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Coelho LE, Luz PM, Pires DC, Jalil EM, Perazzo H, Torres TS, Cardoso SW, Peixoto EM, Nazer S, Massad E, Carvalho LM, Réquia WJ, Motta FC, Siqueira MM, Vasconcelos AT, da Fonseca GC, Cavalcante LT, Costa CA, Amancio RT, Villela DA, Pereira T, Goedert GT, Santos CV, Rodrigues NC, Bormann de Souza Filho BA, Csillag D, Grinsztejn B, Veloso VG, Struchiner CJ. SARS-CoV-2 transmission in a highly vulnerable population of Brazil: a household cohort study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2024; 36:100824. [PMID: 38993539 PMCID: PMC11237915 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Background Household transmission studies seek to understand the transmission dynamics of a pathogen by estimating the risk of infection from household contacts and community exposures. We estimated within/extra-household SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and associated factors in a household cohort study in one of the most vulnerable neighbourhoods in Rio de Janeiro city. Methods Individuals ≥1 years-old with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 in the past 30 days (index cases) and household members aged ≥1 year were enrolled and followed at 14 and 28 days (study period November/2020-December/2021). RT-PCR testing, COVID-19 symptoms, and SARS-CoV-2 serologies were ascertained in all visits. Chain binomial household transmission models were fitted using data from 2024 individuals (593 households). Findings Extra-household infection risk was 74.2% (95% credible interval [CrI] 70.3-77.8), while within-household infection risk was 11.4% (95% CrI 5.7-17.2). Participants reporting having received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine had lower extra-household (68.9%, 95% CrI 57.3-77.6) and within-household (4.1%, 95% CrI 0.4-16.6) infection risk. Within-household infection risk was higher among participants aged 10-19 years, from overcrowded households, and with low family income. Contrastingly, extra-household infection risk was higher among participants aged 20-29 years, unemployed, and public transportation users. Interpretation Our study provides important insights into COVID-19 household/community transmission in a vulnerable population that resided in overcrowded households and who struggled to adhere to lockdown policies and social distancing measures. The high extra-household infection risk highlights the extreme social vulnerability of this population. Prioritising vaccination of the most socially vulnerable could protect these individuals and reduce widespread community transmission. Funding Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, CNPq, FAPERJ, Royal Society, Instituto Serrapilheira, FAPESP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara E. Coelho
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Paula M. Luz
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Débora C. Pires
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Emilia M. Jalil
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Hugo Perazzo
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thiago S. Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandra W. Cardoso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M. Peixoto
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandro Nazer
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Massad
- Escola de Matemática Aplicada, Fundação Getulio Vargas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luiz Max Carvalho
- Escola de Matemática Aplicada, Fundação Getulio Vargas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Matemáticas e Computação, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Weeberb J. Réquia
- Escola de Políticas Públicas e Governo, Fundação Getulio Vargas, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Fernando Couto Motta
- Laboratório de Vírus Respiratórios e do Sarampo, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marilda Mendonça Siqueira
- Laboratório de Vírus Respiratórios e do Sarampo, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana T.R. Vasconcelos
- Laboratório de Bioinformática, Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica (LNCC), Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Guilherme C. da Fonseca
- Laboratório de Bioinformática, Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica (LNCC), Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Liliane T.F. Cavalcante
- Laboratório de Bioinformática, Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica (LNCC), Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Carlos A.M. Costa
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel A.M. Villela
- Programa de Computação Científica (PROCC), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Center for Health and Wellbeing, School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Tiago Pereira
- Instituto de Ciências Matemáticas e Computação, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Cleber V.B.D. Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Social Hesio Cordeiro, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Nadia C.P. Rodrigues
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Medicina Social Hesio Cordeiro, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Breno Augusto Bormann de Souza Filho
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Daniel Csillag
- Escola de Matemática Aplicada, Fundação Getulio Vargas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valdilea G. Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudio J. Struchiner
