Engeletin attenuates the inflammatory response via inhibiting TLR4-NFκB signaling pathway in Crohn's disease-like colitis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Smilax glabra rhizome has a long history been used for clinical purposes in traditional Chinese medicinal for treating various inflammatory conditions. Engeletin1 (ENG) is one of the most abundant bioactive compounds found in Smilax glabra rhizome, with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and ulcer-preventing activities. AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of ENG to alleviate inflammatory symptoms and improve epithelial barrier integrity utilize a 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid2 (TNBS)-induced murine model in Crohn's disease3 (CD)-like colitis, and to characterize the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A colitis model was established in BALB/c mice and treated with ENG for 7 days. RAW264.7 macrophages were pre-treated with ENG and lipopolysaccharide4 (LPS) stimulation. The mice's weight and colon length were assessed. qPCR and Western blotting were used to analyze gene expression and TLR4-NFκB pathway. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the polarization states of the macrophages. RESULTS: Treatment with ENG was sufficient to significantly alleviate symptoms of inflammation and colonic epithelial barrier integrity in treated mice. Significant inhibition of TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6 expression was observed following ENG treatment in vivo and in vitro. ENG was also determined to be capable of inhibiting the expression of iNOS and CD86, inhibited M1 macrophage polarization in vitro, as well as the TLR4-NFκB signaling pathway. Molecular docking showed a highly stable binding between ENG and TLR4. CONCLUSION: ENG has been proven to alleviate inflammation and ameliorate the damage of epithelial barrier in CD-like colitis. ENG also suppressed the M1 macrophages polarization and the inhibited inflammatory cytokines. TLR4-NFκB signaling pathway, especially TLR4, may be the target of ENG. These data offer a new insight into the therapeutic mechanisms of ENG.

Factors affecting infant feeding choices with a focus on barriers to exclusive breastfeeding in Western Jamaica: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Despite the many benefits of exclusive breastfeeding to infants and mothers, only 33% of Jamaican infants are exclusively breastfed up to the recommend six months. This study was conducted to identify factors affecting mothers' feeding choices focusing on barriers to exclusive breastfeeding of infants six weeks to less than six months old. METHODS: A qualitative study consisting of four focus group discussion sessions was conducted among 22 mothers attending postnatal clinics in western Jamaica from May to August 2016. The transcripts were coded by three independent coders and content analysis conducted to generate themes. RESULTS: Four themes were identified namely, perceived advantages of breastfeeding centered mainly on the benefits of breastfeeding for the infant and mother, perceived barriers of breastfeeding highlighting physical pain and fatigue, supplementing culturally acceptable complementary foods and herbal remedies, and cultural norms including perception of how breastfeeding affects a woman's body, societal sources of breastfeeding information, satiation of infants, and family and other support. Mothers overwhelmingly agreed that breastfeeding was inexpensive, allowed them to bond with their infants and was good for the overall health and intellectual development of the infants. They identified painful nipples, engorged breasts, lack of sleep, physical exhaustion and pressure to return to work as barriers to breastfeeding. Mothers named a number of complementary foods, such as pumpkin, carrots, potato, banana, and chocho (Chayote), that were culturally accepted for feeding infants in Jamaica and discussed herbs that were considered to aid in infants' nutrition and overall health. Other cultural factors that were noted to influence exclusive breastfeeding were mothers feeling that breastfeeding would help their bodies, especially their bellies, go back to their pre-maternity figure, sources of breastfeeding information in the society including the internet, belief that breast milk alone does not satisfy babies, and family and other support. CONCLUSION: Mothers in this study identified unique challenges to exclusive breastfeeding that if addressed, would help to increase exclusive breastfeeding so that the World Health Organization's exclusive breastfeeding recommendations can be achieved.

