1
|
Stephens MT, Juniastuti, Sulistiawati, Dossen PC. The potential risk components and prevention measures of the Ebola virus disease outbreak in Liberia: An in-depth interview with the health workers and stakeholders. BELITUNG NURSING JOURNAL 2024; 10:67-77. [PMID: 38425680 PMCID: PMC10900057 DOI: 10.33546/bnj.3069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Ebola virus, a highly infectious and deadly pathogen, has posed a significant public health threat in West Africa for several decades. Liberia is one of the most severely affected countries. Healthcare personnel, including nurses, are on the front lines of patient care, and their perspectives are invaluable in understanding the challenges that arise during outbreaks, especially in implementing prevention measures. Objective This study aimed to explore the potential risk components and prevention measures of the Ebola virus disease (EVD). Methods This study used an exploratory descriptive qualitative design. Five stakeholders, ten doctors and five nurses who had suffered from EVD during the outbreak in Liberia participated in semi-structured interviews to provide their experience and comprehensive perspectives on EVD. Data were collected from February 2022-August 2023. NVivo 12 plus was used for inductive thematic analysis. Results Six themes and several subthemes emerged: 1) transmission modes (body contact, body fluid, sexual intercourse, traditional burial), 2) funeral attendance (traditional practices and crowded gatherings), 3) community-led prevention (promoting good hygiene practices, increasing awareness, contact tracing, and surveillance), 4) Ebola virus vaccine (false sense of security, potential side effects, and limited data), 5) challenges in implementing prevention measures (inadequate health infrastructures, difficulty of tracing infected people, lack of resources, and cultural-social barriers), 6) Liberia's health systems (a weak, underfunded, fragile health infrastructure, lack of health facilities and shortage of health workers). Conclusion Several potential risk components contributing to the EVD outbreak should be a public concern. Strengthening the current healthcare system supported by local community and international aid providers (multidisciplinary teams) is needed to anticipate behavioral problems and to improve the efficacy of the prevention measures appropriate to the conditions in Liberia. Accordingly, the nurses' compliance with the recommended prevention practices is necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moses Tende Stephens
- Master Program of Basic Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Department of Health Science, United Methodist University, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Juniastuti
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Sulistiawati
- Department of Public Health and Prevention Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Peter Chilaque Dossen
- Department of Health Science Education, William V.S Tubman University, Maryland, Liberia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Okoeguale J, Okobi OE, Ojukwu EC, Nwachukwu OB, Okoroafor CC. Maternal Seroprevalence and Placental Transfer of COVID-19 Antibodies in Pregnancy: A Hospital-Based Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e49730. [PMID: 38164412 PMCID: PMC10758018 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a relatively new disease with high morbidity and mortality. Information about the prevalence of infections in pregnancy could help identify herd immunity, project epidemics, and decide policy guidelines. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the infection susceptibility risk of COVID-19 in pregnancy, to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 antibodies (IgG & IgM), and to evaluate the determinants of COVID-19 antibody positivity in pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was an analytical cross-sectional study involving 258 consenting pregnant women recruited at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. Of these, 179 participants were recruited from the antenatal clinic, and 79 from the gynecology emergency unit. A structured questionnaire was administered at baseline. Venous blood was obtained at enrolment to test for total antibodies using ELISA. A nasopharyngeal swab was simultaneously obtained for COVID-19 PCR for all participants. Umbilical cord blood was taken after delivery in those who had positive serology. Socio-demographic variables and clinical presentation of respondents were considered as exposure variables, and this was cross-tabulated with outcome variables in bivariate analysis using chi-square with a level of significance at a P-value less than 0.05. Variables in bivariate analysis of chi-square that have a P-value less than 0.2 were entered into a logistic regression using multivariate logistic models. RESULTS The study detected active COVID-19 infections among 7.4% (19/258) of the study participants. The study demonstrated a seroprevalence of COVID-19 antibodies in 62.4% (161/258) of the participants at recruitment and showed a strong correlation between working in the healthcare setting and living in an urban environment. Our study also reported 5.3% (8/152) of cord blood antibody positivity among study participants. The concentration of maternal immunoglobulin strongly and positively correlated with cord blood seropositivity. CONCLUSION Prevalence estimates are an underestimate of the actual proportion of pregnant women with prior COVID-19 exposure as observed in the study discrepancy of confirmed PCR infection and evidence of previous infection from serology. The study also highlighted a low efficiency of placental transfer of COVID-19 antibodies at birth among those who were seropositive at baseline and showed that maternal antibody levels play an important role in determining the efficiency of placenta transfer of COVID-19 antibodies in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Okoeguale
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, NGA
| | - Okelue E Okobi
- Family Medicine, Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus, Miami, USA
- Family Medicine, Medficient Health Systems, Laurel, USA
- Family Medicine, Lakeside Medical Center, Belle Glade, USA
| | - Emmanuella C Ojukwu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. George's University School of Medicine, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Onyinyechukwu B Nwachukwu
- Neurosciences and Psychology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Farfield, USA
- Family Medicine, American International School of Medicine, Georgetown, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Coler B, Cervantes O, Li M, Coler C, Li A, Shivakumar M, Every E, Schwartz D, Adams Waldorf KM. Common pathways targeted by viral hemorrhagic fever viruses to infect the placenta and increase the risk of stillbirth. Placenta 2023; 141:2-9. [PMID: 36939178 PMCID: PMC10102255 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) are endemic to Africa, South America and Asia and contribute to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Viruses causing VHFs are typically zoonotic, spreading to humans through livestock, wildlife, or mosquito vectors. Some of the most lethal VHF viruses also impart a high-risk of stillbirth including ebolaviruses, Marburg virus (MARV), Lassa virus (LASV), and Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV). Large outbreaks and epidemics are common, though the impact on the mother, fetus and placenta is understudied from a public health, clinical and basic science perspective. Notably, these viruses utilize ubiquitous cellular surface entry receptors critical for normal placental function to enable viral invasion into multiple key cell types of the placenta and set the stage for maternal-fetal transmission and stillbirth. We employ insights from molecular virology and viral immunology to discuss how trophoblast expression of viral entry receptors for VHF viruses may increase the risk for viral transmission to the fetus and stillbirth. As the frequency of VHF outbreaks is expected to increase with worsening climate change, understanding the pathogenesis of VHF-related diseases in the placenta is paramount to predicting the impact of emerging viruses on the placenta and perinatal outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brahm Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Orlando Cervantes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Amanda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Megana Shivakumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emma Every
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Minchin J, Harris GH, Baumann S, Smith ER. Exclusion of pregnant people from emergency vaccine clinical trials: A systematic review of clinical trial protocols and reporting from 2009 to 2019. Vaccine 2023; 41:5159-5181. [PMID: 37442686 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.06.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing ethics guidance and regulatory requirements emphasize the need for pregnancy-specific safety and efficacy data during the development of vaccines in health emergencies. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review of vaccine clinical trials during active epidemic periods. METHODS We searched for Phase II and Phase III vaccine clinical trials initiated during the H1N1 influenza, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Zika, and Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks from 2009 to 2019. Data were extracted from clinical trial protocols identified in the following registries: ClinicalTrials.gov, Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR), and all primary registries indicated by the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). Published studies from registered clinical trials were located through PubMed. Data was extracted on eligibility criteria and pregnancy outcomes. Data from this study is available in the Center for Open Science Data Repository: https://osf.io/nfk2p/?view_only=47deb3b206724af9b46c9c0c0083a267. RESULTS We identified 96 vaccine clinical trial protocols and included 84 in analysis. 5 records were excluded in screening for irrelevant abstracts, 7 were excluded in full-text assessment (1 for a therapeutic drug trial, 3 for enrolling elderly adults only, 3 for enrolling children/adolescents only). There were no eligible trials for MERS-CoV or Zika virus vaccines. Overall, 8 protocols explicitly included pregnant people; of these, 3 were completed trials with published results. Incidental pregnancies and outcomes of pregnant participants were reported in 2 studies, 10 studies reported serious adverse events related to pregnancy without mentioning total incidental pregnancies. A total of 411 recorded pregnancy outcomes were reported, with 293 from the 3 pregnancy-eligible studies with results. 71 serious adverse events pertaining to pregnancy were reported from all clinical trials with results. CONCLUSION Pregnant people are underrepresented in vaccine clinical trials conducted during outbreaks, resulting in underreporting of pregnancy-related outcomes and a lack of protection for pregnant people and neonates from infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Minchin
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Gavin H Harris
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sasha Baumann
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Emily R Smith
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Beltrami S, Rizzo S, Schiuma G, Speltri G, Di Luca D, Rizzo R, Bortolotti D. Gestational Viral Infections: Role of Host Immune System. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1637. [PMID: 37512810 PMCID: PMC10383666 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections in pregnancy are major causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Infections can develop in the neonate transplacentally, perinatally, or postnatally (from breast milk or other sources) and lead to different clinical manifestations, depending on the viral agent and the gestational age at exposure. Viewing the peculiar tolerogenic status which characterizes pregnancy, viruses could exploit this peculiar immunological status to spread or affect the maternal immune system, adopting several evasion strategies. In fact, both DNA and RNA virus might have a deep impact on both innate and acquired immune systems. For this reason, investigating the interaction with these pathogens and the host's immune system during pregnancy is crucial not only for the development of most effective therapies and diagnosis but mostly for prevention. In this review, we will analyze some of the most important DNA and RNA viruses related to gestational infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Schiuma
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgia Speltri
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Letafati A, Salahi Ardekani O, Karami H, Soleimani M. Ebola virus disease: A narrative review. Microb Pathog 2023:106213. [PMID: 37355146 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Ebola virus disease (EVD), which is also referred to as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a highly contagious and frequently lethal sickness caused by the Ebola virus. In 1976, the disease emerged in two simultaneous outbreaks in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Subsequently, it has caused intermittent outbreaks in several African nations. The virus is primarily spread via direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected individual or animal. EVD is distinguished by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and hemorrhage. The outbreak of EVD in West Africa in 2014-2016 emphasized the need for effective control and prevention measures. Despite advancements and the identification of new treatments for EVD, the primary approach to treatment continues to be centered around providing supportive care. Early detection and supportive care can enhance the likelihood of survival. This includes intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, and treatment of secondary infections. Experimental therapies, for instance, monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs, have shown promising results in animal studies and some clinical trials. Some African countries have implemented the use of vaccines developed for EVD, but their effectiveness and long-term safety are still being studied. This article provides an overview of the history, transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, epidemiology, and Ebola coinfection, as well as highlights the ongoing research efforts to develop effective treatments and vaccines to combat this deadly virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arash Letafati
