.1), Peru (GenBank accession no. ACY79466.1) and China (GenBank accession nos. ACY79439.1). OR866203 shared 96% nt identity with SPLCV China:Henan25(8):2012 (GenBank accession no. KF040465.1) in BLASTn analysis and BLASTx analysis revealed ≥ 94% aa sequence identity with SPLCV from Brazil (GenBank accession nos. ACI23475.1, AGW16179.1, ADZ96559.1), Peru (GenBank accession no. ACY79479.1), China (GenBank accession no. ACY79466.1). and Spain (GenBank accession no. QWQ56365.1). Both Trinidad isolates also showed 90-96% nt identity with SPLCV from Korea (GenBank accession no.s KT992061.1, KT992064.1, unpublished). This is the first detection of sweepoviruses in Trinidad. SPGVaV has been reported in Brazil, the United States and Korea (Kil et al. 2014), while SPLCV has been described in other Caribbean islands, including Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Vincent (Cuellar et al. 2015), and Barbados (Alleyne et al. 2019), as well as several countries in South America. Although Koch's postulates were not completed, our findings suggest that sweet potato crops in Trinidad harbor sweepoviruses, notwithstanding efforts to distribute pathogen-free materials and, in some instances, the apparent absence of visible symptoms on infected plants. Further studies on the management and impact of these viruses are necessary, including their prevalence in the sweet potato production regions of Trinidad.

Gender Differences in Trends in Incidence and Mortality of Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Small Island Developing State of Barbados.

Objective To determine trends, identify predictors of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) incidence and mortality, and explore performance metrics for AMI care in Barbados. Methods Data on all cases diagnosed with AMI were collected by the Barbados National Registry for Non-Communicable Diseases (BNR) from the island's only tertiary hospital, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and the National Vital Registration Department. Participants who survived hospital admission were then followed up at 28 days and one year post event via telephone survey and retrieval of death certificates. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were calculated. Determinants of mortality at 28 days were examined in multivariable logistic regression models. Median and interquartile ranges (IQR) were calculated for performance metrics (e.g., time from pain onset to reperfusion). Results In a 10-year period between 2010 and 2019, 4,065 cases of myocardial infarction were recorded. The median age of the sample was 73 years (IQR: 61,83), and approximately half (47%) were female. Over a 10-year period, standardized incidence increased in women on average yearly by three per 100,000 (95% CI: 1 to 6; p=0.02), while in men, the average increase per year was six per 100,000 (95% CI: 4 to 8; p<0.001). There was no increase in 28-day mortality in women; mortality in men increased each year by 2.5 per 100,000 (95% CI: 0.4 to 4.5; p=0.02). The time from arrival at the hospital to the ECG was 44 minutes IQR (20,113). Conclusion AMI incidence and mortality are increasing in Barbados, and men have a higher velocity of mortality rate increase than women, which contradicts global data.

Reducing fecal egg count through selective breeding alters dorper lamb response to Haemonchus contortus in an artificial challenge trial.

Infection by gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), particularly Haemonchus contortus, can be detrimental to sheep health and performance. Genetic susceptibility to GIN varies between breeds, with those lacking high levels of natural resistance often requiring frequent anthelmintic treatment when facing parasitic challenge. Genetic technology can serve as a tool to decrease GIN susceptibility via selection for sheep with reduced fecal egg count (FEC) estimated breeding values (EBVs). However, the physiological changes that result from implementation of this strategy are not well described. Additionally, there is a need for comparison of animals from recent selective breeding against breeds with inherent GIN resistance. In this study we administered a challenge of H. contortus to Dorper x White Dorper (DWD; n = 92) lambs that have been genetically selected for either low (DWD-) or high (DWD+) FEC EBVs and Barbados Blackbelly x Mouflon (BBM; n = 19) lambs from a genetically resistant breed backgrounds. Lamb FEC, packed-cell volume (PCV) and serum IgG were measured at intermittent levels over 5 weeks. At day 21 and day 35, the selectively bred DWD- had a lower mean FEC compared to DWD+, but were higher than BBM. Reductions in both PCV and serum IgG from initial day 0 levels were observed in DWD lambs, but not in BBM. Furthermore, from a subset of lambs (n = 24) harvested at day 21, DWD- only tended (p = 0.056) to have lower mean worm counts than DWD+, with BBM having the lowest mean worm count. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified via RNA-sequencing of abomasal tissue at day 21 indicate a more pronounced Th2 immune response and more rapid worm expulsion occurred in iBBM than iDWD- and iDWD+ lambs. However, gene expression in DWD- suggests an association between reduced FEC EBV and gastric acid secretion and the ability to limit worm fecundity. Ultimately, selection of Dorper sheep for low FEC EBV can reduce susceptibility to GIN, but it will likely require multiple generations with this trait as a breeding priority before presenting a similar resistance level to Caribbean breeds.

Prevalence and correlates of alcohol use among the elderly in the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network (ECHORN) cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Alcohol use is pervasive in the Caribbean; however, the prevalence and correlates of alcohol use and drinking problems in the elderly have not been extensively studied. METHODS: Data were obtained from the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network (ECHORN) Cohort Study, a cohort study of Caribbean people from Puerto Rico, Barbados, Trinidad, and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, collected between 2013 and 2018 (baseline study sample, ages 60+, n = 811). Descriptive statistics were used to compare the differences in drinking status (current vs. former vs. never), alcohol problems (Cut-down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener (CAGE) scale score ≥2 vs. <2), and binge drinking days (0 days vs. 1-2 days vs. ≥3 days) across sample characteristics. Logistic regression analyses estimated the association of these alcohol measures with sociodemographic (e.g., sex), psychological (depression), and cultural (e.g., religion) correlates. RESULTS: Thirty-six percent were 70 + years of age, 64 % were female, and 41 % had less than a high school education. Alcohol problems (≥2 CAGE score) was 21 %. Binge drinking ≥3 days was 30.6 %. Never attending religious services (vs. attending once a week or more) was associated with almost three times higher odds of alcohol problems (adjusted Odds Ratio: OR = 2.88, 95 % CI = 1.02, 8.15) four times higher odds of increasing binge drinking days (aOR = 4.04, 95 % CI = 1.11, 14.96). College education was protective against both the outcomes. CONCLUSION: We provide current estimates of alcohol problems among elderly Eastern Caribbean people. Among the sociodemographic, psychological, and cultural correlates examined, religious attendance was significant. Replicate longitudinal studies using DSM-5 alcohol dependence are recommended.

Faith-based leaders' perceptions on the implementation of programs to promote healthy lifestyles in churches in Barbados-a mixed-methods analysis.

Background: There is a high burden of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes in small island developing states (SIDS). SIDS governments have committed to a range of public health, healthcare, and fiscal measures to reduce this burden including community-based health education in collaboration with civil society organizations. We sought to explore perceived acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of implementing self-management health programs in 20 faith-based organizations in the small island developing state of Barbados. Methods: This was a concurrent mixed methods study - a quantitative online survey and a qualitative inquiry using semi-structured interviews. Acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility of the intervention were assessed using the following quantitative assessment tools: Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM), Intervention Appropriateness Measure (IAM) and Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM). Thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted virtually, recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis based on deductive codes from Proctor's implementation outcomes definitions. Results: From the 52 respondents of the survey, the median and interquartile ranges for the AIM, IAM and FIM scales were 16 (15-20), 16 (16-20) and 16 (15-17) (out of 20), respectively. We found high levels of acceptability, 82% (95% CI (69%, 95%)) of leaders indicating that health programs in churches met with their approval; and high levels of appropriateness-90% (95% CI (80%, 100%)) indicating health programs in churches were "fitting" and "a good match". Feasibility scores were lower, with 60% (95% CI (44%, 76%)) indicating that health programs in churches would be easy to use. In interviews, leaders expressed acceptance of healthy lifestyle programs in churches and described their appropriateness through alignment with church doctrines stating, "the body is the temple of God". They felt that economic impacts from COVID-19 were likely to be a barrier to the success of programs. Leaders expressed the need for support from healthcare providers who are sensitive and respectful of church culture. Conclusion: We found that health-based programs in churches align well with church doctrines, but the success of these programs will depend on establishing trust through the engagement of church-based champions, tailoring programming to include a biblical perspective and engaging entire households.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Hand Hygiene, Mask Use, and Social Distancing among Public Hospital and Polyclinic Nurses in Barbados during the Coronavirus 2019 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Nurses are essential members of the healthcare workforce and were among the first-line carers for patients in community and hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, they were at a heightened risk of infection, resulting in several reported deaths among nursing staff. Several preventive measures were adopted to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nurses regarding hand hygiene, mask wearing, and social distancing measures in healthcare settings in Barbados during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: An online survey of nurses working in public hospitals and polyclinics (public primary care clinics) in Barbados from March 2021 to December 2021 was conducted. A nonsystematic convenience sampling method was employed to recruit nurses who were readily available and willing to participate. A questionnaire captured the sociodemographic information and knowledge and practices related to hand hygiene, the use of face masks, and social distancing. Each correct response received one mark. Overall knowledge scores were categorized as poor (<60%), average (60-80%), or good (>80-100%). RESULTS: Of the 192 participants, the majority were female (82.8%) and had >5 years of experience (82%). The findings revealed that 45.8% had poor knowledge of hand hygiene, and that the knowledge of 43.8% of respondents was average. Multivariable logistic regression showed that, after adjustment for age and gender, registered nurses had 2.1 times increased odds (95% confidence interval 1.0, 4.2) of having good knowledge compared to other nursing categories. Regarding mask wearing, 53.6% of nurses had average knowledge, and 27.1% had good knowledge. Multivariable logistic regression showed that, after adjustment for age and gender, registered nurses had 3.3 times increased odds (95% confidence interval 1.5, 7.4) of having good knowledge compared to nursing assistants. A total of 68.6% of respondents followed the correct steps of handwashing every time, and 98.3% wore a mask in public places. More than half of the nurses (51.2%) kept a safe distance from others to avoid spreading SARS-CoV-2; one-third were in a crowded place(s) in the past three months, and 55.8% usually followed guidelines for social isolation as recommended by the WHO. CONCLUSIONS: The study identified knowledge deficiencies related to hand hygiene and wearing masks among nurses. It is imperative to provide additional training on infection control measures.