Cultural Shifts: An Examination of Cervical Cancer Stigma Across Age Groups in the Caribbean.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer-related stigma is common but understudied in the Caribbean. This study aims to describe the age difference of cervical cancer stigma and to evaluate the influence on the prevention practices among the Caribbean non-patient population in Jamaica, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 1,209 participants was conducted using a culturally trans-created Cancer Stigma Scale for the Caribbean context and supplemented with questions on cervical cancer and HPV/HPV vaccine knowledge and beliefs. Descriptive analyses and Chi-square tests were conducted. RESULTS: Chi-squared tests showed age is significantly related to participants' response to stigma items such as "community members believe cervical cancer is viewed as shameful" (p = .0001); "women with cervical cancer are treated with less respect than usual by others" (p<.0001), "women with cervical cancer are rejected by family members" (p = .0007), "women with cervical cancer are rejected by intimate partners" (p<.0001), and "intimate partners blame women for having cervical cancer" (p = .0032). Additionally, age has significant associations with endorsements of negative views of cervical cancer from the community (p<.0001) and family (p<.0001) as key barriers to cervical cancer care (item: "discourage women from seeking and obtaining screening and treatment"). Notably, younger respondents (18-25 years) are more sensitized to the unfair stigma and hold more stigma. CONCLUSIONS: Among Caribbeans, age influences cervical cancer stigma. Younger persons acknowledged greater stigma within families and communities. This study can guide age-informed interventions and programs to reduce stigma and improve cervical cancer screening and care seeking to reduce cervical cancer burden and disparities.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 31 (9 August 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: During the last four epidemiological weeks (EW), there has been epidemic activity of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in the Southern Cone, alongside an increase in activity in the subregions of North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. This activity is linked to the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. Additionally, epidemic levels of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) have been observed in the Southern Cone, the Andean subregion, and Central America, related to positive cases of RSV, and to a lesser extent, influenza. In North America, there has been an uptick in activity related to the circulation of SARS-CoV-2. Regarding the circulation of respiratory viruses at the regional level, SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased, particularly in North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean subregion. Additionally, although influenza activity has decreased in the Southern Cone and Central America, epidemic levels persist. RSV activity has reached epidemic levels in Central America, the Andean subregion, and the Southern Cone. North America: After a rise in cases of ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations associated with respiratory viruses in recent weeks, there has been a gradual decline. However, there has been a significant increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has remained below the epidemic threshold in all countries. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), followed by A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria. RSV activity has stayed low. In contrast, SARSCoV- 2 activity has increased, reaching moderate or high levels in some countries compared to previous waves. By country: • In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has risen, reaching levels close to the peaks observed in previous waves. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold, while RSV activity remains low. • In Mexico, after reaching moderate levels in previous epidemiological weeks, ILI and SARI cases have shown a slight decline in the past week. Most positive cases are attributable to SARS-CoV-2. Both influenza and RSV activity remain low. • In the United States, the SARS-CoV-2 hospitalization rate per 100,000 inhabitants has increased in recent weeks, reaching levels similar to the peaks observed in 2023 and 2024. Influenza and RSV activity remain low. Caribbean: Over the past four EW, ILI cases have risen, linked to a higher proportion of positive influenza cases, while SARI cases have remained low. Influenza activity has fluctuated at moderate levels during the past four EW, with type A(H3N2) being predominant, followed by A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained low, while SARS-CoV-2 activity remains stable at high levels. By country: In the last four EW, influenza activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Guyana. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 activity has been recorded in Belize, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. • In Saint Lucia, there has been an increase in SARI activity, with epidemic levels linked to SARS-CoV-2 circulation, although this activity has decreased in the most recent EW. • In Guyana, there has been a rise in ILI and SARI cases, with positive cases attributable to both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, and to a lesser extent, RSV. Central America: There has been an increase in ILI and SARI activity, with most positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2 and RSV, whose activity has been on the rise. Influenza activity, after reaching epidemic levels in several countries in the subregion, has declined over the past four EW. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2). RSV activity has reached levels comparable to the peaks recorded in previous seasons. Although SARS-CoV-2 activity is increasing, it remains below the levels observed in previous waves. By country: • In Costa Rica, following the increase in ILI and SARI cases in previous weeks, a downward trend has been observed over the past four EW, with most positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2, whose activity is increasing, and to a lesser extent, influenza, which is currently declining within epidemic levels. • In El Salvador, influenza circulation, after reaching moderate levels, has declined over the past four EW, falling below the epidemic threshold. SARS-CoV-2 remains at low levels compared to previous waves. • In Guatemala, ILI activity has increased to moderate levels, with most positive cases attributable to influenza and SARSCoV- 2. SARI activity remains constant at epidemic levels; however, there has been a significant increase in the proportion of positive RSV cases. • In Honduras, over the past four EW, SARI activity has fluctuated between epidemic and moderate levels, mainly associated with positive influenza cases, which is currently declining within epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2. • In Nicaragua, after influenza circulation exceeded the elevated threshold, it has declined over the past four EW to epidemic levels, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains low. • In Panama, ILI and SARI cases have increased over the past four EW, with a rise in the proportion of positive RSV cases, whose activity has shown a significant increase, alongside SARS-CoV-2. Influenza activity has declined below the epidemic activity threshold. Andean: ILI and SARI activity has declined over the past four EW in most countries. Additionally, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases, with a decrease in the proportion of positive RSV and influenza cases, whose activity has continued to decline during this period. The predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2). RSV activity has remained stable at moderate levels, while SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a sharp increase to moderate levels compared to previous waves. By country: • In Bolivia, SARI cases are fluctuating around the epidemic threshold. Influenza activity has decreased to levels below this threshold. • In Colombia, SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels in recent weeks, has declined below this threshold. Most positive cases are attributed to RSV, whose activity is declining, and to a lesser extent to SARS-CoV-2, which is increasing, with intermediate circulation levels compared to previous waves. Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) cases remain high. • In Ecuador, SARI and pneumonia activity has remained around the moderate threshold in the past four EW. Positive SARI cases are mainly attributed to influenza, which is at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent to RSV and SARS-CoV-2. • In Peru, after reaching extraordinary levels of SARI, there has been a decline in the past week. Most positive cases are attributable to RSV, whose activity is on the rise, and to a lesser extent, influenza, which is below the epidemic threshold. Additionally, increasing SARS-CoV-2 activity has been recorded; however, it remains at low levels. • In Venezuela, a decline in influenza activity has been observed, falling below the epidemic threshold. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Following the increase observed in previous weeks, SARI activity has declined over the past four EW, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. ILI activity has shown a slight uptick, associated with an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity is declining, remaining below the epidemic threshold in most countries. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2). RSV activity has shown a slight decrease after reaching levels below the peaks observed in previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low, although with a slight increase. By country: • In Argentina, ILI activity, after reaching high levels, has declined to levels below the epidemic threshold, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has also fallen below this threshold. Influenza activity, after reaching high levels, has declined to epidemic levels. Additionally, there has been an increase in the RSV positivity rate, reaching values similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons. • In Brazil, ILI and SARI activity has declined to levels below the epidemic threshold. Influenza activity is also decreasing below the epidemic threshold, while RSV activity remains low. However, SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a slight increase. • In Chile, after a previous decline, there has been a slight uptick in ILI and SARI cases, with elevated and epidemic levels, respectively. Most positive cases during the past four EW are attributable to RSV, whose activity remains on the rise, though with positivity levels below the peaks observed in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has declined below the epidemic threshold. • In Paraguay, SARI activity remains at moderate levels, with most positive cases attributable to RSV, whose activity is declining, and to a lesser extent SARS-CoV-2, which is increasing. ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has declined below this threshold. • In Uruguay, SARI activity has remained at moderate levels, with most positive cases attributable to RSV, whose activity continues to rise, reaching levels higher than the peaks observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha registrado una actividad epidémica de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en el Cono Sur, junto con un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones de Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está vinculada con la circulación de la influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe, así como del SARS-CoV-2 en Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Además, se han observado niveles epidémicos de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, relacionados con casos positivos de VRS, y en menor medida, de influenza. En Norteamérica, se ha detectado un incremento en la actividad relacionado con la circulación del SARS-CoV-2. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios a nivel regional, se ha observado un aumento en la actividad del SARS-CoV-2, especialmente en Norteamérica, el Caribe, Centroamérica y la subregión Andina. Asimismo, aunque la actividad de influenza ha disminuido en el Cono Sur y América Central, aún se mantienen niveles epidémicos. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) ha alcanzado niveles epidémicos en América Central, la subregión Andina y el Cono Sur. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios, tras haber mostrado un incremento en semanas previas, han comenzado a descender, aunque se ha observado un marcado aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de la influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H3N2), seguidos por A(H1N1)pdm09 y B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. En contraste, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un aumento, alcanzando en algunos países niveles medios o elevados en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha incrementado, alcanzando niveles cercanos a los máximos registrados en olas previas. La actividad de la influenza sigue por debajo del umbral epidémico, mientras que la actividad del VRS se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En México, después de un ascenso hasta niveles moderados en semanas epidemiológicas previas, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un ligero descenso en la última semana. La mayoría de los casos positivos son atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2. Tanto la actividad de la influenza como la del VRS se mantienen en niveles bajos. • En Estados Unidos, la tasa de hospitalizaciones asociadas a SARS-CoV-2 por cada 100,000 habitantes ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas semanas, alcanzando niveles de circulación similares a los picos observados en 2023 y 2024. La actividad de la influenza y la del VRS continúan en niveles bajos. Caribe: En las últimas cuatro SE, los casos de ETI han aumentado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de influenza mientras que los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE, con predominio del tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 sigue estable en niveles elevados. Por países: En las últimas cuatro SE, se ha observado actividad de influenza en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, las Islas Caimán y Guyana. Asimismo, se ha registrado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán y San Vicente y las Granadinas. • En Santa Lucía, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de IRAG, con niveles epidémicos asociados a la circulación de SARS-CoV-2, aunque esta actividad ha descendido en la última SE. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG, con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza, y en menor medida, a VRS. América Central: Se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI e IRAG, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y VRS, cuya actividad ha mostrado un ascenso. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en varios países de la subregión, ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha alcanzado niveles similares a los máximos registrados en temporadas previas. Aunque la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 está en ascenso, permanece en niveles inferiores a los observados en olas anteriores. Por países: • En Costa Rica, tras el aumento detectado en los casos de ETI e IRAG en semanas previas, durante las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado una tendencia decreciente, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad se encuentra en ascenso, y en menor medida a influenza, que actualmente se encuentra en descenso dentro de niveles epidémicos. • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha presentado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE hasta situarse por debajo del umbral epidémico. El SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI hasta niveles moderados, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de IRAG se mantiene constante en niveles epidémicos; sin embargo, se ha observado un marcado incremento en la proporción de casos positivos a VRS. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro SE, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido fluctuante entre niveles epidémicos y moderados, asociada principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, que actualmente se encuentra en descenso dentro de niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2. • En Nicaragua, tras alcanzar niveles de circulación de influenza por encima del umbral elevado, durante las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado un descenso hasta niveles epidémicos, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE, con un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS, cuya actividad ha mostrado un marcado ascenso, y de SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha descendido por debajo del umbral de actividad epidémica. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE en la mayoría de los países. Asimismo, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2, con un descenso en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS e influenza, cuya actividad ha permanecido en descenso durante este periodo. Los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido estable en niveles moderados, mientras que la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un pronunciado ascenso hasta niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG se encuentran fluctuantes en torno al umbral epidémico. La actividad de influenza ha disminuido hasta niveles inferiores a este umbral. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral. La mayoría de los casos positivos se atribuyen a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en descenso, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2, que está en ascenso, con niveles de circulación intermedios en comparación con olas anteriores. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) se mantienen en niveles elevados. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y neumonía se ha mantenido en torno al umbral moderado en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos positivos de IRAG se atribuyen principalmente a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a VRS y SARS-CoV-2. • En Perú, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios de IRAG, se ha observado un descenso en la última semana. Los casos positivos son en su mayoría atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso, y en menor medida a influenza, cuya actividad se sitúa por debajo del umbral epidémico. Asimismo, se ha registrado una creciente actividad de SARS-CoV-2; sin embargo, esta se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Venezuela, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de IRAG ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y, en menor medida, a influenza. La actividad de ETI ha mostrado un ligero repunte, asociado con un incremento en la proporción de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en descenso, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico en la mayoría de los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H1N1)pdm09 y A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha mostrado un ligero descenso, tras alcanzar niveles inferiores a los máximos observados en temporadas previas. La actividad del SARSCoV- 2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, aunque mostrando un ligero incremento. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, también ha caído por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza, después de alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, alcanzando valores similares a los máximosobservados en temporadas previas. • En Brasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en descenso, también por debajo del umbral epidémico, y la actividad de VRS se mantiene en niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un ligero incremento. • En Chile, tras el descenso observado en semanas previas, se ha registrado un ligero repunte en los casos de ETI e IRAG, con niveles elevados y epidémicos, respectivamente. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque con niveles de positividad por debajo de los máximos observados en temporadas anteriores. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Paraguay, la actividad de IRAG se mantiene en niveles moderados, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad está en descenso, y en menor medida, a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. La actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles moderados, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, alcanzando niveles superiores a los picos observados en temporadas anteriores.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 30 (2 August 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: Over the last four epidemiological weeks (EWs), epidemic levels of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) have been reported in the Southern Cone, along with increased activity in North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. This increase is associated with the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. Additionally, epidemic levels of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) have been observed in the Southern Cone, the Andean subregion, and Central America, driven by positive cases of influenza and RSV. At the regional level, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at moderate levels compared to previous epidemic waves, although there has been an uptick linked to increased circulation in North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean subregion. Similarly, while influenza activity has remained at epidemic levels in the Southern Cone and Central America, it is now on the decline. RSV activity has risen to epidemic levels in Central America, the Andean subregion, and the Southern Cone, with a growing trend observed. North America: Cases of ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations associated with respiratory viruses have increased, with a notable rise in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has remained below the epidemic threshold across all countries. During this period, the predominant influenza strains have been A(H3N2), followed by A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained low. However, SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased, reaching moderate to high levels in some countries compared to previous waves. By Country: • Canada: SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased, reaching levels close to those seen in previous peaks. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold, while RSV activity has stayed low. • Mexico: Cases of ILI and SARI have increased to moderate and epidemic levels, respectively, driven by a rise in positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza and RSV activity remain low. • United States: The SARS-CoV-2 hospitalization rate per 100,000 inhabitants has risen in recent weeks, reaching levels similar to those during the peaks of 2023 and 2024. Both influenza and RSV activity remain low. Caribbean: In the last four EWs, ILI cases have increased, accompanied by a higher proportion of positive influenza cases. While SARI cases have remained low, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. Influenza activity has remained at intermediate levels during the last four EWs, with A(H3N2) being predominant, followed by A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has stayed low, while SARS-CoV-2 activity continues to be stable at elevated levels. By Country: In the last four EWs, influenza activity has been reported in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Guyana. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been detected in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. RSV activity has been observed in Suriname, Guyana, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. • Dominican Republic: An increase in SARI activity has been detected, reaching epidemic levels, coinciding with epidemic influenza activity and SARS-CoV-2 circulation. • Saint Lucia: An increase in SARI activity has been observed, reaching epidemic levels, associated with SARS-CoV-2 circulation. • Guyana: An increase in ILI and SARI cases has been reported, with positive cases attributed to SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and to a lesser extent, RSV. Central America: There has been an increase in ILI and SARI activity, with most positive cases attributed to influenza, followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV, both of which have shown rising activity. After peaking at epidemic levels in several countries in the subregion, influenza activity has shown a decline over the last four EWs. During this period, A(H3N2) has been the predominant influenza virus. RSV activity has reached levels similar to the peaks recorded in previous seasons. Although SARS-CoV-2 activity is increasing, it remains below the levels seen in previous waves. By Country: • Costa Rica: Following an increase in ILI and SARI cases in previous weeks, a declining trend has been observed over the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributed to SARS-CoV-2 and, to a lesser extent, influenza. • El Salvador: After reaching moderate levels, influenza circulation has declined over the last four EWs. SARS-CoV-2 activity remains low compared to previous waves. • Guatemala: An increase in ILI activity to moderate levels has been observed, with most positive cases attributed to influenza and SARS-CoV-2. SARI activity remains constant at epidemic levels; however, there has been a marked increase in the proportion of positive RSV cases. • Honduras: Over the past four EWs, SARI activity has fluctuated between epidemic and moderate levels, primarily associated with positive influenza cases, which are now in decline but still at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2. • Nicaragua: After peaking above the high threshold in influenza circulation during the last four EWs, activity is now declining to epidemic levels, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains low. • Panama: ILI and SARI cases have increased over the last four EWs, with a rise in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and RSV cases. Influenza activity has dropped below the epidemic threshold. Andean Region: ILI and SARI activity has remained at epidemic levels during the last four EWs in most countries. Additionally, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive RSV and SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has continued to decline during this period. A(H3N2) has been the predominant influenza virus. RSV activity has remained stable at moderate levels, while SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a sharp increase to moderate levels compared to previous waves. By Country: • Bolivia: SARI cases are on the decline, now below the epidemic threshold. Influenza activity has also decreased to levels below this threshold. • Colombia: SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels in recent weeks, has declined below this threshold. Most positive cases are attributed to RSV, which is at intermediate levels compared to previous seasons, and to a lesser extent, SARSCoV- 2, which is on the rise, with intermediate circulation levels compared to previous waves. ARI (Acute Respiratory Infection) cases remain at extraordinary levels. • Ecuador: SARI and pneumonia activity has remained around the moderate threshold in the last four EWs. Most positive SARI cases are attributed to influenza, which is at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent, RSV and SARS-CoV-2, both of which are increasing. • Peru: An increase in SARI cases has been observed, reaching extraordinary levels, particularly associated with positive RSV cases, which are on the rise, and to a lesser extent influenza, which remains below the epidemic threshold. Additionally, growing SARS-CoV-2 activity has been recorded, although it remains at low levels. • Venezuela: A decline in influenza activity has been observed, now below the epidemic threshold. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Following the increases observed in previous weeks, ILI and SARI activity has declined over the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributed to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. Influenza activity remains at epidemic levels in some countries, while in others, it has dropped below this threshold, showing a decreasing trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained stable, reaching a peak, although it is still below the maximum levels observed in previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low. By Country: • Argentina: ILI activity, after reaching high levels, has declined to epidemic levels, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has fallen below this threshold. Influenza activity, after peaking at high levels, has decreased to epidemic levels in the last EW. At the same time, an increase in RSV positivity has been observed, reaching values similar to the peaks seen in previous seasons. • Brazil: ILI and SARI activity has decreased below the epidemic threshold, with the highest proportion of positive cases attributed to RSV and influenza. • Chile: Following the decline observed in previous weeks, a slight uptick in ILI and SARI cases has been reported, reaching moderate and epidemic levels, respectively. Most positive cases during the last four EWs are attributed to RSV, which continues to rise, although positivity levels remain below the peaks seen in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has decreased below the epidemic threshold. • Paraguay: SARI activity has rebounded to moderate levels, related to positive RSV cases and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV- 2, whose activity is increasing. ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold, with most cases associated with SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. • Uruguay: SARI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels and remains stable, with most positive cases attributed to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. The latter, after reaching moderate levels, has dropped below the epidemic threshold. RSV activity has risen, reaching levels similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha registrado actividad epidémica de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en el Cono Sur, así como un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones de Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está asociada con la circulación de influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe y de SARS-CoV-2 en Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Además, se han observado niveles epidémicos de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, relacionados con casos positivos de influenza y VRS. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles medios en comparación con olas epidémicas previas, aunque ha mostrado un incremento asociado a la circulación en Norteamérica, el Caribe, Centroamérica y la subregión Andina. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica, aunque en descenso de influenza en el Cono Sur y América Central. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) ha ascendido a niveles epidémicos en América Central, la subregión Andina y el Cono Sur, donde se ha observado una tendencia creciente. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios han mostrado un incremento, con un marcado aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H3N2), seguidos por A(H1N1)pdm09 y B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando en algunos países niveles medios o elevados en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha aumentado, alcanzando niveles cercanos a los máximos registrados en olas previas. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico, mientras que la actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. • En México, los casos de ETI e IRAG han presentado un incremento con niveles moderados y epidémicos respectivamente, asociado a un aumento en los casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza y VRS se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Estados Unidos, la tasa de hospitalizaciones asociadas a SARS-CoV-2 por cada 100,000 habitantes ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas semanas, coincidiendo con niveles de circulación de SARS-CoV-2 similares a los alcanzados en los picos de 2023 y 2024. Tanto la actividad de influenza como la de VRS se mantienen en niveles bajos. Caribe: En las últimas cuatro SE, los casos de ETI han aumentado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de influenza. Por otro lado, aunque los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos, se ha observado un incremento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE, con predominio del tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 sigue estable en niveles elevados. Por países: En las últimas cuatro SE, se ha observado actividad de influenza en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, las Islas Caimán y Guyana. Asimismo, se ha registrado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán, y San Vicente y las Granadinas. Se ha observado actividad de VRS en Surinam, Guyana y San Vicente y las Granadinas • En República Dominicana, se ha detectado un aumento en la actividad de IRAG, alcanzando niveles epidémicos, coincidiendo con una actividad epidémica de influenza y la circulación de SARS-CoV-2. • En Santa Lucía se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de IRAG con niveles epidémicos asociados a circulación de SARS-CoV-2. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG, con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza y en menor medida VRS. América Central: Se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI e IRAG, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS, cuya actividad ha mostrado un ascenso. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar un pico epidémico en varios países de la subregión, ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS ha alcanzado niveles similares a los máximos registrados en temporadas previas. Aunque la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 está en ascenso, permanece en niveles inferiores a los observados en olas anteriores. Por países: • En Costa Rica tras el aumento detectado en los casos de ETI e IRAG en semanas previas, durante las cuatro últimas SE se ha observado una tendencia decreciente con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2 y en menor medida a influenza. • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha presentado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE. El SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI hasta niveles moderados con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de IRAG se mantiene constante en niveles epidémicos, sin embargo, se ha observado un marcado incremento en la proporción de casos positivos a VRS. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles entre epidémicos y moderados, asociada principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, que actualmente se encuentra en descenso y niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2. • En Nicaragua, tras alcanzar el pico de circulación de influenza por encima del umbral elevado en las cuatro últimas SE, ésta actualmente se encuentra en descenso con niveles epidémicos, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE, con un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. La actividad de influenza ha descendido por debajo del umbral de actividad epidémica. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos durante las últimas cuatro SE en la mayoría de los países. Asimismo, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en descenso durante este periodo. Los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2). La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido estable en niveles moderados, mientras que la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un pronunciado ascenso hasta niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG están en descenso, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de influenza también ha disminuido hasta niveles inferiores a este umbral. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral. La mayoría de los casos positivos se atribuyen a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles intermedios en comparación con temporadas previas, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2, que está en ascenso, con niveles de circulación intermedios en comparación con olas anteriores. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) se mantienen en niveles extraordinarios. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y neumonía se ha mantenido en torno al umbral moderado en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos positivos de IRAG se atribuyen principalmente a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a VRS y SARS-CoV-2, ambos en ascenso. • En Perú, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG con niveles extraordinarios, especialmente asociados a casos positivos de VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso, y en menor medida a influenza, cuya actividad se sitúa por debajo del umbral epidémico. Asimismo, se ha registrado una creciente actividad de SARS-CoV-2; sin embargo, esta se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Venezuela, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y, en menor medida, a influenza. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos en algunos países, mientras que en otros ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, mostrando una tendencia decreciente. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS ha permanecido estable alcanzando un pico, aunque por el momento se mantiene en niveles inferiores a los niveles máximos alcanzados en temporadas previas. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha caído por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza, después de alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos en la última SE. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, alcanzando valores similares a los máximos observados en temporadas previas. • EnBrasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuibles a VRS e influenza. • En Chile, tras el descenso observado en semanas previas se ha observado un ligero repunte en los casos de ETI e IRAG, con niveles moderados y epidémicos respectivamente. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque con niveles de positividad por debajo de los máximos observados en temporadas anteriores. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Paraguay, la actividad de IRAG ha mostrado un repunte a niveles moderados, relacionado con casos positivos de VRS y, en menor medida, de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. La actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos asociados a SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, donde se mantiene estable, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y, en menor medida, a influenza. Esta última, después de alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de VRS ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando niveles similares a los picos observados en temporadas anteriores.

