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Li Z, Xiong Y, Long J, Li T, Fu X, Yang S, Tian D, Zhao Y, Qi L. Resurgence of influenza during COVID-19 in Chongqing, China: A retrospective analysis. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29249. [PMID: 38009822 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
To better understand the trends of influenza and the impact of public health and social measures (PHSMs) implemented during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period in Chongqing, China. Data from the China Influenza Surveillance Information System from January 2017 to June 2022 were extracted. Epidemiological characteristics (influenza-like illness [ILI] and ILI%) and virological characteristics (influenza positive rate and circulating (sub)types) of influenza were described and compared between the pre-COVID-19 period and the COVID-19 period. Our survey showed that the implementation of PHSMs during the COVID-19 period had a positive impact on reducing influenza transmission. However, influenza activity resurged in 2021-2022 as the PHSMs were eased. Children under 5 years old constituted the highest proportion of ILI cases. The overall influenza positive rate was 23.70%, with a higher rate observed during the pre-COVID-19 period (31.55%) compared to the COVID-19 period (13.68%). Influenza virus subtypes co-circulated and the predominant subtype varied each year, with influenza A subtypes predominated in 2018/2019, while influenza B/Victoria lineage dominated in 2020/2021. PHSMs are effective measures to mitigate the spread of influenza. The findings underscore the need for bolstering monitoring systems, advocating influenza vaccination, and implementing practical PHSMs to strengthen prevention and control measures against influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhourong Li
- Chongqing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Xiong
- Chongqing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory for High Pathogenic Microbes, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiang Long
- Chongqing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory for High Pathogenic Microbes, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Chongqing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory for High Pathogenic Microbes, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoqing Fu
- Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuang Yang
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dechao Tian
- Department of Biostatistics and Systems Biology, School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Qi
- Chongqing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory for High Pathogenic Microbes, Chongqing, China
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Yavarian J, Shatizadeh Malekshahi S, Faraji-Zonouz M, Kalantari S, Zadheidar S, Saghafi S, Tarpour F, Letafati A, Ahmadi AS, Shafiei-Jandaghi NZ, Mokhtari-Azad T. Impact of COVID-19 on the changing pattern of human orthopneumovirus (respiratory syncytial virus) infection in Iran. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:591. [PMID: 37697227 PMCID: PMC10494416 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08588-z] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human orthopneumovirus (HOPV) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the important causes of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) during the cold months of the year worldwide. Many countries have reported an absence of ARIs due to HOPV during the winter of 2020-2021 associated with preventive measures to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV2. However, with the reduction of COVID-19 public health restrictions and the absence of immunity in the community due to the lack of exposure in the previous season, many countries had a delayed HOPV outbreak. Here we reported the impact of COVID-19 on the changing pattern of HOPV infection in Iran. METHODS Throat and nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from patients (children and adults) with ARIs and sent to the Iran National Influenza Center. After RNA extraction, Real time RT-PCR was performed for HOPV detection. RESULTS In 260 samples collected from patients with ARIs in three different groups, which included children in March 2021, pilgrims in July 2022, and outpatients during November and December 2022, no HOPV was detected in any group. CONCLUSIONS The lack of HOPV activity in Iran during the winter of 2020-2021 and then the resurgence in spring 2022 and again the absence of activity in summer and autumn 2022 was extraordinary in the HOPV epidemiology, and probably due to the implementation of public health non-pharmaceutical interventions to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV2. Although it is not possible to keep such restrictions, similar methods can be taken to control outbreaks caused by respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jila Yavarian
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship & Antimicrobial Resistance, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Marziyeh Faraji-Zonouz
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Kalantari
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sevrin Zadheidar
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Saghafi
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Tarpour
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Letafati
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Sadat Ahmadi
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Talat Mokhtari-Azad
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Tramuto F, Maida CM, Mazzucco W, Costantino C, Amodio E, Sferlazza G, Previti A, Immordino P, Vitale F. Molecular Epidemiology and Genetic Diversity of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Sicily during Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Surveillance Seasons. Pathogens 2023; 12:1099. [PMID: 37764907 PMCID: PMC10534943 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is an important pathogen of acute respiratory tract infection of global significance. In this study, we investigated the molecular epidemiology and the genetic variability of hRSV over seven surveillance seasons between 2015 and 2023 in Sicily, Italy. hRSV subgroups co-circulated through every season, although hRSV-B mostly prevailed. After the considerable reduction in the circulation of hRSV due to the widespread implementation of non-pharmaceutical preventive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, hRSV rapidly re-emerged at a high intensity in 2022-2023. The G gene was sequenced for genotyping and analysis of deduced amino acids. A total of 128 hRSV-A and 179 hRSV-B G gene sequences were obtained. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the GA2.3.5a (ON1) and GB5.0.5a (BA9) genotypes were responsible for the hRSV epidemics in Sicily.; only one strain belonged to the genotype GB5.0.4a. No differences were observed in the circulating genotypes during pre- and post-pandemic years. Amino acid sequence alignment revealed the continuous evolution of the G gene, with a combination of amino acid changes specifically appearing in 2022-2023. The predicted N-glycosylation sites were relatively conserved in ON1 and BA9 genotype strains. Our findings augment the understanding and prediction of the seasonal evolution of hRSV at the local level and its implication in the monitoring of novel variants worth considering in better design of candidate vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Tramuto