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Omid Salahi Ardekani
- Department of Bacteriology & Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Hassan Karami
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mina Soleimani
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Malange VNE, Hedermann G, Lausten-Thomsen U, Hoffmann S, Voldstedlund M, Aabakke AJM, Eltvedt AK, Jensen JS, Breindahl M, Krebs L, Christiansen M, Hedley PL. The perinatal health challenges of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases: A narrative review. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1039779. [PMID: 36684933 PMCID: PMC9850110 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1039779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The world has seen numerous infectious disease outbreaks in the past decade. In many cases these outbreaks have had considerable perinatal health consequences including increased risk of preterm delivery (e.g., influenza, measles, and COVID-19), and the delivery of low birth weight or small for gestational age babies (e.g., influenza, COVID-19). Furthermore, severe perinatal outcomes including perinatal and infant death are a known consequence of multiple infectious diseases (e.g., Ebola virus disease, Zika virus disease, pertussis, and measles). In addition to vaccination during pregnancy (where possible), pregnant women, are provided some level of protection from the adverse effects of infection through community-level application of evidence-based transmission-control methods. This review demonstrates that it takes almost 2 years for the perinatal impacts of an infectious disease outbreak to be reported. However, many infectious disease outbreaks between 2010 and 2020 have no associated pregnancy data reported in the scientific literature, or pregnancy data is reported in the form of case-studies only. This lack of systematic data collection and reporting has a negative impact on our understanding of these diseases and the implications they may have for pregnant women and their unborn infants. Monitoring perinatal health is an essential aspect of national and global healthcare strategies as perinatal life has a critical impact on early life mortality as well as possible effects on later life health. The unpredictable nature of emerging infections and the potential for adverse perinatal outcomes necessitate that we thoroughly assess pregnancy and perinatal health implications of disease outbreaks and their public health interventions in tandem with outbreak response efforts. Disease surveillance programs should incorporate perinatal health monitoring and health systems around the world should endeavor to continuously collect perinatal health data in order to quickly update pregnancy care protocols as needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gitte Hedermann
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Lausten-Thomsen
- Department of Neonatology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen Hoffmann
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Anna J. M. Aabakke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - North Zealand, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Holbæk, Holbæk, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna K. Eltvedt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Global Health Unit, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen S. Jensen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites & Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Breindahl
- Department of Neonatology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lone Krebs
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Christiansen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Paula L. Hedley
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Brazen Bio, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Carvajal J, Casanello P, Toso A, Farías M, Carrasco-Negue K, Araujo K, Valero P, Fuenzalida J, Solari C, Sobrevia L. Functional consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women, fetoplacental unit, and neonate. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166582. [PMID: 36273675 PMCID: PMC9581789 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes COVID-19 disease, characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome, bilateral pneumonia, and organ failure. The consequences of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection for the pregnant woman, fetus, and neonate are controversial. Thus, it is required to determine whether there is viral and non-viral vertical transmission in COVID-19. The disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 leads to functional alterations in asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women, the fetoplacental unit and the neonate. Several diseases of pregnancy, including COVID-19, affect the fetoplacental function, which causes in utero programming for young and adult diseases. A generalized inflammatory state and a higher risk of infection are seen in pregnant women with COVID-19. Obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension may increase the vulnerability of pregnant women to infection by SARS-CoV-2. Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 show specific mutations that seem to increase the capacity of the virus to infect the pregnant woman, likely due to increasing its interaction via the virus S protein and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors. This review shows the literature addressing to what extent COVID-19 in pregnancy affects the pregnant woman, fetoplacental unit, and neonate. Prospective studies that are key in managing SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Carvajal
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile.
| | - Paola Casanello
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alberto Toso
- Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Marcelo Farías
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Karina Carrasco-Negue
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Kenny Araujo
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Paola Valero
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
| | - Javiera Fuenzalida
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Caterina Solari
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Luis Sobrevia
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Medical School (Faculty of Medicine), Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville E-41012, Spain; University of Queensland, Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Herston 4029, Queensland, Australia; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Eutra, The Institute for Obesity Research (IOR), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mulenga-Cilundika P, Ekofo J, Kabanga C, Criel B, Van Damme W, Chenge F. Indirect Effects of Ebola Virus Disease Epidemics on Health Systems in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia: A Scoping Review Supplemented with Expert Interviews. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13113. [PMID: 36293703 PMCID: PMC9602680 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) epidemics have been extensively documented and have received large scientific and public attention since 1976. Until July 2022, 16 countries worldwide had reported at least one case of EVD, resulting in 43 epidemics. Most of the epidemics occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) but the largest epidemic occurred from 2014-2016 in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia in West Africa. The indirect effects of EVD epidemics on these countries' health systems, i.e., the consequences beyond infected patients and deaths immediately related to EVD, can be significant. The objective of this review was to map and measure the indirect effects of the EVD epidemics on the health systems of DRC, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia and, from thereon, draw lessons for strengthening their resilience vis-à-vis future EVD outbreaks and other similar health emergencies. A scoping review of published articles from the PubMed database and gray literature was conducted. It was supplemented by interviews with experts. Eighty-six articles were included in this review. The results were structured based on WHO's six building blocks of a health system. During the EVD outbreaks, several healthcare services and activities were disrupted. A significant decline in indicators of curative care utilization, immunization levels and disease control activities was noticeable. Shortages of health personnel, poor health data management, insufficient funding and shortages of essential drugs characterized the epidemics that occurred in the above-mentioned countries. The public health authorities had virtually lost their leadership in the management of an EVD response. Governance was characterized by the development of a range of new initiatives to ensure adequate response. The results of this review highlight the need for countries to invest in and strengthen their health systems, through the continuous reinforcement of the building blocks, even if there is no imminent risk of an epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Mulenga-Cilundika
- Centre de Connaissances en Santé en République Démocratique du Congo, Kinshasa 3088, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi 1825, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joel Ekofo
- Centre de Connaissances en Santé en République Démocratique du Congo, Kinshasa 3088, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Chrispin Kabanga
- Centre de Connaissances en Santé en République Démocratique du Congo, Kinshasa 3088, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Bart Criel
- Centre de Connaissances en Santé en République Démocratique du Congo, Kinshasa 3088, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Damme
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Faustin Chenge
- Centre de Connaissances en Santé en République Démocratique du Congo, Kinshasa 3088, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi 1825, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dhanya CR, Shailaja A, Mary AS, Kandiyil SP, Savithri A, Lathakumari VS, Veettil JT, Vandanamthadathil JJ, Madhavan M. RNA Viruses, Pregnancy and Vaccination: Emerging Lessons from COVID-19 and Ebola Virus Disease. Pathogens 2022; 11:800. [PMID: 35890044 PMCID: PMC9322689 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic viruses with an RNA genome represent a challenge for global human health since they have the tremendous potential to develop into devastating pandemics/epidemics. The management of the recent COVID-19 pandemic was possible to a certain extent only because of the strong foundations laid by the research on previous viral outbreaks, especially Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). A clear understanding of the mechanisms of the host immune response generated upon viral infections is a prime requisite for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Hence, we present here a comparative study of alterations in immune response upon SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola virus infections that illustrate many common features. Vaccination and pregnancy are two important aspects that need to be studied from an immunological perspective. So, we summarize the outcomes and immune responses in vaccinated and pregnant individuals in the context of COVID-19 and EVD. Considering the significance of immunomodulatory approaches in combating both these diseases, we have also presented the state of the art of such therapeutics and prophylactics. Currently, several vaccines against these viruses have been approved or are under clinical trials in various parts of the world. Therefore, we also recapitulate the latest developments in these which would inspire researchers to look for possibilities of developing vaccines against many other RNA viruses. We hope that the similar aspects in COVID-19 and EVD open up new avenues for the development of pan-viral therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aswathy Shailaja
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Aarcha Shanmugha Mary
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur 610105, India;
| | | | - Ambili Savithri
- Department of Biochemistry, Sree Narayana College, Kollam 691001, India;
| | | | | | | | - Maya Madhavan