Pediatric anesthesia in North America.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This educational review outlines the current landscape of pediatric anesthesia training, care delivery, and challenges across Canada, Barbados, and the United States. DESCRIPTIONS AND CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 5% of Canadian children undergo general anesthesia annually, administered by fellowship-trained pediatric anesthesiologists in children's hospitals, general anesthesiologists in community hospitals, or family practice anesthesiologists in underserved regions. In Canada, the focus is on national-level evaluation and accreditation of pediatric anesthesia fellowship training, addressing challenges arising from workforce shortages, particularly in remote areas. Barbados, a Caribbean nation, lacks dedicated pediatric hospitals but has provided pediatric anesthesia since 1972 through anesthetists with additional training. Challenges in its development, common to low-middle-income countries, include inadequate infrastructure and workforce shortages. Increased awareness of pediatric anesthesia as a sub-specialty could enhance perioperative care for Barbadian children. Pediatric anesthesia encompasses various specialties in the United States, with pediatric anesthesiologists playing a foundational role. Challenges faced include recruitment and retention difficulties, supply-chain shortages, and the proliferation of anesthesia sites, all impacting the delivery of modern, high-quality, and cost-effective patient care. Collaborative efforts at national and organizational levels strive to improve the quality and safety of pediatric anesthesia care in the United States.

The economic impact of eliminating industrially produced trans fatty acids in Barbados

The fact sheet facilitates the dissemination of evidence in Barbados on the potential impact of industrially produced trans-fatty acids elimination best practice policies in mortality, productivity and reducing the incidence of noncommunicable diseases. This information may help inform Member States' policy formulation in advancing food labeling regulations in the Region.

