SARS-CoV-2 Research in Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and Felines (Felis silvestris catus) Domiciled in an International Border Region (Paraguay and Brazil).

Introduction: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has become a serious threat to public health owing to its rapid spread from aerosols from infected people. Despite being considered a strictly human disease, there are reports in the literature about animals with confirmed presence of the virus. Aim: Owing to the scarcity of scientific literature on the potential for infection of animals and their importance for One Health, the objective of this work was to research SARS-CoV-2 RNA in felines (Felis silvestris catus) and dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) domiciled. Materials and Methods: Oropharyngeal swabs were collected from domestic dogs and cats belonging to patients diagnosed with COVID-19 from August to October 2021 and residents of the northwest and west regions of Paraná, Brazil. Results: Of the 34 samples collected, 14 were from dogs and 20 from cats. Three of these samples tested positive in real-time PCR, and two of them were also positive in the immunochromatographic test. After testing positive in real-time PCR, the samples underwent genetic sequencing using the Illumina COVIDSeq test. Of the 34 samples collected, three (9%), all of them female and from the feline species, tested positive in real-time PCR, with two of these (67%) also testing positive in the immunochromatographic test. Regarding sequencing, it was possible to sequence the three samples aligned with the AY.101 lineage, corresponding to the Delta variant. Conclusion: The occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats is seen as an unintended event with significant implications for public health, including its potential transmission to other animal species. Further research is required to enhance our understanding of how this disease spreads among these animals and its broader impact on One Health initiatives.

Correction: mHealth intervention to improve quality of life in patients with chronic diseases during the COVID-19 crisis in Paraguay: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273290.].

Cobertura de vacunación contra COVID-19 e influenza en personal de salud y administrativo en Paraguay

Introducción: A nivel mundial, la cobertura de vacunación contra el COVID-19, así como contra la influenza es baja tanto en la población general como en los profesionales de la salud a pesar de que la vacuna es gratuita y obligatoria en el personal sanitario. Objetivo: Describir la cobertura de vacunación contra el COVID -19, y la influenza en personal de salud y administrativo de un hospital de referencia del Ministerio de Salud Pública y Bienestar Social en el periodo 2021-2022. Metodología: Estudio observacional descriptivo de corte trasverso. Se hizo la revisión de los registros del personal sanitario y administrativo del centro vacunatorio del Hospital Nacional de Itauguá de la campaña vacunal contra el COVID-19 y de anti-influenza en el periodo 2021- 2022. Resultados: De los 3.586 funcionarios, 999 (27,9 %) eran médicos, 1494 (41,7 %) personal de enfermería, 366 (10,2 %) otra categoría de personal sanitario, y 727 (20,3 %) personal administrativo. En forma global, el 86,5 % de los funcionarios recibió por lo menos las dos dosis que constituyen el esquema primario y el 73 % la dosis de refuerzo. El 2,1 % del personal no recibió ninguna dosis de vacuna anti covid-19, la cifra fue mayor en el personal administrativo (4,8 %). La cobertura de vacunación contra la influenza fue de 20 % en el 2021 y 25 % en el 2022. Discusión: Si bien cobertura de vacunación anti-COVID-19 fue comparable a otros países, la vacunación contra la influenza fue muy baja. Es urgente implementar estrategias dirigidas a aumentar la percepción de riesgo y aceptabilidad de las vacunas obligatorias para el personal sanitario.

Introduction: Worldwide, vaccination coverage against COVID-19, as well as against influenza, is low both in the general population and in health professionals, despite the fact that the vaccine is free and mandatory for health personnel. Objective: To describe the COVID -19 and influenza vaccination coverage in health and administrative personnel of a reference hospital of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare in the period 2021-2022. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive observational study. Charts of the health and administrative personnel of the vaccination center of the Itauguá National Hospital of the COVID-19 and influenza vaccination campaign in the period 2021-2022 were reviewed. Results: Of the 3,586 personnel, 999 (27.9%) were medical personnel, 1,494 (41.7%) nursing personnel, 366 (10.2%) other category of health personnel, and 727 (20.3%) administrative personnel. Overall, 86.5% of the employees received at least the two doses that constitute the primary schedule and 73% the booster dose; 2.1% of the staff did not receive any dose of the anti COVID-19 vaccine, which was higher in the administrative staff (4.8%). Influenza vaccination coverage was 20% in 2021 and 25% in 2022. Discussion: Even though the vaccination coverage of anti-COVID-19 was comparable to other countries, vaccination anti-influenza was very low. It is urgent to implement strategies aimed at increasing the perception of risk and acceptability of mandatory vaccines for health personnel.

Manifestaciones orales del COVID-19 en Paraguay: resultados de una encuesta en línea

Introducción: Estudios previos han reportado que pacientes infectados con el virus del COVID-19, podrían manifestar sintomatologías a nivel de la cavidad oral. Objetivo: Evaluar la frecuencia de manifestaciones orales asociadas a COVID-19 en un segmento de la población paraguaya y determinar cuáles son las más prevalentes. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. Fue realizada una encuesta electrónica de enero a marzo del 2022. Los datos fueron presentados como frecuencias y porcentajes y analizados mediante la prueba de chi-cuadrado. El análisis estadístico se realizó con el software R versión 4.0.3. Resultados: La muestra estuvo compuesta por 478 personas. El 79,50 % correspondió al sexo femenino y el 45,19 % tenía entre 25 y 34 años. El 65,48 % informó haber experimentado al menos 1 síntoma o signo oral durante el curso de COVID-19. La pérdida de la sensación de sabores amargos, seguida de la alteración del sabor de los alimentos y la pérdida de la percepción dulce, fueron los síntomas más comunes. Se encontró una proporción significativamente mayor de manifestaciones orales en el rango de 18-24 años (χ²; p= 0,003). Entre las personas que desarrollaron COVID-19 de forma moderada a severa hubo mayor número de manifestaciones de síntomas orales (χ²; p= 0,044). Discusión: Se identificó una alta frecuencia de manifestaciones orales en pacientes con casos de moderados a severos de COVID-19, destacándose los trastornos del gusto como los más predominantes. Los individuos más jóvenes fueron los más afectados.

