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SeyedAlinaghi S, Yarmohammadi S, Farahani Rad F, Rasheed MA, Javaherian M, Afsahi AM, Siami H, Bagheri A, Zand A, Dadras O, Mehraeen E. Prevalence of COVID-19 in prison population: a meta-analysis of 35 studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRISON HEALTH 2024; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 39267228 DOI: 10.1108/ijoph-01-2024-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Considering the restricted and enclosed nature of prisons and closed environments and the prolonged and close contact between individuals, COVID-19 is more likely to have a higher incidence in these settings. This study aims to assess the prevalence of COVID-19 among prisoners. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Papers published in English from 2019 to July 7, 2023, were identified using relevant keywords such as prevalence, COVID-19 and prisoner in the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Google Scholar. For the meta-analysis of the prevalence, Cochrane's Q statistics were calculated. A random effect model was used due to the heterogeneity in COVID-19 prevalence across included studies in the meta-analysis. All analyses were performed in STATA-13. FINDINGS The pooled data presented a COVID-19 prevalence of 20% [95%CI: 0.13, 0.26] and 24% [95%CI: 0.07, 0.41], respectively, in studies that used PCR and antibody tests. Furthermore, two study designs, cross-sectional and cohort, were used. The results of the meta-analysis showed studies with cross-sectional and cohort designs reported 20% [95%CI: 0.11, 0.29] and 25% [95%CI: 0.13, 0.38], respectively. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Through more meticulous planning, it is feasible to reduce the number of individuals in prison cells, thereby preventing the further spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ali Zand
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Dadras
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Mehraeen
- Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran and Department of Health Information Technology, Khalkhal University of Medical Sciences, Khalkhal, Iran
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2
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Kuo JC, Chan W, Leon-Novelo L, Lairson DR, Brown A, Fujimoto K. Latent classification model for censored longitudinal binary outcome. Stat Med 2024; 43:3943-3957. [PMID: 38951953 DOI: 10.1002/sim.10156] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Latent classification model is a class of statistical methods for identifying unobserved class membership among the study samples using some observed data. In this study, we proposed a latent classification model that takes a censored longitudinal binary outcome variable and uses its changing pattern over time to predict individuals' latent class membership. Assuming the time-dependent outcome variables follow a continuous-time Markov chain, the proposed method has two primary goals: (1) estimate the distribution of the latent classes and predict individuals' class membership, and (2) estimate the class-specific transition rates and rate ratios. To assess the model's performance, we conducted a simulation study and verified that our algorithm produces accurate model estimates (ie, small bias) with reasonable confidence intervals (ie, achieving approximately 95% coverage probability). Furthermore, we compared our model to four other existing latent class models and demonstrated that our approach yields higher prediction accuracies for latent classes. We applied our proposed method to analyze the COVID-19 data in Houston, Texas, US collected between January first 2021 and December 31st 2021. Early reports on the COVID-19 pandemic showed that the severity of a SARS-CoV-2 infection tends to vary greatly by cases. We found that while demographic characteristics explain some of the differences in individuals' experience with COVID-19, some unaccounted-for latent variables were associated with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacky C Kuo
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Wenyaw Chan
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Luis Leon-Novelo
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David R Lairson
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Armand Brown
- Bureau of Epidemiology, Houston Health Department, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kayo Fujimoto
- Department of Health Promotion and Behaviroal Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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3
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Bordoy AE, Vallès X, Fernández-Náger J, Sánchez-Roig M, Fernández-Recio J, Saludes V, Noguera-Julian M, Blanco I, Martró E. Analysis of a Large Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (Alpha) Outbreak in a Catalan Prison Using Conventional and Genomic Epidemiology. J Infect Dis 2024; 230:374-381. [PMID: 38570699 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiae161] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Enforcing strict protocols that prevent transmission of airborne infections in prisons is challenging. We examine a large severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 outbreak in a Catalan penitentiary center in February-April 2021, prior to vaccination deployment. The aim was to describe the evolution of the outbreak using classical and genomic epidemiology and the containment strategy applied. The outbreak was initially detected in 1 module but spread to 4, infecting 7 staff members and 140 incarcerated individuals, 6 of whom were hospitalized (4.4%). Genomic analysis confirmed a single origin (B.1.1.7). Contact tracing identified transmission vectors between modules and prevented further viral spread. In future similar scenarios, the control strategy described here may help limit transmission of airborne infections in correctional settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni E Bordoy
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona
- Microbiology Department, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona
| | - Xavier Vallès
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona
| | | | | | - Juan Fernández-Recio
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Vid y del Vino, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad de La Rioja, Gobierno de La Rioja, Logroño
| | - Verónica Saludes
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona
- Microbiology Department, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona
- Epidemiology and Public Health, Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBERESP), Madrid
| | - Marc Noguera-Julian
- Institut de Recerca de la SIDA-IrsiCaixa, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, Badalona
- AIDS and Infectious Diseases Department, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic
| | - Ignacio Blanco
- Microbiology Department, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona
- Clinical Genetics Department, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona
| | - Elisa Martró
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona
- Microbiology Department, Northern Metropolitan Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona
- Epidemiology and Public Health, Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBERESP), Madrid
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4
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Janota AD, Hibbard PF, Meadows ME, Nichols D, Cocco JP, Carr AL, Chapman E, Maupomé G, Duwve JM. Peer Education as a Tool to Improve Health Knowledge for People Who Are Incarcerated: A Secondary Analysis of Data From the Indiana Peer Education Program ECHO. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2024; 30:226-237. [PMID: 38990210 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.23.10.0082] [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: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Considerable health inequities occur among people who are incarcerated, with ripple effects into broader community health. The Indiana Peer Education Program uses the Extension for Community Health Outcomes (ECHO) model to train people who are incarcerated as peer health educators. This analysis sought to evaluate the effectiveness of this program and explore emergent themes not covered in survey instruments. Survey data for both peer educators and their students were assessed using multivariate regression. Qualitative data were used to triangulate survey findings and explore additional themes via thematic analysis. Students showed improvements in knowledge scores and postrelease behavior intentions; peer educators improved in knowledge, health attitudes, and self-efficacy. Qualitative data affirmed survey findings and pointed toward peer educators acquiring expertise in the content they teach, and how to teach it, and that positive results likely expand beyond participants to others in prison, their families, and the communities to which they return. Though preliminary, the results confirm an earlier analysis of the New Mexico Peer Education Program ECHO, adding to the evidence that training individuals who are incarcerated as peer educators on relevant public health topics increases health knowledge and behavior intentions and likely results in improvements in personal and public health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D Janota
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University-Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Meghan E Meadows
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University-Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | | | - Erika Chapman
- Indiana Department of Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Gerardo Maupomé
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University-Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Joan M Duwve
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University-Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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5
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Johnston MS, Ricciardelli R, Coulling R. Exploring the impacts of COVID-19 on Alberta correctional workers. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30213. [PMID: 38694021 PMCID: PMC11061724 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30213] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 and the subsequent public health responses disrupted the routines and lives of people globally. The impact was felt by correctional workers who navigated rapidly changing public health policies and many disruptions to operations within both institutional and community correctional services. In the current study, we unpack qualitative findings emerging from an online mental health and well-being survey, during COVID-19, of 571 correctional workers employed in the Canadian province of Alberta. Results emphasize how correctional work was strained by the on-set of the COVID-19 pandemic, creating other risks and vulnerabilities for both staff and incarcerated people. Respondents highlighted impacts to their workload, routine, personal and institutional security, relationships with colleagues and incarcerated people, and their competing perspectives on the enforcement and ethics of ensuing public health measures intended to contain the spread of the virus. We discuss the empirical implications of these findings and areas for future research post pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ryan Coulling
- Providence University College and Theological Seminary, Otterburne, MB, R0A 1G0, Canada
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6
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Waddell C, Meehan A, Schoonveld M, Kaplan Z, Bien M, Bailey C, Mosites E, Hagan LM. Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Response in Correctional and Detention Facilities. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:S5-S12. [PMID: 38561631 PMCID: PMC10986833 DOI: 10.3201/eid3013.230776] [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: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected persons held in and working in correctional and detention facilities, causing facilities' traditional priorities to shift when healthcare and public health needs temporarily drove many aspects of operations. During July-August 2022, we interviewed members of health departments and criminal justice organizations to document lessons learned from the COVID-19 response in correctional settings. Participants valued enhanced partnerships, flexibility, and innovation, as well as real-time data and corrections-specific public health guidance. Challenges included cross-sector collaborations, population density, scarcity of equipment and supplies, and mental health. Most participants reported improved relationships between criminal justice and public health organizations during the pandemic. Lessons from COVID-19 can be applied to everyday public health preparedness and emergency response in correctional facilities by ensuring representation of correctional health in public health strategy and practice and providing timely, data-driven, and partner-informed guidance tailored to correctional environments when public health needs arise.