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram 695014, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Adams Waldorf KM, Abrahams VM. Editorial: Translational Virology in Pregnancy. FRONTIERS IN VIROLOGY 2022; 2:908471. [PMID: 36313916 PMCID: PMC9611285 DOI: 10.3389/fviro.2022.908471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M. Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Vikki M. Abrahams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kassa ZY, Scarf V, Fox D. The effect of Ebola virus disease on maternal health service utilisation and perinatal outcomes in West Africa: a systematic review. Reprod Health 2022; 19:35. [PMID: 35120540 PMCID: PMC8815720 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01343-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ebola outbreaks pose a major threat to global public health, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. These outbreaks disrupt the already fragile maternal health services in West Africa. The aims of this study is to assess the effect of Ebola virus disease (EVD) on maternal health service utilisation and perinatal outcomes. Methods This systematic review was conducted in West Africa, and the databases used were Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, EMBASE and African journals online. Studies that reported the effect of the Ebola outbreak on maternal health services in West Africa were eligible for this systematic review. The search was limited to articles written in the English language only and published between 2013 and 2020. Three authors independently appraised the articles, and the data were extracted using a standardised data extraction format. The findings were synthesised using a narrative summary, tables, and figures. Results Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this systematic review synthesis. The results showed that antenatal care significantly decreased during Ebola virus disease and strove to recover post-Ebola virus disease. Women were less likely to have institutional childbirth during Ebola virus disease and struggled to recover post-Ebola virus disease. In addition, this review revealed a substantially higher rate of maternal mortality post EVD than those observed before or during the outbreak. Conclusion Based on our findings, antenatal care, institutional childbirth, and postnatal care are attempting to recover post-Ebola virus disease. We recommended that responsible bodies and stakeholders need to prepare locally tailored interventions to increase the number of women attending ANC, institutional childbirth, and PNC services post-EVD and future outbreaks including COVID-19. In order to build trust, creating community networks between health care providers and trusted community leaders may increase the number of women attending antenatal care (ANC), institutional childbirth and postnatal care (PNC) post-EVD and during future outbreaks. Further studies are needed to examine health centre and hospital availability and accessibility, and capacity to deliver maternal health services post-Ebola virus disease and future outbreaks. Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a serious public health concern affecting the health of humans and other primates. These outbreaks disrupt the already fragile maternal health services in West Africa. There is limited data on the effect of EVD on maternal health service utilisation and perinatal outcomes in West Africa. This systematic review aims to synthesise evidence on maternal health service utilisation and perinatal outcomes before EVD, during EVD and post EVD. This systematic review was conducted in West Africa, and the databases used were Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, EMBASE and African journals online. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this systematic review synthesis. The results showed that antenatal care significantly decreased during the Ebola virus outbreak and strove to recover post-Ebola virus disease. This finding indicated that women were less likely to have an institutional birth during EVD and struggled to recover post-Ebola virus disease. Based on this finding, responsible bodies and stakeholders need to prepare locally tailored interventions to increase the number of women attending ANC, institutional childbirth, and PNC services post-EVD and future outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zemenu Yohannes Kassa
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia. .,Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Vanessa Scarf
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Deborah Fox
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pham PN, Sharma M, Bindu KK, Zikomangane P, Nethery RC, Nilles E, Vinck P. Protective Behaviors Associated With Gender During the 2018-2020 Ebola Outbreak in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2147462. [PMID: 35171261 PMCID: PMC8851299 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.47462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In 2018 to 2020, the Democratic Republic of the Congo experienced the world's second largest Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, killing 2290 individuals; women were disproportionately infected (57% of all cases) despite no evidence of differential biological EVD risk. Understanding how gender norms may influence exposure to EVD, intensity, and prognosis as well as personal protective behaviors against the virus is important to disease risk reduction and control interventions. OBJECTIVE To assess whether men and women differ in personal protective behaviors (vaccine acceptance, health-seeking behaviors, physical distancing) and the mediating role of EVD information and knowledge, perceived disease risk, and social relations. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cross-sectional, multistage cluster survey study of 1395 randomly selected adults was conducted in the Ebola-affected regions of North Kivu from April 20, 2019, to May 10, 2019. Path analyses were conducted using structural equation modeling to examine associations among study variables. Statistical analysis was conducted from August 2019 to May 2020. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main behavioral outcomes of interest were (1) vaccine acceptance, (2) formal health care seeking, and (3) self-protective behaviors. The primary factor of interest was self-reported gender identity. We also assessed sociodemographic factors. RESULTS Among the study's 1395 participants, 1286 (93%) had Nande ethnicity and 698 (50%) were women; the mean (SD) age was 34.5 (13.1) years. Compared with female participants, male participants reported significantly higher levels of education, wealth, and mobile phone access. There were associations found between gender and all EVD preventive behavioral outcomes, with evidence for mediation through EVD knowledge and belief in rumors. Men reported greater EVD knowledge accuracy compared with women (mean [SE] score for men: 12.06 [0.13] vs women: 11.08 [0.16]; P < .001), and greater knowledge accuracy was associated with increases in vaccine acceptance (β = 0.37; P < .001), formal care seeking (β = 0.39; P < .001), and self-protective behaviors (β = 0.35; P < .001). Lower belief in rumors was associated with greater vaccine acceptance (β = -0.30; P < .001), and greater EVD information awareness was associated with increased adoption of self-protective behaviors (β = 0.23; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This survey study found gender differences in adopting preventive protective behaviors against EVD. These findings suggest that it is critical to design gender-sensitive communication and vaccination strategies, while engaging women and their community as a whole in any response to infectious disease outbreaks. Research on the potential link between gender and sociodemographics factors associated with disease risk and outcomes is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phuong N. Pham
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Manasi Sharma
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kennedy Kihangi Bindu
- University Libre des Pays des Grands Lacs, Quartier Himbi, Goma, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Pacifique Zikomangane
- University Libre des Pays des Grands Lacs, Quartier Himbi, Goma, République Démocratique du Congo
| | | | - Eric Nilles
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Vinck
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Megli CJ, Coyne CB. Infections at the maternal-fetal interface: an overview of pathogenesis and defence. Nat Rev Microbiol 2022; 20:67-82. [PMID: 34433930 PMCID: PMC8386341 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-021-00610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Infections are a major threat to human reproductive health, and infections in pregnancy can cause prematurity or stillbirth, or can be vertically transmitted to the fetus leading to congenital infection and severe disease. The acronym 'TORCH' (Toxoplasma gondii, other, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus) refers to pathogens directly associated with the development of congenital disease and includes diverse bacteria, viruses and parasites. The placenta restricts vertical transmission during pregnancy and has evolved robust mechanisms of microbial defence. However, microorganisms that cause congenital disease have likely evolved diverse mechanisms to bypass these defences. In this Review, we discuss how TORCH pathogens access the intra-amniotic space and overcome the placental defences that protect against microbial vertical transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Megli
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Reproductive Infectious Disease, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Carolyn B Coyne
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and the Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kayem ND, Benson C, Aye CYL, Barker S, Tome M, Kennedy S, Ariana P, Horby P. Ebola virus disease in pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 116:509-522. [PMID: 34865173 PMCID: PMC9157681 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This review synthesises and appraises evidence on the effects of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in pregnancy. We searched bibliographic databases from dates of inception to November 2020, yielding 28 included studies. The absolute risk of maternal death associated with EVD was estimated at 67.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 49.8 to 83.7, I2=85%, p<0.01) and the relative risk of death in pregnant women compared with non-pregnant women was estimated at 1.18 (95% CI 0.59 to 2.35, I2=31.0%, p=0.230). The absolute risk for foetal losses was estimated at 76.9% (95% CI 45.0 to 98.3, I2=96%, p<0.01) and neonatal death was 98.5% (95% CI 84.9 to 100, I2=0.0%, p=0.40). The gap analysis suggests limited or no data on the clinical course, non-fatal perinatal outcomes and EVD management in pregnant women. The review suggests that EVD has a high maternal and perinatal mortality, underscoring the urgent need for preventative and therapeutic solutions and improved screening and follow-up of pregnant women and newborns during outbreaks. There is not enough evidence to conclusively rule out pregnancy as a risk factor for mortality and there is limited evidence on the disease course, outcomes and management of EVD in pregnancy, and this supports the need for robust clinical trials and prospective studies that include pregnant women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nzelle D Kayem
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Charlotte Benson
- Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Christina Y L Aye
- Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Sarah Barker
- Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Mariana Tome
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Stephen Kennedy
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Proochista Ariana
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Peter Horby
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Scoping Review on the Impact of Outbreaks on Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: Proposed Frameworks for Pre-, Intra-, and Postoutbreak Situations. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:9989478. [PMID: 34541003 PMCID: PMC8443356 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9989478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Recent experiences from global outbreaks have highlighted the severe disruptions in sexual and reproductive health services that expose women and girls to preventable health risks. Yet, to date, there is no review studying the possible impact of outbreaks on sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Methodology. Studies reporting outbreaks impacting sexual and reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes were identified using MEDLINE, Embase, and ISI-WoS. Reported impacts were reviewed at systems, community, and legislative levels. Results The initial run listed 4423 studies; the 37 studies that met all inclusion criteria were mainly from Latin America and Africa. Studies on outbreaks of diseases like Zika and Ebola have documented declines in facility-based deliveries, contraceptive use, and antenatal and institutional care due to burdened healthcare system. Service usage was also impacted by a lack of trust in the healthcare system and system shocks, including workforce capacity and availability. At the community level, poverty and lack of awareness were critical contributors to poor access to SRH services. Assessing the target population's knowledge, attitude, beliefs, and behavior and using health literacy principles for communication were fundamental for designing service delivery. Online resources for SRH services were an acceptable medium of information among young adults. In outbreak situations, SRH and pregnancy outcomes were improved by implementing laboratory surveillance, free-of-cost contraceptive services, improved screening through professional training, and quality of care. In addition, mobile health clinics were reported to be effective in remote areas. Knowledge Contribution. In outbreaks, the interventions are categorized into preoutbreak, during, and postoutbreak periods. The proposed steps can help to improve and do course correction in emergencies. Though conducted before the COVID-19 crisis, the authors believe that lessons can be drawn from the paper to understand and mitigate the impact of the pandemic on sexual and reproductive health services.