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Carmelo Massimo Maida
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Walter Mazzucco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Claudio Costantino
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Emanuele Amodio
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Sferlazza
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Adriana Previti
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Palmira Immordino
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”—Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.M.); (W.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.); (P.I.); (F.V.)
- Regional Reference Laboratory for Molecular Surveillance of Influenza, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (A.P.)
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Kim HM, Rhee JE, Lee NJ, Woo SH, Park AK, Lee J, Yoo CK, Kim EJ. Recent increase in the detection of human parainfluenza virus during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic in the Republic of Korea. Virol J 2022; 19:215. [PMID: 36510212 PMCID: PMC9744062 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-022-01938-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the onset of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the prevalence of respiratory infectious diseases, particularly, the flu epidemic, has considerably decreased. The low detection rate and decreased number of specimens have hindered the implementation of the Korea Influenza and Respiratory Viruses Surveillance System (KINRESS), a sentinel surveillance system. Most patients with influenza-like illness visit the COVID-19 screening clinic; therefore, the number of samples collected in sentinel surveillance has decreased by more than 50%. Thus, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency supplemented sentinel surveillance with non-sentinel surveillance by private medical diagnostic centers. We report here a delayed and unprecedented high detection of human parainfluenza virus (hPIV) in the Republic of Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic through sentinel and non-sentinel surveillance. We also examined the causes and implications of the changes in prevalence of hPIV.l METHODS: We collected data for 56,984 and 257,217 samples obtained through sentinel and non-sentinel surveillance, respectively. Eight viruses were confirmed using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or real-time PCR. Some specimens from the sentinel surveillance were used for genetic characterization of hPIV type 3. RESULTS In 2020, hPIV was rarely detected; however, it was detected in August 2021. The detection rate continued to increase considerably in September and reached over 70% in October, 2021. The detection rate of hPIV3 was significantly higher in infants and preschoolers aged 0-6 years in both sentinel and non-sentinel surveillance. Detection of hPIV was delayed in metropolitan areas compared to that in suburban regions. The hemagglutinin-neuraminidase sequences of hPIV3 generated in 2021 were not distinct from those detected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The operation of non-sentinel and sentinel surveillance to monitor respiratory viruses could sensitively detect an unprecedented revival of hPIV in the Republic of Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heui Man Kim
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Eun Rhee
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Joo Lee
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hee Woo
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Ae Kyung Park
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehee Lee
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheon Kwon Yoo
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jin Kim
- grid.418967.50000 0004 1763 8617Division of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Bureau of Infectious Diseases Diagnosis Control, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 187 Osongsaengmyeong2-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Republic of Korea
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Impact of COVID-19 on the Changing Patterns of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections. Infect Dis Rep 2022; 14:558-568. [PMID: 35893478 PMCID: PMC9394296 DOI: 10.3390/idr14040059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonal epidemics of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the leading causes of hospitalization and mortality among children. Preventive measures implemented to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2, including facemasks, stay-at-home orders, closure of schools and local-national borders, and hand hygiene, may have also prevented the transmission of RSV and influenza. However, with the easing of COVID-19 imposed restrictions, many regions are noticing a delayed RSV outbreak. Some of these regions have also noted an increase in severity of these delayed RSV outbreaks partly due to a lack of protective immunity in the community following a lack of exposure from the previous season. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic can be implemented for controlling RSV outbreaks, including: (1) measures to reduce the spread, (2) effective vaccine development, and (3) genomic surveillance tools and computational modeling to predict the timing and severity of RSV outbreaks. These measures can help reduce the severity and prepare the health care system to deal with future RSV outbreaks by appropriate and timely allocation of health care resources.