Intersecting Stigma and the HIV Care Cascade: Qualitative Insights from Sex Workers, Men who have Sex with Men, and Transgender Women Living with HIV in Jamaica.

In Jamaica, stigma experiences of sex workers (SW), gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender women living with HIV remain understudied. To address this gap, we explored experiences of stigma and linkages with the HIV care cascade among key populations living with HIV in Jamaica, including cisgender women SW, MSM, and transgender women. This qualitative study involved n = 9 focus groups (FG), n = 1 FG per population living with HIV (SW, MSM, transgender women) in each of three sites (Kingston, St. Ann, Montego Bay). We also conducted key informant (KI) interviews. We applied thematic analysis informed by the Health Stigma and Discrimination (HSD) Framework. FG participants (n = 67) included SW (n = 18), MSM (n = 28), and trans women (n = 21); we interviewed n = 10 KI (n = 5 cisgender women, n = 5 cisgender men). Participant discussions revealed that stigma drivers included low HIV treatment literacy, notably misinformation about antiretroviral therapy (ART) benefits and HIV acquisition risks, and a lack of legal protection from discrimination. Stigma targets health (HIV) and intersecting social identities (sex work, LGBTQ identities, gender non-conformity, low socio-economic status). Stigma manifestations included enacted stigma in communities and families, and internalized stigma-including lateral violence. HIV care cascade impacts included reduced and/or delayed HIV care engagement and ART adherence challenges/disruptions. Participants discussed strategies to live positively with HIV, including ART adherence as stigma resistance; social support and solidarity; and accessing affirming institutional support. In addition to addressing intersecting stigma, future research and programing should bolster multi-level stigma-resistance strategies to live positively with HIV.

Transactional sex and risky sexual practices in Jamaica.

BACKGROUND: Transactional sex relationships (TSRs) create financial and emotional support for men and women, as well as an increased sexual risk. Studies have reported high HIV and STI transmission rates among young women in transactional sex relationships. However, little is known about TSR prevalence in Jamaica and risky sexual practices among participants. This study investigates the sexual behaviour of Jamaicans in TSR. METHODS: Secondary data analysis of a national survey revealed that 586 participants (38%) self-reported being in at least one TSR in the last 12 months. We also identified a third category called "Benefluids", who play both roles of benefactor and beneficiary in transactional sex relationships. RESULTS: 59 percent of male Benefluids had two to five transactional sex relationship partners in the last 12 months, compared to 40% of female Benefluids. Twenty-eight percent of female Benefluids reported sexually transmitted infection symptoms in the last 12 months compared to 13.5% of male Benefluids. While females reported more sexually transmitted infection symptoms, young men had the highest sexual risk precursors. CONCLUSIONS: People in transactional sex relationships often play the role of beneficiaries and benefactors to meet material and sexual needs but this increases the risk of STI symptoms.

Evaluating the responsiveness of Caribbean stock markets - The case of COVID-19.

The Caribbean stock markets have been largely ignored by scholars, partly due to the conventional view of a weak and inefficient system, and low integration to the world financial system. This paper examines the major announcements related to COVID-19 as exogenous shocks and their impacts on stock market returns in the two most developed stock markets in the Caribbean region. Using the standard event methodology and a dynamic difference in differences model, we confirm a significant decline in stock returns in response to negative announcements of COVID-19-related news. Other positive news such as the announcements of re-opening of the economy and vaccine had a positive impact on stock returns. The Jamaica stock markets are likely to be weakly efficient and exhibit low responsiveness to major COVID-19-related events and news. Most sectors in the Caribbean economy experienced significant losses to stock returns resulting from these shocks. The banking, conglomerates, and property sectors continued to be subdued in the face of continued uncertainty and unpredictability of the overall impact of COVID-19. The energy and communication sectors seemed to be either the most resilient or most asymmetrically informed sectors as they are found not to be affected by COVID-19-related announcements. The manufacturing, property, and non-banking sectors are found to recover quickly from the shocks. Our analysis provides further insight in terms of portfolio investment strategies in the Caribbean region.

Legal Recognition, Protection, and Health: A Socio-legal Framework for Assessing Determinants of Health in the Jamaican Trans Community.

In Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, the legal system allows for discrimination based on gender and sexual identity with impunity. This exposes trans people to disparate risks of violence and barriers to accessing social services such as health care. In this paper we assess the social determinants of health in the Jamaican trans population using a modified social-ecological model of transgender stigma and stigma interventions. To conduct this assessment, we situated the findings of the 2021 Jamaican Trans Health Needs Assessment and Trans Health Strategy within the socio-ecological framework with direct application to rights-based health services as well as the Jamaican legal system to develop a model for understanding the socio-legal determinants of health. The social determinants of health identified within the Jamaican trans community are all influenced by a lack of legal protection suggesting a need for legal reform toward nondiscrimination of sexual and gender-diverse populations.

From across the globe - traumatic injuries are an international concern at the US-Mexico border wall.