Collapse
|
17
|
Tran NT, Lichtenstein D, Black B, Rosmini A, Schulte-Hillen C. A call to safeguard sexual and reproductive health information and services during Ebola outbreaks. Confl Health 2021; 15:57. [PMID: 34246308 PMCID: PMC8272300 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-021-00392-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks in 2021 exemplify how sexual and reproductive health services are too often considered unessential during health emergencies. Bleeding for reasons other than EVD, such as pregnancy complications or rape, can be construed as EVD symptoms, reinforcing fear and stigmatisation, and delaying timely access to adequate care. In this commentary, we urgently call on all humanitarian actors to integrate the Minimum Initial Services Package for Sexual and Reproductive Health in Crisis Situations into current and future EVD preparedness and response efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Toan Tran
- Australian Centre for Public and Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | - Benjamin Black
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Doctors Without Borders (MSF), London, UK
| | - Alice Rosmini
- United Nations Population Fund, West and Central Africa Regional Office, Dakar, Senegal
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rajput R, Sharma J. SARS-CoV-2 in Pregnancy: Fitting Into the Existing Viral Repertoire. Front Glob Womens Health 2021; 2:647836. [PMID: 34816202 PMCID: PMC8594046 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.647836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The risk of viral infection during pregnancy is well-documented; however, the intervention modalities that in practice enable maternal-fetal protection are restricted by limited understanding. This becomes all the more challenging during pandemics. During many different epidemic and pandemic viral outbreaks, worse outcomes (fetal abnormalities, mortality, preterm labor, etc.) seem to affect pregnant women than what has been evident when compared to non-pregnant women. The condition of pregnancy, which is widely understood as "immunosuppressed," needs to be re-understood in terms of the way the immune system works during such a state. The immune system gets transformed to accommodate and facilitate fetal growth. The interference of such supportive conversion by viral infection and the risk of co-infection lead to adverse fetal outcomes. Hence, it is crucial to understand the risk and impact of potent viral infections likely to be encountered during pregnancy. In the present article, we review the effects imposed by previously established and recently emerging/re-emerging viral infections on maternal and fetal health. Such understanding is important in devising strategies for better preparedness and knowing the treatment options available to mitigate the relevant adverse outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jitender Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Neonatal Outcomes in Pregnant Women Infected with COVID-19 in Babol, North of Iran: A Retrospective Study with Short-Term Follow-Up. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2021; 2021:9952701. [PMID: 34188437 PMCID: PMC8192194 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9952701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the number of pregnant women and neonates suffering from COVID-19 increased. However, there is a lack of evidence on clinical characteristics and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with COVID-19. We evaluated short-term outcomes (4 weeks postdischarge) and symptoms in neonates born to mothers infected with COVID-19. In this retrospective cohort study, we included all neonates born to pregnant women with COVID-19 admitted to Ayatollah Rohani Hospital, Babol, Iran, from February 10 to May 20, 2020. Clinical features, treatments, and neonatal outcomes were measured. Eight neonates were included in the current study. The mean gestational age and birth weight of newborns were 37 ± 3.19 weeks (30₊6-40) and 3077.50 ± 697.64 gr (1720-3900), respectively. Apgar score of the first and fifth minutes in all neonates was ≥8 and ≥9 out of 10, respectively. The most clinical presentations in symptomatic neonates were respiratory distress, tachypnea, vomiting, and feeding intolerance. This manifestation and high levels of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) in three infants are common in neonatal sepsis. The blood culture in all of them was negative. They have been successfully treated with our standard treatment. Our pregnant women showed a pattern of clinical characteristics and laboratory results similar to those described for nonpregnant COVID-19 infection. This study found no evidence of intrauterine or peripartum transmission of COVID-19 from mother to her child. Furthermore, the long-term outcomes of neonates need more study.
Collapse
|
20
|
Cosma S, Carosso AR, Borella F, Cusato J, Bovetti M, Bevilacqua F, Carosso M, Gervasoni F, Sciarrone A, Marozio L, Revelli A, Rolfo A, Filippini C, Ghisetti V, Di Perri G, Benedetto C. Prenatal Biochemical and Ultrasound Markers in COVID-19 Pregnant Patients: A Prospective Case-Control Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030398. [PMID: 33652805 PMCID: PMC7996827 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This prospective observational study aimed to evaluate whether women with SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first trimester of pregnancy are at higher risk of noninvasive prenatal screening test alterations and/or of congenital fetal anomalies at the second-trimester fetal anatomy scan. Maternal symptoms were secondly investigated. The study was carried out on 12-week pregnant women admitted for noninvasive prenatal testing (16 April and 22 June 2020). The cohort had seromolecular tests for SARS-CoV-2, after which they were divided into a positive case group and a negative control group. Both groups had 20-week ultrasound screening. Seventeen out of the 164 women tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (10.3%). There were no significant differences in mean nuchal translucency thickness or biochemical markers (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, unconjugated estriol) between cases and controls (p = 0.77, 0.63, 0.30, 0.40, 0.28) or in the fetal incidence of structural anomalies at the second-trimester fetal anatomy scan (p = 0.21). No pneumonia or hospital admission due to COVID-19-related symptoms were observed. Asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first trimester of pregnancy did not predispose affected women to more fetal anomalies than unaffected women. COVID-19 had a favorable maternal course at the beginning of pregnancy in our healthy cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cosma
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Fulvio Borella
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Jessica Cusato
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Marialuisa Bovetti
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Federica Bevilacqua
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Marco Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Fiammetta Gervasoni
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Andrea Sciarrone
- Obstetrics-Gynecological Ultrasound and Prenatal Diagnosis Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, City of Health and Science, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Luca Marozio
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| | - Alessandro Rolfo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (C.F.)
| | - Claudia Filippini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (C.F.)
| | - Valeria Ghisetti
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, ASL ‘Città di Torino’, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Di Perri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (F.B.); (M.B.); (F.B.); (M.C.); (F.G.); (L.M.); (A.R.); (C.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ubiquitin Ligase SMURF2 Interacts with Filovirus VP40 and Promotes Egress of VP40 VLPs. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020288. [PMID: 33673144 PMCID: PMC7918931 DOI: 10.3390/v13020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Filoviruses Ebola (EBOV) and Marburg (MARV) are devastating high-priority pathogens capable of causing explosive outbreaks with high human mortality rates. The matrix proteins of EBOV and MARV, as well as eVP40 and mVP40, respectively, are the key viral proteins that drive virus assembly and egress and can bud independently from cells in the form of virus-like particles (VLPs). The matrix proteins utilize proline-rich Late (L) domain motifs (e.g., PPxY) to hijack specific host proteins that contain WW domains, such as the HECT family E3 ligases, to facilitate the last step of virus–cell separation. We identified E3 ubiquitin ligase Smad Ubiquitin Regulatory Factor 2 (SMURF2) as a novel interactor with VP40 that positively regulates VP40 VLP release. Our results show that eVP40 and mVP40 interact with the three WW domains of SMURF2 via their PPxY motifs. We provide evidence that the eVP40–SMURF2 interaction is functional as the expression of SMURF2 positively regulates VLP egress, while siRNA knockdown of endogenous SMURF2 decreases VLP budding compared to controls. In sum, our identification of novel interactor SMURF2 adds to the growing list of identified host proteins that can regulate PPxY-mediated egress of VP40 VLPs. A more comprehensive understanding of the modular interplay between filovirus VP40 and host proteins may lead to the development of new therapies to combat these deadly infections.
Collapse
|
22
|
Dole D, Farley CL, Sokas RK, Kessler JL. Partnering to Support Education for Midwives and Nurses in Liberia. Nurs Womens Health 2021; 25:82-92. [PMID: 33453157 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The midwifery and occupational health faculty of a U.S. university were approached by parish and health care leaders from Caldwell, Liberia, for assistance in addressing critical maternal health care needs in their community. Liberia has suffered setbacks in its efforts to improve health care for its people due to recent civil wars and the Ebola epidemic of 2014 to 2016. Initial discussions among international groups centered around realistic ways to help in the face of multiple compelling needs. Grant support for U.S. faculty to conduct exploratory meetings and educational workshops in Liberia was secured. Ethical principles and best practices in partnering across borders guided this partnership and include reciprocity, equity, and empowerment of health care workers, including nurses, midwives, community workers, and health center staff. Here, we describe the preparation for and implementation of these workshops, as well as plans for continuing collaborations that emerged from these workshops.