Cardiovascular Disease in the Caribbean: Risk Factor Trends, Care and Outcomes Still Far From Expectations.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a major public health concern in the Caribbean. Cardiovascular care in the Caribbean revealed encouraging improvements but still less than expectations. This study aims to gain insight into CVD and identify gaps in cardiovascular care in the Caribbean compared to high-income countries. More specifically, this review reports on the epidemiology, CVD risk factors, management practices, and patient outcomes (quality of life (QOL) and mortality). A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted to assess the CVD of individuals in the Caribbean from 1959 to 2022.Using multiple search engines and keywords, a systematic review of relevant peer-reviewed CVD articles was conducted using the necessary inclusion and exclusion criteria. Relevant data of studies were classified by title, publication year, location, type and size of samples, and results. Further analysis grouped patients by epidemiological profile, CVD risk, management, and selected outcomes (quality of life and inpatient mortality).  From the initial review of 1,553 articles, 36 were analyzed from Trinidad and Tobago (20), Barbados (4), Jamaica (7), along with the Bahamas (2), British Virgin Islands (1), Bonaire (1), and one article from a Caribbean study. The social environment of fast food, sedentary jobs, and stress determinants are postulated to be precursors for an increase in CV risks. CVD in the Caribbean reveals a high prevalence of CV risks, suboptimal care, poor compliance, and high inpatient mortality compared with high-income countries. Greater efforts are required to improve CVD care at all stages, including in the social environment.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 5 (9 February 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the past four Epidemiological Weeks (EWs), there has been a decline in the activity of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in the Americas region, stabilizing at medium levels. Similarly, a decrease has been observed in the activity of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), currently at low levels. In both cases, the observed activity has been associated with positive cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. ILI activity has been mainly linked to moderate activity observed in North America and the Caribbean, which is currently declining, while SARI activity has been particularly influenced by activity in North America. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses, a moderate activity of SARS-CoV-2 has been maintained at the regional level compared to previous epidemic waves. Likewise, an epidemic activity of influenza has been observed for this time of year with a decreasing trend, and a moderate activity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has shown a decline. North America: ILI cases, after a slight decrease in previous EWs, have remained at medium-high levels, with the majority of cases attributable to influenza, although showing a decline in this proportion. SARI cases have decreased, with the majority of cases attributable to influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has remained at epidemic levels after a slight decrease in previous EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has shown a decline in the last four EWs, remaining at moderate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has decreased in the last four EWs to low levels. By countries: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has markedly decreased in the last four EWs to medium levels. Influenza activity remains at epidemic levels, and RSV activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has remained fluctuating at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, while an increase in SARS-CoV-2 circulation has been observed. In the United States, influenza activity has remained above the epidemic threshold with a slight increase in the last two EWs, RSV activity has decreased to moderate levels, and although SARS-CoV-2 has remained at high levels, it has shown a decreasing trend. Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, after reaching similar high levels to the previous season, have shown a downward trend in the last four EWs. Caribbean: ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks associated with an increase in positive influenza cases, while SARI cases have remained on the decline. Influenza activity has decreased in the last four EWs, reaching low circulation levels. During the last four EWs, the predominant viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at high levels, although showing a decreasing trend. By countries: Elevated influenza activity has been observed in Jamaica. Elevated SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, Dominican Republic, Dominica, Jamaica, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, and Guyana. Central America: After an increase observed in previous weeks, ILI cases have shown a decrease in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. SARI cases have also shown a decrease, reaching low levels. Influenza activity, after the increase observed in previous weeks, has shown a decrease in the last two EWs, reaching medium levels. During this period, the predominant viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, A(H3N2). RSV activity has shown a decrease to low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has increased in the last four EWs. By countries: In El Salvador, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a marked increase in the last four EWs to high levels. In Guatemala, an increase in ILI cases associated with influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2 has been observed, reaching moderate activity levels, while SARI cases have remained on the decline at epidemic levels. In Honduras, after the increase in ILI and SARI cases associated with positive influenza and SARS-CoV-2 cases observed in previous weeks, a decrease has been detected in the last two EWs, reaching levels below the epidemic threshold. In Nicaragua, RSV activity has shown a decrease to low levels in the last four weeks, and both influenza and SARS-CoV-2 levels have remained low. In Panama, SARS-CoV-2 activity, after reaching high levels, has shown a decrease, and influenza activity has fluctuated around the epidemic threshold in the last four EWs. ILI and SARI cases, after the increase observed in previous EWs, have shown a decrease in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean: ILI activity has remained stable at low levels, and SARI cases, after an increase, have shown a decrease with the highest proportion of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has remained at low levels in the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, with circulation of B/Victoria and A(H3N2) to a lesser extent. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at high levels and increasing. By countries: In Bolivia, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has remained high. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase in the last four EWs, reaching high levels; SARI cases, after the recent increase associated with positive influenza and SARSCoV- 2 cases, have experienced a decrease in the last two EWs. In Ecuador, SARS-CoV-2 has shown a decrease in activity, reaching medium-low levels; influenza activity has continued to decline around epidemic thresholds, and RSV activity has shown a slight increase in the last four EWs. Following the recent increase in SARI cases associated with positive influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and to a lesser extent RSV cases, a decrease has been observed in the last four EWs, remaining at epidemic levels. In Venezuela, a fluctuating influenza activity below the epidemic threshold has been observed in the last four EWs. Brazil and the Southern Cone: SARI and ILI activity has remained low in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2, with a percentage of positive cases increasing. Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels during the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained on the rise at high levels. By countries: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold. However, an increase in the positivity rate of SARS-CoV-2 has been observed, reaching high levels in the last four EWs. In Brazil, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained stable at high levels. In Chile, after a marked decrease, SARS-CoV-2 activity has recently increased again in the last four EWs, with ILI cases at epidemic levels and SARI cases below this threshold, mostly attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza, whose activity has exceeded the epidemic threshold. In Paraguay, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has shown a decrease in the last two EWs, reaching moderate levels, and influenza activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold, while SARI activity has remained at epidemic levels with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. In Uruguay, SARI activity has continued at levels below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of the few positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha registrado un descenso en la actividad de la Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en la región de las Américas, situándose en niveles medios. Del mismo modo se ha observado una disminución en la actividad de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), actualmente en niveles bajos. En ambos casos la actividad observada se ha asociado a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de ETI se ha relacionado principalmente con la actividad moderada observada en Norteamérica y el Caribe, que actualmente está en descenso, mientras que la actividad de IRAG se ha visto especialmente influenciada por la actividad en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional se ha mantenido una actividad moderada de SARS-CoV-2 en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza para esta época del año con tendencia decreciente, y una actividad moderada del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) que ha mostrado un descenso. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, tras un ligero descenso en SE previas, se han mantenido en niveles medio-altos con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza, aunque mostrando un descenso a su vez en esta proporción. Los casos de IRAG han mostrado un decremento con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos de circulación tras mostrar un ligero descenso en SE previas. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, manteniéndose en niveles moderados. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un decremento en las últimas cuatro SE hasta niveles bajos. Por países: En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un marcado descenso en las últimas cuatro SE hasta niveles medios. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos, y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable en niveles altos durante este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, a su vez se ha observado un incremento en la circulación del SARS-CoV-2. En Estados Unidos, la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por encima del umbral epidémico con un ligero incremento en la últimas dos SE, la actividad del VRS ha descendido hasta niveles medios y el SARS-CoV-2 aunque ha permanecido en niveles elevados ha mostrado una tendencia decreciente. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2, tras alcanzar niveles elevados similares a la temporada previa, han presentado una tendencia a la baja en las cuatro últimas SE. Caribe: Los casos de ETI han mostrado un incremento en las cuatro últimas semanas asociado a un incremento en los casos positivos a influenza, mientras que los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, alcanzando niveles bajos de circulación. Durante las cuatro últimas SE, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados, aunque mostrando una tendencia decreciente. Por países: Se ha observado una actividad elevada de influenza en Jamaica. Se ha observado una actividad elevada de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Dominica, Jamaica, Barbados, las Islas Caimán y, Guyana. América Central: tras un incremento observado en las semanas previas, los casos de ETI han mostrado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. Los casos de IRAG han mostrado a su vez un descenso situándose en niveles bajos. La actividad de influenza tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, he presentado un descenso en las dos últimas SE, situándose en niveles medios. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de B/Victoria y en menor medida de A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado un descenso hasta niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Por países: En El Salvador, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un marcado incremento en las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles elevados. En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI asociados a influenza y en menor medida SARS-CoV-2, encontrándose en niveles de actividad moderados; en cuanto a los casos de IRAG se mantienen en descenso con niveles epidémicos. En Honduras, tras el incremento en casos de ETI e IRAG asociados a casos positivos a influenza observado en semanas previas, se ha detectado un descenso en las dos últimas SE, alcanzando niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. En Nicaragua, la actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso hasta niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas semanas, y los niveles tanto de influenza como de SARSCoV- 2 se han mantenido bajos. En Panamá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 tras alcanzar niveles elevados ha presentado un descenso y la actividad de influenza ha fluctuado en torno al umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE. Los casos de ETI e IRAG tras el incremento observado en SE previas, han presentado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: Los casos de ETI se ha mantenido estables en niveles bajos, y los casos de IRAG tras un incremento en recientes semanas han mostrado un descenso en las catro últimas SE, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria y A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados y en ascenso. Por países: En Bolivia, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada. En Colombia, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado incremento en las cuatro últimas SE situándose en niveles elevados; los casos de IRAG tras presentar el incremento observado recientemente asociado a casos positivos a influenza y SARS-CoV-2, ha experimentado un descenso en las dos últimas SE. En Ecuador, el SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un descenso en la actividad situándose en niveles medio-bajos, la actividad de influenza a su vez ha continuado en descenso en torno al umbral epidémico y la actividad del VRS ha presentado un ligero incremento en las cuatro últimas SE. Tras el incremento observado recientemente en los casos de IRAG, asociado a casos positivos a influenza, SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a VRS, en las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado un descenso manteniéndose en niveles epidémicos. En Venezuela durante las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado una actividad fluctuante de influenza por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 con un porcentaje de casos positivos en ascenso. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09 seguidos de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso en niveles altos. Por países: En Argentina, los niveles de ETI e IRAG han permanecido por debajo del umbral epidémico. Sin embargo, se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2, alcanzando niveles elevados en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados. En Chile, tras el marcado descenso la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 experimentado recientemente, se ha observado de nuevo un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral, siendo en su mayoría atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza, cuya actividad ha superado el umbral epidémico. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un descenso en las dos últimas SE, encontrándose en niveles moderados, y la actividad de influenza ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG ha continuado con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los escasos casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 4 (2 February 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the past four epidemiological weeks (EWs), there has been a decline in the activity of Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILIs) in the Americas region, reaching low levels, along with a decrease in Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARIs), both associated with positive cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. ILI activity has been primarily related to moderate activity observed in North America and the Caribbean, which is currently declining, while SARI activity has been particularly influenced by moderate activity in North America. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses, moderate activity of SARS-CoV-2 has been maintained at the regional level compared to previous epidemic waves. Additionally, epidemic activity of influenza has been observed for this time of year with a decreasing trend, and moderate activity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has shown a slight decrease. North America: ILI cases have shown a marked decrease, with most cases attributable to influenza, although there has also been a decrease in this proportion. Similarly, SARI cases have decreased, with most cases attributable to influenza and to a lesser extent to SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has remained at epidemic circulation levels, with a decrease in the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has shown a slight decrease in the last four EWs, remaining at moderate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity continues at moderate levels, showing a decrease in the last four EWs. By country: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high in the last four EWs, although showing a decreasing trend. Influenza activity has also shown a decrease but remains above the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has remained fluctuating at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, and a slight increase in SARS-CoV-2 circulation has been observed. In the United States, influenza activity has remained above the epidemic threshold with a slight increase in the last EW, and RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at high levels, have shown a decreasing trend. Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, after reaching similar high levels to the previous season, have shown a downward trend in the last four EWs Caribbean: ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks associated with an increase in positive cases of influenza, while SARI cases have remained on the decline. Influenza activity has shown a decrease in the last four EWs, reaching intermediate levels of circulation. During the last four EWs, the predominant viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased in the last four EWs, reaching high levels. By country: Elevated influenza activity has been observed in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Elevated SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Dominica, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Central America: ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks, with most positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. SARI cases have also shown an increase, with a slight increase in the proportion of positive cases for SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has increased in the last four EWs, reaching moderate levels. During this period, the predominant viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, A(H3N2). RSV activity has decreased to low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has increased in the last four EWs. By country: In El Salvador, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a marked increase in the last three EWs, reaching high levels. In Guatemala, an increase in ILI cases associated with influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2 has been observed, with activity levels considered moderate, while SARI cases have also shown a slight increase, with positive cases attributable to both influenza and RSV, also at epidemic levels. In Honduras, a slight increase has been observed in both ILI and SARI cases associated with positive influenza cases, with activity fluctuating around epidemic levels. In Nicaragua, RSV activity has shown a decrease to low levels in the last four weeks. In Panama, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a decrease after reaching high levels, and influenza activity has fluctuated around the epidemic threshold in the last four EWs. ILI and SARI cases have shown an increase in the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean: ILI activity has remained stable at low levels, while SARI cases have shown an increase associated with an increase in positivity for SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV. Influenza activity has remained at low levels in the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09, with circulation of B/Victoria and A(H3N2) to a lesser extent. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at high levels. By country: In Bolivia, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has remained high. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase in the last four EWs, reaching high levels, with SARI cases increasing associated with positive cases of influenza followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV. In Ecuador, SARS-CoV-2 activity remains active, while influenza activity has continued to decrease around the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has shown a slight increase in the last four EWs. This has been accompanied by an increase in SARI cases in the last four EWs, with epidemic levels in the last EW, with most positive cases predominantly for influenza and SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, RSV. In Venezuela, fluctuating activity of influenza and RSV has been observed. Brazil and the Southern Cone: SARI and ILI activity has remained low in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 with a rising percentage of positive cases. Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels in the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09 followed by B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARSCoV- 2 activity has continued to rise at high levels. By country: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold. However, an increase in SARS-CoV- 2 positivity has been observed, reaching high levels in the last four EWs. In Brazil, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Chile, a decrease in SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed, with ILI cases at epidemic levels and SARI cases below this threshold, mostly attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Paraguay, SARSCoV- 2 circulation has remained high in the last four EWs, and influenza activity has decreased below the epidemic threshold, while SARI activity has remained at epidemic levels with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. In Uruguay, SARI activity has continued below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of the few positive cases attributable to SARSCoV- 2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha registrado un descenso en la actividad de la Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en la región de las Américas, situándose en niveles bajos, al igual que una disminución en la actividad de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), ambas asociadas a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de ETI se ha relacionado principalmente con la actividad moderada observada en Norteamérica y el Caribe, que actualmente está en descenso, mientras que la actividad de IRAG se ha visto especialmente influenciada por la actividad moderada en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional se ha mantenido una actividad moderada de SARS-CoV-2 en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza para esta época del año con tendencia decreciente, y una actividad moderada del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) que ha mostrado un ligero descenso. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI han presentado un marcado descenso con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza, aunque mostrando un descenso a su vez en esta proporción. Del mismo modo, los casos de IRAG han mostrado un decremento con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos de circulación presentando un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha mostrado un ligero descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, manteniéndose en niveles moderados. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles moderados, presentando un decremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Por países: En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada en las últimas cuatro SE, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. La actividad de influenza ha mostrado asimismo un descenso, aunque permanece por encima del umbral epidémico, y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable en niveles altos durante este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido en fluctuante en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, y se ha observado un ligero incremento en la circulación del SARS-CoV-2. En Estados Unidos, la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por encima del umbral epidémico con un ligero incremento en la última SE y la actividad del VRS y el SARS-CoV-2 aunque han permanecido en niveles elevados ha mostrado una tendencia decreciente. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2 tras alcanzar niveles elevados similares a la temporada previa han presentado una tendencia a la baja en las cuatro últimas SE.. Caribe: Los casos de ETI han mostrado un incremento en las cuatro últimas semanas asociado a un incremento en los casos positivos a influenza, mientras que los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, alcanzando niveles intermedios de circulación. Durante las cuatro últimas SE, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles elevados. Por países: Se ha observado una actividad elevada de influenza en, República Dominicana, Jamaica, santa Lucía las Islas Caimán y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Se ha observado una actividad elevada de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Dominica, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Barbados, las Islas Caimán, Guyana y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.. América Central: Los casos de ETI han mostrado un ascenso en las cuatro últimas semanas, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. Los casos de IRAG han mostrado a su vez un ascenso, con un ligero aumento en la proporción de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles medios. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de B/Victoria y en menor medida de A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado un descenso hasta niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Por países: En El Salvador, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un marcado incremento en las tres últimas SE hasta niveles elevados. En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI asociados a influenza y en menor medida SARS-CoV-2, encontrándose en niveles de actividad moderados, en cuanto a los casos de IRAG han mostrado a su vez un ligero ascenso con los casos positivos atribuibles tanto a influenza como a VRS, con niveles asimismo epidémicos. En Honduras, se ha observado un ligero incremento tanto en los casos de ETI como de IRAG asociados a casos positivos a influenza cuya actividad se encuentra fluctuante en torno a niveles epidémicos. En Nicaragua, la actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso hasta niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas semanas. En Panamá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 tras alcanzar niveles elevados ha presentado un descenso y la actividad de influenza ha fluctuado en torno al umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE. Los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: La actividad de ETI se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos, mientras que los casos de IRAG han mostrado un ascenso asociado al aumento en la proporción de positivos a SARS-CoV-2, influenza y VRS. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria y A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados Por países: En Bolivia, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada. En Colombia, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado incremento en las cuatro últimas SE situándose en niveles elevados, los casos de IRAG han presentado un incremento asociado a casos positivos a influenza en primer lugar seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. En Ecuador, el SARS-CoV-2 mantiene niveles de actividad, igualmente la actividad de influenza ha continuado en descenso en torno al umbral epidémicos y la actividad del VRS ha presentado un ligero incremento en las cuatro últimas SE. Esto se ha acompañado de un incremento en los casos de IRAG en las cuatro últimas SE, con niveles epidémicos en la última SE, siendo los casos positivos mayoritariamente a influenza y SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a VRS. En Venezuela se ha observado una actividad fluctuante de influenza y de VRS. Brasil y el Cono Sur: La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 con un porcentaje de casos positivos en ascenso. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09 seguidos de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso en niveles altos. Por países: En Argentina, los niveles de ETI e IRAG han permanecido por debajo del umbral epidémico. Sin embargo, se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2, alcanzando niveles elevados en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados en este periodo. En Chile, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral, siendo en su mayoría atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 ha permanecido elevada en las cuatro últimas SE y la actividad de influenza ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG ha continuado con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los escasos casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Clinging fauna associated with nearshore pelagic sargassum rafts in the Eastern Caribbean: Implications for coastal in-water harvesting.