Introduction: Previous studies have reported that patients infected with the COVID-19 virus could manifest symptoms in the oral cavity. Objective: To evaluate the frequency of oral manifestations associated with COVID-19 in a segment of the Paraguayan population and determine the most prevalent ones. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study. An electronic survey was conducted from January to March 2022. The data were presented as frequencies and percentages and analyzed using the chi-square test. Statistical analysis was performed with R software version 4.0.3. Results: The sample consisted of 478 individuals. 79.50% were female, and 45.19% were between 25 and 34 years old. 65.48% reported having experienced at least 1 oral symptom or sign during the course of COVID-19. The loss of the sensation of bitter tastes, followed by the alteration of the taste of foods and the loss of sweetness perception, were the most common symptoms. A significantly higher proportion of oral manifestations was found in the 18-24 age range (χ²; p= 0.003). Among people who developed COVID-19 in a moderate to severe form, a greater number of oral symptom manifestations were observed (χ²; p= 0.044). Discussion: A high frequency of oral manifestations was identified in patients with moderate to severe cases of COVID-19, with taste disorders standing out as the most predominant. Younger individuals were the most affected.

Respuesta inmunitaria al SARS-CoV-2 previa a la vacunación en personal de salud de Alto Paraná, Paraguay, un estudio seroepidemiológico / Immune response to SARS-CoV-2 prior to vaccination among healthcare workers from Alto Paraná, Paraguay, a seroepidemiological study

INTRODUCCIÓN: La comprensión del comportamiento de la respuesta humoral en COVID-19 continúa siendo un desafío para la producción de vacunas que proporcionen inmunidad más duradera. OBJETIVO: Describir la respuesta humoral natural inducida por SARS- CoV-2 en personal de salud con base en el perfil epidemiológico y clínico. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal en personal de salud de hospitales públicos de referencia del Departamento de Alto Paraná, Paraguay. Se incluyeron 962 participantes, mediante muestreo no probabilístico de tipo consecutivo, aplicación de cuestionario y toma de muestras sanguíneas. Se buscaron anticuerpos por ensayo inmunocromatográfico para detección de IgM e IgG contra SARS- CoV-2 y por el método ELISA de captura de IgG específicos contra la proteína spike (SARS-CoV-2) y se evaluaron factores asociados a la seropositividad. RESULTADOS: La seroprevalencia global fue 36,5% (IC 95%: 33,4 - 39,5); 59,3% (n: 571) de los encuestados refirió haber tenido síntomas compatibles al COVID-19 entre el inicio de la pandemia y la fecha de toma de muestra, de estos 44% (n: 251) resultó seropositivo; 10,4% (n: 100) manifestó no haber tenido síntomas en el periodo estudiado, pero tuvo un resultado positivo. Los factores asociados a la seropositividad fueron: presencia de síntomas (p 90 días). CONCLUSIONES: Las características clínicas fueron mayormente asociadas con la seropositividad y la seropreva- lencia en los sintomáticos varió de acuerdo con el tiempo transcurrido desde el inicio de los síntomas y la serología.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the behavior of humoral response in COVID-19 continues to be a challenge to produce vaccines that provide long-lasting immunity. AIM: To describe the natural humoral response induced by SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers based on epidemiological and clinical profiles. METHODS: Cross-sectional study in healthcare workers from public hospitals in the Department of Alto Paraná, Paraguay, 962 participants were recruited through consecutive sampling, using a questionnaire and blood sampling. Antibodies were determined by immunochromatography assay for detection of IgM and IgG and by SARS-CoV-2 IgG anti-spike capture ELISA method and factors associated with seropositivity were evaluated. RESULTS: The overall seropositivity was 36.5% (95% CI: 33.4 - 39.5); 59.3% (n: 571) of respondents reported symptoms compatible with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic and the date of blood draw, 44% (n: 251) of them tested positive; 10.4% (n: 100) who reported no history of symptoms tested positive. The factors associated with seropositivity were the presence of symptoms (p 90 days). CONCLUSIONS: Clinical characteristics were mostly associated with seropositivity and sero prevalence in symptomatic participants varied according to the time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to serology.

Cytokine storm in Chikungunya: Can we call it multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with Chikungunya? / Tormenta de citoquinas en Chikungunya. ¿Podemos llamarla Síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico asociado a Chikungunya?