Collapse
|
23
|
Krubiner CB, Faden RR, Karron RA, Little MO, Lyerly AD, Abramson JS, Beigi RH, Cravioto AR, Durbin AP, Gellin BG, Gupta SB, Kaslow DC, Kochhar S, Luna F, Saenz C, Sheffield JS, Tindana PO. Pregnant women & vaccines against emerging epidemic threats: Ethics guidance for preparedness, research, and response. Vaccine 2021; 39:85-120. [PMID: 31060949 PMCID: PMC7735377 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus, influenza, and Ebola have called attention to the ways in which infectious disease outbreaks can severely - and at times uniquely - affect the health interests of pregnant women and their offspring. These examples also highlight the critical need to proactively consider pregnant women and their offspring in vaccine research and response efforts to combat emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Historically, pregnant women and their offspring have been largely excluded from research agendas and investment strategies for vaccines against epidemic threats, which in turn can lead to exclusion from future vaccine campaigns amidst outbreaks. This state of affairs is profoundly unjust to pregnant women and their offspring, and deeply problematic from the standpoint of public health. To ensure that the needs of pregnant women and their offspring are fairly addressed, new approaches to public health preparedness, vaccine research and development, and vaccine delivery are required. This Guidance offers 22 concrete recommendations that provide a roadmap for the ethically responsible, socially just, and respectful inclusion of the interests of pregnant women in the development and deployment of vaccines against emerging pathogens. The Guidance was developed by the Pregnancy Research Ethics for Vaccines, Epidemics, and New Technologies (PREVENT) Working Group - a multidisciplinary, international team of 17 experts specializing in bioethics, maternal immunization, maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics, pediatrics, philosophy, public health, and vaccine research and policy - in consultation with a variety of external experts and stakeholders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh B Krubiner
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, 1809 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ruth R Faden
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, 1809 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, USA; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ruth A Karron
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Margaret O Little
- Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Anne D Lyerly
- University of North Carolina Center for Bioethics, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jon S Abramson
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Richard H Beigi
- Magee-Womens Hospital of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Anna P Durbin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Carla Saenz
- Pan American Health Organization, Washington, D.C., USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ottoni MP, Ricciardone JD, Nadimpalli A, Singh S, Katsomya AM, Pokoso LM, Petrucci R. Ebola-negative neonates born to Ebola-infected mothers after monoclonal antibody therapy: a case series. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2021; 4:884-888. [PMID: 33217357 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(20)30278-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few fetuses survive childbirth when the mother is positive for Ebola virus, with almost all being miscarried or stillborn, or dying shortly after birth. Before 2019, only two infants had been reported surviving past 28 days, of whom one tested positive for Ebola virus and subsequently received experimental therapies. Little is understood regarding the care of surviving neonates born to Ebola virus-positive mothers in the postnatal period and how novel anti-Ebola virus therapies might affect neonatal outcomes. METHODS In this case series, we report on two neonates liveborn during the 2018-20 North Kivu Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo who, along with their Ebola virus-positive mothers, received investigational monoclonal antibody treatment (mAB114 or REGN-EB3) as part of a randomised controlled trial (NCT03719586). FINDINGS Both infants were born Ebola-negative and progressed well while in the Ebola Treatment Centre. Neither neonate developed evidence of Ebola virus disease during the course of the admission, and both were Ebola-negative at 21 days and remained healthy at discharge. INTERPRETATION To our knowledge these neonates are the first documented as Ebola virus-negative at birth after being born to Ebola virus-positive mothers, and only the third and fourth neonates ever documented to have survived into infancy. Although no conclusions can be drawn from this small case series, and further research is required to investigate the neonatal effects of antibody therapies, these cases warrant review regarding whether post-delivery antibody therapy should be considered for all liveborn neonates of Ebola virus-positive mothers. In the context of a low resource setting, where survival of low-birthweight infants is poor, these cases also highlight the importance of adequate neonatal care. FUNDING None.
Collapse
|
25
|
Zimmer A, Youngblood A, Adnane A, Miller BJ, Goldsmith DR. Prenatal exposure to viral infection and neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring: A review of the literature and recommendations for the COVID-19 pandemic. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 91:756-770. [PMID: 33152446 PMCID: PMC7759331 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus has emerged as a striking 21st century pandemic. Communities across the globe have experienced significant infection rates and widespread psychosocial stress and trauma, leading to calls for increased allocation of resources for mental health screening and treatment. In addition to the burden of psychosocial stress, there is increasing evidence of direct viral neuroinvasion of the central nervous system through physical contact with the nasal mucosa. In a parallel fashion, there is a significant body of ongoing research related to the risk of in utero viral transmission and the resulting neurodevelopmental impact in the fetus. Aberrant neurodevelopment secondary to viral transmission has previously been related to the later development of psychosis, schizophrenia, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, generating the hypothesis that this population of individuals exposed to SARS-CoV-2 may see an increased incidence in future decades. We discuss the current understanding of the possible neurotropism and vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and relate this to the history of viral pandemics to better understand the relationship of viral infection, aberrant immune response and neurodevelopment, and the risk for schizophrenia disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zimmer
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Adam Adnane
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brian J Miller
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - David R Goldsmith
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Appiah-Sakyi K, Mohan M, Konje JC. Ebola infection in pregnancy, an ongoing challenge for both the global health expert and the pregnant woman-A review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 258:111-117. [PMID: 33421807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
A new Ebola outbreak is currently ongoing in the Democratic Republic of Congo, after the most severe outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016 was controlled. Ebola outbreaks are usually a significant cause of death among pregnant women. The clinical presentation of Ebola Virus infection in pregnancy often mimics common pregnancy related bleeding complications or febrile conditions common in pregnancy. The large amount of body fluids discharged during the management of these conditions make pregnancy a highly risky intervention for nosocomial infection transmission, especially to health workers. In this review, we discuss the Ebola virus, its pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis and the current supportive intensive medical and obstetric- specific practices to ensure safe management of Ebola positive pregnant women. We present how Ebola may be managed in highly resourced settings where experience is limited in the management of pregnancy complicated by Ebola infection and how wherever these patients are managed, postpartum contraceptive support is necessary because of lingering concerns about sexual transmission. Wider issues highlighted by the Ebola outbreaks included the demonstration of how weak health systems from prolonged lack of investment, in the face of highly infectious diseases like Ebola Virus infection, can pose a risk to the global community, bringing sharply into focus the need for essential collaboration between national health departments and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Justin C Konje
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Vora KS, Sundararajan A, Saiyed S, Dhama K, Natesan S. Impact of COVID-19 on women and children and the need for a gendered approach in vaccine development. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2020; 16:2932-2937. [PMID: 33175602 PMCID: PMC8641604 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1826249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed unprecedented health and socioeconomic challenges on public health, disrupting it on a global scale. Given that women and children are widely considered the most vulnerable in the times of emergency, whether in war or during a pandemic, the current pandemic has also severely disrupted access to reproductive and child health services. Despite this, data on the effect of the pandemic on pregnant women and newborns remain scarce, and gender-disaggregated indicators of mortality and morbidity are not available. In this context, we suggest the implementation of a gendered approach to ensure the specific needs of women and their newborns are considered during the development of COVID-19 vaccines. Taking into account gender-based biological differences, the inclusion of pregnant and lactating mothers in clinical trials for the development of COVID-19 vaccines is of vital importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kranti Suresh Vora
- Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar, India
- University of Canberra, Bruce, Australia
| | | | | | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | - Senthilkumar Natesan
- Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar, India
- Biomac Life Sciences Pvt Ltd, Gandhinagar, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Understanding the pathophysiology, management, and prevention of emerging infectious diseases among pregnant women is imperative to achieve a successful response from the medical community. Ebola and Zika viruses represent infections with profound public health implications. In particular, Ebola virus is associated with high case fatality and pregnancy and neonatal loss rates, while Zika virus has been associated with multiple congenital anomalies; these features present critical clinical dilemmas for management of pregnant and reproductive aged women. The objective of this article is to summarize key background information and best practices for management of Ebola and Zika virus in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Sayres
- University of Colorado, Academic Office 1, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO 802, USA.