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7
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Kwon JA, Bretaña NA, Kronfli N, Dussault C, Grant L, Galouzis J, Hoey W, Blogg J, Lloyd AR, Gray RT. Preparing correctional settings for the next pandemic: a modeling study of COVID-19 outbreaks in two high-income countries. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1279572. [PMID: 38560445 PMCID: PMC10978752 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1279572] [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: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Correctional facilities are high-priority settings for coordinated public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. These facilities are at high risk of disease transmission due to close contacts between people in prison and with the wider community. People in prison are also vulnerable to severe disease given their high burden of co-morbidities. Methods We developed a mathematical model to evaluate the effect of various public health interventions, including vaccination, on the mitigation of COVID-19 outbreaks, applying it to prisons in Australia and Canada. Results We found that, in the absence of any intervention, an outbreak would occur and infect almost 100% of people in prison within 20 days of the index case. However, the rapid rollout of vaccines with other non-pharmaceutical interventions would almost eliminate the risk of an outbreak. Discussion Our study highlights that high vaccination coverage is required for variants with high transmission probability to completely mitigate the outbreak risk in prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisoo A. Kwon
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Nadine Kronfli
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Camille Dussault
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Luke Grant
- Corrective Services NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Wendy Hoey
- Justice Health Forensic Mental Health Network NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Blogg
- Justice Health Forensic Mental Health Network NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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8
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Tadros E, Morgan AA, Durante KA. Criticism, Compassion, and Conspiracy Theories: A Thematic Analysis of What Twitter Users Are Saying About COVID-19 in Correctional Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2024; 68:370-388. [PMID: 35703315 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x221102847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We examined Twitter data using thematic analysis to understand public perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on incarcerated people and reactions to including incarcerated populations in the early phases of the vaccine rollout. Our findings from n = 513 Tweets yielded six themes: Twitter as usual, Advocacy, Deserve to suffer, Vaccine priority debate, Inadequate response, and Misinformation. Stigma-laden statements cut across themes, highlighting the role pathologizing beliefs play in forming opinions about incarcerated people in public health crises. Trust of government response and buy-in to public health communication are positively associated with adherence to guidelines. Although public health decisions are derived from logic and research, our findings indicate that public perception may be driven by personal morals and stigma associated with justice-involved individuals. We recommend that attention be turned toward effective policy messaging, and use of social media, to increase trust and decrease stigma that tends to dominate societal perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Tadros
- Governors State University, University Park, IL, USA
| | - Amy A Morgan
- University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, USA
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9
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LeMasters K, Brinkley-Rubinstein L. Covid-19 in US jails and prisons: implications for the next public health crisis. BMJ 2024; 384:e076975. [PMID: 38373786 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-076975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine LeMasters
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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10
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Adediran T, Zawitz C, Piriani A, Bendict E, Thiede S, Barbian H, Aroutcheva A, Green SJ, Welbel S, Weinstein RA, Snitkin E, Popovich KJ. Genomic Epidemiology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in a County Jail. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofad675. [PMID: 38379564 PMCID: PMC10878058 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, correctional facilities are potential hotspots for transmission. We examined the genomic epidemiology of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) early in the pandemic in one of the country's largest urban jails. Methods Existing SARS-CoV-2 isolates from 131 detainees at the Cook County Jail in Chicago, Illinois, from March 2020 through May 2020 were analyzed by whole-genome sequencing. Contemporaneous isolates from Rush University Medical Center (Chicago, Illinois) and the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) were used to identify genetic clusters containing only jail isolates. Transmission windows were identified for each pair of detainees using the date of the SARS-CoV-2-positive test and location data to determine if detainees overlapped in the jail, within a specific building, or within particular living units during transmission windows. Results We identified 29 jail-only clusters that contained 75 of the 132 SARS-CoV-2 isolates from detainees; of these clusters, 17 (58.6%) had individuals who overlapped in the jail during putative transmission windows. Focusing on specific buildings revealed that 2 buildings, a single- and double-cell style of housing. were associated with having detainees infected with similar SARS-CoV-2 genomes during their infectious time period (P < .001). Conclusions Our findings suggest that there was transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the jail, in the setting of extensive importation of COVID-19 from the community. Numerous infection control practices at intake and during incarceration were implemented in the jail to limit viral spread. Our study shows the importance of genomic analysis in this type of settings and how it can be utilized within infection control protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timileyin Adediran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chad Zawitz
- Cermak Health Services of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ali Piriani
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Bendict
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephanie Thiede
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Hannah Barbian
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Stefan J Green
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Robert A Weinstein
- Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Evan Snitkin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kyle J Popovich
- Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Moazen B, Ismail N, Agbaria N, Mazzilli S, Petri D, Amaya A, D’Arcy J, Plugge E, Tavoschi L, Stöver H. Vaccination against emerging and reemerging infectious diseases in places of detention: a global multistage scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1323195. [PMID: 38347924 PMCID: PMC10859397 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1323195] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the elevated risks of infection transmission, people in prisons frequently encounter significant barriers in accessing essential healthcare services in many countries. The present scoping review aimed to evaluate the state of availability and model of delivery of vaccination services within correctional facilities across the globe. Methods Following the methodological framework for scoping reviews and adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews criteria, we conducted a systematic search across four peer-reviewed literature databases (Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and EBSCO), as well as 14 sources of grey literature. Two researchers meticulously examined the identified papers independently to extract pertinent data published between 2012 and 2022. The quality of the selected publications was assessed using established quality assessment tools. Results Of the 11,281 identified papers 52 met the inclusion criteria. With the exception of one, all the included publications presented data from high-income countries, predominantly originating from the United States. Across the world, the most prevalent vaccines available in prison settings were COVID-19 and HBV vaccines, typically distributed in response to health crises such as pandemics, epidemics, and local outbreaks. Vaccine coverage and uptake rates within correctional facilities displayed noteworthy disparities among various countries and regions. Besides, individual and organizational barriers and facilitating factors of vaccination in prison settings emerged and discussed in the text. Discussion The lack of vaccination services combined with low rates of vaccination coverage and uptake among people living and working in correctional facilities represents a cause for concern. Prisons are not isolated from the broader community, therefore, efforts to increase vaccine uptake among people who live and work in prisons will yield broader public health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Moazen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Health and Social Work, Institute of Addiction Research (ISFF), Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nasrul Ismail
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Nisreen Agbaria
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Health and Social Work, Institute of Addiction Research (ISFF), Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sara Mazzilli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Davide Petri
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Arianna Amaya
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Emma Plugge
- UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
- Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Heino Stöver
- Department of Health and Social Work, Institute of Addiction Research (ISFF), Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany
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12
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Ackerman M, Holmes CS, Antigua JR, Riback LR, Zhang C, Walker JG, Vickerman P, Travers A, Linder M, Day R, Fox AD, Cunningham CO, Akiyama MJ. Mitigation through on-site testing & education among formerly incarcerated individuals against Covid-19 - The MOSAIC study: Design and rationale. Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 136:107406. [PMID: 38097063 PMCID: PMC11055630 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107406] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many of the largest COVID-19 outbreaks in the United States have occurred at carceral facilities. Criminal legal system (CLS)-involved individuals typically face structural barriers accessing medical care post-release. Improving COVID-19 testing and education for CLS-involved individuals could improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population and the communities to which they return. Community-based organizations (CBO) and community health workers (CHWs) fill care gaps by connecting CLS-involved individuals with essential re-entry services. The MOSAIC study will: 1) test an onsite CHW-led SARS-CoV-2 testing and education intervention in a reentry CBO and 2) model the cost-effectiveness of this intervention compared to standard care. METHODS We will recruit 250 CLS-involved individuals who have left incarceration in the prior 90 days. Participants will be randomized to receive onsite Point-of-Care testing and education (O-PoC) or Standard of Care (SoC). Over one year, participants will complete quarterly questionnaires and biweekly short surveys through a mobile application, and be tested for SARS-CoV-2 quarterly, either at the CBO (O-PoC) or an offsite community testing site (SoC). O-PoC will also receive COVID-19 mitigation counseling and education from the CHW. Our primary outcome is the proportion of SARS-CoV-2 tests performed with results received by participants. Secondary outcomes include adherence to mitigation behaviors and cost-effectiveness of the intervention. DISCUSSION The MOSAIC study will offer insight into cost effective strategies for SARS-CoV-2 testing and education for CLS-involved individuals. The study will also contribute to the growing literature on CHW's role in health education, supportive counseling, and building trust between patients and healthcare organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Ackerman
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Connor S Holmes
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Jordy Rojas Antigua
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Lindsey R Riback
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Chenshu Zhang
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Josephine G Walker
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Queens Road, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Queens Road, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Ann Travers
- The Fortune Society, 2976 Northern Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101, United States of America
| | - Micaela Linder
- The Fortune Society, 2976 Northern Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101, United States of America
| | - Ronald Day
- The Fortune Society, 2976 Northern Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101, United States of America
| | - Aaron D Fox
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Chinazo O Cunningham
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America
| | - Matthew J Akiyama
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, United States of America.
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13
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Novisky MA, Tostlebe J, Pyrooz D, Sanchez JA. "The COVID-19 pandemic and operational challenges, impacts, and lessons learned: a multi-methods study of U.S. prison systems". HEALTH & JUSTICE 2023; 11:51. [PMID: 38051375 PMCID: PMC10696818 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-023-00253-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic changed U.S. prison operations and influenced the daily work of prison staff. METHODS In collaboration with the National Institute of Corrections, we administered a survey to 31 state correctional agencies in April 2021 and conducted five focus groups with 62 correctional staff. RESULTS Using a framework of bounded rationality, we find that daily operations were strained, particularly in the areas of staffing, implementing public health policy efforts, and sustaining correctional programming. While prison systems and staff were under-prepared to respond to the pandemic, they attempted to address complex problems with the limited resources they had. CONCLUSIONS Results underscore a need in corrections for prioritizing further developments and reviews of collaborative policies and practices for managing crisis situations. Seeking avenues for leveraging technological innovations to improve operations and facilitate enhanced communication are especially warranted. Finally, meaningful reductions in the prison population, changes in physical infrastructure, and expansions of hiring and retention initiatives are critical for positioning prisons to manage future emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan A Novisky
- Department of Criminology and Sociology, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, UR 205, Cleveland, OH, 44115, USA.