Paraguay is currently facing a new outbreak of Chikungunya virus. This report summarizes two severe cases of Chikungunya (CHIKV) infection, confirmed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. We present the cases of patients with acute CHIKV infection and multisystem involvement, with fever, rash, abdominal pain, vomiting, myocarditis, and coronary artery anomalies, very similar to the cases described in MIS-C related to SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Both patients received IVIG and methylprednisolone, with good clinical response. In this setting of cytokine storm in Chikungunya, can we call it “Multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with Chikungunya”?.(AU)

Paraguay se enfrenta actualmente a un nuevo brote del virus Chikungunya. Este informe resume dos casos graves de infección por Chikungunya (CHIKV), confirmados mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa con transcripción inversa en tiempo real. Presentamos los casos de pacientes con infección aguda por CHIKV y afectación multisistémica, con fiebre, erupción cutánea, dolor abdominal, vómitos, miocarditis y anomalías de las arterias coronarias, muy similares a los casos descritos en síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico relacionado con el SARS-CoV-2 durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Ambos pacientes recibieron IGIV y metilprednisolona, con buena respuesta clínica. En este escenario de tormenta de citoquinas en Chikungunya, ¿podemos llamarla «síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico asociado a Chikungunya»?.(AU)

Calidad de vida laboral del personal de Enfermería de un hospital regional de Paraguay durante la pandemia COVID-19 / Occupational quality of life of the nursing staff at a regional hospital in Paraguay during the covid-19 pandemic

Objetivo: determinar la calidad de vida laboral en tiempos de COVID-19 del personal de Enfermería del Hospital Regional de Coronel Oviedo (Paraguay) durante el año 2022. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo trasversal en el Hospital Regional de Coronel Oviedo, en Paraguay, en enfermeros y enfermeras con al menos un año de experiencia. Se utilizó el cuestionario de calidad de vida laboral adaptado de Cruz Luque, además de variables sociodemográficas y laborales. Para los análisis bivariados entre las dimensiones del cuestionario de calidad de vida con las variables sociodemográficas y laborales, se utilizó la prueba de Chi cuadrado de Pearson. Resultados: se incluyeron 170 profesionales, con un rango etario entre 24 y 43 años, con predominio del sexo femenino (84,7%), estado civil casado (50,5%), con alguna especialización en el área (48,2%), y trabajando principalmente en un solo lugar. El promedio de pacientes diarios fue de uno a cinco pacientes (54,7%), con turnos laborales de 12 horas (56,4%). La percepción global de la calidad de vida laboral se ubicó entre mala (48%) y regular (37%). Las dimensiones específicas mostraron que la percepción más baja se encontró en el soporte institucional (48,82%) e integración en el puesto de trabajo (52,35%). Se identificaron asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre la percepción de la calidad laboral y datos demográficos y laborales como edad, género, nivel educativo, turno de trabajo, experiencia laboral, horas trabajadas semanalmente y número de empleos. Conclusión: la percepción de calidad laboral se encontró entre mala y regular, siendo las dimensiones de soporte institucional y seguridad laboral las principales áreas críticas.(AU)

Objective: to determine the occupational quality of life in times of COVID-19 of the Nursing Staff of the Hospital Regional de Coronel Oviedo (Paraguay) during 2022. Method: a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Hospital Regional de Coronel Oviedo, in Paraguay, including male and female nurses with at least one year of experience. The adapted Occupational Quality of Life Questionnaire by Cruz Luque was used, as well as sociodemographic and occupational variables. Pearson’s Square Chi Test was used for bivariate analysis between the quality of life questionnaire dimensions and the sociodemographic and occupational variables. Results: the study included 170 professionals, with a 24-to-43-year age range, with prevalence of female gender (84.7%), married civil status (50.5%), with some specialization in the area (48.2%), and mostly working in one single place. The average daily patients were from one to five (54.7%), with 12-hour work shifts (56.4%). The overall perception of their occupational quality of life was between bad (48%) and moderate (37%). Specific dimensions showed that the lowest perception was found in institutional support (48.82%) and integration in the workplace (52.35%). Statistically significant associations were identified between the perception of work quality and demographic and occupational data such as age, gender, educational level, work shift, work experience, hours worked per week and number of jobs. Conclusion: the perception of quality of work was between bad and moderate, and the main critical areas were the dimensions of institutional support and safety at work.(AU)

Mental Health News during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A 3-year analysis in Paraguay / Noticias sobre Salud Mental durante la pandemia de COVID-19: Un análisis de 3 años en Paraguay

Introduction. The connection between news sources and the connotation of mental health articles in Paraguay during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023) significantly impacted public opinion about mental health. Objective.This study analyzednews onmental health in Paraguay in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods.A descriptive retrospective study of all news articles on mental health published in the three primary newspapers of the country between May 2020 and May 2023 was conducted. The keywords were depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and mental health issues. Results. A total of 534 newswereexamined, 39.5% published by La Nación newspaper, 33.1% in 2023, and in 88.4% the author's identity and gender were not specified. Of the writing characteristics, 99.8% were written in the third person, 62.7% had a human-interest context,48.5% had a neutral connotation, 65.7% focused on health and well-being,and 7.5% written by health experts. The year of publication wasstatistically associated to connotation (p=0.003) and context (p<0.001). Conclusion. The media has paid significant attention to mental health. Despite the objectivity provided by third-person narration, problems arise because of a lack of author identification. To encourage balanced and non-polarized reporting, it is crucial to incorporate expert voices and promote the framing of mental health stories as "human interest". Palabras clave: mental health; news; newspaper article; COVID-19; Paraguay

Introducción. La conexión entre las fuentes de noticias y la connotación de los artículos sobre salud mental en Paraguay durante la pandemia de COVID-19 (2020-2023) impactó significativamente en la opinión pública sobre la salud mental. Objetivo. Analizar las noticias sobre salud mental en Paraguay en el contexto de la pandemia COVID-19. Material y métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de todos los artículos periodísticos sobre salud mental publicados en los tres principales periódicos del país entre mayo de 2020 y mayo de 2023. Las palabras clave fueron trastornos depresivos, trastornos de ansiedad, trastorno bipolar, esquizofrenia y problemas de salud mental. Resultados. Se examinaron 534 artículos periodísticos, 39,5% publicados por el diario La Nación, 33,1% en 2023y en 88,4%no se especificó la identidad ni el género del autor. De las características de redacción, el 99,8% estaban escritos en tercera persona, 62,7% pertenecían a un contexto de interés humano,48,5% tenían una connotación neutra, 65,7% se centraban en la salud y el bienestar y el 7,5% escritos por expertos en salud. El año de publicación se asoció significativamente con la connotación (p=0,003) y con el contexto (p<0,001). Conclusión. Los medios de comunicación han prestado gran atención a la salud mental. A pesar de la objetividad que aporta la narración en tercera persona, surgen problemas por la falta de identificación del autor. Para fomentar una información equilibrada y no polarizada, es crucial incorporar voces expertas y promover el encuadre de las historias de salud mental como "interés humano". Key words: salud mental; noticias; artículo de periódico; COVID-19;Paraguay