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Anwar MZ, Lodhi MS, Khan MT, Khan MI, Sharif S. Coronavirus Genomes and Unique Mutations in Structural and Non-Structural Proteins in Pakistani SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variants during the Fourth Wave of the Pandemic. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:552. [PMID: 35328105 PMCID: PMC8951394 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 is imperative to explore the transmission, evolution, and also pathogenicity of viruses. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern posed a severe threat to the global public health efforts. To assess the potential consequence of these emerging variants on public health, continuous molecular epidemiology is of vital importance. The current study has been designed to investigate the major SARS-CoV-2 variants and emerging mutations in virus structural and non-structural proteins (NSP) during the fourth wave in September 2021 from the Punjab province of Pakistan. Twenty SARS-CoV-2 positive samples have been collected from major cities were subjected to next-generation sequencing. Among the 20 whole genomes (GenBank Accession SRR16294858-SRR16294877), 2 samples failed to be completely sequenced. These genome sequences harbored 207 non-synonymous mutations, among which 19 were unique to GISAID. The genome sequences were detected: Delta 21I, 21J variants (B.1.617.2). Mutation's spike_F157del, spike_P681R, spike_T478K, spike_T19R, spike_L452R, spike_D614G, spike_G142D, spike_E156G, and spike_R158del have been detected in all samples where K1086Q, E554K, and C1250W were unique in spike protein. These genomic sequences also harbored 129 non-synonymous mutations in NSP. The most common were NSP3_P1469S (N = 17), NSP3_A488S (N = 17), NSP3_P1228L (N = 17), NSP4_V167L (N = 17), NSP4_T492I (N = 17), NSP6_T77A (N = 17), NSP14_A394V (N = 17), NSP12_G671S (N = 18), and NSP13_P77L (N = 18). The mutation, F313Y in NSP12, detected in the current study, was found in a single isolate from Belgium. Numerous other unique mutations have been detected in the virus papain-like protease (NSP3), main protease (NSP5), and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (NSP12). The most common non-synonymous mutations in the spike protein were subjected to stability analysis, exhibiting a stabilizing effect on structures. The presence of Delta variants may affect therapeutic efforts and vaccine efficacy. Continuous genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan may be useful for better management of SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madeeha Shahzad Lodhi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), The University of Lahore, 1 KM Defence Road, Lahore 58 810, Pakistan; (M.Z.A.); (M.T.K.); (M.I.K.); (S.S.)