| | - Jennifer Tostlebe
- School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - David Pyrooz
- Department of Sociology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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14
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Milnes M, Amos-Terrell D, Barney-Knox B, Clarke J, Foss T, Selby M, Walls M, Bick J. Decreasing the Risk for Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 During In-Person Visitation Within a State Prison System. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2023; 29:395-403. [PMID: 37862562 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.21.12.0134] [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: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
To decrease the introduction of COVID-19, in-person visitation programs were temporarily limited at California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilities. After consultation with the California Department of Public Health, and in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, in-person visitation was reintroduced on April 10, 2021, with COVID-19 mitigation strategies. To assess the risk of visitation as a mode of entry for COVID-19 into a prison setting, data were gathered demonstrating the number of visitors who were not allowed into the prison due to a positive COVID-19 test prior to visitation. The number of patients who tested positive for COVID-19 after interaction with visitors was also assessed. Between April 10 and June 27, 2021, 33,212 visitors participated in the in-person visiting program. Eight visitors received positive test results prior to entry. Between January 1 and October 1, 2021, 19,025 patients received a total of 93,135 visitations. Of these, 66 patients received positive test results from post-visit testing. These data suggest that when appropriate mitigation strategies are implemented, the visitation process is not a significant contributor to COVID-19 entry into the prison facility when compared with the total number of COVID-19 cases among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Milnes
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
- Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, University of the Pacific, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Debra Amos-Terrell
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | | | - Jackie Clarke
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Tammy Foss
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Michael Selby
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Matthew Walls
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Joseph Bick
- California Correctional Health Care Services, Elk Grove, California, USA
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15
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Sánchez-Recio R, Samper-Pardo M, Llopis-Lambán R, Oliván-Blázquez B, Cerdan-Bernad M, Magallón-Botaya R. Self-rated health impact of COVID 19 confinement on inmates in Southeastern of Europe: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2183. [PMID: 37936162 PMCID: PMC10631134 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17088-3] [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] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the implementation of various measures within closed institutions like prisons to control the spread of the virus. Analyzing the impact of these measures on the health of inmates is crucial from a public health perspective. This study aimed to explore inmates' subjective perception of the COVID-19 lockdown, the implemented measures, their physical self-perception, and their views on the vaccination process. METHOD Between April 2021 and January 2022, 27 semi-structured individual interviews and 1 focus group were conducted with inmates in a prison located in northwest Spain. The interviews were conducted in person and audio-recorded. Thematic content analysis was employed, utilizing methodological triangulation to enhance the coherence and rigor of the results. RESULTS The analysis revealed two main themes and nine subthemes. The first theme focused on inmates' perception of the implementation of protective measures against COVID-19 within the prison and its impact on their well-being. The second theme explored the pandemic's emotional impact on inmates. All participants reported negative consequences on their health resulting from the measures implemented by the institution to contain the pandemic. However, they acknowledged that measures like lockdowns and mass vaccination helped mitigate the spread of the virus within the prison, contrary to initial expectations. CONCLUSION COVID-19 and related measures have directly affected the health of inmates. To improve their health and minimize the impact of pandemic-induced changes, community participation and empowerment of individuals are essential tools, particularly within closed institutions such as prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Sánchez-Recio
- Research Group on Health Services in Aragon (GRISSA), Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Social and Labor Sciences, University of Zaragoza, C/ Violante de Hungría (23), Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
- Institute for Health Research in Aragon (IIS Aragón), C. de San Juan Bosco, 13, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
- Zaragoza Penitentiary Center, Autovía A-23, Km, 328, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mario Samper-Pardo
- Department of medicine, Facultad de Medicina Edificio A, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 5009, Spain
| | | | - Bárbara Oliván-Blázquez
- Institute for Health Research in Aragon (IIS Aragón), C. de San Juan Bosco, 13, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain.
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Calle de Violante de Hungría, 23, Zaragoza, 2009, Spain.
| | | | - Rosa Magallón-Botaya
- Institute for Health Research in Aragon (IIS Aragón), C. de San Juan Bosco, 13, Zaragoza, 50009, Spain
- Department of medicine, Facultad de Medicina Edificio A, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 5009, Spain
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16
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Merss K, Bowers BJ. Devaluing Incarcerated Populations: Deprioritizing Incarcerated Populations for COVID-19 Vaccination. West J Nurs Res 2023; 45:986-992. [PMID: 37702205 DOI: 10.1177/01939459231199312] [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: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for increased attention to measures in place to protect the health of incarcerated populations. Correctional facilities saw massive COVID-19 outbreaks and correctional nurses have been at the forefront of efforts to control COVID-19 in correctional facilities. Before vaccines were widely available, the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine developed a framework to guide equitable COVID-19 vaccine allocation. This study assessed the use of the framework by reviewing 15 state COVID-19 vaccination plans to identify how incarcerated populations were prioritized. Thirteen initial plans could be located. Ten of these plans placed incarcerated persons in Phases 1 and 2, while 1 state placed them in Phase 3. However, subsequent versions of the plans revealed that 8 states had deprioritized incarcerated populations by no longer considering them as a unique population. The framework was developed to promote equity, however, incarcerated persons were often dis-included as a high-risk population for vaccine prioritization, prolonging their risk of COVID-19. Engaging in the opportunity to influence both policy and practice, and promote the ethical consideration of incarcerated populations may help to address both the structural (prison) challenges and larger political structures that impacted vaccine availability and ability to provide the best care possible to this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Merss
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Barbara J Bowers
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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17
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Baccon WC, Salci MA, Carreira L, Gallo AM, Marques FRDM, Laranjeira C. "Feeling Trapped in Prison" Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perceptions and Practices among Healthcare Workers and Prison Staff from a Brazilian Maximum Security Unit. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2451. [PMID: 37685485 PMCID: PMC10487085 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172451] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had several repercussions on prison staff, but the currently available evidence has mainly ignored these effects. This qualitative study aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the prison system through the narratives of health and security professionals, using the methodological framework of the constructivist grounded theory proposed by Charmaz. The sample included 10 healthcare workers and 10 security professionals. Data collection took place between October and November 2022 through individual in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed using the MaxQDA software. Three categories of interrelated data emerged: (1) "Confrontation and disruption" caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the prison system; (2) "Between disinfodemic and solicitude" referring to the tension between information management and the practice of care centered on the needs of inmates; and, finally, (3) "Reorganization and mitigation strategies during the fight against COVID-19". Continuous education and the development of specific skills are essential to enable professionals to face the challenges and complex demands that arise in prison contexts. The daily routines professionals had previously taken for granted were disrupted by COVID-19. Thus, investing in adequate training and emotional support programs is crucial to promote the resilience and well-being of these professionals, ensuring an efficient and quality response to critical events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanessa Cristina Baccon
- Departamento de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Avenida Colombo, 5790—Campus Universitário, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil; (W.C.B.); (M.A.S.); (L.C.); (A.M.G.); (F.R.D.M.M.)
| | - Maria Aparecida Salci
- Departamento de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Avenida Colombo, 5790—Campus Universitário, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil; (W.C.B.); (M.A.S.); (L.C.); (A.M.G.); (F.R.D.M.M.)
| | - Lígia Carreira
- Departamento de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Avenida Colombo, 5790—Campus Universitário, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil; (W.C.B.); (M.A.S.); (L.C.); (A.M.G.); (F.R.D.M.M.)
| | - Adriana Martins Gallo
- Departamento de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Avenida Colombo, 5790—Campus Universitário, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil; (W.C.B.); (M.A.S.); (L.C.); (A.M.G.); (F.R.D.M.M.)
| | - Francielle Renata Danielli Martins Marques
- Departamento de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Avenida Colombo, 5790—Campus Universitário, Maringá 87020-900, PR, Brazil; (W.C.B.); (M.A.S.); (L.C.); (A.M.G.); (F.R.D.M.M.)
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Campus 5, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Rua de Santo André-66-68, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-801 Évora, Portugal
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18
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Moazen B, Agbaria N, Ismail N, Mazzilli S, Klankwarth UB, Amaya A, Rosello A, D'Arcy J, Plugge E, Stöver H, Tavoschi L. Interventions to increase vaccine uptake among people who live and work in prisons: A global multistage scoping review. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37462954 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.23077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine interventions implemented to increase vaccine uptake among people who live and work in prisons around the world. Peer-reviewed and gray literature databases were searched systematically to identify relevant information published from 2012 to 2022. Publications were evaluated by two researchers independently and underwent quality assessment through established tools. Of the 11,281 publications identified through peer-reviewed (2607) and gray literature (8674) search, 17 met the inclusion criteria. In light of limited data, the identified interventions were categorized into two categories of educational and organizational interventions, and are discussed in the text. The lack of availability of vaccination services and interventions to increase vaccine uptake among people who live and work in prisons, worldwide, is a serious public health concern. These interventions reported in this review can be adapted and adopted to mitigate the burden of infectious diseases among people who live and work in prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Moazen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Nisreen Agbaria
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Nasrul Ismail
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sara Mazzilli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ulla-Britt Klankwarth
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Arianna Amaya
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Emma Plugge
- UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
- Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Heino Stöver
- Department of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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19
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Freeman T, Baum F, Musolino C, Flavel J, McKee M, Chi C, Giugliani C, Falcão MZ, De Ceukelaire W, Howden-Chapman P, Nguyen TH, Serag H, Kim S, Carlos AD, Gesesew HA, London L, Popay J, Paremoer L, Tangcharoensathien V, Sundararaman T, Nandi S, Villar E. Illustrating the impact of commercial determinants of health on the global COVID-19 pandemic: Thematic analysis of 16 country case studies. Health Policy 2023; 134:104860. [PMID: 37385156 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104860] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Previous research on commercial determinants of health has primarily focused on their impact on non-communicable diseases. However, they also impact on infectious diseases and on the broader preconditions for health. We describe, through case studies in 16 countries, how commercial determinants of health were visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they may have influenced national responses and health outcomes. We use a comparative qualitative case study design in selected low- middle- and high-income countries that performed differently in COVID-19 health outcomes, and for which we had country experts to lead local analysis. We created a data collection framework and developed detailed case studies, including extensive grey and peer-reviewed literature. Themes were identified and explored using iterative rapid literature reviews. We found evidence of the influence of commercial determinants of health in the spread of COVID-19. This occurred through working conditions that exacerbated spread, including precarious, low-paid employment, use of migrant workers, procurement practices that limited the availability of protective goods and services such as personal protective equipment, and commercial actors lobbying against public health measures. Commercial determinants also influenced health outcomes by influencing vaccine availability and the health system response to COVID-19. Our findings contribute to determining the appropriate role of governments in governing for health, wellbeing, and equity, and regulating and addressing negative commercial determinants of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby Freeman
- Stretton Health Equity, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005 Australia.