Introduction: Socio-economic and political events of recent years have caused a significant increase in immigrants attempting to illegally cross the United States (US)-Mexico border. While a 30-foot border wall separates the US and Mexico, immigrants from around the world have used this location as their point of entry to the US. These border crossings have led to a dramatic increase in major trauma resulting in increased inpatient resource utilization and the need for comprehensive hospital services. The aim of this study was to describe the nationality of injured immigrants admitted to a Trauma Center serving a segment of the US-Mexico border wall and to report their ultimate destinations after discharge. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients admitted to an academic, Level 1 Trauma Center after injury at the US-Mexico border wall from 2021 to 2022. Demographic information was obtained from the trauma registry. The electronic medical record was searched to identify each patient's self-reported country of origin. Patients' nationality was then stratified by region of the world to understand geographic representation of border injury admissions. Results: We identified 597 patients injured while crossing the US-Mexico border wall representing 38 different countries. The mean age of patients was 32.2±10.4 years and 446 (75%) were male. Most patients (405, 67.8%) were Mexican, followed by 23 (3.9%) patients from Peru, 17 (2.8%) patients from India, 14 (2.3%) patients from El Salvador, 13 (2.2%) patients from Cuba and 12 (2.0%) patients from Jamaica. When considering regions of the world other than Mexico, patients were most commonly from Africa, South America and Central America. Conclusion: The increased volume of trauma associated with the US-Mexico border wall is a humanitarian and health crisis.(1) The diverse national origin of patients admitted after injury from border wall falls has shed new light on the social and interpreter services needed to care for these border injury patients and the challenges that exist in their post-discharge care.

A grounded theory exploration of the enablers and barriers of public healthcare access for people with comorbid serious mental and chronic physical illnesses in Jamaica.

Chronic physical illnesses (CPI) are highly prevalent among people with serious mental illnesses (PWSMI) yet people in this population experience significant challenges accessing healthcare. This study utilised a constructivist grounded theory approach to collect and analyse data related to the enablers and barriers to public healthcare access for PWSMI & CPI. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with fifty-seven participants comprising PWSMI &CPI and their caregivers, health policymakers, primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and mental health nurses. Enablers and barriers to healthcare access were represented using a socio-ecological model consisting of five levels: wider society, health system, clinician, family and community, and individual. Jamaica's free public healthcare system was the most pronounced enabler of healthcare access, while poverty, stigma, and discrimination were the most pronounced barriers. Factors such as social support, time, clinician beliefs, attitudes and training, and individual characteristics were identified as consisting of dimensions that were both enablers and barriers to healthcare access. These findings indicated that factors that influenced healthcare access for PWSMI & CPI were aligned with the social determinants of health. Improved healthcare access for PWSMI & CPI necessitates strategies that incorporate a multi-sectoral approach to address social and environmental factors influencing healthcare access across all levels of the socio-ecological model.

Modulation of the Hyperglycemia Condition in Diabetic Lab Rats with Extracts of the Creole Jamaica Flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) from the Morelia Region (Mexico).

Extracts from Jamaica flowers (Hibiscus sabdariffa) from Morelia (Mexico) were evaluated as antidiabetic ingredients in a diabetic rat lab model for 80 days at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg extract/kg rat weight. The hydroalcoholic extract (water:ethanol 80:20 (v/v) at 50 °C) showed a TPC value of 403.28 ± 7.71 mg GAE/g extract, and an antioxidant activity of 0.219 ± 0.00003 mmol Trolox/g (ABTS) and 0.134 ± 0.00001 mmol Trolox/g (DPPH). The extract allowed reducing the diabetic glucose plasma levels under fasting conditions in a dose-dependent manner by 35.2%, 41.63%, and 50.1%. Additionally, the highest dose of the extract (600 mg/kg) slightly reduced the short-term postprandial glucose response while improving the long-term response, reducing hyperglycemia by 45.1%. The same dose also improved lipid metabolism by reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, and LDL, while the HDL level increased. The improvement in glucose and lipid management in the treated groups also led to reduced levels of glycosylated hemoglobin, as well as lower insulin resistance (TyG index), compared to the diabetic control group. The results of this study suggest that extracts from Hibiscus sabdariffa (Morelia) can be used as potential functional ingredients or nutraceuticals for managing the diabetic condition.

Dengue Virus Serotype 3 Origins and Genetic Dynamics, Jamaica.