Tropical Atlantic blooms of pelagic Sargassum species are associated with severe inundation events along the coasts of Caribbean and West African nations that cause extensive ecological and socioeconomic harm. The use of in-water harvesting as a management strategy avoids the plethora of challenges associated with shoreline inundations. Moreover, with a growing interest in the valorisation of this raw material, in-water harvesting provides the best opportunity to collect substantial amounts of 'fresh' sargassum that can be used in a variety of applications. However, in-water harvesting of sargassum will remove organisms associated with the floating habitat, resulting in loss of biodiversity, thus creating a potential management dilemma. To address this management concern, we assessed the clinging fauna associated with sargassum rafts at various distances from shore. From a total of 119 dipnet samples of sargassum, we recorded 18 taxa, across 6 phyla (Arthropoda, Mollusca, Chordata, Platyhelminthes, Nemathelminthes, Annelida) with the phylum Arthropoda being the most speciose (n = 10). Our multivariate and model selection analyses support that distance from shore and season are the most important drivers of variability in community composition and that season is the most important driver of individual abundance and number of taxa across samples. Overall, rafts within 0-3000 m of the shoreline of Barbados harbored low biodiversity and were dominated by small invertebrates (mean size: 5.5 mm) of no commercial value. Results suggest that biodiversity trade-offs associated with in-water sargassum harvesting in coastal areas are likely to be negligible.

GIA imaging of 3-D mantle viscosity based on palaeo sea level observations - Part I: Sensitivity kernels for an Earth with laterally varying viscosity.