| | - Fran Baum
- Stretton Health Equity, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005 Australia
| | - Connie Musolino
- Stretton Health Equity, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005 Australia
| | - Joanne Flavel
- Stretton Health Equity, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005 Australia
| | - Martin McKee
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
| | - Chunhuei Chi
- Center for Global Health, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 7331, USA
| | - Camila Giugliani
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcellos, 2400 CEP 90035-003, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Matheus Zuliane Falcão
- University of São Paulo, Brazil, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715 - 211 - Cerqueira César, São Paulo - SP, 01246-904, Brazil
| | | | | | - Thanh Huong Nguyen
- Faculty of Social Science and Behavior, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang Road, Duc Thang Ward, North Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hani Serag
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Blvd., Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Sun Kim
- People's Health Institute, 36 Sadang-ro 13-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 07004, South Korea
| | - Alvarez Dardet Carlos
- CIBERESP, Center for Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Alicante, 03560 Spain
| | - Hailay Abrha Gesesew
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing, Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5000 AUSTRALIA & College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, 231 Ethiopia
| | - Leslie London
- School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennie Popay
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health & Medicine, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Paremoer
- Political Studies, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Eugenio Villar
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredio, San Martín de Porres 15102, Peru
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20
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Lucas PCC, Lorenz C, Florez-Montero GL, Palasio RGS, Portella TP, Monteiro PCM, Yu ALF, Carvalhanas TRMP. Institutional outbreaks of influenza-like illnesses in the state of São Paulo: an analysis of the epidemiological profile during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Health 2023; 221:142-149. [PMID: 37454404 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.06.018] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to spatiotemporally analyze the profile of influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreaks in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, between 2020 and 2022. STUDY DESIGN This was a cross-sectional retrospective study. METHODS Outbreaks of ILI with final diagnoses of COVID-19, influenza, or other respiratory viruses (ORVs) recorded between January 2020 and November 2022, obtained from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN NET) Outbreak module, were analyzed. Kernel density estimates and Getis-Ord Gi∗ statistics were performed to identify spatial clusters. RESULTS A total of 13,314 ILI outbreaks were identified, involving 130,568 cases and 2649 deaths. Of these, 104,399 (80%) were confirmed as COVID-19, 15,861 (12%) were confirmed as ORV, and 10,308 (8%) were confirmed as influenza. The year 2021 had the highest number of outbreaks and cases. Schools recorded the most outbreaks and cases, followed by long-term care facilities for older adults (LTCs). The highest average number of cases per outbreak and the highest attack rates occurred at social gatherings and prisons. Prisoners were three times more likely to contract COVID-19 during outbreaks than people in other institutions. The highest hospitalization and mortality rates for all virus types occurred in the LTC group. The occurrence and intensity of outbreaks were highly heterogeneous among the different institutions after the introduction of new SARS-CoV-2 variants in the state. CONCLUSIONS ILI outbreaks were not randomly distributed; they clustered in specific areas. Transmissibility varied among different institutions with different responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. These results can be used as a basis for prioritizing actions and allocating resources during future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C C Lucas
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C Lorenz
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - G L Florez-Montero
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R G S Palasio
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - T P Portella
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P C M Monteiro
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A L F Yu
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - T R M P Carvalhanas
- Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenadoria de Controle de Doenças, Centro de Vigilância Epidemiológica "Prof. Alexandre Vranjac", Divisão de Doenças de Transmissão Respiratória, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Thomson R, Mosier R, Worosz M. COVID research across the social sciences in 2020: a bibliometric approach. Scientometrics 2023; 128:3377-3399. [PMID: 37228833 PMCID: PMC10182847 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-023-04714-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Research on the COVID-19 pandemic has produced an incredible volume of social science research. To explore the initial areas of COVID-19 scholarship, the following study uses bibliometric co-citation network analysis on data from Clarivate's Web of Science database to analyze 3327 peer-reviewed studies published during the first year of the pandemic and their 107,396 shared references. Findings indicate nine distinct disciplinary research clusters centered around a single medical core of COVID-19 pandemic research. Topics ranging from tourism collapse, fear scales, financial contagion, health surveillance, shifts in crime rates, quarantine psychology, and collective trauma among others are found to have emerged in this initial phase of research as covid spread across the world. A corresponding infodemic highlights early communication challenges and a broader need to thwart misinformation. As this body of work continues to grow across the social sciences, key intersections, shared themes, and long-term implications of this historic event are brought into view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Thomson
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Auburn University, Auburn, USA
| | - Rebecca Mosier
- Department of Sociology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK USA
| | - Michelle Worosz
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Auburn University, Auburn, USA
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22
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Garrihy J, Marder I, Gilheaney P. 'Cocooning' in prison during COVID-19: Findings from recent research in Ireland. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 20:996-1015. [PMID: 38603291 PMCID: PMC9676109 DOI: 10.1177/14773708221132888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The advent of COVID-19 prompted the enforced isolation of elderly and vulnerable populations around the world, for their own safety. For people in prison, these restrictions risked compounding the isolation and harm they experienced. At the same time, the pandemic created barriers to prison oversight when it was most needed to ensure that the state upheld the rights and wellbeing of those in custody. This article reports findings from a unique collaboration in Ireland between the Office of the Inspector of Prisons - a national prison oversight body - and academic criminologists. Early in the pandemic, they cooperated to hear the voices of people 'cocooning' - isolated because of their advanced age or a medical vulnerability - in Irish prisons by providing journals to this cohort, analysing the data, and encouraging the Irish Prison Service to change practices accordingly. The findings indicated that 'cocooners' were initially ambivalent about these new restrictions, both experiencing them as a punishment akin to solitary confinement, and understanding the goal of protection. As time passed, however, participants reported a drastic impact on their mental and physical health, and implications for their (already limited) agency and relationships with others, experienced more or less severely depending on staff and management practices. The paper also discusses the implications for prison practices during and following the pandemic, understanding isolation in the penological context, and collaboration between prison oversight bodies and academics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Garrihy
- School of Law and Criminology, Maynooth University, Co Kildare, Ireland
| | - Ian Marder
- School of Law and Criminology, Maynooth University, Co Kildare, Ireland
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23
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Koch M, Dvorak A, Hobersdorfer M, Yeghiazaryan L, Rabl U, Komorowski A. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychosocial rehabilitation of forensic psychiatric patients in Austria. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW AND PSYCHIATRY 2023; 88:101889. [PMID: 37121203 PMCID: PMC10110938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2023.101889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to increased psychological distress and far-reaching restrictions of freedom. In March 2020, Austrian penal authorities enacted various safety and protection measures to mitigate the propagation of COVID-19. While infection rates in penal institutions were low, restrictive conditions of detention limited the forensic care of offenders. This retrospective longitudinal observational study aimed to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the psychosocial rehabilitation in forensic psychiatry. Administrative and clinical data obtained from 97 males treated at an inpatient forensic mental health institution were compared before (January 2019 - mid-March 2020) and after (mid-March 2020 - May 2021) the enactment of pandemic-related restrictive measures. The study outcomes related to rehabilitative activities, social contacts, psychopathological stability, and compliance with institutional regulations. During the pandemic, a decrease in individual one-day temporary releases (64 vs. 3, p < .001) and one-day group excursions (103 vs. 10, p < .001) was observed. Likewise, visits by relatives (1440 vs. 429, p < .001) and legal guardians (286 vs. 130, p = .009) decreased. Regarding compliance with institutional regulations, illegal activities decreased from 27 to 8 after enactment of restrictive measures (p = .024). In contrast, long-term temporary releases (122 vs. 188 weeks, p = .131) and admissions to the acute ward (141 vs. 143, p = .712) remained unchanged. Overall, this study demonstrates the substantial impact of COVID-19 on the psychosocial care of forensic psychiatric patients and implies the necessity for guidelines to uphold an appropriate standard of forensic rehabilitation during future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Koch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health (C3NMH), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Lusine Yeghiazaryan
- Center for Medical Data Science, Institute of Medical Statistics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrich Rabl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health (C3NMH), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Arkadiusz Komorowski
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health (C3NMH), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Altobelli E, Galassi F, Mastrodomenico M, Frabotta F, Marzi F, Angelone AM, Marziliano C. SARS-CoV2 Infection and Comorbidity in Inmates: A Study of Central Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3079. [PMID: 36833774 PMCID: PMC9968227 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The presence of multiple chronic diseases is associated with an increase in mortality when related to COVID-19 infection. THE AIMS OF OUR STUDY WERE (i) to evaluate the association between the severity of the COVID-19 disease, defined as symptomatic hospitalized in prison or symptomatic hospitalized out of prison, and the presence of one or more comorbidities in two prisons in central Italy: L'Aquila and Sulmona; (ii) to describe the profiles of inmates using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA). METHODS A database was created including age, gender and clinical variables. The database containing anonymized data was password-protected. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to evaluate a possible association between diseases and the severity of COVID-19 stratified by age groups. We used MCA to describe a possible characteristic profile of inmates. RESULTS Our results show that in the 25-50-year-old age group (COVID-19-negative) in the L'Aquila prison, 19/62 (30.65%) were without comorbidity, 17/62 (27.42%) had 1-2 comorbidities and only 3.23% had >2 diseases. It is interesting to note that in the elderly group, the frequency of 1-2 or >2 pathologies was higher than in the younger group, and only 3/51 (5.88%) inmates did not have comorbidities and were COVID-19 negative (p = 0.008). The MCA identified the following profiles: the prison of L'Aquila showed a group of women over 60 with diabetes, cardiovascular and orthopedic problems, and hospitalized for COVID-19; the Sulmona prison presented a group of males over 60 with diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, urological, gastrointestinal and orthopedic problems, and hospitalized or symptomatic due to COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS our study has demonstrated and confirmed that advanced age and the presence of concomitant pathologies have played a significant role in the severity of the disease: symptomatic hospitalized in the prison; symptomatic hospitalized out of the prison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Altobelli