Clinical evolution and mortality of critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia treated with remdesivir in an adult intensive care unit of Paraguay.

BACKGROUND: The health crisis due to Covid-19 led to the search for therapeutics that could improve the evolution of the disease. Remdesivir, an antiviral that interferes with viral replication, was one of the first to be used for the treatment of this pathology. OBJECTIVE: To determine clinical course and mortality of patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia treated with remdesivir, in comparison of those who didn't receive the medication. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study, with medical records review of COVID-19 patients, between August 2020 and August 2021. The subjects were divided into two groups, those who received remdesivir before or after admission to intensive care and those who didn't. The primary outcome variable was mortality in intensive care. RESULTS: Of 214 subjects included, 109 (50,9%) received remdesivir. The median of days for the drug administration was 8 (2-20), IQR: 3. The bivariate analysis prove that the use of remdesivir was related with lower risk of develop Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) (p = 0,019; OR: 0,521) and lower requirement of mechanical ventilation (p = 0,006; OR:0,450). Additionally, patients treated with remdesivir develop less kidney injury (p = 0,009; OR: 0,441). There was a total of 82 deaths, 29 (26,6%) in the remdesivir group and 53 (50,5%) in the control group [p < 0,001; OR: 0,356 (0,201-0,630)]. All the risk factors associated with mortality in the bivariate analysis were entered into the multivariate analysis by logistic regression, the use of remdesivir remained associated as an independent protective factor to mortality (p = 0.034; OR: 0.429). CONCLUSION: Critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia treated with remdesivir had a lower risk of death and need for mechanical ventilation and develop less ARDS as compared to the control group. No differences were found in the presentation of adverse effects.

Mortalidad intrahospitalaria de pacientes con COVID-19 complicados con neumonías bacterianas en asistencia respiratoria mecánica en Cuidados Intensivos de Adultos en un Hospital del Paraguay / In-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 complicated by bacterial pneumonia on mechanical ventilation in Adult Intensive Care in a Hospital in Paraguay

Introducción: los pacientes con COVID-19 ingresan en mayor proporción a asistencia respiratoria mecánica, aumentando: el riesgo de neumonía asociada a ventilador (NAV) las tasas de mortalidad, los días de permanencia en las unidades de terapia intensiva (UCI) y los costos sanitarios. Objetivo: determinar la Mortalidad intrahospitalaria de pacientes con COVID-19 complicados con neumonías bacterianas en asistencia respiratoria mecánica en Cuidados Intensivos de Adultos en un Hospital del Paraguay durante los años 2020 a 2021. Metodología: estudio analítico de tipo cohorte retrospectiva. Se registraron variables demográficas, comorbilidades, puntajes en scores de gravedad como el APACHE II al ingreso, la cifra más baja de oxigenación durante la internación expresado por la PaO2 / FIO2, días de ventilación, colocación en decúbito prono, traqueotomía, medidas terapéuticas farmacológicas y no farmacológicas, días de internación, así como las complicaciones y la mortalidad. Resultados: fueron incluidos 214 pacientes, 135 ingresaron a asistencia respiratoria mecánica (ARM) de los cuales 58 (42,9 %) desarrollaron NAV, con edad mediana de 52 años (40-60). Los microorganismos de NAV fueron cocos Gram negativos en 98,3 %, incluyendo Acinetobacter baumanii en 46,5 %, Klebsiella pneumoniae en 22,8 %, Pseudomona aeruginosa en 15,5 % y 5,2 % Stenotrophomona maltofilia. La mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 44,8 %. Los menores de 50 años tienen una sobrevida mayor que los mayores (34 días vs 22 días, con p de 0,026). Conclusión: la mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 44,8 %. La edad fue un factor de riesgo independiente para la mortalidad en pacientes con NAV, por lo que los profesionales de la salud deben estar atentos a la posibilidad de NAV en pacientes que requieren asistencia respiratoria mecánica, especialmente en pacientes mayores de 50 años.

Introduction: patients with COVID-19 are more likely to require mechanical ventilation, which increases the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), mortality rates, length of stay in intensive care units (ICUs), and healthcare costs. Objective: to determine the in-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 complicated by bacterial pneumonia on mechanical ventilation in Adult Intensive Care in a Hospital in Paraguay during the years 2020 to 2021. Methodology: this is a retrospective cohort analytical study. Demographic variables, comorbidities, severity scores such as APACHE II on admission, the worst oxygenation during hospitalization expressed by PaO2/FiO2, days of ventilation, prone position, tracheostomy, pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic measures, days of hospitalization, as well as complications and mortality were recorded. Results: a total of 214 patients were included, 135 were admitted to mechanical ventilation (MRA), of which 58 (42.9%) developed VAP, with a median age of 52 years (40-60). VAP microorganisms were Gram-negative cocci in 98.3%, including Acinetobacter baumanii in 46.5%, Klebsiella pneumoniae in 22.8%, Pseudomona aeruginosa in 15.5%, and Stenotrophomona maltophilia in 5.2%. In-hospital mortality was 44.8%. Those under 50 years of age have a longer survival than those older (34 days vs. 22 days, with p of 0.026). Conclusion: the overall mortality rate was 44.8%. Age was an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with VAP, so healthcare professionals should be aware of the possibility of VAP in patients who require mechanical ventilation, especially in patients over 50 years of age.