We identified 3 clades of dengue virus serotype 3 belonging to genotype III isolated during 2019-2020 in Jamaica by using whole-genome sequencing and phylogenomic and phylogeographic analyses. The viruses likely originated from Asia in 2014. Newly expanded molecular surveillance efforts in Jamaica will guide appropriate public health responses.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 26 (5 July 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: During the last four epidemiological weeks (EWs), low levels of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) activity have been recorded in the Americas region. However, epidemic activity has been reported in the Southern Cone and an increase in activity in the Caribbean and Central America subregions. This activity is associated with the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in the Caribbean. Additionally, a decrease in Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) activity has been observed after reaching epidemic levels in the Southern Cone, Andean subregion, and Central America, which is now in decline. This activity has been linked to positive cases of influenza and RSV. At the regional level, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at low levels compared to previous epidemic waves, although it has shown an increase associated with circulation in North America and the Caribbean. Likewise, a declining epidemic influenza activity has been observed, marked by circulation in Central America, the Southern Cone, and some Caribbean countries. RSV activity has remained at low levels, except in the Andean region and the Southern Cone, where epidemic levels and a rising trend have been observed. North America: Cases of ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations associated with respiratory viruses have remained at low levels during the last four EWs. Influenza activity has stayed below the epidemic threshold in all countries. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been of type B/Victoria, followed by type A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown an increase, although still at low levels compared to previous waves. By Country: • Canada: SARS-CoV-2 activity has risen to medium levels compared to previous waves. Influenza activity has decreased below the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained low. • Mexico: Cases of ILI and SARI remain stable at epidemic levels, with positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2, whose activity is on the rise, and influenza, whose activity has decreased below the epidemic threshold. • United States: Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 remain at low levels, although there has been a slight increase associated with positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Both influenza and RSV activity remain at low levels. Caribbean: In the last four EWs, ILI cases have increased, associated with a higher proportion of positive cases of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. On the other hand, although SARI cases have remained at low levels, an increase in the count and proportion of positive cases of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza has been observed. Influenza activity has remained at intermediate levels during the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant viruses have been of type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained at low levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a marked increase in the last four EWs, reaching high levels compared to previous waves. By Country: Influenza activity has been observed in the last four EWs in the Dominican Republic, Guyana, and the Cayman Islands. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, and the Cayman Islands. • Dominican Republic: An increase in SARI activity has been observed with epidemic levels, coinciding with epidemic influenza activity. • Jamaica: An increase in SARI cases has been observed above the epidemic threshold, coinciding with a marked increase in SARS-CoV-2 activity. • Guyana: An increase in ILI and SARI cases has been observed with positive cases attributable to both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Central America: After showing an increase in previous weeks in ILI and SARI activity, a decrease has been observed in the last three EWs, with most positive cases attributable to influenza. Influenza activity has shown an increase during this period, reaching epidemic levels in several countries of the subregion. In the last four EWs, the predominant influenza viruses have been of type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity have remained at low levels. By Country: • El Salvador: Influenza circulation, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels, and SARS-CoV-2, after showing a slight increase, remains at low levels compared to previous waves. • Guatemala: An increase above the epidemic threshold has been observed in ILI and SARI activity. Most positive ILI cases are attributable to influenza, whose circulation has decreased to epidemic levels, and SARI cases to RSV, whose activity is on the rise. • Honduras: In the last four EWs, SARI activity has been fluctuating and remains at epidemic levels. This is mainly associated with positive influenza cases, currently at moderate levels, and to a lesser extent to SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. • Nicaragua: An increase above the moderate threshold of influenza activity has been observed, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains at low levels. • Panama: ILI and SARI cases have shown an increase in the last four EWs, coinciding with influenza activity that, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels in the last EW. Andean: ILI and SARI activity has remained stable at low levels during the last four EWs. However, an increase in the proportion of positive RSV and SARS-CoV-2 cases has been observed. Influenza activity has remained at low levels in the last four EWs, with a fluctuating trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been of type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09 and type B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at moderate levels, with a rising trend. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at low levels, showing a slight increase. By Country: • Bolivia: SARI cases are in decline, with levels below the epidemic threshold. Almost all positives are attributable to influenza, whose activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold after reaching moderate levels. • Colombia: SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels during the last weeks, has shown a decline below this threshold, with most positive cases attributable to RSV, whose activity is at intermediate levels compared to previous seasons. To a lesser extent, positive cases are attributable to influenza, whose activity is below the epidemic threshold. ARI (Acute Respiratory Infection) cases have reached extraordinary levels. • Ecuador: SARI and pneumonia activity has shown an increase in the last EWs, reaching moderate levels. Most positive SARI cases are attributable to influenza, whose activity is on the rise and has surpassed the epidemic threshold. To a lesser extent, cases are attributable to RSV, which is in decline, and SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. • Venezuela: After reaching epidemic activity in previous weeks, a decline below this threshold has been observed. Brazil and the Southern Cone: After the increase observed in previous weeks, ILI and SARI activity has shown a decline in the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributable to influenza and RSV, respectively. Influenza activity is at epidemic levels in most countries, although showing a decreasing trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been of type A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity, although on the rise, has remained at low levels compared to previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained at low levels. By Country: • Argentina: ILI activity, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold. Influenza activity has reached extraordinary levels, showing a decline in the last week to moderate levels. At the same time, an increase in RSV positivity has been observed, although it remains below the maximum values reached in previous seasons. • Brazil: ILI and SARI activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold, with the highest proportion of positive cases attributed to RSV and influenza. • Chile: ILI and SARI cases, after reaching extraordinary levels this season, are currently declining, at moderate and epidemic levels, respectively. Most positive cases during the last four EWs are attributable to RSV, whose activity is on the rise, although at levels below those observed in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has decreased to epidemic levels. • Paraguay: SARI activity, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels, and ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold. Most positive cases are attributable to influenza, which circulates at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent to RSV, which circulates at levels below those observed in previous seasons. • Uruguay: SARI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and influenza. The latter, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels. RSV activity has shown an increase, although it circulates at levels below those observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se han registrado niveles bajos de actividad de la Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en la región de las Américas. Sin embargo, ha habido actividad epidémica en el Cono Sur y un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones del Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está asociada con la circulación de influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe, así como de SARS-CoV-2 en el Caribe. Además, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, actualmente en descenso. Esta actividad se ha relacionado con casos positivos de influenza y VRS. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos en comparación con olas epidémicas previas, aunque ha mostrado un incremento asociado a la circulación en Norteamérica y el Caribe. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza en descenso, marcada por la circulación en Centroamérica, el Cono Sur y algunos países del Caribe. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, excepto en la región Andina y el Cono Sur, donde se han observado niveles epidémicos y una tendencia creciente. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios se han mantenido en niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo B/Victoria, seguido del tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un ascenso, aunque en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido, alcanzando niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. La actividad de influenza ha descendido por debajo del umbral epidémico y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. • En México, los casos de ETI e IRAG se mantienen estables en niveles epidémicos, con casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso, e influenza, cuya actividad ha descendido por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Estados Unidos, las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantienen en niveles bajos, aunque mostrando un ligero incremento asociado a casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE. Tanto la actividad de influenza como la del VRS se encuentran en niveles bajos. Caribe: En las cuatro últimas SE, los casos de ETI han incrementado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. Por otro lado, aunque los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos, se ha observado un aumento en el recuento y la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un marcado incremento en las cuatro últimas SE, situándose en niveles elevados en comparación con olas previas. Por países: Se ha observado actividad de influenza en las últimas cuatro SE en República Dominicana, Guyana y las Islas Caimán. Se ha observado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán. • En República Dominicana, se ha observado un ascenso en la actividad de IRAG con niveles epidémicos, coincidente con una actividad epidémica de influenza. • En Jamaica, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG por encima del umbral epidémico, coincidente con un marcado incremento en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza. América Central: Tras mostrar un incremento en semanas previas en la actividad de ETI e IRAG, se ha observado un descenso en las tres últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un ascenso durante este periodo, situándose en niveles epidémicos en varios países de la subregión. En las cuatro últimas SE, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS y del SARS-CoV-2 ha permanecido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, y el SARS-CoV-2, tras mostrar un ligero ascenso, se mantiene en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento por encima del umbral epidémico en la actividad de ETI e IRAG. La mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI se atribuyen a influenza, cuya circulación ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, y los de IRAG a VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro SE, la actividad de IRAG ha sido fluctuante y se mantiene en niveles epidémicos. Esto se asocia principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, actualmente en niveles moderados, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2, que está en ascenso. • En Nicaragua, se ha observado un incremento por encima del umbral moderado de la actividad de influenza, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se encuentra en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, coincidiendo con una actividad de influenza que, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos en la última SE. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. Sin embargo, se ha observado un ascenso en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE, con una tendencia fluctuante. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09 y tipo B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles moderados, con una tendencia creciente. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, mostrando un ligero ascenso. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG se encuentran en descenso, con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. Prácticamente la totalidad de los positivos son atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad ha disminuido hasta niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico tras haber alcanzado niveles moderados. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos durante las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles intermedios en comparación con temporadas previas. En menor medida, los casos positivos se atribuyen a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra por debajo del umbral epidémico. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) han alcanzado niveles extraordinarios. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y de neumonía ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE, alcanzando niveles moderados. Los casos positivos de IRAG son principalmente atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad está en ascenso y ha superado el umbral epidémico. En menor medida, se atribuyen a VRS, que está en descenso, y a SARS-CoV-2, que se encuentra en ascenso. • En Venezuela, tras alcanzar una actividad epidémica en semanas previas, se ha observado un descenso por debajo de este umbral. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha presentado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza y VRS, respectivamente. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos en la mayoría de los países, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS, aunque en ascenso, se ha mantenido en niveles bajos en comparación con temporadas previas. La actividad del SARSCoV- 2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza ha alcanzado niveles extraordinarios, mostrando un descenso en la última semana a niveles moderados. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, aunque por el momento, se mantiene por debajo de los valores máximos alcanzados en temporadas previas. • En Brasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuidos a VRS e influenza. • En Chile, los casos de ETI e IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios esta temporada, se encuentran actualmente en descenso, en niveles moderados y epidémicos, respectivamente. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque en niveles por debajo de lo observado en temporadas previas. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido hasta niveles epidémicos. • EnParaguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, y la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. La mayoría de los casos positivos son atribuibles a influenza, que circula en niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a VRS, que circula en niveles por debajo de los observados en temporadas previas. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS e influenza. Esta última, después de alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos. La actividad de VRS ha presentado un ascenso, aunque circula en niveles por debajo de los observados en temporadas previas.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 27 (12 July 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: During the last four epidemiological weeks (EW), low levels of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) activity have been reported in the Americas. However, there has been epidemic activity in the Southern Cone and increased activity in the Caribbean and Central America subregions. This is due to the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in the Caribbean. Additionally, there has been a decrease in Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) activity after reaching epidemic levels in the Southern Cone, the Andean subregion, and Central America, related to positive cases of influenza and RSV. Regarding respiratory virus circulation, at the regional level, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low compared to previous epidemic waves, although it has shown an increase associated with circulation in North America and the Caribbean. Influenza activity has been declining, especially in the Southern Cone, but has been increasing in Central America. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity has remained low, except in the Andean region and the Southern Cone, where epidemic levels and an increasing trend have been observed. North America: ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations associated with respiratory viruses have remained low during the last four EW, although there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has remained below the epidemic threshold in all countries. The predominant influenza viruses during this period have been type B/Victoria, followed by type A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown an increase, although it remains low compared to previous waves. By country: • In Canada, SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased, reaching moderate levels compared to previous waves. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained low. • In Mexico, ILI and SARI cases remain stable at epidemic levels, with an increase in positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV- 2, whose activity is on the rise. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold. • In the United States, hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 remain low, although there has been a slight increase in positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Both influenza and RSV activity remain low. Caribbean: In the last four EWs, ILI cases have increased, associated with a higher proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. Although SARI cases have remained low, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. Influenza activity has remained at intermediate levels during the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant viruses have been type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity remains elevated but shows a decreasing trend. By country: • Influenza activity has been observed in the last four EWs in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Guyana, and the Cayman Islands. • SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. • In the Dominican Republic, SARI activity has increased to epidemic levels, coinciding with an epidemic of influenza, which is currently declining. • In Jamaica, SARI cases have increased above the epidemic threshold, coinciding with a marked increase in SARS-CoV-2 and influenza activity. • In Guyana, ILI and SARI cases have increased, with positive cases attributable to both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Central America: ILI and SARI activity remain fluctuating at epidemic levels, with most positive cases attributable to influenza, followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV. Influenza activity has increased during the last four EWs, reaching epidemic levels in several countries in the subregion. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity, although increasing, remain low. By country: • In El Salvador, influenza circulation, after reaching high levels, has declined to moderate levels, and SARS-CoV-2, after showing a slight increase, remains low compared to previous waves. • In Guatemala, ILI and SARI activity has increased above the epidemic threshold. Most positive ILI cases are attributed to influenza, whose circulation has declined to epidemic levels, and SARI cases to RSV, whose activity is on the rise. • In Honduras, SARI activity has been fluctuating in the last four EWs and remains at epidemic levels. This is mainly associated with positive influenza cases, currently at moderate levels, and to a lesser extent with SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. • In Nicaragua, influenza activity has increased above the high threshold, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains low. • In Panama, ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EWs, coinciding with influenza activity that, after reaching moderate levels, has declined to epidemic levels in the last EW. Andean Region: ILI and SARI activity has remained stable at low levels during the last four EWs. However, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive RSV and influenza cases. Influenza activity has remained low in the last four EWs, with a fluctuating trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09 and type B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained at moderate levels, with an increasing trend. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low, showing a slight increase. By country: • In Bolivia, SARI cases are decreasing, with levels below the epidemic threshold. Almost all positives are attributable to influenza, whose activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold. • In Colombia, SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels in recent weeks, has decreased below this threshold, with most positive cases attributable to RSV, whose activity is at intermediate levels compared to previous seasons. To a lesser extent, positive cases are attributed to influenza, whose activity is below the epidemic threshold but increasing. ARI (Acute Respiratory Infection) cases have reached extraordinary levels. • In Ecuador, SARI and pneumonia activity has increased in recent EWs, reaching moderate levels. Positive SARI cases are mainly attributable to influenza, whose activity is at epidemic levels. To a lesser extent, they are attributed to RSV, which is declining, and SARS-CoV-2, which is increasing. • In Peru, influenza activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold. At the same time, increasing RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed, although it remains low. • In Venezuela, influenza activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold. Brazil and the Southern Cone: After the increase observed in previous weeks, ILI and SARI activity has decreased in the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributable to influenza and RSV. Influenza activity is at epidemic levels in most countries, although showing a decreasing trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity, although increasing, has remained at lower levels compared to previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low. By country: • In Argentina, ILI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to epidemic levels, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold. Influenza activity has reached extraordinary levels, showing a decrease in the last four EWs to moderate levels. At the same time, an increase in the positivity rate of RSV has been observed, although it remains below the maximum values reached in previous seasons. • In Brazil, ILI and SARI activity has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold, with the highest proportion of positive cases attributed to RSV and influenza. • In Chile, ILI and SARI cases, after reaching extraordinary levels this season, are currently decreasing, at moderate and epidemic levels, respectively. Most positive cases during the last four EWs are attributable to RSV, whose activity is increasing, although at levels below those observed in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has decreased to levels below the epidemic threshold. • In Paraguay, SARI activity, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels, and ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold. Most positive cases are attributable to influenza, which circulates at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent to RSV, whose circulation is increasing although at levels below those observed in previous seasons. • In Uruguay, SARI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and to a lesser extent influenza. The latter, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to epidemic levels. RSV activity has shown an increase, reaching levels similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se han registrado niveles bajos de actividad de la Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en la región de las Américas. Sin embargo, ha habido actividad epidémica en el Cono Sur y un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones del Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está asociada con la circulación de influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe, así como de SARS-CoV-2 en el Caribe. Además, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, relacionado con casos positivos de influenza y VRS. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos en comparación con olas epidémicas previas, aunque ha mostrado un incremento asociado a la circulación en Norteamérica y el Caribe. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza en descenso especialmente asociada al Cono Sur, y una tendencia creciente en Centroamérica. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, excepto en la región Andina y el Cono Sur, donde se han observado niveles epidémicos y una tendencia creciente. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios se han mantenido en niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE, aunque con un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo B/Victoria, seguido del tipo A(H3N2) y A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un ascenso, aunque en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido, alcanzando niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. • En México, los casos de ETI e IRAG se mantienen estables en niveles epidémicos, con un incremento en los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Estados Unidos, las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantienen en niveles bajos, aunque mostrando un ligero incremento asociado a casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE. Tanto la actividad de influenza como la del VRS se encuentran en niveles bajos. Caribe: En las cuatro últimas SE, los casos de ETI han incrementado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. Por otro lado, aunque los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles elevados aunque mostrando una tendencia decreciente. Por países: Se ha observado actividad de influenza en las últimas cuatro SE en República Dominicana, Jamaica, Guyana y las Islas Caimán. Se ha observado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán, San Vicente y Granadinas. • En República Dominicana, se ha observado un ascenso en la actividad de IRAG con niveles epidémicos, coincidente con una actividad epidémica de influenza, actualmente en descenso. • En Jamaica, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG por encima del umbral epidémico, coincidente con un marcado incremento en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 y de influenza. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza. América Central: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se mantiene fluctuante en niveles epidémicos, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza, seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un ascenso durante las últimas cuatro SE, situándose en niveles epidémicos en varios países de la subregión. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS y del SARS-CoV-2 aunque en ascenso permanecen en niveles bajos. Por países: • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, y el SARSCoV- 2, tras mostrar un ligero ascenso, se mantiene en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento por encima del umbral epidémico en la actividad de ETI e IRAG. La mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI se atribuyen a influenza, cuya circulación ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, y los de IRAG a VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro SE, la actividad de IRAG ha sido fluctuante y se mantiene en niveles epidémicos. Esto se asocia principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, actualmente en niveles moderados, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV- 2, que está en ascenso. • En Nicaragua, se ha observado un incremento por encima del umbral elevado de la actividad de influenza, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se encuentra en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, coincidiendo con una actividad de influenza que, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos en la última SE. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se ha mantenido estable en niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE. Sin embargo, se ha observado un ascenso en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS y e influenza. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en niveles bajos en las cuatro últimas SE, con una tendencia fluctuante. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09 y tipo B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles moderados, con una tendencia creciente. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, mostrando un ligero ascenso. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG se encuentran en descenso, con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. Prácticamente la totalidad de los positivos son atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad ha disminuido hasta niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos durante las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles intermedios en comparación con temporadas previas. En menor medida, los casos positivos se atribuyen a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra por debajo del umbral epidémico, aunque en ascenso. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) han alcanzado niveles extraordinarios. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y de neumonía ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE, alcanzando niveles moderados. Los casos positivos de IRAG son principalmente atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos. En menor medida, se atribuyen a VRS, que está en descenso, y a SARS-CoV-2, que se encuentra en ascenso. • En Perú se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza que se encuentra por debajo del umbral epidémico. A su vez se ha observado una actividad creciente de VRS y SARS-CoV-2, sin embargo, ésta se encuentra en niveles bajos. • En Venezuela, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha presentado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza y VRS. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos en la mayoría de los países, aunque muestra una tendencia decreciente. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS, aunque en ascenso, se ha mantenido en niveles inferiores en comparación con temporadas previas. La actividad del SARSCoV- 2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza ha alcanzado niveles extraordinarios, mostrando un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE a niveles moderados. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, aunque por el momento, se mantiene por debajo de los valores máximos alcanzados en temporadas previas. • En Brasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuidos a VRS e influenza. • En Chile, los casos de ETI e IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios esta temporada, se encuentran actualmente en descenso, en niveles moderados y epidémicos, respectivamente. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuyaactividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque en niveles por debajo de lo observado en temporadas previas. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido hasta niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Paraguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, y la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. La mayoría de los casos positivos son atribuibles a influenza, que circula en niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a VRS, cuya circulación se encuentra en ascenso aunque en niveles por debajo de los observados en temporadas previas. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y en menor medida influenza. Esta última, después de alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos. La actividad de VRS ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando los niveles similares a los picos observados en temporadas anteriores.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 28 (19 July 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: During the last four epidemiological weeks (EW), low levels of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) activity have been reported across the Americas. However, there has been epidemic activity in the Southern Cone and an increase in activity in the Caribbean and Central America subregions. This rise is associated with the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in the Caribbean and Central America. Additionally, there has been a decrease in Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) activity, with epidemic levels in the Southern Cone, Andean subregion, and Central America, related to positive cases of influenza and RSV. Regarding respiratory virus circulation, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low compared to previous epidemic waves, although there has been an increase associated with circulation in North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean subregion. Influenza epidemic activity has been declining, especially in the Southern Cone, while showing an increasing trend in Central America. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) activity has remained low, except in the Andean subregion and the Southern Cone, where epidemic levels and an increasing trend have been observed. North America: ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations associated with respiratory viruses have remained low during the last four EW, although there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has remained below the epidemic threshold in all countries. The predominant influenza viruses during this period have been type A(H3N2), followed by A(H1N1)pdm09, and B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown an increase, with some countries experiencing moderate to high levels compared to previous waves. By country: • Canada: SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased to moderate levels compared to previous waves. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold, and RSV activity has remained low. • Mexico: ILI and SARI cases remain stable at epidemic levels, with an increase in positive cases attributable to SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold. • United States: Hospitalization rates for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 remain low, although there has been a slight increase in positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. This activity has increased in recent EWs, reaching levels similar to the peaks of 2023 and 2024. Both influenza and RSV activity remain low. Caribbean: In the last four EWs, ILI cases have increased, associated with a higher proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. Although SARI cases have remained low, there has been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. Influenza activity has remained at intermediate levels during the last four EWs. During this period, the predominant viruses have been type A(H3N2), with less circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained low. SARS-CoV-2 activity remains stable at elevated levels. By country: Influenza activity has been observed in the last four EWs in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Guyana. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been observed in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. • Dominican Republic: SARI activity has increased to epidemic levels, coinciding with an epidemic of influenza. • Jamaica: There has been an increase in SARI cases above the epidemic threshold, coinciding with a marked increase in SARS-CoV-2 and influenza activity. • Guyana: ILI and SARI cases have increased, with positive cases attributable to both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Central America: ILI and SARI activity remain fluctuating at epidemic levels, with most positive cases attributable to influenza, followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV. Influenza activity has increased during the last four EWs, reaching epidemic levels in several countries in the subregion. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), with less circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV and SARS-CoV-2 activity, although increasing, remain low. By country: • El Salvador: Influenza circulation has again reached high levels, and SARS-CoV-2 is on the rise, although at low levels compared to previous waves. • Guatemala: ILI activity has increased above the epidemic threshold and SARI activity above the moderate threshold. Most positive ILI cases are attributed to influenza, whose circulation has declined to below the epidemic threshold, and SARI cases to RSV, whose activity is on the rise. • Honduras: In the last four EW, SARI activity has fluctuated at epidemic levels, mainly associated with positive influenza cases, currently at moderate levels, and SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. • Nicaragua: Influenza activity has increased above the high threshold, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains low. • Panama: ILI and SARI cases have increased in the last four EW, coinciding with influenza activity that, after reaching moderate levels, has declined to epidemic levels in the last EW. There has also been an increase in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and RSV cases, whose activity is increasing. Andean Region: ILI and SARI activity has remained stable at epidemic levels during the last four EW, associated with an increase in the proportion of positive RSV and influenza cases. Influenza activity has continued to decline in the last four EW. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09 and type B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained stable at moderate levels. SARS-CoV-2 activity, although at low levels, has shown a marked increase. By country: • Bolivia: SARI cases are decreasing, with levels below the epidemic threshold. The few positive cases are attributable to influenza, whose activity has decreased to below the epidemic threshold. • Colombia: SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels in recent weeks, has decreased below this threshold, with most positive cases attributable to RSV, whose activity is at intermediate levels compared to previous seasons. To a lesser extent, positive cases are attributed to influenza, whose activity is below the epidemic threshold. Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) cases have reached extraordinary levels. • Ecuador: SARI and pneumonia activity has increased in recent EW, reaching moderate levels. Positive SARI cases are mainly attributable to influenza, whose activity is at epidemic levels. To a lesser extent, they are attributed to RSV, which is declining, and SARS-CoV-2, which is increasing. • Peru: SARI cases have increased, especially associated with positive RSV cases, whose activity is on the rise, and to a lesser extent influenza, whose activity is below the epidemic threshold. There has also been increasing SARS-CoV-2 activity, although it remains low. • Venezuela: Influenza activity has decreased to below the epidemic threshold. Brazil and the Southern Cone: After the increase observed in previous weeks, ILI and SARI activity has decreased in the last four EW, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and to a lesser extent influenza. Influenza activity is at epidemic levels in some countries, while in others it has declined below this threshold, showing a decreasing trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained on the rise, although it is still at lower levels compared to peaks reached in previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low. By country: • Argentina: ILI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to epidemic levels, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold. Influenza activity has reached extraordinary levels, showing a decrease in the last four EW to moderate levels. At the same time, an increase in the positivity rate of RSV has been observed, reaching values similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons. • Brazil: ILI and SARI activity has decreased to below the epidemic threshold, with the highest proportion of positive cases attributed to RSV and influenza. • Chile: ILI and SARI cases, after reaching extraordinary levels this season, are currently decreasing, at epidemic levels. Most positive cases during the last four EW are attributable to RSV, whose activity is increasing, although positivity levels are below the peaks observed in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has decreased to below the epidemic threshold. • Paraguay: SARI activity has shown a rebound to moderate levels, related to positive cases of RSV and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2, whose activity is on the rise. ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold, with most cases associated with influenza, whose activity is decreasing but still at epidemic levels. • Uruguay: SARI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels where it remains stable, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and to a lesser extent influenza. The latter, after reaching moderate levels, has decreased to below the epidemic threshold. RSV activity has shown an increase, reaching levels similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se han registrado niveles bajos de actividad de la Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en la región de las Américas. Sin embargo, ha habido actividad epidémica en el Cono Sur y un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones del Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está asociada con la circulación de influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe, así como de SARS-CoV-2 en el Caribe y Centro América. Además, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) con niveles epidémicos en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, relacionados con casos positivos de influenza y VRS. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos en comparación con olas epidémicas previas, aunque ha mostrado un incremento asociado a la circulación en Norteamérica, el Caribe, Centro América y la subregión Andina. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza en descenso especialmente asociada al Cono Sur, y una tendencia creciente en Centroamérica. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, excepto en la región Andina y el Cono Sur, donde se han observado niveles epidémicos y una tendencia creciente. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios se han mantenido en niveles bajos durante las cuatro últimas SE, aunque con un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H3N2) seguido de A(H1N1)pdm09 y B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un ascenso, en algunos países con niveles medios o elevados en relación a olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha ascendido, alcanzando niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico y la actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. • En México, los casos de ETI e IRAG se mantienen estables en niveles epidémicos, con un incremento en los casos positivos atribuibles a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Estados Unidos, las tasas de hospitalización por influenza, VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantienen en niveles bajos, aunque mostrando un ligero incremento asociado a casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE situándose en niveles similares a los alcanzados en los picos de 2023 y 2024. Tanto la actividad de influenza como la del VRS se encuentran en niveles bajos. Caribe: En las últimas cuatro SE, los casos de ETI han incrementado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. Por otro lado, aunque los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE. Durante este periodo, los virus predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con una circulación en menor medida de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene estable en niveles elevados. Por países: Se ha observado actividad de influenza en las últimas cuatro SE en República Dominicana, Jamaica y Guyana. Se ha observado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán, San Vicente y Granadinas. • En República Dominicana, se ha observado un ascenso en la actividad de IRAG con niveles epidémicos, coincidente con una actividad epidémica de influenza. • En Jamaica, en semanas previas se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG por encima del umbral epidémico, coincidente con un marcado incremento en la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 y de influenza. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza. América Central: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se mantiene fluctuante en niveles epidémicos, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza, seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. La actividad de influenza ha presentado un ascenso durante las últimas cuatro SE, situándose en niveles epidémicos en varios países de la subregión. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación en menor medida de A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS y del SARS-CoV-2 aunque en ascenso permanecen en niveles bajos. Por países: • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza ha ascendido de nuevo a niveles elevados, y el SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en ascenso, aunque en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI por encima del umbral epidémico y en la actividad de IRAG por encima del umbral moderado. La mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI se atribuyen a la influenza, cuya circulación ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, y los casos de IRAG a VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles epidémicos, asociada principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, que actualmente se encuentran en niveles moderados, y a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Nicaragua, se ha observado un incremento por encima del umbral elevado de la actividad de influenza, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se encuentra en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, coincidiendo con una actividad de influenza que, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos en la última semana epidemiológica. Asimismo, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS, cuya actividad está en aumento. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se ha mantenido estable en niveles epidémicos durante las cuatro últimas SE, asociado a un ascenso en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS e influenza. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en descenso las cuatro últimas SE. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09 y tipo B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido estable en niveles moderados. La actividad de SARS-CoV-2 aunque en niveles bajos, ha mostrado un pronunciado ascenso. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG se encuentran en descenso, con niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. Los escasos positivos son atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad ha disminuido hasta niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos durante las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles intermedios en comparación con temporadas previas. En menor medida, los casos positivos se atribuyen a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra por debajo del umbral epidémico. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) han alcanzado niveles extraordinarios. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y de neumonía ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas SE, alcanzando niveles moderados. Los casos positivos de IRAG son principalmente atribuibles a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos. En menor medida, se atribuyen a VRS, que está en descenso, y a SARS-CoV-2, que se encuentra en ascenso. • En Perú, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG, especialmente asociado a casos positivos de VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en ascenso, y en menor medida a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra por debajo del umbral epidémico. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad creciente de SARS-CoV-2; sin embargo, ésta se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Venezuela, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha presentado un descenso en las cuatro últimas SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y en menor medida influenza. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos en algunos países mientras que en otro ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, mostrando una tendencia decreciente. En este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS ha permanecido en ascenso, aunque por el momento se mantiene en niveles inferiores a los picos alcanzados en temporadas previas. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza ha alcanzado niveles extraordinarios, mostrando un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE a niveles moderados. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, alcanzando valores similares a los máximos observados en temporadas previas. • En Brasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles pordebajo del umbral epidémico, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuidos a VRS e influenza. • En Chile, los casos de ETI e IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios esta temporada, se encuentran actualmente en descenso, en niveles epidémicos. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque en niveles de positividad por debajo de los valores máximos observados en temporadas previas. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido hasta niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Paraguay, la actividad de IRAG ha mostrado un repunte a niveles moderados, relacionado con casos positivos de VRS y, en menor medida, de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad se encuentra en ascenso. La actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos asociados a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en descenso, pero aún en niveles epidémicos. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados donde se mantiene estable, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y en menor medida influenza. Esta última, después de alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de VRS ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando los niveles similares a los picos observados en temporadas anteriores.