A key initial step in geophysical imaging is to devise an effective means of mapping the sensitivity of an observation to the model parameters, that is to compute its Fréchet derivatives or sensitivity kernel. In the absence of any simplifying assumptions and when faced with a large number of free parameters, the adjoint method can be an effective and efficient approach to calculating Fréchet derivatives and requires just two numerical simulations. In the Glacial Isostatic Adjustment problem, these consist of a forward simulation driven by changes in ice mass and an adjoint simulation driven by fictitious loads that are applied at the observation sites. The theoretical basis for this approach has seen considerable development over the last decade. Here, we present the final elements needed to image 3-D mantle viscosity using a dataset of palaeo sea-level observations. Developments include the calculation of viscosity Fréchet derivatives (i.e. sensitivity kernels) for relative sea-level observations, a modification to the numerical implementation of the forward and adjoint problem that permits application to 3-D viscosity structure, and a recalibration of initial sea level that ensures the forward simulation honours present-day topography. In the process of addressing these items, we build intuition concerning how absolute sea-level and relative sea-level observations sense Earth's viscosity structure and the physical processes involved. We discuss examples for potential observations located in the near field (Andenes, Norway), far field (Seychelles), and edge of the forebulge of the Laurentide ice sheet (Barbados). Examination of these kernels: (1) reveals why 1-D estimates of mantle viscosity from far-field relative sea-level observations can be biased; (2) hints at why an appropriate differential relative sea-level observation can provide a better constraint on local mantle viscosity and (3) demonstrates that sea-level observations have non-negligible 3-D sensitivity to deep mantle viscosity structure, which is counter to the intuition gained from 1-D radial viscosity Fréchet derivatives. Finally, we explore the influence of lateral variations in viscosity on relative sea-level observations in the Amundsen Sea Embayment and at Barbados. These predictions are based on a new global 3-D viscosity inference derived from the shear-wave speeds of GLAD-M25 and an inverse calibration scheme that ensures compatibility with certain fundamental geophysical observations. Use of the 3-D viscosity inference leads to: (1) generally greater complexity within the kernel; (2) an increase in sensitivity and presence of shorter length-scale features within lower viscosity regions; (3) a zeroing out of the sensitivity kernel within high-viscosity regions where elastic deformation dominates and (4) shifting of sensitivity at a given depth towards distal regions of weaker viscosity. The tools and intuition built here provide the necessary framework to explore inversions for 3-D mantle viscosity based on palaeo sea-level data.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 2 (19 January 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Regional Situation: Over the last four Epidemiological Weeks (EWs), an increase in the activity of Influenza- Like Illness (ILI) has been observed in the Americas region, reaching elevated levels. Simultaneously, there has been a moderate and stable activity of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), associated with positive cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. However, a decline was noted in the first two Epidemiological Weeks of the year, linked to underreporting. The rise in ILI activity is mainly linked to increases in North America and Central America, while SARI activity has only increased in North America. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses, a moderate activity of SARS-CoV-2 has been observed at the regional level compared to previous epidemic waves. Additionally, there has been an increase in influenza activity, reaching elevated levels considered epidemic for this time of the year. Moderate Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity has remained stable. North America: Influenza activity has remained at epidemic levels, showing a slight decrease. Over the last four EWs, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has plateaued in the last four EWs with elevated circulation levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity continues at moderate levels, with a slight decrease in the last four EWs. ILI cases have continued to rise, with the majority attributable to influenza, though showing a decrease in this proportion. SARI cases have shown a slight decrease, with the majority attributable to influenza, and also showing a decrease in this proportion. By countries: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high in the last four EWs, although showing a decreasing trend. Influenza activity has continued to rise above the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has remained stable at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, with a decline in the last two EWs. SARI activity has shown a decline to epidemic levels, with the majority of positive cases being influenza in this period. In the United States, over the last four EWs, a decrease in influenza activity has been observed, remaining above the epidemic threshold. RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activities have remained stable at elevated levels, with a slightly decreasing trend. Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, after reaching similar elevated levels to the previous season, have shown a downward trend in the last two EWs. Caribbean: Influenza activity has shown a pronounced increase over the last four EWs, reaching elevated circulation levels. During this period, predominant viruses have been of type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained in decline to low levels over the last four EWs. SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased in the last four EWs, reaching elevated levels. ILI and SARI cases have remained in decline over the last four EWs, with a higher proportion of ILI and SARI cases associated with influenza. By countries: Elevated influenza activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Elevated SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Central America: Influenza activity has shown a decline over the last four EWs, reaching low levels. During this period, predominant viruses have been of type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2), and to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has shown a decline to intermediate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has increased in the last four EWs. ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. SARI cases have remained in decline, with a higher proportion of cases associated with SARS-CoV-2. By countries: In El Salvador, during the last four EWs, RSV activity has decreased to low levels, and SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown an increase. In Guatemala, a slight increase has been observed in ILI cases associated with influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARSCoV- 2. Regarding SARI cases, a slight increase has also been observed, with positive cases attributable to both influenza and RSV. In Honduras, influenza activity is at epidemic levels, with ILI and SARI cases continuing to decline, and the majority of positive cases being attributable to influenza. In Nicaragua, RSV activity has remained fluctuating at elevated levels. In Panama, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase, and influenza activity has increased slightly to epidemic levels. ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Central America: Influenza activity has shown a decline over the last four EWs, reaching low levels. During this period, predominant viruses have been of type A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2), and to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has shown a decline to intermediate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has increased in the last four EWs. ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. SARI cases have remained in decline, with a higher proportion of cases associated with SARS-CoV-2. By countries: In El Salvador, during the last four EWs, RSV activity has decreased to low levels, and SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown an increase. In Guatemala, a slight increase has been observed in ILI cases associated with influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARSCoV- 2. Regarding SARI cases, a slight increase has also been observed, with positive cases attributable to both influenza and RSV. In Honduras, influenza activity is at epidemic levels, with ILI and SARI cases continuing to decline, and the majority of positive cases being attributable to influenza. In Nicaragua, RSV activity has remained fluctuating at elevated levels. In Panama, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase, and influenza activity has increased slightly to epidemic levels. ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean: Influenza activity has remained at low levels over the last four EWs. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been of type A(H1N1)pdm09, with circulation to a lesser extent of B/Victoria and A(H3N2). RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained on the rise during this period, reaching elevated levels. ILI activity has remained stable at low levels, while SARI cases have shown an increase associated with the rise in the proportion of positives for SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and to a lesser extent, RSV. By countries: In Bolivia, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has remained elevated. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase, reaching intermediate levels, and SARI cases have increased associated with cases of influenza, SARS-CoV- 2, and RSV. In Ecuador, although SARS-CoV-2 remains at elevated levels, it has shown a decrease. Similarly, influenza activity has continued to decline at epidemic levels, and RSV activity has shown a slight increase in the last two EWs. This has been accompanied by an increase in SARI cases, with moderate levels, mostly positive for influenza and SARS-CoV-2, and to a lesser extent, RSV. In Venezuela, an increase in influenza and RSV activity has been observed. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels over the last four EWs. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been of type A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained on the rise at high levels. SARI and ILI activities have remained low over the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2, showing a pronounced increase in percentage. By countries: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold. However, an increase in the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positivity has been observed, reaching intermediate-high levels in the last four EWs. In Brazil, SARSCoV- 2 activity has remained at elevated levels during this period, albeit with a decreasing trend. In Chile, very high SARS-CoV-2 activity has been maintained, with an increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold in the last four EWs. ILI cases are at epidemic levels, while SARI cases are below this threshold, mostly attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and to a lesser extent, influenza. In Paraguay, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has risen in the last four EWs to elevated levels, with SARI activity remaining in decline at epidemic levels, and the majority of positive cases for ILI and SARI attributable to SARS-CoV-2. In Uruguay, SARI activity has continued at levels below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha observado en la región de las Américas un incremento en la actividad de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI), situándose en niveles elevados, y una actividad moderada y estable de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), asociada ambas a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. No obstante se ha observado un descenso en las primeras dos semanas epidemiológicas del año asociado a una infranotificación. El aumento de la actividad de ETI principalmente se relaciona con los incrementos en la actividad en Norteamérica y Centroamérica, mientras que la actividad de IRAG solo se ha visto incrementada en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, se ha observado a nivel regional una actividad de SARS-CoV-2 moderada en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de influenza, alcanzando niveles elevados considerados epidémicos para esta época del año, y una actividad de Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) moderada que se mantiene estable. América del Norte: La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos de circulación presentando un leve descenso. Durante las últimas cuatro SE, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado una meseta en las últimas cuatro SE con niveles elevados de circulación. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles moderados, presentando un leve decremento en las cuatro últimas SE. Los casos de ETI han continuado en ascenso con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza, aunque mostrando un descenso en esta proporción. Los casos de IRAG han mostrado un ligero decremento con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza, y mostrando asimismo un descenso en esta proporción. Por países: En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada en las últimas cuatro SE, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. La actividad de influenza ha continuado en ascenso, por encima del umbral epidémico, y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable en niveles altos durante este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido estable en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, con un descenso en las dos últimas SE, y la actividad de IRAG ha presentado un descenso a niveles epidémicos, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos a influenza en este periodo. En Estados Unidos, en las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza que se mantiene por encima del umbral epidémico, la actividad del VRS y el SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados con una tendencia ligeramente decreciente. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza VRS y SARS-CoV-2 tras alcanzar niveles elevados similares a la temporada previa han presentado una tendencia a la baja en las dos últimas SE. Caribe: La actividad de influenza ha presentado un pronunciado ascenso durante las últimas cuatro SE, alcanzando niveles elevados de circulación. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en descenso hasta niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles elevados. Los casos de ETI e IRAG han permanecido en descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con una mayor proporción de los casos de ETI e IRAG asociados a influenza. Por países: Se ha observado una actividad elevada de influenza en Belice, República Dominicana, Barbados, las Islas Caimán y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Se ha observado una actividad elevada de SARS-CoV-2 en Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Barbados, las Islas Caimán, Guyana y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. América Central: La actividad de influenza ha presentado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles bajos. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 seguido de A(H3N2), y en menor medida de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS ha presentado un descenso hasta niveles intermedios. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos de ETI han mostrado un ascenso en las cuatro últimas semanas, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso, con una mayor proporción de los casos asociados a SARS-CoV-2. Por países: En El Salvador, durante las últimas cuatro SE, la actividad del VRS ha descendido hasta niveles bajos, la actividad de SARSCoV- 2 ha mostrado un incremento. En Guatemala, se ha observado un liego incremento en los casos de ETI asociados a influenza y en menor medida SARS-CoV-2, en cuanto a los casos de IRAG han mostrado a su vez un ligero ascenso con los casos positivos atribuibles tanto a influenza como a VRS. En Honduras, la actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos, los casos de ETI e IRAG continúan en descenso, la mayoría de los casos positivos son atribuibles a influenza. En Nicaragua, la actividad del VRS se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles elevados. En Panamá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado ascenso y la actividad de influenza ha ascendido ligeramente hasta niveles epidémicos. los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria y A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso durante este periodo alcanzando niveles elevados. La actividad de ETI se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos, mientras que los casos de IRAG han mostrado un ascenso asociado al aumento en la proporción de positivos a SARS-CoV-2, influenza y en menor medida VRS. Por países: En Bolivia, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada. En Colombia, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado incremento situándose en niveles medios, los casos de IRAG han presentad un incremento asociado tanto a los casos de influenza, SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. En Ecuador, el SARS-CoV-2 aunque permanece en niveles elevados ha presentado un descenso, igualmente la actividad de influenza ha continuado en descenso en niveles epidémicos, la actividad del VRS ha presentado un ligero incremento en las dos últimas SE. esto se ha acompañado de un incremento en los casos de IRAG, con niveles moderados, siendo positivos mayoritariamente a influenza y SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a VRS. En Venezuela se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de influenza y de VRS. Brasil y el Cono Sur: La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09 seguidos de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso en niveles altos. La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 con un porcentaje en pronunciado ascenso. Por países: En Argentina, los niveles de ETI e IRAG se han mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico. Sin embargo, se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2, alcanzando niveles intermedios-altos en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados en este periodo, aunque con una tendencia decreciente. En Chile, se ha mantenido una actividad muy elevada de SARS-CoV-2 con un aumento en la actividad de influenza por encima del umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral, siendo en su mayoría atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARSCoV- 2 ha ascendido en las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles elevados, con una actividad de IRAG que se ha mantenido en descenso en niveles epidémicos y la mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI e IRAG atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG ha continuado con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 1 (12 January 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the last four epidemiological weeks (EW), an increase in the activity of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) has been observed in the Americas region, reaching elevated levels. Concurrently, there has been moderate and stable activity of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), associated with both influenza and SARS-CoV-2 positive cases. The rise in ILI activity is mainly linked to increases in North America and Central America, while SARI activity has only increased in North America. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses, regional activity of SARS-CoV-2 has been moderate compared to previous epidemic waves. Additionally, there has been an increase in influenza activity, reaching elevated levels considered epidemic for this time of year, along with moderate activity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). North America: Influenza activity remains at epidemic levels and continues to rise. Over the last four EW, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has plateaued over the last four EW at elevated levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity remains moderate to high, showing stability in the last four EW. Cases of ILI and SARI have increased in the last four EW, associated with a rise in the proportion of influenza-positive cases. By country: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high over the last four EW, though showing a decreasing trend. Influenza activity has continued to rise above the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has remained stable at epidemic levels in the last four EW, with a decrease in the last EW, and SARI activity remains at moderate levels (with a decrease in the last EW possibly related to underreporting), with the majority of positive cases for influenza in this period. In the United States, the last four EW have shown a stabilization in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold, with a slight decrease in the last EW; RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained stable at high levels. Hospitalization rates for influenza and SARS-CoV-2 have remained high at similar levels to the previous season, while RSV hospitalization rates have decreased in the last EW. Caribbean: Influenza activity has seen a pronounced increase over the last four EW. During this period, predominant viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has declined to low levels over the last four EW. SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased in the last four EW, reaching intermediate levels. Cases of ILI and SARI have decreased over the last four EW, with a higher proportion of ILI and SARI cases associated with influenza. By country: Elevated influenza activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, and the Cayman Islands. Elevated SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, and Guyana. Central America: Influenza activity has decreased in the last three EW, reaching low levels. Over the last four EW, predominant viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09 followed by B/Victoria, and to a lesser extent, A(H3N2). RSV activity has remained stable at moderate to high levels over the last four EW. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has increased in the last four EW. Cases of ILI have increased in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Cases of SARI have decreased over the last four EW, with a higher proportion of cases associated with SARS-CoV-2. By country: In El Salvador, over the last four EW, RSV activity has decreased to low levels, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a slight increase but remained fluctuating, and influenza activity has fluctuated around the epidemic threshold. In Guatemala, RSV activity has decreased over the last four EW to low levels, with a corresponding decrease in SARI cases, mostly positive for RSV. There has been a slight increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold, coinciding with moderate ILI activity. In Honduras, RSV activity has decreased over the last four EW to low levels, while influenza activity has risen to moderate levels. Although ILI and SARI cases continue to decrease, the majority of positive cases are attributable to influenza. In Nicaragua, influenza activity has remained oscillating around epidemic levels over the last four EW, and RSV activity has remained fluctuating at high levels. In Panama, RSV activity continues at high levels, albeit decreasing, while ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EW, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean Region: Influenza activity has remained at low levels over the last four EW. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with less circulation of B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been increasing over the last four EW, reaching high levels. ILI and SARI activity in the subregion have remained stable at low levels, with a pronounced increase in the proportion of SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and to a lesser extent, RSV-positive cases among SARI. Most ILI cases have been positive for influenza. By country: In Bolivia, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has remained high, and SARI cases have stayed at epidemic levels over the last four EW. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and influenza activity has remained at low levels, with an increase in the last three EW. SARI cases have remained fluctuating around the epidemic threshold, with the majority of positive cases attributable to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Ecuador, SARS-CoV-2 has reached high levels, and decreasing influenza activity has continued at epidemic levels over the last four EW. This has been accompanied by an increase in SARI cases, with moderate levels, mostly positive for influenza and SARS-CoV-2. In Venezuela, influenza activity has remained fluctuating around the epidemic threshold over the last four EW, with a slight increase in RSV activity. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels over the last four EW. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H3N2) and B/Victoria, followed by A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been increasing at intermediate to high levels over the last four EW. ILI and SARI activity has remained low over the last four EW, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. By country: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold, with an increase in the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positivity reaching intermediate levels in the last four EW. In Brazil, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high over the last four EW, with a decreasing trend. In Chile, very high SARS-CoV-2 activity has been maintained, with an increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold over the last four EW. ILI cases are at epidemic levels, and SARI cases are below this threshold, mostly attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Paraguay, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has increased over the last four EW to high levels, with SARI activity remaining in decline at epidemic levels, and the majority of positive cases for ILI and SARI attributable to SARS-CoV-2. In Uruguay, SARI activity has continued to decline over the last four EW, remaining below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha observado en la región de las Américas un incremento en la actividad de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI), situándose en niveles elevados, y una actividad moderada y estable de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), asociada ambas a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. El aumento de la actividad de ETI principalmente se relaciona con los incrementos en la actividad en Norteamérica y Centroamérica, mientras que la actividad de IRAG solo se ha visto incrementada en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, se ha observado a nivel regional una actividad de SARS-CoV-2 moderada en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de influenza, alcanzando niveles elevados considerados epidémicos para esta época del año, y una actividad de Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) moderada. América del Norte: La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos de circulación y continúa en ascenso. Durante las últimas cuatro SE, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado una meseta en las últimas cuatro SE con niveles elevados de circulación. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles moderados-altos, mostrándose estable en las cuatro últimas SE. Los casos de ETI y de IRAG han mostrado un ascenso en las últimas cuatro SE, asociado a un incremento en la proporción de casos positivos para influenza. Por países: En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada en las últimas cuatro SE, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. La actividad de influenza ha continuado en ascenso, por encima del umbral epidémico, y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable en niveles altos durante este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido estable en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, con un descenso en la última SE, y la actividad de IRAG se mantiene en niveles moderados (con un decremento en la última SE posiblemente relacionado a una infranotificación), siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos a influenza en este periodo. En Estados Unidos, en las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado una estabilización en la actividad de influenza situada por encima del umbral epidémico, que ha mostrado un ligero descenso en la última SE; la actividad del VRS y el SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza y SARS-CoV-2 se han mantenido elevadas en niveles similares a la temporada previa, mientras que las tasas de hospitalización por VRS han presentado un descenso en la última SE. Caribe: La actividad de influenza ha presentado un pronunciado ascenso durante las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en descenso hasta niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles intermedios. Los casos de ETI e IRAG han permanecido en descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con una mayor proporción de los casos de ETI e IRAG asociados a influenza. Por países: Se ha observado una actividad elevada de influenza en Belice, República Dominicana, Barbados y las Islas Caimán. Se ha observado una actividad elevada de SARS-CoV-2 en Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Barbados, las Islas Caimán y Guyana. América Central: La actividad de influenza ha presentado un descenso en las tres últimas SE, situándose en niveles bajos. Durante las últimas cuatro SE, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 seguido de B/Victoria, y en menor medida de A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido estable en niveles medios-altos durante este periodo. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos de ETI han mostrado un ascenso en las cuatro últimas semanas, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso, con una mayor proporción de los casos asociados a SARS-CoV-2. Por países: En El Salvador, durante las últimas cuatro SE, la actividad del VRS ha descendido hasta niveles bajos, la actividad de SARSCoV- 2 ha mostrado un ligero incremento aunque se ha mantenido fluctuante, asimismo, la actividad de influenza ha fluctuado en torno al umbral epidémico. En Guatemala, la actividad del VRS ha descendido durante este periodo hasta niveles bajos con un descenso a su vez en los casos de IRAG en su mayoría positivos para VRS, y a su vez se ha observado un ligero ascenso en la actividad de influenza que se ha situado por encima del umbral epidémico coincidiendo con niveles de actividad de ETI moderados. En Honduras, la actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE hasta niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad de influenza ha ascendido hasta niveles moderados. Aunque los casos de ETI e IRAG continúan en descenso, la mayoría de los casos positivos son atribuibles a influenza. En Nicaragua, la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido oscilante en torno a niveles epidémicos durante las cuatro últimas SE, y la actividad del VRS se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles elevados. En Panamá, la actividad del VRS continúa en niveles elevados, aunque en descenso, mientras los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso durante este periodo alcanzando niveles elevados. La actividad de ETI e IRAG en la subregión se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos, entre los casos de IRAG se ha observado un pronunciado ascenso en la proporción de positivos a SARS-CoV-2, e influenza y en menor medida VRS. Los casos de ETI en su mayoría han sido positivos a influenza. Por países: En Bolivia, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada y los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles epidémicos durante las cuatro últimas SE. En Colombia, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2, VRS e influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, aunque con un incremento en las tres últimas SE, los casos de IRAG a su vez se mantienen fluctuantes en torno al umbral epidémico con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y en menor medida a influenza. En Ecuador, el SARS-CoV-2 ha alcanzado niveles elevados y la actividad de influenza en descenso ha continuado en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, esto se ha acompañado de un incremento en los casos de IRAG, con niveles moderados, siendo positivos mayoritariamente a influenza y SARS-CoV-2. Brasil y el Cono Sur: La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y B/Victoria seguidos de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso en niveles intermedios-altos. La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Por países: En Argentina, los niveles de ETI e IRAG se han mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico, a su vez se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2 alcanzando niveles intermedios en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados en este periodo, aunque con una tendencia decreciente. En Chile, se ha mantenido una actividad muy elevada de SARS-CoV-2 con un aumento en la actividad de influenza por encima del umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral, siendo en su mayoría atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido en las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles elevados, con una actividad de IRAG que se ha mantenido en descenso en niveles epidémicos y la mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI e IRAG atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG ha continuado en descenso en las últimas cuatro SE con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 52 (5 January 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the past four epidemiological weeks (EWs), an increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) activity has been observed in the Americas region, reaching elevated levels. Concurrently, there has been a moderate and stable activity of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), both associated with positive cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The rise in ILI activity is mainly linked to increases in North America and Central America, while SARI activity has only seen an increase in North America. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses, the regional SARS-CoV-2 activity has been moderate compared to previous epidemic waves. Additionally, there has been an increase in influenza activity, reaching elevated levels considered epidemic for this time of year, along with moderate activity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). North America: Influenza activity remains at epidemic levels and continues to rise. Over the last four EWs, the predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria and, to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has plateaued over the last four EWs with elevated circulation levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity continues at moderate to high levels, remaining stable in the last four EWs. Both ILI and SARI cases have shown an increase in the last four EWs, associated with a rise in the proportion of positive cases for influenza. By countries: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high in the last four EWs, with an increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold, as well as RSV during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has remained stable at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, and SARI activity remains at moderate levels (with a decrease in the last EW, possibly related to underreporting), showing an increase in the percentage of positive cases for influenza during this period. In the United States, a pronounced increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold has been observed in the last four EWs. The activity of RSV and SARS-CoV-2 has remained stable at high levels. Hospitalization rates for influenza and SARS-CoV-2 continue to rise at similar levels to the previous season, while hospitalization rates for RSV have declined in the last two EWs. Caribbean: Influenza activity has remained at moderate levels over the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity, after an increase in previous EWs, has remained in decline to low levels over the last four EWs. SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased in the last two EWs, reaching intermediate levels. ILI and SARI cases have continued to decline over the last four EWs, with a higher proportion of ILI and SARI cases associated with influenza. By countries: In Belize, influenza activity has risen in the last four EWs, reaching moderate levels. In the Dominican Republic, both RSV and influenza activities have maintained a decreasing trend over the last four EWs. In Haiti, SARI activity has fluctuated over the last four EWs, with a decrease in influenza and SARS-CoV-2 activity, remaining above the epidemic threshold in the last two EWs. In Jamaica, an increase in SARS-CoV-2 and RSV activity has been observed in the last four EWs, with moderate pneumonia levels and a slight decrease in the last EW. Santa Lucia has shown an increase in influenza activity in the last three EWs, coinciding with an increase in SARI cases above the moderate activity threshold. Suriname has shown an increase in influenza activity, with SARI activity around the epidemic threshold in the last four EWs. In Barbados, influenza activity has shown a slight increase in the last EW, and SARS-CoV-2 activity continues at low levels but has shown an increase in the last three EWs. Guyana has observed moderate levels of influenza activity in the last three EWs. The Cayman Islands have reported high influenza activity in the last four EWs and a slight increase in SARS-CoV-2 activity. Central America: Influenza activity has decreased in the last EW, reaching low levels. Over the last four EWs, the predominant viruses have been B/Victoria, followed by A(H1N1)pdm09, and, to a lesser extent, A(H3N2). RSV activity has remained at moderate to high levels over the last four EWs. Although SARS-CoV-2 activity remains at low levels, there has been an increase in the last four EWs. ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. SARI cases have remained on the decline over the last four EWs, with a higher proportion of cases associated with SARS-CoV-2 followed by influenza. By countries: In El Salvador, RSV activity has decreased to low levels in the last four EWs, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a slight increase, and influenza activity has risen above the epidemic threshold. In Guatemala, RSV activity has decreased over the last four EWs to low levels, along with a decline in SARI cases, mostly positive for RSV. There has also been a slight increase in influenza activity, surpassing the epidemic threshold, coinciding with moderate ILI activity levels. In Honduras, RSV activity has shown a decrease in the last four EWs to low levels, while influenza activity has remained at epidemic levels. Although ILI and SARI cases continue to decline, positive cases for influenza have increased in the last four EWs. In Nicaragua, influenza activity has remained fluctuating around epidemic levels in the last four EWs, and RSV activity has remained fluctuating at elevated levels. In Panama, RSV activity continues at elevated levels, albeit decreasing, while ILI and SARI cases have shown an increase in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean Region: Influenza activity, although remaining at low levels, has shown a slight increase in the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with lesser circulation of B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at low levels, with a slight increase over the last four EWs. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been on the rise over the last four EWs, reaching moderate to high levels. ILI and SARI activity in the subregion remain at low levels, with positive cases associated with influenza in most ILI cases and with influenza and RSV in SARI cases. By countries: In Bolivia, the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 has remained high, and SARI cases have remained at epidemic levels over the last four EWs. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and influenza activities have remained at low levels, with an increase in the last three EWs. SARI cases, in turn, have fluctuated around the epidemic threshold, with the majority of positive cases attributable to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Ecuador, SARS-CoV-2 has reached high levels, and influenza activity has remained at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, accompanied by an increase in SARI cases, at moderate levels, with the majority being positive for influenza. In Venezuela, influenza activity has remained fluctuating around the epidemic threshold over the last four EWs, with a slight increase in RSV activity. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels over the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been A(H3N2) and B/Victoria, followed by influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at intermediate to high levels over the last four EWs. SARI and ILI activity have remained low over the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. By countries: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold, with an increase in the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positivity reaching intermediate levels in the last four EWs. In Brazil, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at high levels over the last four EWs. In Chile, very high SARS-CoV-2 activity has been maintained, with an increase in influenza activity above the epidemic threshold in the last four EWs. ILI cases are at epidemic levels, and SARI cases are below this threshold. In Paraguay, the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 has risen in the last four EWs to intermediate to high levels, with SARI activity decreasing to epidemic levels, and the majority of positive cases for ILI and SARI attributable to SARS-CoV-2. In Uruguay, SARI activity has remained on the decline in the last four EWs, with levels below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE) se ha observado en la región de las Américas un incremento en la actividad de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) situándose en niveles elevados, y una actividad moderada y estable de Infección respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), asociadas ambas a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. El aumento de la actividad de ETI principalmente se relaciona con los incrementos en la actividad en Norteamérica y Centroamérica, mientras que la actividad de IRAG sólo se ha visto incrementada en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, se ha observado a nivel regional una actividad de SARS-CoV-2 moderada en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de influenza, alcanzando niveles elevados considerados epidémicos para esta época del año y una actividad de Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) moderada. América del Norte: La actividad de influenza se mantiene en niveles epidémicos de circulación y continúa en ascenso. Durante las últimas cuatro SE, los virus influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado una meseta en las últimas cuatro SE con niveles elevados de circulación. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles moderados-altos, mostrándose estable en las cuatro últimas SE. Los casos de ETI y de IRAG han mostrado un ascenso en las últimas cuatro SE, asociado a un incremento en la proporción de casos positivos para influenza. Por países: En Canadá la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada en las últimas cuatro SE, con un ascenso en la actividad de influenza, por encima del umbral epidémico, así como de VRS en este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido estable en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, y la actividad de IRAG se mantiene en niveles moderados (con un decremento la última SE posiblemente relacionado a una infranotificación), mostrando un incremento en el porcentaje de casos positivos a influenza en este periodo. En Estados Unidos en las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado un pronunciado incremento en la actividad de influenza por encima del umbral epidémico, la actividad del VRS y el SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza y SARS-CoV-2 se mantienen en ascenso en niveles similares a la temporada previa, mientras que las tasas de hospitalización por VRS han presentado un descenso en las dos últimas SE. Caribe: la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles moderados durante las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS, tras un incremento observado en SE previas, se ha mantenido en descenso hasta niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un incremento en las dos últimas SE, situándose en niveles intermedios. Los casos de ETI e IRAG han permanecido en descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con una mayor proporción de los casos de ETI e IRAG asociados a influenza. Por países: En Belize la actividad de influenza ha ascendido en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles moderados. En República Dominicana la actividad del VRS así como la de influenza han mantenido una tendencia decreciente en las últimas cuatro SE. En Haití la actividad de IRAG ha fluctuado durante las cuatro últimas SE en las que se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza y SARS-CoV-2, encontrándose en las dos últimas SE por encima del umbral epidémico. En Jamaica se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS en las últimas cuatro SE, con niveles de neumonía moderados con un ligero descenso en la última SE. Santa Lucía ha presentado un incremento en la actividad de influenza en las tres últimas SE coincidente con un incremento en los casos de IRAG por encima del umbral de actividad moderada. Surinam ha presentado un incremento en la actividad de influenza, con un una actividad de IRAG en torno al umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE. En Barbados la actividad de influenza ha presentado un ligero incremento en la última SE, y la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles bajos aunque mostrando un incremento en las tres últimas SE. En Guyana se han observados niveles medios en la actividad de influenza en las tres últimas SE. En las Islas Caimán se ha observada una actividad elevada de influenza en las cuatro últimas SE y un ligero ascenso en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2. cuatro SE, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo B/Victoria, seguido de A(H1N1)pdm09, y en menor medida de A(H3N2) . La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles medios-altos durante las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 aunque permanece en niveles bajo, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos de ETI han mostrado un ascenso en las cuatro últimas semanas, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con una mayor proporción de los casos asociados a SARS-CoV-2 seguidos de influenza. Por países: En El Salvador, durante las últimas cuatro SE la actividad del VRS ha descendido hasta niveles bajos, la actividad de SARSCoV- 2 ha mostrado un ligero incremento, y la actividad de influenza ha ascendido hasta superar el umbral epidémico. En Guatemala, la actividad del VRS ha descendido durante las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles bajos con un descenso a su vez en los casos de IRAG en su mayoría positivos para VRS, y a su vez se ha observado un ligero ascenso en la actividad de influenza que se ha situado por encima del umbral epidémico coincidiendo con niveles de actividad de ETI moderados. En Honduras, la actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE hasta niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos. Aunque los casos de ETI e IRAG continúan en descenso, los casos positivos a influenza han aumentado en las cuatro últimas SE. En Nicaragua, la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido oscilante en torno a niveles epidémicos durante las cuatro últimas SE, y la actividad del VRS se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles elevados. En Panamá, la actividad del VRS continúa en niveles elevados, aunque en descenso mientras los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: La actividad de influenza, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un ligero incremento en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, aunque presentando un ligero ascenso las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso durante las últimas cuatro SE alcanzando niveles moderados-altos. La actividad de ETI e IRAG en la subregión continúa en niveles bajos, y los casos de IRAG, los casos con resultado positivo se han asociado a influenza en los la mayoría de los ETI y a influenza y VRS en los IRAG. Por países: En Bolivia la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada y los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles epidémicos durante las cuatro últimas SE. En Colombia la actividad de SARS-CoV-2, VRS e influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, aunque con un incremento en las tres últimas SE, los casos de IRAG a su vez se mantienen fluctuantes en torno al umbral epidémico con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y en menor medida a influenza. En Ecuador el SARS-CoV-2 ha alcanzado niveles elevados y la actividad de influenza a su vez se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, esto se ha acompañado de un incremento en los casos de IRAG, con niveles moderados, siendo positivos a influenza en su mayoría. En Venezuela la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido fluctuante en torno al umbral epidémico durante las cuatro últimas SE, y a su vez se ha observado un ligero ascenso en la actividad del VRS. Brasil y el Cono Sur: la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo los virus influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y B/Victoria seguidos de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios-altos en las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARSCoV- 2. Por países: En Argentina los niveles de ETI e IRAG se han mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico, a su vez se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2 alcanzando niveles intermedios en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados en las cuatro últimas SE. En Chile, se ha mantenido una actividad muy elevada de SARS-CoV-2 con un aumento en la actividad de influenza por encima del umbral epidémico en las cuatro últimas SE, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido en las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles medio-altos, con una actividad de IRAG en descenso a niveles epidémicos y la mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI e IRAG atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido en descenso en las últimas cuatro SE conniveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 3 (26 January 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the past four epidemiological weeks (EWs), a decline in the activity of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) has been observed in the Americas region, reaching intermediate levels. Additionally, there is a moderate-to-low and decreasing activity of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), associated with positive cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The moderate ILI activity has been mainly linked to North America and the Caribbean, currently on the decline, while SARI activity has been particularly influenced by the observed activity in North America. Concerning the circulation of respiratory viruses, a moderate level of SARS-CoV-2 activity has been maintained at the regional level compared to previous epidemic waves. Likewise, there has been an observed epidemic level of influenza activity for this time of the year with a slight decrease, along with a stably moderate activity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). North America: Cases of ILI have significantly decreased, with most cases attributable to influenza, although there is also a decline in this proportion. Similarly, SARI cases have shown a decrease, with most cases attributable to influenza and to a lesser extent to SARSCoV-2. Influenza activity has remained epidemic, showing a decrease in the last four EWs. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with concurrent circulation of influenza B/Victoria, and to a lesser extent, influenza A(H3N2). RSV activity has slightly decreased in the last EW, maintaining moderate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity continues at moderate levels, showing a decrease in the last four EWs. By country: In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained high in the last four EWs, albeit showing a decreasing trend. Influenza activity has also decreased but remains above the epidemic threshold, while RSV activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Mexico, influenza circulation has fluctuated at epidemic levels in the last four EWs, and a slight increase in SARS-CoV-2 circulation has been observed. SARI activity has decreased to epidemic levels, with the majority of positive cases being influenza during this period. In the United States, influenza activity has remained stable above the epidemic threshold, and although RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activities have remained at high levels, they have shown a slight decreasing trend. Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, after reaching similar high levels as the previous season, have shown a downward trend in the last three EWs. Caribbean: ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks associated with an increase in positive cases of influenza, while SARI cases have remained in decline. Influenza activity has decreased in the last two EWs, reaching intermediate circulation levels. During this period, predominant viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by A(H3N2), and to a lesser extent, B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased in the last four EWs, reaching high levels. By countries: Elevated influenza activity has been observed in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Elevated SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, Dominica, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Central America: ILI cases have shown an increase in the last four weeks, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV2. SARI cases have shown a slight increase, with a slight rise in the proportion of positive cases for SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has increased in the last three EWs, reaching moderate levels. During this period, predominant viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria, and to a lesser extent, A(H3N2). RSV activity has decreased to low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although remaining at low levels, has shown an increase in the last four EWs. By countries: In El Salvador, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a marked increase in the last two EWs, reaching intermediate levels. In Guatemala, an increase in ILI cases associated with influenza and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2 has been observed, reaching epidemic activity levels. Regarding SARI cases, there has also been a slight increase with positive cases attributable to both influenza and RSV, reaching epidemic levels. In Honduras, a slight increase has been observed in both ILI and SARI cases associated with positive cases of influenza, with activity at epidemic levels. In Nicaragua, RSV activity has shown a decrease to low levels in the last three weeks. In Panama, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase, and influenza activity has slightly increased to epidemic levels. Both ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Andean: ILI activity has remained stable at low levels, while SARI cases have shown an increase associated with an increase in the proportion of positives for SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and to a lesser extent, RSV. Influenza activity has remained low in the last four EWs. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H1N1)pdm09, with lesser circulation of B/Victoria and A(H3N2). RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at high levels. By countries: In Bolivia, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has remained high. In Colombia, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a pronounced increase, reaching medium-high levels in the last four EWs. SARI cases have increased, associated with positive cases of influenza first, followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV. In Ecuador, although SARS-CoV-2 remains at high levels, it has shown a decrease. Similarly, influenza activity has continued to decrease at epidemic levels, and RSV activity has shown a slight increase in the last three EWs. This has been accompanied by an increase in SARI cases in the last four EWs, reaching epidemic levels in the last EW, with the majority of positive cases being influenza and SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, RSV. In Venezuela, an increase has been observed in influenza and RSV activity. Brazil and the Southern Cone: SARI and ILI activity has remained low in the last four EWs, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and a pronounced increase in the percentage of positive cases. Influenza activity has remained at low circulation levels in the last four EWs. During this period, predominant influenza viruses have been A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09, followed by B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained on the rise at high levels. By countries: In Argentina, ILI and SARI levels have remained below the epidemic threshold. However, an increase in the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positivity has been observed, reaching high levels in the last four EWs. In Brazil, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained stable at high levels during this period. In Chile, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained very high, with ILI cases at epidemic levels and SARI cases below this threshold, mostly attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Paraguay, SARS-CoV-2 circulation has increased in the last four EWs, reaching high levels, and influenza activity has increased to epidemic levels. SARI activity has remained at epidemic levels, with the majority of positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. In Uruguay, SARI activity has continued below the epidemic threshold, with the majority of scarce positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha observado en la región de las Américas un descenso en la actividad de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI), situándose en niveles intermedios, y una actividad moderada-baja también en descenso de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG), asociada ambas a casos positivos de influenza y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad moderada de ETI se ha relacionado principalmente con la actividad en Norteamérica y Caribe, que actualmente se encuentra en descenso mientras que la actividad de IRAG se ha visto especialmente influenciada por la actividad en Norteamérica. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, se ha mantenido a nivel regional una actividad de SARS-CoV-2 moderada en comparación con olas epidémicas previas. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad de influenza, considerada epidémica para esta época del año con un ligero descenso, y una actividad de Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) moderada que se mantiene estable. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI han presentado un marcado descenso con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza, aunque mostrando un descenso a su vez en esta proporción. Del mismo modo, los casos de IRAG han mostrado un decremento con la mayoría de los casos atribuibles a influenza y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos de circulación presentando un descenso en la cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, con circulación concurrente de influenza B/Victoria y, en menor medida, influenza A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha mostrado un ligero descenso en la última SE, manteniéndose en niveles moderados. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 continúa en niveles moderados, presentando un decremento en las cuatro últimas SE. Por países: En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada en las últimas cuatro SE, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. La actividad de influenza ha mostrado asimismo un descenso, aunque permanece por encima del umbral epidémico, y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable en niveles altos durante este periodo. En México, la circulación de influenza se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles epidémicos en las cuatro últimas SE, y se ha observado un ligero incremento en la circulación del SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de IRAG ha presentado un descenso a niveles epidémicos, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos a influenza en este periodo. En Estados Unidos, la actividad de influenza se ha mantenido estable por encima del umbral epidémico y la actividad del VRS y el SARS-CoV-2 aunque han permanecido en niveles elevados has mostrado una tendencia ligeramente decreciente. Las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2 tras alcanzar niveles elevados similares a la temporada previa han presentado una tendencia a la baja en las tres últimas SE. Caribe: Los casos de ETI han mostrado un incremento en las cuatro últimas semanas asociado a un incremento en los casos positivos a influenza, mientras que los casos de IRAG han permanecido en descenso. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un descenso en las últimas dos SE, alcanzando niveles intermedios de circulación. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de A(H3N2) y en menor medida B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles elevados. Por países: Se ha observado una actividad elevada de influenza en, República Dominicana, Jamaica, las Islas Caimán, Guyana y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Se ha observado una actividad elevada de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, Dominica, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Barbados, las Islas Caimán, Guyana y Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. América Central: Los casos de ETI han mostrado un ascenso en las cuatro últimas semanas, siendo la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Los casos de IRAG han mostrado un ligero ascenso, con un ligero aumento en la proporción de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un incremento en las tres últimas SE, situándose en niveles medios. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09, seguido de B/Victoria y en menor medida de A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha presentado un descenso hasta niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2, aunque ha permanecido en niveles bajos, ha presentado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE. Por países: En El Salvador, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un marcado incremento en las dos últimas SE hasta niveles intermedios. En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI asociados a influenza y en menor medida SARS-CoV- 2, encontrándose en niveles de actividad epidémicos, en cuanto a los casos de IRAG han mostrado a su vez un ligero ascenso con los casos positivos atribuibles tanto a influenza como a VRS, con niveles asimismo epidémicos. En Honduras, se ha observado un ligero incremento tanto en los casos de ETI como de IRAG asociados a casos positivos a influenza cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos. En Nicaragua, la actividad del VRS ha mostrado un descenso hasta niveles bajos en las tres últimas semanas. En Panamá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado ascenso y la actividad de influenza ha ascendido ligeramente hasta niveles epidémicos. los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Andina: La actividad de ETI se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos, mientras que los casos de IRAG han mostrado un ascenso asociado al aumento en la proporción de positivos a SARS-CoV-2, influenza y en menor medida VRS. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 con circulación en menor medida de B/Victoria y A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles elevados Por países: En Bolivia, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido elevada. En Colombia, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un pronunciado incremento situándose en niveles medio-altos en las cuatro últimas SE, los casos de IRAG han presentado un incremento asociado a casos positivos a influenza en primer lugar seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. En Ecuador, el SARS-CoV-2 aunque permanece en niveles elevados ha presentado un descenso, igualmente la actividad de influenza ha continuado en descenso en niveles epidémicos y la actividad del VRS ha presentado un ligero incremento en las tres últimas SE. Esto se ha acompañado de un incremento en los casos de IRAG en las cuatro últimas SE, con niveles epidémicos en la última SE, siendo los casos positivos mayoritariamente a influenza y SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a VRS. En Venezuela se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de influenza y de VRS. Brasil y el Cono Sur: La actividad de IRAG y ETI ha permanecido baja en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 con un porcentaje de casos positivos en pronunciado ascenso. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles bajos de circulación durante las últimas cuatro SE. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09 seguidos de B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en ascenso en niveles altos. Por países: En Argentina, los niveles de ETI e IRAG han permanecido por debajo del umbral epidémico. Sin embargo, se ha observado un aumento en el porcentaje de positividad de SARS-CoV-2, alcanzando niveles elevados en las cuatro últimas SE. En Brasil, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido estable en niveles elevados en este periodo. En Chile, se ha mantenido una actividad muy elevada de SARS-CoV-2, con los casos de ETI en niveles epidémicos y los casos de IRAG por debajo de este umbral, siendo en su mayoría atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. En Paraguay, la circulación del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido en las cuatro últimas SE hasta niveles elevados y la actividad de influenza ha ascendido a niveles epidémicos, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida ha influenza. En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG ha continuado con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, siendo la mayoría de los escasos casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2.