Características epidemiológicas de pacientes con COVID-19 en el Hospital Regional de Encarnación, Paraguay, entre 2021 y 2023

Introducción: las vacunas desarrolladas durante la pandemia contra COVID-19 fueron elaboradas con el objetivo de ofrecer inmunidad contra el virus y evitar la enfermedad, reduciendo así las complicaciones fatales. Objetivos: determinar las características epidemiológicas de los pacientes con COVID-19, internados en el servicio de Clínica Médica del Hospital Regional de Encarnación. Además, describir el esquema de vacunación y la relación entre el diagnóstico de neumonía por COVID-19 y la vacunación contra ésta. Metodología: estudio descriptivo, observacional, de corte transversal realizado desde marzo del 2021 a noviembre del 2023. Se aplicó un muestro no probabilístico por conveniencia. Se incluyeron pacientes internados en el servicio de Clínica Médica del Hospital Regional de Encarnación, Paraguay, con diagnóstico de COVID-19. Resultados: la muestra estuvo conformada por 806 pacientes, el 63,28% era del sexo femenino. La edad promedio fue 44 ± 21 años. el 52,73% provenían del distrito de Encarnación. El 11,79% correspondía a pacientes internados con diagnóstico de neumonía por COVID-19 de los cuales el 34,74% contaba con algún esquema de vacunación contra el virus y el 88,21% correspondía a pacientes internados por COVID-19 y otros diagnósticos, de los cuales el 69,06% contaba con algún esquema de vacunación. Las comorbilidades más frecuentes fueron el tabaquismo, la diabetes y la obesidad. Se encontró que la vacunación esta relacionada con la menor frecuencia de neumonía por COVID-19. Conclusiones: se encontró una muestra predominantemente femenina, la edad promedio corresponde al grupo de adultos jóvenes, los pacientes residían principalmente en la ciudad de Encarnación. La frecuencia de internados por COVID-19 con algún esquema de vacunación contra el virus es considerable. Los factores de riesgo o comorbilidades frecuentes fueron la cardiopatía crónica, la hipertensión arterial y la diabetes mellitus. Se determinó estadísticamente que la vacunación y el número de dosis de la vacuna están relacionados con la menor frecuencia de neumonía por COVID-19.

Introduction: The vaccines developed during the COVID-19 pandemic were developed to offer immunity against the virus and avoid the disease, thus reducing fatal complications. Objectives: To determine the epidemiological characteristics of patients with COVID-19, admitted to the Medical Clinic service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación and to describe the vaccination schedule and the relationship between the diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia and vaccination against it. Methodology: Descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study carried out from March 2021 to November 2023. Non-probabilistic sampling was applied for convenience. Patients admitted to the Medical Clinic service of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación, Paraguay, with a diagnosis of COVID-19 were included. Results: The sample consisted of 806 patients, 63.28% of whom were female. The average age was 44 ± 21 years and 52.73% came from the Encarnación district. Eleven-point seventy-nine percent corresponded to patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia, 34.74% of whom had some vaccination schedule against the virus and 88.21% corresponded to patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and others. diagnoses, of which 69.06% had some vaccination schedule. The most common comorbidities were smoking, diabetes, and obesity. It was found that vaccination was related to the lower frequency of COVID-19 pneumonia. Conclusions: A predominantly female sample was found, the average age corresponds to the group of young adults, and the patients resided mainly in the city of Encarnación. The frequency of hospitalizations for COVID-19 with some vaccination schemes against the virus was considerable. The common risk factors or comorbidities were chronic heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus. It was statistically determined that vaccination and the number of doses of the vaccine were related to the lower frequency of COVID-19 pneumonia.

Hope, resilience and subjective happiness among general population of Paraguay in the post COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Positive mental health includes not only the absence of mental disorders but also the presence of subjective well-being, good coping strategies for life stress, and strategies for adapting to community life. It is well known that the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged mental health in general population worldwide. However, research has not measured protective factors for mental health in the general population after the declared end of pandemic by the World Health Organization. METHODS: This observational, cross-sectional study surveyed 591 Paraguayan participants aged ⩾18 years, who were recruited through an online survey. Demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status were collected as well as mental health and validated tools for hope, resilience, subjective happiness were administered. RESULTS: Of the participants, 81.6% were women, 54% were married or in a relationship and 90.7% reported an university education. The main source of stress was economic issues (30.3%). A total of 22.7% had been previously diagnosed with a mental disorder, 22.2% had consulted a mental health professional and 10.8% had consumed prescription drugs. 42.6% reported flourishing, 36.2% reported moderate and 21.2% reported languishing mental health. CONCLUSIONS: This large survey has shown that most of participants reported a flourishing mental health with high ratings at hope, resilience, and subjective happiness scales. Also, the main sources of stress were economic issues, not consequently related to the pandemic. This may add evidences to the international debate on the long term effects of the global pandemic and probably suggests that recovery processes have been collectively adopted in Paraguay.