| | - Brenna L. Hughes
- Duke University Hospital, 203 Baker House, 201 Trent Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Garnier J, Savic S, Boriani E, Bagnol B, Häsler B, Kock R. Helping to heal nature and ourselves through human-rights-based and gender-responsive One Health. ONE HEALTH OUTLOOK 2020; 2:22. [PMID: 33225225 PMCID: PMC7666884 DOI: 10.1186/s42522-020-00029-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The health of our planet and humanity is threatened by biodiversity loss, disease and climate crises that are unprecedented in human history, driven by our insatiable consumption and unsustainable production patterns, particularly food systems. The One Health approach is a pathway to synergistically addressing outcomes in term of health and sustainability, but gender issues at the One Health and biodiversity nexus are largely ignored. By examining the roles and responsibilities of Indigenous and Local People, and especially women, in conserving natural resources, and the social costs of living at the Human-Animal-Environment interface under current conservation strategies, we show that women bear a disproportionate health, poverty and climate burden, despite having pivotal roles in conserving biodiversity. To mitigate risks of emerging infectious diseases, food insecurity and climate change impacts, a gender perspective has previously been proposed, but implementation lags behind. Endemic zoonotic diseases, human-wildlife conflict and environmental pollution lack gender-sensitive frameworks. We demonstrate that women can be powerful agents for change at all levels of society, from communities to businesses, and policy-making institutions, but gender inequalities still persist. We develop a framework for mainstreaming a gender-responsive and rights-based One Health approach, in order to heal ourselves and nature. Using a leverage-points perspective, we suggest a change of paradigm, from the pursuit of GDP and over-consumption, to a focus on human well-being and their reconnection with healthy environments, using a One Health understanding of nature and health. We recommend learning from Indigenous People to re-position ourselves within nature and to better conserve biodiversity. We also propose integration of gender equity in leadership, the respect of human rights, women's rights (access to health care, healthy food, land tenure, natural resources, education, and economic opportunities), and the rights of nature, through the implementation of gender-responsive and rights-based One Health Action Plans, at policy-making level, in the private sector and the civil society. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unveil deep socio-economic inequities in the wealthiest economies and the vital role of nature in supporting our health, we argue to seize this opportunity to build back better and improve resilience and sustainability by using a gender-responsive and rights-based One Health approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Garnier
- Odyssey Conservation Trust, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1LA England
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
| | - Sara Savic
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
- Naucni institut za veterinarstvo “Novi Sad”, Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Rumenacki put 20, Novi Sad, 21000 Serbia
| | - Elena Boriani
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
| | - Brigitte Bagnol
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
- Department of Anthropology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Barbara Häsler
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA UK
| | - Richard Kock
- https://www.ecohealthinternational.org/regional-chapters/europe/
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Cornish EF, Filipovic I, Åsenius F, Williams DJ, McDonnell T. Innate Immune Responses to Acute Viral Infection During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:572567. [PMID: 33101294 PMCID: PMC7556209 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.572567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunological adaptations in pregnancy allow maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic fetus but also increase maternal susceptibility to infection. At implantation, the endometrial stroma, glands, arteries and immune cells undergo anatomical and functional transformation to create the decidua, the specialized secretory endometrium of pregnancy. The maternal decidua and the invading fetal trophoblast constitute a dynamic junction that facilitates a complex immunological dialogue between the two. The decidual and peripheral immune systems together assume a pivotal role in regulating the critical balance between tolerance and defense against infection. Throughout pregnancy, this equilibrium is repeatedly subjected to microbial challenge. Acute viral infection in pregnancy is associated with a wide spectrum of adverse consequences for both mother and fetus. Vertical transmission from mother to fetus can cause developmental anomalies, growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth, while the mother is predisposed to heightened morbidity and maternal death. A rapid, effective response to invasive pathogens is therefore essential in order to avoid overwhelming maternal infection and consequent fetal compromise. This sentinel response is mediated by the innate immune system: a heritable, highly evolutionarily conserved system comprising physical barriers, antimicrobial peptides (AMP) and a variety of immune cells—principally neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells—which express pattern-receptors that detect invariant molecular signatures unique to pathogenic micro-organisms. Recognition of these signatures during acute infection triggers signaling cascades that enhance antimicrobial properties such as phagocytosis, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of the complement system. As well as coordinating the initial immune response, macrophages and dendritic cells present microbial antigens to lymphocytes, initiating and influencing the development of specific, long-lasting adaptive immunity. Despite extensive progress in unraveling the immunological adaptations of pregnancy, pregnant women remain particularly susceptible to certain acute viral infections and continue to experience mortality rates equivalent to those observed in pandemics several decades ago. Here, we focus specifically on the pregnancy-induced vulnerabilities in innate immunity that contribute to the disproportionately high maternal mortality observed in the following acute viral infections: Lassa fever, Ebola virus disease (EVD), dengue fever, hepatitis E, influenza, and novel coronavirus infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Cornish
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iva Filipovic
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrika Åsenius
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J Williams
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas McDonnell
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Engmann C, Fleming JA, Khan S, Innis BL, Smith JM, Hombach J, Sobanjo-Ter Meulen A. Closer and closer? Maternal immunization: current promise, future horizons. J Perinatol 2020; 40:844-857. [PMID: 32341454 PMCID: PMC7223555 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-020-0668-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This state-of-the art manuscript highlights our current understanding of maternal immunization-the practice of vaccinating pregnant women to confer protection on them as well as on their young infants, and thereby reduce vaccine-preventable morbidity and mortality. Advances in our understanding of the immunologic processes that undergird a normal pregnancy, studies from vaccines currently available and recommended for pregnant women, and vaccines for administration in special situations are beginning to build the case for safe scale-up of maternal immunization. In addition to well-known diseases, new diseases are emerging which pose threats. Several new vaccines are currently under development and increasingly include pregnant women. In this manuscript, targeted at clinicians, vaccinologists, scientists, public health practitioners, and policymakers, we also outline key considerations around maternal immunization introduction and delivery, discuss noninfectious horizons for maternal immunization, and provide a framework for the clinician faced with immunizing a pregnant woman.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Engmann
- Maternal, Newborn, Child Health and Nutrition, PATH, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | | | - Sadaf Khan
- Maternal, Newborn, Child Health and Nutrition, PATH, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bruce L Innis
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Smith
- Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joachim Hombach
- Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Atypical clinical presentation of Ebola virus disease in pregnancy: Implications for clinical and public health management. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 97:167-173. [PMID: 32450292 PMCID: PMC7383225 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.05.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between December 2013 and June 2016, West Africa experienced the largest Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in history. Understanding EVD in pregnancy is important for EVD clinical screening and infection prevention and control. METHODS We conducted a review of medical records and EVD investigation reports from three districts in Sierra Leone. We report the clinical presentations and maternal and fetal outcomes of six pregnant women with atypical EVD, and subsequent transmission events from perinatal care. RESULTS The six women (ages 18-38) were all in the third trimester. Each presented with signs and symptoms initially attributed to pregnancy. None met EVD case definition; only one was known at presentation to be a contact of an EVD case. Five women died, and all six fetuses/neonates died. These cases resulted in at least 35 additional EVD cases. CONCLUSIONS These cases add to the sparse literature focusing on pregnant women with EVD, highlighting challenges and implications for outbreak control. Infected newborns may also present atypically and may shed virus while apparently asymptomatic. Pregnant women identified a priori as contacts of EVD cases require special attention and planning for obstetrical care.
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Recent outbreaks of influenza, Ebola, and Zika viruses have taught us that pregnant women are uniquely vulnerable to emerging infectious threats. Let’s not fail pregnant frontline workers during the covid-19 pandemic.
Collapse
|
34
|
Schwartz DA, Dhaliwal A. INFECTIONS IN PREGNANCY WITH COVID-19 AND OTHER RESPIRATORY RNA VIRUS DISEASES ARE RARELY, IF EVER, TRANSMITTED TO THE FETUS: EXPERIENCES WITH CORONAVIRUSES, HPIV, hMPV RSV, AND INFLUENZA. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2020; 144:920-928. [PMID: 32338533 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0211-sa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the agent of COVID-19, is similar to two other coronaviruses, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, in causing life-threatening maternal respiratory infections and systemic complications. Because of global concern for potential intrauterine transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from pregnant women to their infants, this report analyzes the effects on pregnancy of infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory RNA viruses, and examines the frequency of maternal-fetal transmission with SARS-CoV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza (HPIV) and metapneumovirus (hMPV). There have been no confirmed cases of intrauterine transmission reported with COVID-19 or any other coronavirus infections. Influenza virus, despite causing approximately one billion annual infections globally, has only a few cases of confirmed or suspected intrauterine fetal infections reported. RSV is in an unusual cause of illness among pregnant women, and with the exception of one premature infant with congenital pneumonia, no other cases of maternal-fetal infection are described. Parainfluenza virus and human metapneumovirus can produce symptomatic maternal infections but do not cause intrauterine fetal infection. In summary, it appears that the absence thus far of maternal-fetal transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the COVID-19 pandemic is similar to other coronaviruses, and is also consistent with the extreme rarity of suggested or confirmed cases of intrauterine transmission of other respiratory RNA viruses. This observation has important consequences for pregnant women as it appears that if intrauterine transmission of SARSCoV-2 does eventually occur, it will be a rare event. Potential mechanisms of fetal protection from maternal viral infections are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Schwartz
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA (Dr. Schwartz); Amareen Dhaliwal, BS, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA (Ms. Dhaliwal)
| | - Amareen Dhaliwal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA (Dr. Schwartz); Amareen Dhaliwal, BS, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA (Ms. Dhaliwal)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Legardy-Williams JK, Carter RJ, Goldstein ST, Jarrett OD, Szefer E, Fombah AE, Tinker SC, Samai M, Mahon BE. Pregnancy Outcomes among Women Receiving rVSVΔ-ZEBOV-GP Ebola Vaccine during the Sierra Leone Trial to Introduce a Vaccine against Ebola. Emerg Infect Dis 2020; 26:541-548. [PMID: 32017677 PMCID: PMC7045819 DOI: 10.3201/eid2603.191018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Little information exists regarding Ebola vaccine rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP and pregnancy. The Sierra Leone Trial to Introduce a Vaccine against Ebola (STRIVE) randomized participants without blinding to immediate or deferred (18–24 weeks postenrollment) vaccination. Pregnancy was an exclusion criterion, but 84 women were inadvertently vaccinated in early pregnancy or became pregnant <60 days after vaccination or enrollment. Among immediate vaccinated women, 45% (14/31) reported pregnancy loss, compared with 33% (11/33) of unvaccinated women with contemporaneous pregnancies (relative risk 1.35, 95% CI 0.73–2.52). Pregnancy loss was similar among women with higher risk for vaccine viremia (conception before or <14 days after vaccination) (44% [4/9]) and women with lower risk (conception >15 days after vaccination) (45% [10/22]). No congenital anomalies were detected among 44 live-born infants examined. These data highlight the need for Ebola vaccination decisions to balance the possible risk for an adverse pregnancy outcome with the risk for Ebola exposure.