- Department of Life, Public Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Galassi
- Department of Life, Public Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Fausto Frabotta
- Public Health Unit, Avezzano-Sulmona-L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Marzi
- Department of Information Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Angelone
- Department of Life, Public Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Ciro Marziliano
- Statistical Observatory and Indicator Monitoring, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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Riback LR, Dickson P, Ralph K, Saber LB, Devine R, Pett LA, Clausen AJ, Pluznik JA, Bowden CJ, Sarrett JC, Wurcel AG, Phillips VL, Spaulding AC, Akiyama MJ. Coping with COVID in corrections: a qualitative study among the recently incarcerated on infection control and the acceptability of wastewater-based surveillance. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2023; 11:5. [PMID: 36749465 PMCID: PMC9903258 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-023-00205-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Correctional settings are hotspots for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Social and biological risk factors contribute to higher rates of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality among justice-involved individuals. Rapidly identifying new cases in congregate settings is essential to promote proper isolation and quarantine. We sought perspectives of individuals incarcerated during COVID-19 on how to improve carceral infection control and their perspectives on acceptability of wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) accompanying individual testing. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 adults who self-reported being incarcerated throughout the United States between March 2020 and May 2021. We asked participants about facility enforcement of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 guidelines, and acceptability of integrating WBS into SARS-CoV-2 monitoring strategies at their most recent facility. We used descriptive statistics to characterize the study sample and report on acceptability of WBS. We analyzed qualitative data thematically using an iterative process. RESULTS Participants were predominantly Black or multiple races (50%) and men (75%); 46 years old on average. Most received a mask during their most recent incarceration (90%), although only 40% received counseling on proper mask wearing. A quarter of participants were tested for SARS-CoV-2 at intake. Most (70%) believed they were exposed to the virus while incarcerated. Reoccurring themes included (1) Correctional facility environment leading to a sense of insecurity, (2) Perceptions that punitive conditions in correctional settings were exacerbated by the pandemic; (3) Importance of peers as a source of information about mitigation measures; (4) Perceptions that the safety of correctional environments differed from that of the community during the pandemic; and (5) WBS as a logical strategy, with most (68%) believing WBS would work in the last correctional facility they were in, and 79% preferred monitoring SARS-CoV-2 levels through WBS rather than relying on just individual testing. CONCLUSION Participants supported routine WBS to monitor for SARS-CoV-2. Integrating WBS into existing surveillance strategies at correctional facilities may minimize the impact of future COVID-19 outbreaks while conserving already constrained resources. To enhance the perception and reality that correctional systems are maximizing mitigation, future measures might include focusing on closer adherence to CDC recommendations and clarity about disease pathogenesis with residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey R Riback
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Peter Dickson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Keyanna Ralph
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lindsay B Saber
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rachel Devine
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lindsay A Pett
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alyssa J Clausen
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jacob A Pluznik
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chava J Bowden
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer C Sarrett
- Center for the Study of Human Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Anne C Spaulding
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew J Akiyama
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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Piñeros-Báez VH. [Public health responses for the management of COVID-19 in detention centers. Literature review]. Rev Salud Publica (Bogota) 2023; 22:238-245. [PMID: 36753115 DOI: 10.15446/rsap.v22n2.88704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify in the literature the recommendations for the prevention and control of COVID-19 in prisons and other preventive detention centers, in order to characterize the response lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS 88 publications were identified in databases and digital repositories using key terms. After applying the PRISMA methodology, 18 publications were selected to carry out the qualitative analysis. The chosen publications refer to recommendations from academics, researchers and experts. 6 publications issued by the Governments of Canada, Belgium, France and United States of America were analyzed to make clear the government perspectives. Publications related to underage and psychiatric patients were not considered. RESULTS Although there isn't enough literature, it was possible to characterize the available recommendations, grouping them into 6 lines of action. Within these lines, the establishment of physical, administrative, legal, hygienic and health measures is considered essential. In addition, it is necessary to ensure the epidemiological management and adaptation of health services based on the burden of disease and susceptibility of the persons under arrest. CONCLUSIONS The response to COVID-19 in detention centers is complex and challenging. Therefore, the conventional steps like hygienic, sanitary, medical and epidemiological care aren't enough. In fact, the adjustment of criminal and penitentiary policies and the transformation of the justice system are considered essential to reduce and control the residential density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor H Piñeros-Báez
- VP: Ing. Industrial. M. Sc. Salud Pública. Ph. D. Salud Pública(C). Doctorado Interfacultades en Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Bogotá, Colombia.
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Shabangu SB, Koen V. An exploration of at-risk youths' resilience within the context of a correctional centre in Eswatini. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:77-93. [PMID: 35191350 PMCID: PMC9909032 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221079951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Literature highlights that youth in correctional centres face multiple risk factors which can be buffered by resilience. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of at-risk youth in a juvenile correctional centre in Eswatini regarding their resilience. The participants were purposively sampled and engaged in individual (n = 41) and group (n = 25) data collection. Following thematic analysis, the findings revealed four main themes: Understanding of resilience, protective factors to resilience, risk factors to resilience and youth's recommendations for resilience. This study provides insight into resilience of youth from youth's perspective that may be useful in rehabilitation or programme development.
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Trombetta CM, Marchi S, Leonardi M, Stufano A, Lorusso E, Montomoli E, Decaro N, Buonvino N, Lovreglio P. Evaluation of antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 variants after 2 doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in a correctional facility. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2153537. [PMID: 36503363 PMCID: PMC9766467 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2153537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has posed a challenge for correctional facilities worldwide. People in such settings are more vulnerable to severe forms of infection and it is impossible to completely isolate inmates from the outside world. This study aimed to assess the antibody-mediated immune response in terms of neutralizing antibodies against Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Omicron (sub-lineage BA.1) variants of concern after two doses of mRNA vaccine in correctional officers and inmates from an Italian correctional facility. Most of the correctional officers (56.5%) and inmates (52.3% and 63.6%) retained their neutralizing activity toward the Alpha and Gamma variants, respectively. By contrast, the most striking reduction in comparison with the ancestral virus was found in the antibody response toward the Beta and Omicron variants, in both correctional officers (91.2% and 93.9%) and inmates (85.1% and 92.8%). In addition, subjects who had undergone primary vaccination and had previously been naturally infected had higher neutralizing antibody titers toward the 4 variants than negative subjects. Overall, our findings indicate that primary mRNA vaccination is able to induce neutralizing antibodies toward the ancestral virus, while titers toward variants may vary, depending on the mutations harboring by the variants. Although the correctional setting is often considered distinct or isolated from the wider society and sanitary system, the health of correctional workers and prisoners is inexorably linked to the public health of the country as a whole and it is of paramount importance to monitor the antibody response in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Maria Trombetta
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy,CONTACT Claudia Maria Trombetta Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena53100, Italy
| | - Serena Marchi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Angela Stufano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lorusso
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Emanuele Montomoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy,VisMederi Research srl, Siena, Italy,VisMederi srl, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Buonvino
- U.O.C. Penitentiary Medicine - Department of Territorial Care, Bari Local Health Authority, Bari, Italy
| | - Piero Lovreglio
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Testing for COVID-19 during an outbreak within a large UK prison: an evaluation of mass testing to inform outbreak control. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 125:138-144. [PMID: 36265822 PMCID: PMC9575576 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.10.018] [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: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper was to describe the results of mass asymptomatic testing for COVID-19 in a male prison in England following the declaration of an outbreak. It provides novel data on the implementation of a mass testing regime within a prison during the pandemic. METHODS The paper is an observational evaluation of the mass testing conducted for 6 months following the declaration of a COVID-19 outbreak within a prison. It investigated the incidence of positive cases in both staff and residents using polymerase chain reaction testing. RESULTS Data from October 2020 until March 2021 was included. A total of 2170 tests were performed by 851 residents and 182 staff members; uptake was 48.3% for people living in prison and 30.4% for staff. Overall test positivity was 11.6% (14.3% for residents, 3.0% for staff), with around one-quarter of these reporting symptoms. The prison wing handling new admissions reported the second-lowest positivity rate (9.4%) of the eight wings. CONCLUSION Mass testing for COVID-19 over a short space of time can lead to rapid identification of additional cases, particularly asymptomatic cases. Testing that relies on residents and staff reporting symptoms will underestimate the true extent of transmission and will likely lead to a prolonged outbreak.