Perfil de transmisión del SARS-COV-2 en una región sanitaria del Paraguay

Introducción: La transmisión viral a menudo se propaga en grupos, donde las infecciones se pueden rastrear hasta un caso índice o una ubicación geográfica, para así poder tomar medidas de prevención al respecto. Entender el perfil de transmisión del SARS-CoV-2 es esencial para desarrollar estrategias efectivas de prevención y control de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Determinar el perfil de transmisión del Sars-Cov-2, a partir de clúster con casos índices identificados, en la V región sanitaria (Caaguazu) del Paraguay, entre julio y octubre del 2020. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, con fichas de notificación de casos de COVID-19 y resultados laboratoriales de la RT_PCR en pacientes diagnosticados con COVID-19 en la V Región Sanitaria entrejulio y octubre del 2020. Resultados: Fueron identificadas 703 personas con Sars-Cov-2 positivo. El 55,49 % de las personas no reconoció algún nexo de contagio. Con respecto al tipo de evento donde ocurrían con mayor frecuencia los contagios, ocurrieron en Eventos Sociales en 58,14 % de los casos y en el Ambiente Familiar en el 33,89 %. La transmisión secundaria se observó en el 17,40 % de los casos. Fueron identificados 58 Clústers, con una mediana de tamaño de los mismos de 3 (RIQ 2-4), y 267 personas (37,98 %) asociadas a los mismos. Discusión: La mayoría de las personas no reconocieron su nexo de contagio, sin embargo, en los que, si conocieron, se puede observar que la participación en eventos sociales fue el principal nexo, por lo que es fundamental realizar este tipo de ejercicios para hacer el seguimiento oportuno de los casos.

Introduction: Viral transmission often spreads in clusters, where infections can be traced to an index case or a geographic location, in order to take preventive measures in this regard, understanding the transmission profile of SARS-CoV-2 is essential. to develop effective disease prevention and control strategies. Objective: to determine the transmission profile of Sars-Cov-2, from clusters with identified index cases, in the V health region (Caaguazú) of Paraguay, between July and October 2020. Methodology: We carried out an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with notification sheets of COVID-19 cases and laboratory results of the RT_PCR in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the V Sanitary Region between July and October 2020. Results: We identified 703 people with positive Sars-Cov-2. 55.49% of people did not recognize any contagion link. Regarding the type of event where infections occurred most frequently, was in Social Events in 58.14% of the cases and the Family Environment in 33.89%, secondary transmission was observed in 17.40% of the cases. 58 Clusters were identified, with a median size of 3 (IQR 2-4), and 267 people (37.98%) associated with them. Discussion: Most of the people did not recognize their contagion link, however, in those who did know, the main link was because they participated in social events, so it is essential to carry out this type of exercise to do timely follow-up. of the cases.

Depresión, Ansiedad y Estrés en Enfermería en el Hospital Psiquiátrico, a 18 Meses de la Pandemia en Paraguay, 2021

Introducción: Los profesionales de salud, especialmente los del área de enfermería, se encuentran en mayores posibilidades de desarrollar trastornos mentales, debido a la alta exposición a condiciones tensionantes propias del ambiente laboral, que afectan integralmente a la persona. Objetivo: Identificar los niveles de depresión, ansiedad y estrés en Enfermería en el Hospital Psiquiátrico, en el hospital psiquiátrico, a 18 meses de la pandemia en Paraguay, 2021. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal descriptivo, aplicado a 79 profesionales de enfermería del Hospital Psiquiátrico en noviembre de 2021, mediante un instrumento de auto-llenado con variables sociodemográficas, laborales y clínicas, seguido del Inventario DASS-21. Resultados: Edad promedio 40 años, 63% femenino, 53% estado civil solteros/as, 78% son de asistencia directa y 22% gerenciales, con antigüedad promedio 14 años, 71% con un vínculo laboral, 25% fue muy afectado por la cuarentena, 57% enfermo de COVID-19, 70% no tuvo fallecidos por COVID-19 en su entorno familiar. En relación con los niveles de condiciones emocionales encontrados según el DASS-21, 58% tuvo ansiedad, 53% depresión y 49% estrés. Conclusión: Los porcentajes obtenidos en los diferentes niveles en la investigación son elevados, y se relacionan con las diferentes investigaciones desarrolladas sobre el tema.

Introduction: Healthcare professionals, especially those in nursing, are at a higher risk of developing mental disorders due to their exposure to stressful conditions inherent in the work environment, which profoundly affect individuals. Objective: To identify the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among nursing staff at the Psychiatric Hospital, 18 months into the pandemic in Paraguay, 2021. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2021, involving 79 nursing professionals at the Psychiatric Hospital. Participants completed a self-administered instrument comprising sociodemographic, occupational, and clinical variables, followed by the DASS-21 Inventory. Results: Average age 40 years, 63% female, 53% single marital status, 78% were direct assistance and 22% managerial, with average seniority of 14 years, 71% with one work relationship, 25% were very affected by quarantine, 57% ill with COVID-19, 70% had no deaths due to COVID-19 in their family environment. In relation to the levels of emotional conditions found according to the DASS-21, 58% had anxiety, 53% depression and 49% stress. Conclusion: The percentages obtained in the different levels in the investigation are high and are related to the different investigations developed on the subject.