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Flu@home: The comparative accuracy of an at-home influenza rapid diagnostic test, using a pre-positioned test kit, mobile app, mail-in reference sample, and symptom-based testing trigger. J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0207021. [PMID: 35107302 PMCID: PMC8925896 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02070-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
At-home testing with rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for respiratory viruses could facilitate early diagnosis, guide patient care, and prevent transmission. Such RDTs are best used near the onset of illness when viral load is highest and clinical action will be most impactful, which may be achieved by at-home testing. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the QuickVue Influenza A + B RDT in an at-home setting. A convenience sample of 5,229 individuals who were engaged with an on-line health research platform were prospectively recruited throughout the United States. "flu@home" test kits containing a QuickVue RDT and reference sample collection and shipping materials were pre-positioned with participants at the beginning of the study. Participants responded to daily symptom surveys. If they reported experiencing cough along with aches, fever, chills, and/or sweats, they used their flu@home kit following instructions on a mobile app and indicated what lines they saw on the RDT. Of the 976 participants who met criteria to use their self-collection kit and completed study procedures, 202 (20.7%) were positive for influenza by qPCR. The RDT had a sensitivity of 28% (95% CI: 21-36) and specificity of 99% (98-99) for influenza A, and 32% (95% CI: 20-46) and 99% (95% CI: 98-99), for influenza B. Our results support the concept of app-supported, pre-positioned at-home RDT kits using symptom-based triggers, although it cannot be recommended with the RDT used in this study. Further research is needed to determine ways to improve the accuracy and utility of home-based testing for influenza.
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Chong YM, Chan YF, Jamaluddin MFH, Hasan MS, Pang YK, Ponnampalavanar S, Syed Omar SF, Voon KGL, Sam IC. Detection of respiratory viruses in adults with suspected COVID-19 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. J Clin Virol 2021; 145:105000. [PMID: 34739838 PMCID: PMC8526124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2021.105000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Reports of co-circulation of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic and co-infections with SARS-CoV-2 vary. However, limited information is available from developing countries. Objectives We aimed to investigate the incidence of respiratory viruses in adult patients with suspected COVID-19 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Study Design We collected 198 respiratory samples from adult patients hospitalized with suspected COVID-19 in a single teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur in February-May 2020 and tested combined oro-nasopharyngeal swabs with the NxTAG Respiratory Pathogen Panel (Luminex) and Allplex RV Essential (Seegene) assays. Forty-five negative samples further underwent viral metagenomics analysis. Results Of the 198 samples, 74 (37.4%) had respiratory pathogens, including 56 (28.3%) with SARS-CoV-2 and 18 (9.1%) positive for other respiratory pathogens. There were five (2.5%) SARS-CoV-2 co-infections, all with rhinovirus/enterovirus. Three samples (6.7%; 3/45) had viruses identified by metagenomics, including one case of enterovirus D68 and one of Saffold virus genotype 6 in a patient requiring ICU care. Most of the COVID-19 patients (91.1%; 51/56) had mild symptoms but 5.4% (3/56) died. Conclusion During the early COVID-19 period, common respiratory viruses other than SARS-CoV-2 only accounted for 9.1% of hospitalization cases with ARI and co-infections with SARS-CoV-2 were rare. Continued surveillance is important to understand the impact of COVID-19 and its associated public health control measures on circulation of other respiratory viruses. Metagenomics can identify unexpected or rare pathogens, such as Saffold virus, which is rarely described in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoong Min Chong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yoke Fun Chan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - M Shahnaz Hasan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yong Kek Pang
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Kenny Gah Leong Voon
- Division of Pathology, International Medical University, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - I-Ching Sam
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Malaya Medical Centre, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Lazova S, Velikova T. DYNAMICS OF CHILDHOOD RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: THE EFFECT OF QUARANTINE АND BEYOND. CENTRAL ASIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HYPOTHESES AND ETHICS 2021. [DOI: 10.47316/cajmhe.2021.2.3.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring epidemic processes and the dynamics of the spread of infectious diseases is essential for predicting their distribution and effective planning in healthcare. The importance of studying seasonal trends in the spread of respiratory viral infections and the specific effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions in nationwide scales and the use of available vaccines stand out even more in the context of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Even if the dynamics of pediatric respiratory viral infections show some variation at the national and local levels, depending on health regulation, respiratory viral pathogens follow a typical pattern of incidence. Therefore, we hypothesize that anticipated reduction of the incidence of common respiratory viral infections would undoubtedly exert positive effects, such as ease of burdening healthcare that combates the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we suspect a shift in familiar seasonal characteristics of common respiratory viral infections. We also speculate that strict long-term limitations of the natural spread of respiratory viral infections can lead to the development of hard-to-predict epidemiological outliers. Additionally, the tricky balance between humanity’s natural impulse to return to normalcy and control the new and still dynamically evolving infection could lead to new threats from old and well-known pathogens. Finally, we hypothesize that the absence of regular influenza virus circulation may lead to a high mismatch rate and a significant reduction in flu vaccine efficacy.