Regional Update, Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. Epidemiological Week 29 (26 July 2024)

[WEEKLY SUMMARY]. Regional Situation: During the last four epidemiological weeks (EWs), epidemic levels of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) have been observed in the Southern Cone, alongside increased activity in the subregions of North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. This uptick is linked to the circulation of influenza in the Southern Cone, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as SARS-CoV-2 in North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. Additionally, epidemic levels of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) have been reported in the Southern Cone, the Andean subregion, and Central America, largely driven by positive cases of influenza and RSV. At the regional level, SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low compared to previous epidemic waves, although there has been an increase associated with circulation in North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean subregion. Similarly, influenza has reached epidemic levels in the Southern Cone and Central America. RSV activity has also risen to epidemic levels in Central America, the Andean subregion, and the Southern Cone, where a growing trend has been observed. North America: Cases of ILI, SARI, and hospitalizations linked to respiratory viruses have increased, with a notable rise in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. Influenza activity has remained below the epidemic threshold across all countries. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), followed by A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria. RSV activity has stayed low. However, SARS-CoV-2 activity has increased, reaching medium to high levels in some countries compared to previous waves. By Country: • Canada: SARS-CoV-2 activity has risen to medium levels compared to previous waves. Influenza activity remains below the epidemic threshold, while RSV activity has stayed low. • Mexico: ILI cases have increased, driven by a rise in positive SARS-CoV-2 cases. SARI cases have remained stable, although the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 cases has increased. Influenza and RSV activity remains low. • United States: The SARS-CoV-2 hospitalization rate per 100,000 inhabitants has risen in recent weeks, reaching levels similar to the peaks of 2023 and 2024. Both influenza and RSV activity remain low. Caribbean: In the last four EWs, ILI cases have increased, accompanied by a higher proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases. While SARI cases have remained low, an uptick in positive SARS-CoV-2 and influenza cases has been noted. Influenza activity has stayed at intermediate levels during the last four EWs, with a predominance of A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has remained low, while SARS-CoV-2 activity continues to be elevated. By Country: In the last four EWs, influenza activity has been reported in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Guyana. SARS-CoV-2 activity has been detected in Belize, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname, Barbados, Guyana, the Cayman Islands, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. • Dominican Republic: A rise in SARI activity has been observed, reaching epidemic levels, coinciding with epidemic influenza activity and SARS-CoV-2 circulation. • Guyana: Increases in ILI and SARI cases have been noted, with positive cases attributable to both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Central America: There has been an increase in ILI and SARI activity, with most positive cases attributed to influenza, followed by SARS-CoV-2 and RSV, both of which have shown rising proportions. Influenza activity, after peaking at epidemic levels in several countries of the subregion, has shown a decline in the last EW. During the last four EWs, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) with less circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity has reached levels similar to the peaks recorded in previous seasons. Although SARS-CoV-2 activity is increasing, it remains low compared to previous waves. By Country: • El Salvador: Influenza circulation, after reaching moderate levels, has declined over the last four EWs. SARS-CoV-2 activity continues to rise, though it remains low compared to previous waves. • Guatemala: An increase in ILI and SARI activity above the epidemic threshold has been observed. Most positive ILI cases are attributed to influenza, which has now dropped below the epidemic threshold, while SARI cases are mainly due to RSV and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV-2, which is on the rise. • Honduras: Over the past four EWs, SARI activity has fluctuated at epidemic levels, mainly driven by positive influenza cases, which are currently at epidemic levels, and rising SARS-CoV-2 activity. • Nicaragua: In the last four EWs, influenza activity peaked above the high threshold and is now in decline, while RSV and SARS-CoV-2 circulation remains low. • Panama: ILI and SARI cases have increased over the past four EWs, with a rise in the proportion of positive SARS-CoV-2 and RSV cases. Influenza activity has dropped below the epidemic threshold. Andean Region: ILI and SARI activity has remained at epidemic levels over the last four EWs in most countries. Additionally, an increase in the proportion of positive RSV and SARS-CoV-2 cases has been observed. Influenza activity has continued to decline during this period. The predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2), with concurrent circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria. RSV activity has remained stable at moderate levels, while SARS-CoV-2 activity has shown a sharp increase to medium levels compared to previous waves. By Country: • Bolivia: SARI cases are on the decline, now below the epidemic threshold. Influenza activity has also decreased to levels below this threshold. • Colombia: SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels in recent weeks, has declined below this threshold. Most positive cases are attributed to RSV, which is at intermediate levels compared to previous seasons, and to a lesser extent to SARSCoV- 2, which is on the rise, with intermediate circulation levels compared to previous waves. ARI (Acute Respiratory Infection) cases remain at extraordinary levels. • Ecuador: SARI and pneumonia activity has remained around the moderate threshold in the last four EWs. Most positive SARI cases are attributable to influenza, which is at epidemic levels, and to a lesser extent to RSV and SARS-CoV-2, both of which are increasing. • Peru: An increase in SARI cases has been observed, reaching extraordinary levels, particularly associated with positive RSV cases, which are on the rise, and to a lesser extent influenza, which remains below the epidemic threshold. Additionally, growing SARS-CoV-2 activity has been recorded, although it remains at low levels. • Venezuela: A decline in influenza activity has been observed, now below the epidemic threshold. Brazil and the Southern Cone: Following the increases observed in previous weeks, ILI and SARI activity has declined over the last four EWs, with most positive cases attributable to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. Influenza activity remains at epidemic levels in some countries, while in others, it has dropped below this threshold, showing a decreasing trend. During this period, the predominant influenza viruses have been type A(H3N2) and, to a lesser extent, A(H1N1)pdm09. RSV activity continues to rise, although it remains below the peaks reached in previous seasons. SARS-CoV-2 activity has remained low. By Country: • Argentina: ILI activity, after reaching high levels, has declined to epidemic levels, while SARI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has fallen below this threshold. Influenza activity, after peaking at high levels, has decreased to epidemic levels in the last EW. Concurrently, an increase in RSV positivity has been observed, reaching values similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons. • Brazil: ILI and SARI activity has decreased below the epidemic threshold, with the highest proportion of positive cases attributed to RSV and influenza. • Chile: ILI and SARI cases, after reaching extraordinary levels this season, are now declining, currently at epidemic levels. Most positive cases over the last four EWs are attributable to RSV, which continues to rise, although positivity levels remain below the peaks seen in previous seasons. Influenza activity, after reaching extraordinary levels, has dropped below the epidemic threshold. • Paraguay: SARI activity has rebounded to moderate levels, related to positive RSV cases and, to a lesser extent, SARS-CoV- 2, whose activity is increasing. ILI activity, after reaching epidemic levels, has decreased below this threshold, with most cases associated with influenza, which remains at epidemic levels but is declining. • Uruguay: SARI activity, after reaching high levels, has decreased to moderate levels, where it remains stable, with most positive cases attributed to RSV and, to a lesser extent, influenza. The latter, after reaching moderate levels, has dropped below the epidemic threshold. RSV activity has risen, reaching levels similar to the peaks observed in previous seasons.