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Dastoorpoor M, Khodadadi N, Borsi SH, Jamshidi F, Farsani AB, Noorzadeh M. Epidemiological, clinical and imaging characteristics of female prisoners with definite COVID-19 in a prison in the southwest, Iran, 2020. Int J Prison Health 2022; 18:407-416. [PMID: 38899620 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-03-2021-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prisoners are at greater risk of infectious diseases compared to the general population. While imprisoned, it is often difficult to observe Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) prevention strategies such as social distancing. To the authors' knowledge, no study has been conducted worldwide to examine the condition of female prisoners with COVID-19. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the epidemiological, clinical and imaging characteristics of prisoners with COVID-19 in Ahvaz Women's Prison (southwest, Iran). DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The data for this descriptive cross-sectional study was collected using a checklist including epidemiological information, clinical symptoms, X-ray and computed tomography scan findings of the chest, underlying diseases and the final status of all female prisoners whose COVID-19 test was positive. FINDINGS This study included 139 female prisoners with COVID-19 with a mean age of 37.19 ± 12.67 years. The most common underlying diseases were hypertension (14.4%), obesity (10.8%) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (9.4%). The most common symptoms at the onset of the disease were myalgia (59.0%), cough (41.0%) and dyspnea (37.4%). The most common radiological symptoms were ground-glass opacity (12.9%) and atelectasis (7.2%). In terms of extension of involvement, both lungs were involved in 8.6% of patients. In terms of zonal involvement, the lower lobes were more involved (8.6%). In terms of involvement position, the most common was sub-pleural (10.1%). None of the patients died. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Because the incidence, morbidity and mortality rate of COVID-19 in the prison population are likely to differ from those of the public. This study sought to investigate the situation of prisoners with COVID-19 in Ahvaz Prison, Khuzestan Province. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first worldwide study in this regard in women's prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Dastoorpoor
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Narges Khodadadi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Seyed Hamid Borsi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Jamshidi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Alireza Babaei Farsani
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Noorzadeh
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Gétaz L, Wolff H, Gonçalves L, Togni G, Stringhini S, Chacowry Pala K, Iten A, Guessous I, Kaiser L, Chappuis F, Baggio S. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence study after the first wave among persons living and working in an overcrowded Swiss prison. Int J Prison Health 2022; 19:392-399. [PMID: 36269138 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-01-2022-0002] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prisons can be epicentres of infectious diseases. However, empirical evidence on the impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic in prison is still scarce. This study aims to estimate the seroprevalence rates of anti-SARS-CoV-2 in the largest and most crowded Swiss prison and compare them with the seroprevalence rate in the general population. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH A cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2020, one month after the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 in Switzerland. Groups included: people living in detention (PLDs) detained before the beginning of the pandemic (n = 116), PLDs incarcerated after the beginning of the pandemic (n = 61), prison staff and prison healthcare workers (n = 227) and a sample from the general population in the same time period (n = 3,404). The authors assessed anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. FINDINGS PLDs who were incarcerated before the beginning of the pandemic had a significantly lower seroprevalence rate [0.9%, confidence interval (CI)95%: 0.1%-5.9%] compared to the general population (6.3%, CI 95%: 5.6-7.3%) (p = 0.041). The differences between PLDs who were incarcerated before and other groups were marginally significant (PLDs incarcerated after the beginning of the pandemic: 6.6%, CI 95%: 2.5%-16.6%, p = 0.063; prison staff CI 95%: 4.8%, 2.7%-8.6%, p = 0.093). The seroprevalence of prison staff was only slightly and non-significantly lower than that of the general population. ORIGINALITY/VALUE During the first wave, despite overcrowding and interaction with the community, the prison was not a hotspot of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Preventive measures probably helped avoiding clusters of infection. The authors suggest that preventive measures that impact social welfare could be relaxed when overall circulation in the community is low to prevent the negative impact of isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Gétaz
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland and Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Thônex, Switzerland
| | - Hans Wolff
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, Thônex, Switzerland
| | - Leonel Gonçalves
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, Thônex, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Togni
- Microbiology Lab, Unilabs Coppet Core Lab Ouest, Coppet, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Stringhini
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland and University Center for General Medicine and Public Health, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Anne Iten
- Infection Control Program, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Idris Guessous
- Division of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland and Department of Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Kaiser
- Geneva Center for Emerging Viral. Diseases and Laboratory of Virology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Division of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland and Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Francois Chappuis
- Division and Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland and Department of Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Baggio
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals, Thônex, Switzerland and Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Zeveleva O, Nazif-Munoz JI. COVID-19 and European carcerality: Do national prison policies converge when faced with a pandemic? PUNISHMENT & SOCIETY 2022; 24:642-666. [PMID: 36199276 PMCID: PMC9464929 DOI: 10.1177/14624745211002011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The article analyses an original dataset on policies adopted in 47 European
countries between December 2019 and June 2020 to prevent coronavirus from
spreading to prisons, applying event-history analysis. We answer two questions:
1) Do European countries adopt similar policies when tackling the COVID-19
pandemic in prisons? 2) What factors are associated with prison policy
convergence or divergence? We analyze two policies we identified as common
responses across prisons around the world: limitations on visitation rights for
prisoners, and early releases of prisoners. We found that all states in our
sample implemented bans on visits, showing policy convergence. Fewer countries
(16) opted for early releases. Compared to the banning of visitation, early
releases took longer to enact. We found that countries with prison overcrowding
problems were quicker to release or pardon prisoners. When prisons were not
overcrowded, countries with higher proportions of local nationals in their
prisons were much faster to limit visits relative to prisons in which the
foreign population was high. This research broadens our comparative
understanding of European carcerality by moving the comparative line further
East, taking into account multi-level governance of penality, and analyzing
variables that emphasize the ‘society’ element of the ‘punishment and society’
nexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Zeveleva
- University of Helsinki, Finland
- Université de Sherbrooke, Canada; Harvard University, USA
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Ismail N, Tavoschi L, Moazen B, Roselló A, Plugge E. COVID-19 vaccine for people who live and work in prisons worldwide: A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267070. [PMID: 36084037 PMCID: PMC9462803 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Overcrowding, poor conditions, and high population turnover make prisons highly susceptible to COVID-19. Vaccination is key to controlling COVID-19, yet there is disagreement regarding whether people who live and work in prisons should be prioritised in national vaccination programmes. To help resolve this, we critically examine the extent, nature, and quality of extant literature regarding prioritisation of COVID-19 vaccinations for people who live and work in prisons. Using a scoping review as our methodological framework, we conducted a systematic literature search of 17 databases. From 2,307 potentially eligible articles, we removed duplicates and screened titles and abstracts to retain 45 articles for review and quality appraisal. Findings indicated that while most countries recognise that prisons are at risk of high levels of COVID-19 transmission, only a minority have explicitly prioritised people who live and work in prisons for COVID-19 vaccination. Even among those that have, prioritisation criteria vary considerably. This is set against a backdrop of political barriers, such as politicians questioning the moral deservingness of people in prison; policy barriers, such as the absence of a unified international framework of how vaccine prioritisation should proceed in prisons; logistical barriers regarding vaccine administration in prisons; and behavioural barriers including vaccine hesitancy. We outline five strategies to prioritise people who live and work in prisons in COVID-19 vaccination plans: (1) improving data collection on COVID-19 vaccination, (2) reducing the number of people imprisoned, (3) tackling vaccine populism through advocacy, (4) challenging arbitrary prioritisation processes via legal processes, and (5) conducting more empirical research on COVID-19 vaccination planning, delivery, and acceptability. Implementing these strategies would help to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on the prison population, prevent community transmission, improve vaccine uptake in prisons beyond the current pandemic, foster political accountability, and inform future decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrul Ismail
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Babak Moazen
- Department of Health and Social Work, Institute of Addiction Research (ISFF), Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Emma Plugge
- UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Martín V. COVID-19 and Prisons in Spain: is there any good news? REVISTA ESPANOLA DE SANIDAD PENITENCIARIA 2022; 24:77-78. [PMID: 36533784 PMCID: PMC9768560 DOI: 10.18176/resp.00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Martín
- Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health. University of Leon. Leon, SpainUniversidad de LeónUniversity of LeonLeonSpain
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Zielinski MJ, Cowell M, Bull CE, Veluvolu M, Behne MF, Nowotny K, Brinkley-Rubinstein L. Policy and public communication methods among U.S. state prisons during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2022; 10:27. [PMID: 36048251 PMCID: PMC9435413 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-022-00187-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, our research team monitored and documented policy changes in United States (U.S.) prison systems. Data sources included prison websites and official prison social media accounts. Over 2500 data sources relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic in U.S. prisons were located and summarized in to five different categories: 1) prevention, 2) case identification and intervention, 3) movement, 4) social communication and connection, and 5) programming, recreation, and privileges. RESULTS All state prison systems reportedly enacted multiple policies intended to limit the spread of COVID-19 during the pandemic. Document analysis revealed that the most commonly released policies were restrictions on social contacts and privileges, basic preventive measures (e.g., distribution of masks), and basic case identification measures (e.g., verbal screening and temperature checks). Utilization of social media for policy communication varied significantly across states, though relevant data was more often released on Facebook than Twitter. CONCLUSIONS Together, our work provides foundational knowledge on the wide breadth of policies that were reportedly enacted in the first year of the pandemic that may be used as a base for quantitative work on policy effectiveness and examinations of implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Zielinski
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA.
| | - Mariah Cowell
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chelsey E Bull
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Manasa Veluvolu
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - M Forrest Behne
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn Nowotny
- Department of Sociology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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Andersen MS, Bento AI, Basu A, Marsicano CR, Simon KI. College openings in the United States increase mobility and COVID-19 incidence. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272820. [PMID: 36037207 PMCID: PMC9423614 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
School and college reopening-closure policies are considered one of the most promising non-pharmaceutical interventions for mitigating infectious diseases. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of these policies is still debated, largely due to the lack of empirical evidence on behavior during implementation. We examined U.S. college reopenings’ association with changes in human mobility within campuses and in COVID-19 incidence in the counties of the campuses over a twenty-week period around college reopenings in the Fall of 2020. We used an integrative framework, with a difference-in-differences design comparing areas with a college campus, before and after reopening, to areas without a campus and a Bayesian approach to estimate the daily reproductive number (Rt). We found that college reopenings were associated with increased campus mobility, and increased COVID-19 incidence by 4.9 cases per 100,000 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.9–6.9), or a 37% increase relative to the pre-period mean. This reflected our estimate of increased transmission locally after reopening. A greater increase in county COVID-19 incidence resulted from campuses that drew students from counties with high COVID-19 incidence in the weeks before reopening (χ2(2) = 8.9, p = 0.012) and those with a greater share of college students, relative to population (χ2(2) = 98.83, p < 0.001). Even by Fall of 2022, large shares of populations remained unvaccinated, increasing the relevance of understanding non-pharmaceutical decisions over an extended period of a pandemic. Our study sheds light on movement and social mixing patterns during the closure-reopening of colleges during a public health threat, and offers strategic instruments for benefit-cost analyses of school reopening/closure policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin S. Andersen
- Department of Economics, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MSA); (AIB)
| | - Ana I. Bento
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MSA); (AIB)
| | - Anirban Basu