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Absence of Cryptosporidium hominis and dominance of zoonotic Cryptosporidium species in patients after Covid-19 restrictions in Auckland, New Zealand. Parasitology 2021; 148:1288-1292. [PMID: 34120663 PMCID: PMC8383192 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000974] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-2019 (Covid-19) nonpharmaceutical interventions have proven effective control measures for a range of respiratory illnesses throughout the world. These measures, which include isolation, stringent border controls, physical distancing and improved hygiene also have effects on other human pathogens, including parasitic enteric diseases such as cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidium infections in humans are almost entirely caused by two species: C. hominis, which is primarily transmitted from human to human, and Cryptosporidium parvum, which is mainly zoonotic. By monitoring Cryptosporidium species and subtype families in human cases of cryptosporidiosis before and after the introduction of Covid-19 control measures in New Zealand, we found C. hominis was completely absent after the first months of 2020 and has remained so until the beginning of 2021. Nevertheless, C. parvum has followed its typical transmission pattern and continues to be widely reported. We conclude that ~7 weeks of isolation during level 3 and 4 lockdown period interrupted the human to human transmission of C. hominis leaving only the primarily zoonotic transmission pathway used by C. parvum. Secondary anthroponotic transmission of C. parvum remains possible among close contacts of zoonotic cases. Ongoing 14-day quarantine measures for new arrivals to New Zealand have likely suppressed new incursions of C. hominis from overseas. Our findings suggest that C. hominis may be controlled or even eradicated through nonpharmaceutical interventions.
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Li Y, Hu T, Gai X, Zhang Y, Zhou X. Transmission Dynamics, Heterogeneity and Controllability of SARS-CoV-2: A Rural-Urban Comparison. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5221. [PMID: 34068947 PMCID: PMC8156721 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have examined the transmission dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in rural areas and clarified rural-urban differences. Moreover, the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) relative to vaccination in rural areas is uncertain. We addressed this knowledge gap through using an improved statistical stochastic method based on the Galton-Watson branching process, considering both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. Data included 1136 SARS-2-CoV infections of the rural outbreak in Hebei, China, and 135 infections of the urban outbreak in Tianjin, China. We reconstructed SARS-CoV-2 transmission chains and analyzed the effectiveness of vaccination and NPIs by simulation studies. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 showed strong heterogeneity in urban and rural areas, with the dispersion parameters k = 0.14 and 0.35, respectively (k < 1 indicating strong heterogeneity). Although age group and contact-type distributions significantly differed between urban and rural areas, the average reproductive number (R) and k did not. Further, simulation results based on pre-control parameters (R = 0.81, k = 0.27) showed that in the vaccination scenario (80% efficacy and 55% coverage), the cumulative secondary infections will be reduced by more than half; however, NPIs are more effective than vaccinating 65% of the population. These findings could inform government policies regarding vaccination and NPIs in rural and urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Li
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (Y.L.); (T.H.); (X.G.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Taojun Hu
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (Y.L.); (T.H.); (X.G.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xin Gai
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (Y.L.); (T.H.); (X.G.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yunjun Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (Y.L.); (T.H.); (X.G.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xiaohua Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (Y.L.); (T.H.); (X.G.); (Y.Z.)
- Beijing International Center for Mathematical Research, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Center for Statistical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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