- Escola de Matemática Aplicada, Fundação Getulio Vargas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Medicina Social Hesio Cordeiro, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Greenhalgh T, MacIntyre CR, Baker MG, Bhattacharjee S, Chughtai AA, Fisman D, Kunasekaran M, Kvalsvig A, Lupton D, Oliver M, Tawfiq E, Ungrin M, Vipond J. Masks and respirators for prevention of respiratory infections: a state of the science review. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0012423. [PMID: 38775460 PMCID: PMC11326136 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00124-23] [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] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThis narrative review and meta-analysis summarizes a broad evidence base on the benefits-and also the practicalities, disbenefits, harms and personal, sociocultural and environmental impacts-of masks and masking. Our synthesis of evidence from over 100 published reviews and selected primary studies, including re-analyzing contested meta-analyses of key clinical trials, produced seven key findings. First, there is strong and consistent evidence for airborne transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory pathogens. Second, masks are, if correctly and consistently worn, effective in reducing transmission of respiratory diseases and show a dose-response effect. Third, respirators are significantly more effective than medical or cloth masks. Fourth, mask mandates are, overall, effective in reducing community transmission of respiratory pathogens. Fifth, masks are important sociocultural symbols; non-adherence to masking is sometimes linked to political and ideological beliefs and to widely circulated mis- or disinformation. Sixth, while there is much evidence that masks are not generally harmful to the general population, masking may be relatively contraindicated in individuals with certain medical conditions, who may require exemption. Furthermore, certain groups (notably D/deaf people) are disadvantaged when others are masked. Finally, there are risks to the environment from single-use masks and respirators. We propose an agenda for future research, including improved characterization of the situations in which masking should be recommended or mandated; attention to comfort and acceptability; generalized and disability-focused communication support in settings where masks are worn; and development and testing of novel materials and designs for improved filtration, breathability, and environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - C Raina MacIntyre
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Shovon Bhattacharjee
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Abrar A Chughtai
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Fisman
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohana Kunasekaran
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda Kvalsvig
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Deborah Lupton
- Centre for Social Research in Health and Social Policy Research Centre, Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matt Oliver
- Professional Standards Advocate, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Essa Tawfiq
- Biosecurity Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Ungrin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joe Vipond
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Maurice RL. Post-COVID-19: Time to Change Our Way of Life for a Better Future. EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2024; 5:211-220. [PMID: 38804342 PMCID: PMC11130812 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia5020015] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: From the year 1 anno Domini until 1855, with the third plague, major pandemics occurred on average every 348 years. Since then, they have occurred on average every 33 years, with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) now underway. Even though current technologies have greatly improved the way of life of human beings, COVID-19, with more than 700,000,000 cases and 6,950,000 deaths worldwide by the end of 2023, reminds us that much remains to be done. This report looks back at 18 months of COVID-19, from March 2020 to August 2021, with the aim of highlighting potential solutions that could help mitigate the impact of future pandemics. Materials and Methods: COVID-19 data, including case and death reports, were extracted daily from the Worldometer platform to build a database for the macroscopic analysis of the spread of the virus around the world. Demographic data were integrated into the COVID-19 database for a better understanding of the spatial spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in cities/municipalities. Without loss of generality, only data from the top 30 (out of 200 and above) countries ranked by total number of COVID-19 cases were analyzed. Statistics (regression, t-test (p < 0.05), correlation, mean ± std, etc.) were carried out with Excel software (Microsoft® Excel® 2013 (15.0.5579.1001)). Spectral analysis, using Matlab software (license number: 227725), was also used to try to better understand the temporal spread of COVID-19. Results: This study showed that COVID-19 mainly affects G20 countries and that cities/municipalities with high population density are a powerful activator of the spread of the virus. In addition, spectral analysis highlighted that the very first months of the spread of COVID-19 were the most notable, with a strong expansion of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. On the other hand, the following six months showed a certain level of stability, mainly due to multiple preventive measures such as confinement, the closure of non-essential services, the wearing of masks, distancing of 2 m, etc. Conclusion: Given that densely populated cities and municipal areas have largely favored the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it is believed that such a demographic context is becoming a societal problem that developed countries must address in a manner that is adequate and urgent. COVID-19 has made us understand that it is time to act both preventatively and curatively. With phenomenological evidence suggesting that the next pandemic could occur in less than 50 years, it may be time to launch new societal projects aimed at relieving congestion in densely populated regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roch Listz Maurice
- Groupe Biomédical Montérégie, Centre Intégré de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre (CISSSMC), Brossard, QC J4W 3J8, Canada