Innovative spectral characterisation of beached pelagic sargassum towards remote estimation of biochemical and phenotypic properties.

In recent years, pelagic sargassum (S. fluitans and S. natans - henceforth sargassum) macroalgal blooms have become more frequent and larger with higher biomass in the Tropical Atlantic region. They have environmental and socio-economic impacts, particularly on coastal ecosystems, tourism, fisheries and aquaculture industries, and on public health. Despite these challenges, sargassum biomass has the potential to offer commercial opportunities in the blue economy, although, it is reliant on key chemical and physical characteristics of the sargassum for specific use. In this study, we aim to utilise remotely sensed spectral profiles to determine species/morphotypes at different decomposition stages and their biochemical composition to support monitoring and valorisation of sargassum. For this, we undertook dedicated field campaigns in Barbados and Ghana to collect, for the first time, in situ spectral measurements between 350 and 2500 nm using a Spectra Vista Corp (SVC) HR-1024i field spectrometer of pelagic sargassum stranded biomass. The spectral measurements were complemented by uncrewed aerial system surveys using a DJI Phantom 4 drone and a DJI P4 multispectral instrument. Using the ground and airborne datasets this research developed an operational framework for remote detection of beached sargassum; and created spectral profiles of species/morphotypes and decomposition maps to infer biochemical composition. We were able to identify some key spectral regions, including a consistent absorption feature (920-1080 nm) found in all of the sargassum morphotype spectral profiles; we also observed distinction between fresh and recently beached sargassum particularly around 900-1000 nm. This work can support pelagic sargassum management and contribute to effective utilisation of the sargassum biomass to ultimately alleviate some of the socio-economic impacts associated with this emerging environmental challenge.

Plasticizer concentration effect on films and coatings based on poly(vinyl alcohol) and cationic starch blends.

Films based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and cationic starch (CS) were combined with different percentages of sorbitol (S; 15.0, 22.5, and 30.0% w v-1) to assess the effect of plasticizer on the films. Spectroscopic analyses confirmed the interaction between them. However, micrographs indicated the formation of sorbitol crystals on the surface of the films, especially at higher sorbitol concentrations. The blends presented low water vapor transmission rate values, reaching (7.703 ± 0.000) g h-1 m-2 (PVA75CS25S15), and low solubility values for the films containing higher CS amounts. The lack of statistical differences in most parameters suggests that no significant gain comes from increasing the amount of sorbitol at percentages higher than 15%. As a coating, the blend PVA75CS25S15 successfully decreased the loss of moisture content in acerolas by 1.15 times (compared to the control), confirming the suitability of this matrix as a fruit coating.