- The Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, Departments of Pharmacy, Health Services, and Economics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Christopher R. Marsicano
- The College Crisis Initiative at Davidson College, Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina, United States of America
- Educational Studies Department, Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kosali I. Simon
- O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
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Parodi C, Ottaviano E, Cocco N, Ancona S, Bianchi S, Massa V, Bartolotti R, Pezzoni B, Giuliani R, Borghi E, Ranieri R. Feasibility and acceptability of saliva-based testing for the screening of SARS-CoV-2 infection in prison. Front Public Health 2022; 10:808030. [PMID: 36033789 PMCID: PMC9410712 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.808030] [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: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Saliva molecular tests have shown a similar sensitivity and specificity compared to nasopharyngeal test for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic affected Lombardy prisons, generating the need for extensive contact tracing activities and for detecting asymptomatic carriers. The availability of a less invasive test in a setting that hosts a high-risk and often hard-to-reach population, suggests its possible use in prisons. Methods The study was carried out on a population of new incomers in Milan San Vittore pre-trial prison. All the new incomers were submitted to quarantine and to saliva test and nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) for SARS-CoV-2 detection at the entry and at the end of quarantine before their admission in community (Protocol 1-February 2nd to March 5th, 2021). Starting from March 8th to July 30th, 2021, the screening protocol was adjusted to avoid biases in sample collection (Protocol II), and saliva testing was performed at entrance. Results 12/1,120 enrolled subjects were excluded from the study. Among the 1,080 processed samples, 1 tested positive, 5 weakly positive, 1,069 negative, 3 were invalid, and 2 samples tested positive for the viral gene N2 only, with Ct value above 38. During Protocol I, 6/156 coupled saliva/NPS tests were discordant due to food ingestion prior saliva collection, prompting us to establishing Protocol II. Conclusions Saliva molecular testing is feasible in prison setting, being less invasive and easier to use, and reliable. Acceptability was very high even in a complex context as that of newly incarcerated persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Parodi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Cocco
- Infectious Diseases Service, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy,*Correspondence: Nicola Cocco
| | - Silvia Ancona
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Bianchi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Bartolotti
- San Vittore Health Unit, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Pezzoni
- San Vittore Health Unit, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Ruggero Giuliani
- Infectious Diseases Service, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy,San Vittore Health Unit, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Borghi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Ranieri
- Infectious Diseases Service, Penitentiary Health System, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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Ramjee D, Smith LH, Doanvo A, Charpignon ML, McNulty-Nebel A, Lett E, Desai AN, Majumder MS. Evaluating criminal justice reform during COVID-19: The need for a novel sentiment analysis package. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2022; 1:e0000063. [PMID: 36812565 PMCID: PMC9931240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The health and safety of incarcerated persons and correctional personnel have been prominent in the U.S. news media discourse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Examining changing attitudes toward the health of the incarcerated population is imperative to better assess the extent to which the general public favors criminal justice reform. However, existing natural language processing lexicons that underlie current sentiment analysis (SA) algorithms may not perform adequately on news articles related to criminal justice due to contextual complexities. News discourse during the pandemic has highlighted the need for a novel SA lexicon and algorithm (i.e., an SA package) tailored for examining public health policy in the context of the criminal justice system. We analyzed the performance of existing SA packages on a corpus of news articles at the intersection of COVID-19 and criminal justice collected from state-level outlets between January and May 2020. Our results demonstrated that sentence sentiment scores provided by three popular SA packages can differ considerably from manually-curated ratings. This dissimilarity was especially pronounced when the text was more polarized, whether negatively or positively. A randomly selected set of 1,000 manually scored sentences, and the corresponding binary document term matrices, were used to train two new sentiment prediction algorithms (i.e., linear regression and random forest regression) to verify the performance of the manually-curated ratings. By better accounting for the unique context in which incarceration-related terminologies are used in news media, both of our proposed models outperformed all existing SA packages considered for comparison. Our findings suggest that there is a need to develop a novel lexicon, and potentially an accompanying algorithm, for analysis of text related to public health within the criminal justice system, as well as criminal justice more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Ramjee
- Department of Justice, Law and Criminology, School of Public Affairs, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- * E-mail: (DR); , (AND)
| | - Louisa H. Smith
- Roux Institute, Northeastern University, Portland, Maine, United States of America
| | - Anhvinh Doanvo
- COVID-19 Dispersed Volunteer Research Network, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Marie-Laure Charpignon
- Institute for Data, Systems, and Society, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Alyssa McNulty-Nebel
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Elle Lett
- Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Angel N. Desai
- Division of Infectious Disease, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (DR); , (AND)
| | - Maimuna S. Majumder
- Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Vaccination Coverage among Fragile Populations in a Local Health Area of Northern Italy. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12071009. [PMID: 35888096 PMCID: PMC9316873 DOI: 10.3390/life12071009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Italy was dramatically hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the province of Brescia was one of the epicenters of the outbreak. Furthermore, Brescia has one of the highest incidences of people living with HIV (PLWH) and a substantial presence of migrants. We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving all citizens connected to the Brescia Health Protection Agency, assessing the SARS-CoV-2 burden, COVID-19 prevalence, and vaccination coverage. A total of 1,004,210 persons were included, 3817 PLWH and 134,492 foreigners. SARS-CoV-2 infection, hospitalizations and death were more frequent among Italians than foreigners. SARS-CoV-2 infections and deaths were more frequent in HIV-uninfected people than in PLWH. PLWH and foreigners were less likely to have a SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis compared to HIV-negative patients. Migrants were more likely to be hospitalized but had a lower risk of death compared to HIV-negative patients. Regarding vaccination, 89.1% of the population received at least one dose of vaccine, while 70.4% of the Italian citizens and 36.3% of the foreigner subjects received three doses of vaccine. Foreigners showed a lower risk of being diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 but a higher risk of complications. HIV infection was not associated with a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 severe manifestations compared to the general population. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was not different between PLWH and HIV uninfected people, but foreigners were more hesitant.
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Pinn T, Williamson H, Robinson B, Shuman S, Evans M, Pro G, Camplain R. "Everything has changed": detention officer roles and recreation time changes due to COVID-19 policies at a Southwest County Jail. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2022; 10:18. [PMID: 35661271 PMCID: PMC9166172 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-022-00181-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic responses in jails have forced detention officers to adjust how they approach the confinement and care of individuals while they are incarcerated. One aspect of incarceration affected was detention officers' roles. The aims of this research project were to determine how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the general duties of detention officers at a Southwest County Jail. Detention officers were recruited via email to participate in an online questionnaire from October to December 2020. Participants answered Likert scale and open-ended questions regarding how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their job duties. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to identify themes and patterns in the responses. RESULTS Among 24 detention officers, 87% indicated agreement that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed the duties of detention officers at CCDF. The most discussed change was the introduction of a 14-day quarantine process for newly incarcerated individuals. The 14-day quarantine increased the workload of detention officers. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic responses in jail may have unintended negative consequences for the job duties of detention officers. Current and future pandemic response strategies in jails would benefit from taking staff perspectives into consideration as they are directly impacted by the COVID-19 response strategies put into place. Policy implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Pinn
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA.
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 1395 S. Knoles Drive, ARD Building, Suite 140, PO Box 4065, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011-4065, USA.
| | - Heather Williamson
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Bethany Robinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Sara Shuman
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 1395 S. Knoles Drive, ARD Building, Suite 140, PO Box 4065, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011-4065, USA
| | - Maria Evans
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - George Pro
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Ricky Camplain
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 1395 S. Knoles Drive, ARD Building, Suite 140, PO Box 4065, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011-4065, USA
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Diller E, Kouame G, Young DM, Johnson JA. Gathering Health Perspectives of the Justice Involved: A Multisite Needs Assessment Survey. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2022; 28:243-251. [PMID: 35649191 PMCID: PMC9529364 DOI: 10.1089/jchc.20.09.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The well-being of justice-involved individuals must be of high priority to achieve health equity, reduce health disparities, and improve community health. To better understand the health interests and needs of justice-involved individuals, a survey was administered inquiring about health information-seeking behavior and health topics of interest. The survey was administered using secure tablet computers and completed by 1,888 incarcerated participants in 35 jails in 17 states. Salient themes that emerged from this research include the relatively equal use of the internet and health care providers as resources for health information; the extensive interest in learning about multiple health care topics; and demographic variations in health information-seeking behaviors and health topics of interest. Tailoring correctional health education programs to coincide with the interests and needs of the justice-involved population may attract more participants and thus result in better self-care management skills and health outcomes upon reentering communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Diller
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gail Kouame
- Robert B. Greenblatt, MD Library, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - David M Young
- College of Nursing & Extension Service, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA.,Gallatin County Detention Center, Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - J Aaron Johnson
- Institute of Public and Preventive Health, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Oyebode O, Ndulue C, Mulchandani D, Suruliraj B, Adib A, Orji FA, Milios E, Matwin S, Orji R. COVID-19 Pandemic: Identifying Key Issues Using Social Media and Natural Language Processing. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS RESEARCH 2022; 6:174-207. [PMID: 35194569 PMCID: PMC8853170 DOI: 10.1007/s41666-021-00111-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people's lives in many ways. Social media data can reveal public perceptions and experience with respect to the pandemic, and also reveal factors that hamper or support efforts to curb global spread of the disease. In this paper, we analyzed COVID-19-related comments collected from six social media platforms using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. We identified relevant opinionated keyphrases and their respective sentiment polarity (negative or positive) from over 1 million randomly selected comments, and then categorized them into broader themes using thematic analysis. Our results uncover 34 negative themes out of which 17 are economic, socio-political, educational, and political issues. Twenty (20) positive themes were also identified. We discuss the negative issues and suggest interventions to tackle them based on the positive themes and research evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oladapo Oyebode
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Chinenye Ndulue
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Dinesh Mulchandani
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | | | - Ashfaq Adib
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Fidelia Anulika Orji
- Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C9 Canada
| | - Evangelos Milios
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Stan Matwin
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
- Institute of Computer Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rita Orji
- Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