Caracterización Epidemiológica del Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Adquirida en Itapúa, Paraguay 2017-2021

Introducción: Un mayor conocimiento y difusión acerca del comportamiento epidemiológico de la infección por VIH en el Departamento de Itapúa genera una evidencia significativa para la toma de decisiones a nivel regional. Objetivo: Caracterizar epidemiológicamente a pacientes con VIH que forman parte del PRONASIDA del Hospital Regional de Encarnación desde el año 2017 a 2021. Material y Métodos: Estudio transversal descriptivo en pacientes con VIH captados por el PRONASIDA del Hospital Regional de Encarnación, 7ª Región Sanitaria, durante los años 2017-2021 (n=375). Los datos se expresaron en medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, y tabla de proporciones. Resultados: El mayor número de casos (80) se evidenció en los años 2018 y 2019. El rango etario de 20-29 años reportó el mayor número de casos, 20% (75), con predominancia del sexo femenino 64% (229), el 47% (177) procedente de Encarnación. Se halló un 43% (106) de casos de sida con CD4 menor a 200 células/mL, la mediana de la carga viral fue de 96.030cél/mL con un rango intercuartílico de 401.884,5cél/mL. Conclusión: Se identificó la disminución de nuevos diagnósticos en el año 2020, lo cual guarda relación con las medidas sanitarias a causa de la pandemia por COVID-19. Las características analizadas mostraron predominancia del sexo femenino en grupos etarios en edad joven con procedencia de Encarnación. Se considera importante fortalecer el primer nivel de atención en Itapúa a fin de evidenciar las brechas con el objetivo de ampliar el acceso para captación de pacientes y asegurar un diagnóstico precoz.

Introduction: Increased knowledge and dissemination about the epidemiological behavior of HIV infection in the Department of Itapúa generates significant evidence for decision-making at the regional level. Objective: To describe the epidemiological characteristics of patients with HIV who are part of the PRONASIDA of the Regional Hospital of Encarnación from 2017 to 2021. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted on HIV patients enrolled in the PRONASIDA program at the Regional Hospital of Encarnación, 7th Health Region, during the years 2017-2021 (n=375). Data were expressed in measures of central tendency and dispersion, and proportions table. Results: The highest number of cases (80) was observed in 2018 and 2019. The age range of 20-29 years reported the highest number of cases, 20% (75), predominantly among females 64% (229), with 47% (177) originating from Encarnación. Forty-three percent (106) of AIDS cases had CD4 counts lower than 200 cells/mL, with a median viral load of 96,030 cells/mL and an interquartile range of 401,884.5 cells/mL. Conclusion: A decrease in new diagnoses was identified in the year 2020, likely associated with health measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The analyzed characteristics showed a predominance of females in younger age groups originating from Encarnación. It is considered important to strengthen primary care in Itapúa to highlight gaps, aiming to broaden access for patient enrollment and ensure early diagnosis.

Vacunación contra el SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes paraguayos con artritis reumatoide

Introducción: La vacunación en poblaciones expuestas a mayor riesgo de enfermedad grave y muerte consecuentes a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, ha generado un gran impacto en la salud pública mundial. Indudablemente, el beneficio ha sido evidenciado mayormente en personas con comorbilidades crónicas, donde la artritis reumatoide (AR) juega un rol importante. Objetivo: Analizar la vacunación contra Sars-CoV-2 en pacientes paraguayos con AR, durante la pandemia COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio multicéntrico, en el que se analizó transversalmente a una cohorte de pacientes con AR, durante el periodo de octubre a diciembre del año 2022. Para el estudio se registraron variables clínico-epidemiológicas y relacionadas con la vacunación (i.e. acceso a la vacunación, tipo, número de dosis). Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables con el software R-4.3.2. Resultados: Se incluyeron 568 pacientes, 84,1% eran mujeres, con un promedio de edad de 55,5±13,9 años. El 88,7% (504) pacientes, recibieron al menos una dosis de vacuna contra SARS-CoV-2. 85% (483) recibieron dos dosis, mientras que el 60,9% (344) pacientes recibieron el primer refuerzo, y 21,2% el segundo refuerzo. Conclusiones: En esta serie de pacientes paraguayos con AR el porcentaje de vacunación contra SARS-CoV-2 fue más elevado que el registrado en la población general del país. Esto podría estar relacionado con la prioridad de esta población para acceder a las vacunas y a la insistencia de sus médicos en completar el esquema de vacunación.

Introduction: Vaccination in populations exposed to increased risk of severe disease and death consequent to SARS-CoV-2 infection has generated a major impact on global Public Health. Certainly, the benefit has been evidenced mostly in people with chronic comorbidities, where rheumatoid arthritis (RA) plays an important role. Objective: To analyze vaccination against Sars-CoV-2 in paraguayan patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the COVID19 pandemic. Methods: A multicenter study was carried out, in which a cohort of patients with RA was analyzed cross-sectionally, during the period from October to December 2022. For the study, clinical-epidemiological and vaccination-related variables were recorded (i.e. access to vaccination, type, number of doses). A descriptive analysis of the variables was carried out with the R-4.3.2 software. Results: 568 patients were included, 84.1% were female, with an average age of 55.5±13.9 years. 88.7% (504) patients received at least one dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, 85% (483) received two doses, while 60.9% (344) patients received the first booster, and 21.2% the second booster. Conclusions: In this series of Paraguayan patients with RA the percentage of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 was higher than that registered in the general population of the country. This could be related to the priority of this population to access vaccines and the insistence of their physicians to complete the vaccination schedule.

Neutralizing antibodies from naturally infected individuals against SARS-CoV-2 Gamma and Delta variants in the Paraguayan population.