[RESUMEN SEMANAL]. Situación regional: Durante las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas (SE), se ha registrado actividad epidémica de Enfermedad Tipo Influenza (ETI) en el Cono Sur, así como un aumento en la actividad en las subregiones de Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Esta actividad está asociada con la circulación de influenza en el Cono Sur, Centroamérica y el Caribe, y de SARS-CoV-2 en Norteamérica, el Caribe y Centroamérica. Además, se han observado niveles epidémicos de Infección Respiratoria Aguda Grave (IRAG) en el Cono Sur, la subregión Andina y Centroamérica, relacionados con casos positivos de influenza y VRS. En cuanto a la circulación de virus respiratorios, a nivel regional, la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos en comparación con olas epidémicas previas, aunque ha mostrado un incremento asociado a la circulación en Norteamérica, el Caribe, Centroamérica y la subregión Andina. Asimismo, se ha observado una actividad epidémica de influenza en el Cono Sur y Centroamérica. La actividad del Virus Respiratorio Sincitial (VRS) ha ascendido a niveles epidémicos en América Central, la subregión Andina y el Cono Sur, donde se ha observado una tendencia creciente. América del Norte: Los casos de ETI, IRAG y las hospitalizaciones asociadas a virus respiratorios han mostrado un incremento, con un marcado aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido por debajo del umbral epidémico en todos los países. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido del tipo A(H3N2), seguidos por A(H1N1)pdm09 y B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando en algunos países niveles medios o elevados en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Canadá, la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 ha aumentado, alcanzando niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. La actividad de influenza se mantiene por debajo del umbral epidémico, mientras que la actividad del VRS ha permanecido en niveles bajos. • En México, los casos de ETI han presentado un incremento, asociado a un aumento en los casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2. Los casos de IRAG se han mantenido estables; sin embargo, la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un ascenso. La actividad de influenza y VRS se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Estados Unidos, la tasa de hospitalizaciones asociadas a SARS-CoV-2 por cada 100,000 habitantes ha mostrado un incremento en las últimas semanas, coincidiendo con niveles de circulación de SARS-CoV-2 similares a los alcanzados en los picos de 2023 y 2024. Tanto la actividad de influenza como la de VRS se mantienen en niveles bajos Caribe: En las últimas cuatro SE, los casos de ETI han aumentado, asociados a una mayor proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. Por otro lado, aunque los casos de IRAG han permanecido en niveles bajos, se ha observado un incremento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 e influenza. La actividad de influenza se ha mantenido en niveles intermedios durante las últimas cuatro SE, con predominio del tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, de influenza A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido en niveles bajos, mientras que la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 sigue estable en niveles elevados. Por países: En las últimas cuatro SE, se ha observado actividad de influenza en República Dominicana, Jamaica, las Islas Caimán y Guyana. Asimismo, se ha registrado actividad de SARS-CoV-2 en Belice, República Dominicana, Jamaica, Santa Lucía, Surinam, Barbados, Guyana, las Islas Caimán, y San Vicente y las Granadinas. En República Dominicana, se ha detectado un aumento en la actividad de IRAG, alcanzando niveles epidémicos, coincidiendo con una actividad epidémica de influenza y la circulación de SARS-CoV-2. • En Guyana, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de ETI e IRAG, con casos positivos atribuibles tanto a SARS-CoV-2 como a influenza. América Central: Se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI e IRAG, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a influenza, cuya proporción va en descenso, seguido de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS, cuyas proporciones han mostrado un incremento. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar un pico epidémico en varios países de la subregión, ha mostrado un descenso en la última SE. Durante las cuatro últimas SE, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con menor circulación de A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS ha alcanzado niveles similares a los máximos registrados en temporadas previas. Aunque la actividad del SARS-CoV-2 está en ascenso, permanece en niveles bajos en comparación con olas anteriores. Por países: • En El Salvador, la circulación de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles moderados, ha presentado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE. El SARS-CoV-2 sigue en ascenso, aunque en niveles bajos en comparación con olas previas. • En Guatemala, se ha observado un incremento en la actividad de ETI e IRAG por encima del umbral epidémico. La mayoría de los casos positivos de ETI se atribuyen a la influenza, cuya circulación ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, mientras que los casos de IRAG se deben principalmente a VRS y, en menor medida, a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Honduras, en las últimas cuatro semanas epidemiológicas, la actividad de IRAG se ha mantenido fluctuante en niveles epidémicos, asociada principalmente a casos positivos de influenza, que actualmente se encuentra en niveles epidémicos, y a SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. • En Nicaragua, en las últimas cuatro SE, se ha observado un pico de actividad de influenza por encima del umbral elevado, que actualmente se encuentra en descenso, mientras que la circulación del VRS y SARS-CoV-2 se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Panamá, los casos de ETI e IRAG han mostrado un incremento en las últimas cuatro SE, con un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de SARS-CoV-2 y VRS. La actividad de influenza ha descendido por debajo del umbral de actividad epidémica. Andina: La actividad de ETI e IRAG se ha mantenido en niveles epidémicos durante las últimas cuatro SE en la mayoría de los países. Asimismo, se ha observado un aumento en la proporción de casos positivos de VRS y SARS-CoV-2. La actividad de influenza ha permanecido en descenso durante este periodo. Los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2), con circulación concurrente de A(H1N1)pdm09 y del tipo B/Victoria. La actividad del VRS se ha mantenido estable en niveles moderados, mientras que la actividad de SARS-CoV-2 ha mostrado un pronunciado ascenso hasta niveles medios en comparación con olas previas. Por países: • En Bolivia, los casos de IRAG están en descenso, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de influenza también ha disminuido hasta niveles inferiores a este umbral. • En Colombia, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos en las últimas semanas, ha presentado un descenso por debajo de este umbral. La mayoría de los casos positivos se atribuyen a VRS, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles intermedios en comparación con temporadas previas, y en menor medida a SARS-CoV-2, que está en ascenso, con niveles de circulación intermedios en comparación con olas anteriores. Los casos de IRA (Infección Respiratoria Aguda) se mantienen en niveles extraordinarios. • En Ecuador, la actividad de IRAG y neumonía se ha mantenido en torno al umbral moderado en las últimas cuatro SE. Los casos positivos de IRAG se atribuyen principalmente a influenza, cuya actividad se encuentra en niveles epidémicos, y en menor medida a VRS y SARS-CoV-2, ambos en ascenso. • En Perú, se ha observado un incremento en los casos de IRAG con niveles extraordinarios, especialmente asociados a casos positivos de VRS, cuya actividad está en ascenso, y en menor medida a influenza, cuya actividad se sitúa por debajo del umbral epidémico. Asimismo, se ha registrado una creciente actividad de SARS-CoV-2; sin embargo, esta se mantiene en niveles bajos. • En Venezuela, se ha observado un descenso en la actividad de influenza, situándose por debajo del umbral epidémico. Brasil y el Cono Sur: Tras el incremento observado en semanas previas, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha mostrado un descenso en las últimas cuatro SE, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y, en menor medida, a influenza. La actividad de influenza se encuentra en niveles epidémicos en algunos países, mientras que en otros ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, mostrando una tendencia decreciente. Durante este periodo, los virus de influenza predominantes han sido de tipo A(H3N2) y, en menor medida, A(H1N1)pdm09. La actividad del VRS ha permanecido en ascenso, aunque por el momento se mantiene en niveles inferiores a los picos alcanzados en temporadas previas. La actividad del SARS-CoV-2 se ha mantenido en niveles bajos. Por países: • En Argentina, la actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos, mientras que la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha caído por debajo de este umbral. La actividad de influenza, después de alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles epidémicos en la última SE. Paralelamente, se ha observado un incremento en el porcentaje de positividad de VRS, alcanzando valores similares a los máximos observados en temporadas previas. • En Brasil, la actividad de ETI e IRAG ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico, con la mayor proporción de casos positivos atribuibles a VRS e influenza. • En Chile, los casos de ETI e IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios esta temporada, se encuentran actualmente endescenso, situándose en niveles epidémicos. La mayoría de los casos positivos durante las últimas cuatro SE son atribuibles a VRS, cuya actividad se mantiene en ascenso, aunque con niveles de positividad por debajo de los máximos observados en temporadas anteriores. La actividad de influenza, tras alcanzar niveles extraordinarios, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. • En Paraguay, la actividad de IRAG ha mostrado un repunte a niveles moderados, relacionado con casos positivos de VRS y, en menor medida, de SARS-CoV-2, cuya actividad está en ascenso. La actividad de ETI, tras alcanzar niveles epidémicos, ha descendido por debajo de este umbral, con la mayoría de los casos asociados a influenza, cuya actividad está en descenso, pero aún en niveles epidémicos. • En Uruguay, la actividad de IRAG, tras alcanzar niveles elevados, ha descendido a niveles moderados, donde se mantiene estable, con la mayoría de los casos positivos atribuibles a VRS y, en menor medida, a influenza. Esta última, después de alcanzar niveles moderados, ha descendido a niveles por debajo del umbral epidémico. La actividad de VRS ha presentado un ascenso, alcanzando niveles similares a los picos observados en temporadas anteriores.

Rotation of tobacco health warnings and messages: challenges and recommendations for implementation.

Health warnings and messages-or health warning labels (HWLs)-are integral to tobacco control efforts, but their sustained impact necessitates regular rotation. This paper explores challenges in HWL rotation implementation across six diverse countries: Chile, Guyana, Indonesia, Jamaica, Mexico, and Vietnam. 19 in-depth interviews were conducted with government officials and representatives from civil society organisations and academia. Interviews explored the effectiveness of HWL regulations, the processes involved in their execution, and any challenges encountered along the way. Interviews were analysed thematically, using a combination of deductive and inductive approaches. Interviews revealed critical challenges that fall into two categories: specific and overarching. Government priorities and transitions, political will, time and bureaucracy, legal loopholes, lack of images, evaluation, and economic and human resources constitute HWL-specific challenges. Broad tobacco control challenges included tobacco industry interference and enforcement difficulties. To address HWL rotation challenges, international bodies such as WHO could establish extensive image banks, pre-evaluated for effectiveness and cultural relevance. In addition, countries must institutionalise the rotation process by establishing mechanisms that avoid having to pass complex legal instruments with each new round of warnings, delegating responsibilities to stable government institutions, addressing legal loopholesand planning for multiple rounds within a single legal instrument. Further, partnerships at national and international levels, along with systematic evaluations, are crucial for successful HWL implementation. These recommendations form a comprehensive framework for global collaboration, aiming to strengthen tobacco prevention through impactful HWLs on a sustainable basis.

Metabolomic Profiles in Jamaican Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a wide range of behavioral and cognitive impairments. While genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to its etiology, metabolic perturbations associated with ASD, which can potentially connect genetic and environmental factors, remain poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a metabolomic case-control study and performed a comprehensive analysis to identify significant alterations in metabolite profiles between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) controls in order to identify specific metabolites that may serve as biomarkers for the disorder. We conducted metabolomic profiling on plasma samples from participants in the second phase of Epidemiological Research on Autism in Jamaica, an age and sex-matched cohort of 200 children with ASD and 200 TD controls (2-8 years old). Using high-throughput liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques, we performed a targeted metabolite analysis, encompassing amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, and other key metabolic compounds. After quality control and missing data imputation, we performed univariable and multivariable analysis using normalized metabolites while adjusting for covariates, age, sex, socioeconomic status, and child's parish of birth. Our findings revealed unique metabolic patterns in children with ASD for four metabolites compared to TD controls. Notably, three metabolites were fatty acids, including myristoleic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid, and octadecenoic acid. The amino acid sarcosine exhibited a significant association with ASD. These findings highlight the role of metabolites in the etiology of ASD and suggest opportunities for the development of targeted interventions.

Social support and ideal cardiovascular health in urban Jamaica: A cross-sectional study.

Recent studies have suggested that high levels of social support can encourage better health behaviours and result in improved cardiovascular health. In this study we evaluated the association between social support and ideal cardiovascular health among urban Jamaicans. We conducted a cross-sectional study among urban residents in Jamaica's south-east health region. Socio-demographic data and information on cigarette smoking, physical activity, dietary practices, blood pressure, body size, cholesterol, and glucose, were collected by trained personnel. The outcome variable, ideal cardiovascular health, was defined as having optimal levels of ≥5 of these characteristics (ICH-5) according to the American Heart Association definitions. Social support exposure variables included number of friends (network size), number of friends willing to provide loans (instrumental support) and number of friends providing advice (informational support). Principal component analysis was used to create a social support score using these three variables. Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between ICH-5 and social support score. Analyses included 841 participants (279 males, 562 females) with mean age of 47.6 ± 18.42 years. ICH-5 prevalence was 26.6% (95%CI 22.3, 31.0) with no significant sex difference (male 27.5%, female 25.7%). In sex-specific, multivariable logistic regression models, social support score, was inversely associated with ICH-5 among males (OR 0.67 [95%CI 0.51, 0.89], p = 0.006) but directly associated among females (OR 1.26 [95%CI 1.04, 1.53], p = 0.020) after adjusting for age and community SES. Living in poorer communities was also significantly associated with higher odds of ICH-5 among males, while living communities with high property value was associated with higher odds of ICH among females. In this study, higher level of social support was associated with better cardiovascular health among women, but poorer cardiovascular health among men in urban Jamaica. Further research should explore these associations and identify appropriate interventions to promote cardiovascular health.