Collapse
|
36
|
Jacob ST, Crozier I, Fischer WA, Hewlett A, Kraft CS, Vega MADL, Soka MJ, Wahl V, Griffiths A, Bollinger L, Kuhn JH. Ebola virus disease. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020; 6:13. [PMID: 32080199 PMCID: PMC7223853 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-020-0147-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe and frequently lethal disease caused by Ebola virus (EBOV). EVD outbreaks typically start from a single case of probable zoonotic transmission, followed by human-to-human transmission via direct contact or contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated fomites. EVD has a high case-fatality rate; it is characterized by fever, gastrointestinal signs and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Diagnosis requires a combination of case definition and laboratory tests, typically real-time reverse transcription PCR to detect viral RNA or rapid diagnostic tests based on immunoassays to detect EBOV antigens. Recent advances in medical countermeasure research resulted in the recent approval of an EBOV-targeted vaccine by European and US regulatory agencies. The results of a randomized clinical trial of investigational therapeutics for EVD demonstrated survival benefits from two monoclonal antibody products targeting the EBOV membrane glycoprotein. New observations emerging from the unprecedented 2013-2016 Western African EVD outbreak (the largest in history) and the ongoing EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have substantially improved the understanding of EVD and viral persistence in survivors of EVD, resulting in new strategies toward prevention of infection and optimization of clinical management, acute illness outcomes and attendance to the clinical care needs of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shevin T Jacob
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Global Health Security Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ian Crozier
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, Clinical Monitoring Research Program Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research supported by the National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - William A Fischer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Angela Hewlett
- Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Colleen S Kraft
- Microbiology Section, Emory Medical Laboratory, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marc-Antoine de La Vega
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Moses J Soka
- Partnership for Ebola Virus Disease Research in Liberia, Monrovia Medical Units ELWA-2 Hospital, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Victoria Wahl
- National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Anthony Griffiths
- Department of Microbiology and National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Bollinger
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jens H Kuhn
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Being Pregnant during the Kivu Ebola Virus Outbreak in DR Congo: The rVSV-ZEBOV Vaccine and Its Accessibility by Mothers and Infants during Humanitarian Crises and in Conflict Areas. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010038. [PMID: 31979026 PMCID: PMC7157486 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak that began in Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in July 2018 is the second largest in history. It is also the largest and most deadly of the ten Ebola outbreaks to occur in DRC, the country where Ebola was first identified during the 1976 Yambuku outbreak. The Kivu region is one of the most challenging locations in which to organize humanitarian assistance. It is an active conflict zone in which numerous armed groups are conducting violent acts, often directed against the inhabitants, healthcare and relief workers and peacekeepers. EVD has been especially problematic in pregnancy—previous outbreaks both in DRC and other countries have resulted in very high mortality rates among pregnant women and especially their infants, with maternal mortality in some outbreaks reaching over 90% and perinatal mortality 100%. The development and implementation of the Merck rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine for Ebola infection has been a tremendous public health advance in preventing EVD, being used successfully in both the West Africa Ebola epidemic and the Équateur DRC Ebola outbreak. But from the start of the Kivu outbreak, policy decisions had resulted in excluding pregnant and lactating women and their infants from receiving it during extensive ring vaccination efforts. In June 2019, this policy was reversed, 10 months after the start of the outbreak. Pregnant and lactating women are now permitted not only the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine in the continuing Kivu outbreak but also the newly implemented Ad26.ZEBOV/MVA-BN vaccine.
Collapse
|
38
|
Lee JK, Oh SJ, Park H, Shin OS. Recent Updates on Research Models and Tools to Study Virus-Host Interactions at the Placenta. Viruses 2019; 12:E5. [PMID: 31861492 PMCID: PMC7020004 DOI: 10.3390/v12010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a unique mixed organ, composed of both maternal and fetal tissues, that is formed only during pregnancy and serves as the key physiological and immunological barrier preventing maternal-fetal transmission of pathogens. Several viruses can circumvent this physical barrier and enter the fetal compartment, resulting in miscarriage, preterm birth, and birth defects, including microcephaly. The mechanisms underlying viral strategies to evade the protective role of placenta are poorly understood. Here, we reviewed the role of trophoblasts and Hofbauer cells in the placenta and have highlighted characteristics of vertical and perinatal infections caused by a wide range of viruses. Moreover, we explored current progress and future opportunities in cellular targets, pathogenesis, and underlying biological mechanisms of congenital viral infections, as well as novel research models and tools to study the placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Kyung Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308 Korea; (J.K.L.); (S.-J.O.)
| | - Soo-Jin Oh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308 Korea; (J.K.L.); (S.-J.O.)
| | - Hosun Park
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, 170 Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu 42415, Korea
| | - Ok Sarah Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul 08308 Korea; (J.K.L.); (S.-J.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
When Is It Acceptable to Vaccinate Pregnant Women? Risk, Ethics, and Politics of Governance in Epidemic Crises. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-019-00190-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
40
|
Schwartz DA. Maternal and Infant Death and the rVSV-ZEBOV Vaccine Through Three Recent Ebola Virus Epidemics-West Africa, DRC Équateur and DRC Kivu: 4 Years of Excluding Pregnant and Lactating Women and Their Infants from Immunization. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-019-00195-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Ebola virus infection has one of the highest overall case fatality rates of any viral disease. It has historically had an especially high case mortality rate among pregnant women and infants—greater than 90% for pregnant women in some outbreaks and close to 100 % in fetuses and newborns. The Merck recombinant vaccine against Ebola virus, termed rVSV-ZEBOV, underwent clinical trials during the 2013–2015 West Africa Ebola epidemic where it was found to be 100% efficacious. It was subsequently used during the 2018 DRC Équateur outbreak and in the 2018 DRC Kivu Ebola which is still ongoing, where its efficacy is 97.5 %. Pregnant and lactating women and their infants have previously been excluded from the design, clinical trials, and administration of many vaccines and drugs. This article critically examines the development of the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine and its accessibility to pregnant and lactating women and infants as a life-saving form of prevention through three recent African Ebola epidemics—West Africa, DRC Équateur, and DRC Kivu.
Recent Findings
Pregnant and lactating women and their infants were excluded from participation in the clinical trials of rVSV-ZEBOV conducted during the West Africa epidemic. This policy of exclusion was continued with the occurrence of the DRC Équateur outbreak in 2018, in spite of calls from the public health and global maternal health communities to vaccinate this population. Following the onset of the DRC Kivu epidemic, the exclusion persisted. Eventually, the policy was reversed to include vaccination of pregnant and lactating women. However, it was not implemented until June 2019, 10 months after the start of the epidemic, placing hundreds of women and infants at risk for this highly fatal infection.
Summary
The historical policy of excluding pregnant and lactating women and infants from vaccine design, clinical trials, and implementation places them at risk, especially in situations of infectious disease outbreaks. In the future, all pregnant women, regardless of trimester, breastfeeding mothers, and infants, should have access to the Ebola vaccine.