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Realmuto J, Kleinman MT, Sanger T, Lawler MJ, Smith JN. Design and testing of a sew-free origami mask for improvised respiratory protection. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 35:045101. [PMID: 37625393 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/acf3f3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory aerosols with diameters smaller than 100μm have been confirmed as important vectors for the spread of diseases such as SARS-CoV-2. While disposable and cloth masks afford some protection, they are typically inefficient at filtering these aerosols and require specialized fabrication devices to produce. We describe a fabrication technique that makes use of a folding procedure (origami) to transform any filtration material into a mask. These origami masks can be fabricated by non-experts at minimal cost and effort, provide adequate filtration efficiencies, and are easily scaled to different facial sizes. Using a mannequin fit test simulator, we demonstrate that these masks can provide filtration efficiencies of over 90% while simultaneously providing greater comfort as demonstrated by pressure drops of <20 Pa. We also quantify mask leakage by measuring the variations in filtration efficiency and pressure drop when masks are sealed to the mannequin face compared to when the mask is unsealed but positioned to achieve the best fit. While leakage generally trended with pressure drop, some of the best performing mask media achieved <10% reduction in filtration efficiency due to leakage. Because this mask can provide high filtration efficiencies at low pressure drop compared to commercial alternatives, it is likely to promote greater mask wearing tolerance and acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Realmuto
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, United States of America
| | - Michael T Kleinman
- Department of Community and Environmental Medicine, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
- School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
| | - Terence Sanger
- School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
| | - Michael J Lawler
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States of America
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
| | - James N Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, United States of America
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Jones RM, Snead R, Sarwer DB, Ibrahim JK. Mask Adherence and the Relationship Between Masking and Weather-Related Metrics. J Community Health 2023; 48:761-768. [PMID: 37097507 PMCID: PMC10126535 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01219-3] [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] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about adherence to COVID-19 masking mandates on college campuses or the relationship between weather-related variables and masking. This study aimed to (1) observe students' adherence to on-campus mask mandates and (2) estimate the effect of weather on mask-wearing. Temple University partnered in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's observational Mask Adherence Surveillance at Colleges and Universities Project. February-April 2021, weekly observations were completed at 12 on-campus locations to capture whether individuals wore masks, wore them correctly, and the type of mask worn. Fashion and university masks also were recorded. Weekly average temperature, humidity, and precipitation were calculated. Descriptive statistics were calculated for masking adherence overall, over time, and by location. Statistical significance was assessed between correct mask use and mask type and the linear relationships between weekly weather metrics and mask use. Overall, 3508 individuals were observed with 89.6% wearing masks. Of those, 89.4% correctly wore masks. Cloth (58.7%) and surgical masks (35.3%) were most commonly observed and 21.3% wore fashion masks. N95/KN95 masks were correctly worn in 98.3% of observations and surgical and cloth masks were correctly worn ~ 90% of the time. Weekly adherence varied over time and by campus location. Significant inverse linear relationships existed between weekly temperature (r = - 0.72; p < 0.05) and humidity (r = - 0.63; p ≤ 0.05) and masking. Mask adherence and correct use was high. Temperature and humidity inversely affected adherence. Adherence varied by on-campus location, which suggests the locations (e.g., academic buildings, recreational center) and possibly the characteristics of individuals who frequent certain areas impacted adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resa M Jones
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave. Ritter Annex, 9thFloor, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Ryan Snead
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave. Ritter Annex, 9thFloor, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - David B Sarwer
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer K Ibrahim
- Department of Health Services, Administration, and Policy, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Chen Y, Beattie H, Simpson A, Nicholls G, Sandys V, Keen C, Curran AD. A COVID-19 Outbreak in a Large Meat-Processing Plant in England: Transmission Risk Factors and Controls. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6806. [PMID: 37835076 PMCID: PMC10572747 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The meat-processing industry had frequent COVID-19 outbreaks reported worldwide. In May 2021, a large meat-processing plant in the UK had an outbreak affecting 4.1% (63/1541) of workers. A rapid on-site investigation was conducted to understand the virus transmission risk factors and control measures. This included observational assessments of work activities, control measures, real-time environmental measurements and surface microbial sampling. The production night-shift attack rate (11.6%, 44/380) was nearly five times higher than the production day-shift (2.4%, 9/380). Shared work transport was provided to 150 staff per dayshift and 104 per nightshift. Production areas were noisy (≥80 dB(A)) and physical distancing was difficult to maintain. Face visors were mandatory, additional face coverings were required for some activities but not always worn. The refrigeration system continuously recirculated chilled air. In some areas, the mean temperature was as low as 4.5 °C and mean relative humidity (RH) was as high as 96%. The adequacy of ventilation in the production areas could not be assessed reliably using CO2, due to the use of CO2 in the packaging process. While there were challenges in the production areas, the observed COVID-19 control measures were generally implemented well in the non-production areas. Sixty surface samples from all areas were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and 11.7% were positive. Multi-layered measures, informed by a workplace specific risk assessment, are required to prevent and control workplace outbreaks of COVID-19 or other similar respiratory infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Chen
- Science Division, Health and Safety Executive, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK; (H.B.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (V.S.); (C.K.); (A.D.C.)