INTRODUCTION: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 Virus (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). A substantial number of SARS-CoV-2 infection cases have been reported during the pandemic, and vaccination coverage in some regions, particularly in developing countries, remains very low. SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) have also emerged as some of the most pressing public health issues. In this scenario, it is crucial to know whether COVID-19 convalescent antibodies have cross-neutralizing action against VOCs to contribute to the analysis of the future progress of the pandemic. METHODOLOGY: The plasma of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 from June to November 2020 in Paraguay (before the first recorded infections associated with VOCs in the country) was selected. Anti-spike antibodies were determined in plasma samples (n = 626) obtained from this convalescent and unvaccinated group. Using a pseudotyped virus neutralization assay, we then investigated the neutralizing response against D614G variant and Gamma, and Delta VOCs. RESULTS: IgG antibodies against spike were detected in 85.6% of convalescent individuals. Samples from individuals previously infected by a non-VOC showed a 6.6- and 8.1-fold reduction in neutralizing capacity to the Gamma and Delta variants, respectively, when compared to the D614G variant. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that antibodies generated by non-VOC infection have reduced neutralizing capabilities against Gamma and Delta variants that appeared subsequently and might have implications for immunity strategies.

COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against hospitalizations in Paraguay, May 2021-April 2022: A test-negative design.

BACKGROUND: Vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates vary by population characteristics and circulating variants. North America and Europe have generated many COVID-19 VE estimates but relied heavily on mRNA vaccines. Fewer estimates are available for non-mRNA vaccines and from Latin America. We aimed to estimate the effectiveness of several COVID-19 vaccines in preventing SARS-CoV-2-associated severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) in Paraguay from May 2021 to April 2022. METHODS: Using sentinel surveillance data from four hospitals in Paraguay, we conducted a test-negative case-control study to estimate COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against SARI by vaccine type/brand and period of SARS-CoV-2 variant predominance (Gamma, Delta, Omicron). We used multivariable logistic regression adjusting for month of symptom onset, age group, and presence of ≥1 comorbidity to estimate the odds of COVID-19 vaccination in SARS-CoV-2 test-positive SARI case-patients compared to SARS-CoV-2 test-negative SARI control-patients. RESULTS: Of 4,229 SARI patients, 2,381 (56%) were SARS-CoV-2-positive case-patients and 1,848 (44%) were SARS-CoV-2-negative control-patients. A greater proportion of case-patients (73%; 95% CI: 71-75) than of control-patients (40%; 95% CI: 38-42) were unvaccinated. During the Gamma variant-predominant period, VE estimates for partial vaccination with mRNA vaccines and Oxford/AstraZeneca Vaxzevria were 90.4% (95% CI: 66.4-97.6) and 52.2% (95% CI: 25.0-69.0), respectively. During the Delta variant-predominant period, VE estimates for complete vaccination with mRNA vaccines, Oxford/AstraZeneca Vaxzevria, or Gamaleya Sputnik V were 90.4% (95% CI: 74.3-97.3), 83.2% (95% CI: 67.8-91.9), and 82.9% (95% CI: 53.0-95.2), respectively. The effectiveness of all vaccines declined substantially during the Omicron variant-predominant period. CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes to our understanding of COVID-19 VE in Latin America and to global understanding of vaccines that have not been widely used in North America and Europe. VE estimates from Paraguay can parameterize models to estimate the impact of the national COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Paraguay and similar settings.

Percepción sobre la vacuna COVID-19 y su efecto en la cobertura de vacunación regular de pueblos indígenas del Departamento de Presidente Hayes, Paraguay

Introducción: Durante la pandemia por COVID-19, factores como cierre de fronteras, recepción tardía de vacunas, limitación de circulación de la población, reubicación de enfermeros/as de áreas de vacunación a áreas de atención de pacientes con COVID-19, sumado el miedo al contagio, afectaron las coberturas de vacunación en varios países. Objetivo: Describir la percepción sobre la vacuna COVID-19 y su efecto en la cobertura de vacunación regular de pueblos indígenas del departamento de Presidente Hayes, Paraguay. 2022. Metodología: Estudio observacional descriptivo, retrospectivo de diseño cuali-cuantitativo de corte transversal. Resultados: Las características de los pueblos indígenas revela que 110(26,44 %) se ubica entre 28 a 37 años, 276(66,35 %) del sexo femenino, 133(31,97 %) son de la etnia Angaité, 290(69,71 %) poseen estudios hasta el nivel primario y 178(42,79 %) de estado civil soltero. La percepción hacia la vacunación COVID-19 fue favorable en 201 sujetos (48 %) y muy desfavorable en 148 (36 %). Existen pueblos indígenas con gran influencia de creencias culturales y religiosas en relación con las vacunas. La vacunación regular se vio afectada. Discusión: Se observó que la pandemia del COVID-19 y la aparición de la vacuna desarrolló desconfianza no solo en la vacuna COVID-19 si no también en el resto de las vacunas en algunos de los pueblos estudiados.

Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, factors such as border closures, late receipt of vaccines, limitation of population circulation, relocation of nurses from vaccination areas to areas of care for patients with COVID-19, added to the fear of contagion affected vaccination coverage in several countries. Objective: Describe the perception of the COVID-19 vaccine and its effect on the regular vaccination coverage of indigenous peoples in the department of Presidente Hayes, Paraguay 2022. Methods: Descriptive, retrospective, observational study with a qualitative-quantitative cross-sectional design. Results: The characteristics of the indigenous peoples reveals that 110 (26.44%) are between 28 and 37 years old, 276 (66.35%) are female, 133 (31.97%) are of the Angaité ethnic group, 290 (69.71%) have studies up to the primary level and 178 (42.79%) have single marital status. The perception towards the COVID-19 vaccination was favorable in 201 subjects (48%) and very unfavorable in 148 (36%). There are indigenous peoples with great influence of cultural and religious beliefs in relation to vaccines. Regular vaccination was affected. Discussion: It was observed that the COVID-19 pandemic and the appearance of the vaccine developed distrust not only in the COVID-19 vaccine but also in the rest of the vaccines in some of the towns studied.