Collapse
|
41
|
Krubiner CB, Schwartz DA. Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers in Pregnant Women and the Vaccine Landscape: Comparisons Between Yellow Fever, Ebola, and Lassa Fever. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-019-00194-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
42
|
Rebora A, Ciccarese G, Herzum A, Parodi A, Drago F. Pityriasis rosea and other infectious eruptions during pregnancy: Possible life-threatening health conditions for the fetus. Clin Dermatol 2019; 38:105-112. [PMID: 32197740 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2019.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Any infectious illness presenting with an eruption in a pregnant patient may be associated with an increased risk of fetal loss. The viruses that can infect the placenta during maternal infection and can be transmitted to the fetus and cause congenital disease include the rubella virus, the measles virus, the varicella zoster virus, parvovirus B19, human cytomegalovirus, arboviruses, and hepatitis E virus type 1. In addition, some bacteria responsible for exanthematous diseases, like Treponema pallidum, can be transmitted during pregnancy from the mother to the fetus and cause fetal loss. All these infectious agents can cause typical and/or atypical exanthems whose etiologic diagnosis is sometimes difficult but important to determine, especially in pregnant women because of the potential risk to the fetus. In the last 20 years, we have extensively studied pityriasis rosea from the clinical and laboratory perspectives, demonstrating the pathogenic role of human herpesvirus (HHV)-6 and -7. We synthesize the available evidence that PR may be associated with active HHV-6/7 infection and therefore with complications during pregnancy and fetal loss. We have also summarized the emerging infectious illnesses of dermatologic interest that may represent life-threatening health conditions for the fetus: measles, rubella, arbovirus infection, and syphilis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Rebora
- DISSAL, Section of Dermatology, University of Genoa, Via Pastore, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Ciccarese
- DISSAL, Section of Dermatology, University of Genoa, Via Pastore, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Astrid Herzum
- DISSAL, Section of Dermatology, University of Genoa, Via Pastore, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Aurora Parodi
- DISSAL, Section of Dermatology, University of Genoa, Via Pastore, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Drago
- Dermatologic Clinic, Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Garde DL, Kahn RJ, Mesman AW, Koroma AP, Marsh RH. Care of Pregnant Women: Experience from a Maternity-Specific Ebola Isolation Unit in Sierra Leone. J Midwifery Womens Health 2019; 64:493-499. [PMID: 31241247 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.12997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Ebola virus disease epidemic was devastating to the West African region, particularly for pregnant women. Prior to the epidemic, maternal mortality in this region was among the highest in the world. Throughout the region, screening of patients with Ebola was difficult, as the symptoms of malaria or typhoid mimicked Ebola, but even more difficult for pregnant women, because of the large overlap between Ebola symptoms and pregnancy-related complications. In November 2014, the world's first maternity-specific isolation and screening system, to our knowledge, was created at the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital in Freetown to meet the emergent needs of the population of pregnant women during the epidemic. PROCESS Starting in December 2014 through June 2016, in collaboration with hospital leadership and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Partners In Health supported Princess Christian Maternity Hospital in creating a safer health care environment with the shared goal of improving safety and health outcomes and of addressing the unique needs of pregnant women, by focusing on improving 4 key areas: 1) screening, 2) isolation, 3) laboratory diagnostics, and 4) clinical service delivery in isolation, including human resource management and training. OUTCOMES The screening guidelines were adapted to include maternal health care considerations, a new screening area was constructed, the laboratory result turnaround time was reduced, and the isolation unit was improved to enhance safety and care delivery. Human resources were supported with additional staff hired and trainings on infection prevention and control, overall resulting in better preparing Princess Christian Maternity Hospital to provide care for pregnant women during outbreaks. DISCUSSION The authors' experience at Princess Christian Maternity Hospital provides a model of screening, isolation, and care specifically for maternity patients, and directly addresses infection risk and mortality. The recommendations we provide can be used in future outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca J Kahn
- Population Health Sciences, Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Annelies W Mesman
- Partners In Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Regan H Marsh
- Partners In Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital-Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
The 2014 to 2016 Ebola outbreak, primarily based in 3 West African countries, had far-reaching global effects. Importantly, the crisis highlighted large gaps in reproductive health services in affected countries and inadequate health care system preparedness for obstetrical patients in the setting of highly contagious infectious diseases. We aim to review Ebola virus effects with a focus on the obstetrical implications in the context of this recent Ebola outbreak, discuss the lessons learned following this outbreak and propose current measures specific to obstetrics that should be considered in preparation for the next concerning emergent infectious disease.
Collapse
|
45
|
Strong AE, Schwartz DA. Effects of the West African Ebola Epidemic on Health Care of Pregnant Women: Stigmatization With and Without Infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [PMCID: PMC7123537 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-97637-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
|
46
|
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa B Haddad
- From the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (L.B.H, D.J.J.); and the Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, Gainesville (S.A.R.)
| | - Denise J Jamieson
- From the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (L.B.H, D.J.J.); and the Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, Gainesville (S.A.R.)
| | - Sonja A Rasmussen
- From the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta (L.B.H, D.J.J.); and the Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, Gainesville (S.A.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cooper TK, Sword J, Johnson JC, Bonilla A, Hart R, Liu DX, Bernbaum JG, Cooper K, Jahrling PB, Hensley LE. New Insights Into Marburg Virus Disease Pathogenesis in the Rhesus Macaque Model. J Infect Dis 2018; 218:S423-S433. [PMID: 30053050 PMCID: PMC6249607 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, several studies have been performed to delineate the development and progression of Marburg virus infection in nonhuman primates (NHPs), primarily to clarify the mechanisms of severe (fatal) disease. After the 2013-2016 Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic in Western Africa, there has been a reassessment of the available filovirus animal models and the utility of these to faithfully recapitulate human disease. The high lethality of the NHP models has raised doubts as to their ability to provide meaningful data for the full spectrum of disease observed in humans. Of particular interest are the etiologic and pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying postconvalescent sequelae observed in human survivors of EVD and Marburg virus disease (MVD). In the current study, we evaluated the lesions of MVD in NHPs; however, in contrast to previous studies, we focused on the potential for development of sequelae similar to those reported in human survivors of MVD and EVD. We found that during acute MVD in the macaque model, there is frequent inflammation of peripheral nerves, autonomic ganglia, and the iris of the eye. Furthermore, we demonstrate viral infection of the ocular ciliary body and retina, testis, epididymis, ovary, oviduct, uterine endometrium, prostate, and mammary gland. These findings are relevant for both development of postconvalescent sequelae and the natural transmission of virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy K Cooper
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Jennifer Sword
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Joshua C Johnson
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Amanda Bonilla
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Randy Hart
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - David X Liu
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - John G Bernbaum
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Kurt Cooper
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Peter B Jahrling
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Lisa E Hensley
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Fort Detrick, Frederick, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Fanunza E, Frau A, Corona A, Tramontano E. Antiviral Agents Against Ebola Virus Infection: Repositioning Old Drugs and Finding Novel Small Molecules. ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2018; 51:135-173. [PMID: 32287476 PMCID: PMC7112331 DOI: 10.1016/bs.armc.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) causes a deadly hemorrhagic syndrome in humans with mortality rate up to 90%. First reported in Zaire in 1976, EBOV outbreaks showed a fluctuating trend during time and fora long period it was considered a tragic disease confined to the isolated regions of the African continent where the EBOV fear was perpetuated among the poor communities. The extreme severity of the recent 2014-16 EBOV outbreak in terms of fatality rate and rapid spread out of Africa led to the understanding that EBOV is a global health risk and highlights the necessity to find countermeasures against it. In the recent years, several small molecules have been shown to display in vitro and in vivo efficacy against EBOV and some of them have advanced into clinical trials. In addition, also existing drugs have been tested for their anti-EBOV activity and were shown to be promising candidates. However, despite the constant effort addressed to identify anti-EBOV therapeutics, no approved drugs are available against EBOV yet. In this chapter, we describe the main EBOV life cycle steps, providing a detailed picture of the druggable viral and host targets that have been explored so far by different technologies. We then summarize the small molecules, nucleic acid oligomers, and antibody-based therapies reported to have an effect either in in silico, or in biochemical and cell-based assays or in animal models and clinical trials, listing them according to their demonstrated or putative mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Fanunza
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Aldo Frau
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Angela Corona
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Genetics and Biomedical Research Institute, National Research Council, Monserrato, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Olgun NS. Viral Infections in Pregnancy: A Focus on Ebola Virus. Curr Pharm Des 2018; 24:993-998. [PMID: 29384053 PMCID: PMC6419752 DOI: 10.2174/1381612824666180130121946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
During gestation, the immune response of the placenta to viruses and other pathogens plays an important role in determining a pregnant woman's vulnerability toward infectious diseases. Located at the maternalfetal interface, trophoblast cells serve to minimize the spread of viruses between the host and developing fetus through an intricate system of innate antiviral immune signaling. Adverse pregnancy outcomes, ranging from learning disabilities to preterm birth and fetal death, are all documented results of a viral breach in the placental barrier. Viral infections during pregnancy can also be spread through blood and vaginal secretions, and during the post-natal period, via breast milk. Thus, even in the absence of vertical transmission of viral infection to the fetus, maternal health can still be compromised and threaten the pregnancy. The most common viral DNA isolates found in gestation are adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, and enterovirus. However, with the recent pandemic of Ebola virus, and the first documented case of a neonate to survive due to experimental therapies in 2017, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the changing roles and impacts of viral infection during pregnancy needs to be better understood, while strategies to minimize adverse pregnancy outcomes need to be identified. This review focuses on the adverse impacts of viral infection during gestation, with an emphasis on Ebola virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole S. Olgun
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Watson AK, Ellington S, Nelson C, Treadwell T, Jamieson DJ, Meaney-Delman DM. Preparing for biological threats: Addressing the needs of pregnant women. Birth Defects Res 2017; 109:391-398. [PMID: 28398677 PMCID: PMC11323306 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Intentional release of infectious agents and biological weapons to cause illness and death has the potential to greatly impact pregnant women and their fetuses. We review what is known about the maternal and fetal effects of seven biological threats: Bacillus anthracis (anthrax); variola virus (smallpox); Clostridium botulinum toxin (botulism); Burkholderia mallei (glanders) and Burkholderia pseudomallei (melioidosis); Yersinia pestis (plague); Francisella tularensis (tularemia); and Rickettsia prowazekii (typhus). Evaluating the potential maternal, fetal, and infant consequences of an intentional release of an infectious agent requires an assessment of several key issues: (1) are pregnant women more susceptible to infection or illness compared to the general population?; (2) are pregnant women at increased risk for severe illness, morbidity, and mortality compared to the general population?; (3) does infection or illness during pregnancy place women, the fetus, or the infant at increased risk for adverse outcomes and how does this affect clinical management?; and (4) are the medical countermeasures recommended for the general population safe and effective during pregnancy? These issues help frame national guidance for the care of pregnant women during an intentional release of a biological threat. Birth Defects Research 109:391-398, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
|