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7
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Collard MK, Vaz A, Irving H, Khan MF, Mullis D, Brady D, Nolan K, Cahill R. Reusable cloth masks in operating theatre. Br J Surg 2023; 110:1260-1263. [PMID: 37119205 DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znad104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime K Collard
- General Surgery Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Saint Antoine Hospital, Sorbonne University Paris, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Ana Vaz
- UCD Centre for Precision Surgery, University College of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hugh Irving
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mohammad Faraz Khan
- General Surgery Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre Mullis
- Microbiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre Brady
- Microbiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kevin Nolan
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ronan Cahill
- General Surgery Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Coelho LE, Luz PM, Pires DC, Jalil EM, Perazzo H, Torres TS, Cardoso SW, Peixoto EM, Nazer S, Massad E, Silveira MF, Barros FC, Vasconcelos AT, Costa CA, Amancio RT, Villela DA, Pereira T, Goedert GT, Santos CV, Rodrigues NC, Grinsztejn B, Veloso VG, Struchiner CJ. Prevalence and predictors of anti-SARS-CoV-2 serology in a highly vulnerable population of Rio de Janeiro: A population-based serosurvey. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH - AMERICAS 2022; 15:100338. [PMID: 35936224 PMCID: PMC9337985 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background COVID-19 serosurveys allow for the monitoring of the level of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and support data-driven decisions. We estimated the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a large favela complex in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods A population-based panel study was conducted in Complexo de Manguinhos (16 favelas) with a probabilistic sampling of participants aged ≥1 year who were randomly selected from a census of individuals registered in primary health care clinics that serve the area. Participants answered a structured interview and provided blood samples for serology. Multilevel regression models (with random intercepts to account for participants’ favela of residence) were used to assess factors associated with having anti-S IgG antibodies. Secondary analyses estimated seroprevalence using an additional anti-N IgG assay. Findings 4,033 participants were included (from Sep/2020 to Feb/2021, 22 epidemic weeks), the median age was 39·8 years (IQR:21·8-57·7), 61% were female, 41% were mixed-race (Pardo) and 23% Black. Overall prevalence was 49·0% (95%CI:46·8%-51·2%) which varied across favelas (from 68·3% to 31·4%). Lower prevalence estimates were found when using the anti-N IgG assay. Odds of having anti-S IgG antibodies were highest for young adults, and those reporting larger household size, poor adherence to social distancing and use of public transportation. Interpretation We found a significantly higher prevalence of anti-S IgG antibodies than initially anticipated. Disparities in estimates obtained using different serological assays highlight the need for cautious interpretation of serosurveys estimates given the heterogeneity of exposure in communities, loss of immunological biomarkers, serological antigen target, and variant-specific test affinity. Funding Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Fundação de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, Royal Society, Serrapilheira Institute, and FAPESP.
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Nie J, Kang L, Pian Y, Hu J. Need for more robust research on the effectiveness of masks in preventing COVID-19 transmission. Future Virol 2022. [PMID: 35462620 PMCID: PMC9017682 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2021-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused dramatic death and infection worldwide, leading to a global public health crisis. As for precautions, scientists have different opinions on the effectiveness of masks in preventing COVID-19 transmission. Published studies suggested that medical masks may help in preventing respiratory virus infection. But the currently available experimental results are too preliminary to support an informed policy. In conclusion, we need more well-designed and robust research on the effectiveness of masks in preventing COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Nie
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology; Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Linna Kang
- Tianjin Binhai New Area Dagang Hospital, Tianjin, 300270, China
| | - Yaya Pian
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology; Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jihong Hu
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology; Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
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