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Winkelman TNA, Dasrath KC, Young JT, Kinner SA. Universal health coverage and incarceration. THE LANCET PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 7:e569-e572. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(22)00113-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Kim H, Hughes E, Cavanagh A, Norris E, Gao A, Bondy SJ, McLeod KE, Kanagalingam T, Kouyoumdjian FG. The health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults who experience imprisonment globally: A mixed methods systematic review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268866. [PMID: 35594288 PMCID: PMC9122186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prison setting and health status of people who experience imprisonment increase the risks of COVID-19 infection and sequelae, and other health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVES To conduct a mixed methods systematic review on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health of people who experience imprisonment. DATA SOURCES We searched Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Social Sciences Abstracts, CINAHL, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts, Sociological Abstracts, Sociology Database, Coronavirus Research Database, ERIC, Proquest Dissertations and Theses, Web of Science, and Scopus in October 2021. We reviewed reference lists for included studies. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Original research conducted in or after December 2019 on health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults in prisons or within three months of release. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS We used the Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research for qualitative studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data for quantitative studies. We qualitized quantitative data and extracted qualitative data, coded data, and collated similar data into categories. RESULTS We identified 62 studies. People in prisons had disproportionately high rates of COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 mortality. During the pandemic, all-cause mortality worsened, access to health care and other services worsened, and there were major impacts on mental wellbeing and on relationships with family and staff. There was limited evidence regarding key primary and secondary prevention strategies. LIMITATIONS Our search was limited to databases. As the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, more evidence will emerge. CONCLUSIONS Prisons and people who experience imprisonment should be prioritized for COVID-19 response and recovery efforts, and an explicit focus on prisons is needed for ongoing public health work including emergency preparedness. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER 239324.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Kim
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Emily Hughes
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alice Cavanagh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Norris
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angela Gao
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan J. Bondy
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine E. McLeod
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tharsan Kanagalingam
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake and Related Determinants in Detained Subjects in Italy. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050673. [PMID: 35632429 PMCID: PMC9146091 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study explored the extent of COVID-19 vaccination coverage and investigated drivers and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake among people in prison. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2021 among 517 detained people in the Campania region of South Italy. Results: In total, 47.1% of participants expressed a high concern about contracting COVID-19 after vaccination, whereas 60.6% and 53.8% of respondents reported a positive attitude towards usefulness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines, respectively. Adherence to the active offer of COVID-19 vaccination involved 89.7% of detained subjects. COVID-19 vaccination uptake was significantly higher in females, and in those who reported influenza vaccination uptake, had received information about COVID-19 vaccination from media and newspapers, did not express need of additional information about COVID-19 vaccine, believed that COVID-19 vaccine is safe, were involved in working activities in the prison, and had a high school or university degree. Conclusions: These findings showed a high self-reported COVID-19 vaccination coverage in detained subjects, supporting the effectiveness of the strategy aimed at giving priority to COVID-19 vaccinations in prisons. Further efforts are needed to contrast the hesitancy of those who refused vaccination to increase their confidence about usefulness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
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Van Hout MC, Bigland C, Mariniello T. A legal-realist assessment of the Zimbabwean correctional system response to COVID-19 during state disaster measures. Int J Prison Health 2022; 19:290-305. [PMID: 35439405 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-10-2021-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The first prison system case in Zimbabwe was notified in July 2020 shortly after State declaration of disaster. A legal-realist assessment was conducted of the Zimbabwean correctional system response to COVID-19 during state disaster measures, with a focus on assessing right to health, infectious disease mitigation and the extent to which minimum state obligations complied with human and health rights standards. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The Zimbabwean correctional system operations during COVID-19 disaster measures are scrutinized using a range of international, African and domestic human rights instruments in relation to the right to health of prisoners. This study focused particularly on standards of care, environmental conditions of detention and right of access to health care. FINDINGS Systemic poor standards of detention are observed, where prisoners experience power outages, water shortages and a lack of access to clean drinking water and water for ablution purposes, a severe lack of safe space and adequate ventilation, poor quality food and malnutrition and a lack of sufficient supply of food, medicines, clothing and bedding. Whilst access to health care of prisoners in Zimbabwe has greatly improved in recent times, the standard of care was severely stretched during COVID-19 due to lack of government resourcing and reliance on non-governmental organisation and faith-based organisations to support demand for personal protective equipment, disinfection products and medicines. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Prison conditions in Zimbabwe are conducive to chronic ill health and the spread of many transmissible diseases, not limited to COVID-19. The developed legal-realist account considers whether Zimbabwe had a culture of respect for the rule of law pertinent to human and health rights of those detained during COVID-19 disaster measures, and whether minimum standards of care were upheld.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charlotte Bigland
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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Coleman PC, Pailing A, Roy A, O'Moore É, Chandan JS, Lumby V, Newton P, Taylor A, Robinson E, Swindells J, Dowle S, Gajraj R. Implementation of novel and conventional outbreak control measures in managing COVID-19 outbreaks in a large UK prison. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:677. [PMID: 35392849 PMCID: PMC8988532 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12991-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Outbreak control measures during COVID-19 outbreaks in a large UK prison consisted of standard (e.g., self-isolation) and novel measures, including establishment of: (i) reverse cohorting units for accommodating new prison admissions; (ii) protective isolation unit for isolating symptomatic prisoners, and (iii) a shielding unit to protect medically vulnerable prisoners. Methods Single-centre prospective longitudinal study (outbreak control study), implementing novel and traditional outbreak control measures to prevent a SARS-COV-2 outbreak. The prison held 977 prisoners and employed 910 staff at that start of the outbreak. Results 120 probable and 25 confirmed cases among prisoners and staff were recorded between March and June 2020 during the first outbreak. Over 50% of initial cases among prisoners were on the two wings associated with the index case. During the second outbreak, 182 confirmed cases were recorded after probable reintroduction from a staff member. Widespread testing identified 145 asymptomatic prisoners, 16.9% of the total prisoner cases. The cohorting units prevented re-infection from new prison admissions and the shielding unit had no COVID-19 infections linked to either outbreak. Conclusions Identifying and isolating infected prisoners, cohorting new admissions and shielding vulnerable individuals helped prevent uncontrollable spread of SARS-COV-2. These novel and cost-effective approaches can be implemented in correctional facilities globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Coleman
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7HL, UK.,Health Protection, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Adam Pailing
- Health Protection, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anjana Roy
- National Health and Justice, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Éamonn O'Moore
- National Health and Justice, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joht Singh Chandan
- Health Protection, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK. .,Birmingham Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | | | - Paul Newton
- Her Majesty's Prison Service, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anna Taylor
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Esther Robinson
- National Infection Service, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathon Swindells
- Black Country Pathology Services Department of Medical Microbiology, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah Dowle
- Health Protection, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
| | - Roger Gajraj
- Health Protection, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK
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Norman M, Ricciardelli R. "It's Pure Chaos Every Day": COVID-19 and the work of Canadian federal institutional parole officers. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PROBATION 2022; 14:1-20. [PMID: 37520132 PMCID: PMC8984598 DOI: 10.1177/20662203211056487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
As the Canadian federal correctional system grappled with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, institutional parole officers, who play a central role in prisoners' case management team, remained essential service providers. Working in uncertain circumstances, these correctional workers navigated new and rapidly changing protocols and risks, while attempting to continue to provide support to those on their caseloads. Based on semi-structured interviews with 96 institutional parole officers, conducted after Canada's "first wave" of COVID-19 infections, we analyze three ways in which their work was impacted by the pandemic: shifting workloads, routines, and responsibilities; increased workloads due to decarceration (i.e., efforts to reduce the number of incarcerated individuals); and the navigation of new forms of risk and uncertainty. This study advances the understanding of stress and risk in probation and parole work and presents recommendations to ameliorate the occupational stresses experienced by correctional workers during and beyond COVID-19.
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Vicente-Alcalde N, Ruescas-Escolano E, Franco-Paredes C, Tuells J. Control of a COVID-19 Outbreak in a Spanish Prison: Lessons Learned in Outbreak Control. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:806438. [PMID: 35391892 PMCID: PMC8981719 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.806438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of highly transmissible respiratory infections in carceral settings occurs due to their conglomerate nature. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in large outbreaks in jails and prisons in many settings. Herein, we describe an outbreak of SARS-CoV2 infection in a prison in Alicante, Spain. Prior to January 2021, testing for coronavirus infection was not widely available in jails and prisons nationwide. Offering of testing services in Spanish carceral facilities, coincided with the deployment of COVID-19 vaccination in the larger community. However, COVID-19 vaccine role out of incarcerated individuals occurred later during the deployment plan. With the identification of the initial cases of this outbreak, two units of the facility were assigned for population management: one for inmates with confirmed infection by positive PCR detection of SARS-COV-2 infection in nasopharyngeal swabs. Inmates with confirmed exposure and thus considered close contacts were place in a second isolation unit. Functional quarantine was employed in some instances. A reactive testing strategy was instituted at baseline, and at 7 and 14 days of nasopharyngeal specimens by PCR. A total of 1,097 nasopharyngeal specimens were obtained for PCR testing during the outbreak, which lasted a total of 80 days between the index case the end of medical isolation of the last case. A total of 103 COVID-19 cases were identified during the outbreak. Of these, three inmates developed severe manifestations requiring hospitalization, and one died. Were identified, among which there were three hospitalized and one deceased. Among cases and confirmed contacts, we conducted close clinical monitoring, symptom screening, and daily temperature checks. The implementation of these interventions along with early medical isolation of cases, quarantining of contacts, and interval testing to detect presymptomatic or asymptomatic cases were instrumental in containing this outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Vicente-Alcalde
- Penitentiary Center Alicante II, General Secretariat of Penitentiary Institutions, Villena, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
- Hospital Infantil de Mexico, Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Tuells
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- *Correspondence: José Tuells
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Van Hout MC, Mhango V, Kaima R, Bigland C, Mariniello T. A legal-realist assessment of human rights, right to health and standards of healthcare in the Malawian prison system during COVID-19 state disaster measures. Int J Prison Health 2022; 19:273-289. [PMID: 35294830 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-10-2021-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The first case of COVID-19 in the Malawi prison system was reported in July 2020. Human rights organisations raised concerns about the possibility of significant COVID-19 outbreaks and deaths in the prison system, because of the poor infrastructure, lack of healthcare and adequate COVID-19 mitigation measures, existing co-morbidities (tuberculosis, HIV and hepatitis C), malnutrition and poor health of many prisoners. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH The authors conducted a legal-realist assessment of the Malawian prison system response to COVID-19 during state disaster measures, with a specific focus on the right to health and standards of healthcare as mandated in international, African and domestic law. FINDINGS The Malawi prison system was relatively successful in preventing serious COVID-19 outbreaks in its prisons, despite the lack of resources and the ad hoc reactive approach adopted. Whilst the Malawi national COVID plan was aligned to international and regional protocols, the combination of infrastructural deficits (clinical staff and medical provisions) and poor conditions of detention (congestion, lack of ventilation, hygiene and sanitation) were conducive to poor health and the spread of communicable disease. The state of disaster declared by the Malawi Government and visitation restrictions at prisons worsened prison conditions for those working and living there. ORIGINALITY/VALUE In sub-Saharan Africa, there is limited capacity of prisons to adequately respond to COVID-19. This is the first legal-realist assessment of the Malawian prison system approach to tackling COVID-19, and it contributes to a growing evidence of human rights-based investigations into COVID-19 responses in African prisons (Ethiopia, South Africa and Zimbabwe).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victor Mhango
- Centre for Human Rights Education Advice Assistance (CHREAA), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Ruth Kaima
- Centre for Human Rights Education Advice Assistance (CHREAA), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Charlotte Bigland
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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