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Wilpstra CD, Morrell S, Mirza NA, Ralph JL. Consequences of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Healthcare Providers During the First 10 Months of Vaccine Availability: Scoping Review. Can J Nurs Res 2024; 56:204-224. [PMID: 38693882 PMCID: PMC11308270 DOI: 10.1177/08445621241251711] [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: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers (HCPs)-including nurses-have played important roles in the vaccination effort. It is expected that COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among HCPs has numerous consequences; however, the scope of these consequences and their impacts on providers, patients, and the broader healthcare system remained unclear. PURPOSE To identify existing and emerging evidence to understand the state of knowledge of the consequences of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among HCPs. METHODS A scoping review was completed based upon the JBI scoping review methodology. The databases searched included OVID Medline, EBSCOhost CINAHL, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Source, ProQuest APA PsycInfo, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. The final literature search was completed on June 2, 2022. Studies were screened and retrieved based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria using Covidence reference management software. Data extraction followed criteria recommended in the JBI scoping review framework with additional relevant variables identified by the authors. RESULTS A total of 33 sources were included in the review. Consequences of HCP COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were grouped under three themes and seven subthemes. Consequences affecting HCPs included health-related, psychosocial, and employment-related consequences. Consequences affecting patients pertained to COVID-19 vaccination communication and COVID-19 vaccination practices of HCPs. Consequences to the healthcare system involved consequences to coworkers and employment/attendance/staffing-related consequences. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare provider COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was found to have numerous consequences. By understanding the scope and extent of these consequences, healthcare leaders, researchers, and HCPs can work together to protect providers, patients, and healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sherry Morrell
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
| | | | - Jody L. Ralph
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
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Murğ İ, Leventoğlu E, Bideci A, Boduroğlu K, Hasanoğlu E, Bakkaloğlu SA. Professional, educational and psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatricians. Postgrad Med 2024:1-7. [PMID: 39177242 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2024.2396798] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES COVID-19 infection is not limited to medical aspects, but may have significant negative impacts on education, tourism, the economy as well as sociocultural, ethical, and legal aspects. We aimed to assess the multidimensional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatricians by examining their COVID-19 infection, domestic life and quarantine, as well as work patterns, educational activities, and psychosocial impact. METHODS An online survey consisted of seven sections and 68 questions was prepared through 'Google Forms.' The survey was sent via e-mail to physicians who are members of the National Pediatric Association of Turkey. RESULTS The pandemic has affected pediatricians working in our country in a multifaceted aspect. They experienced significant anxiety/depression/stress, 8% of them felt it at a pathological level and were receiving treatment, and women and young pediatricians were more vulnerable to the pandemic. The more adequately informed about the disease, the more prepared for COVID-19 and lower levels of psychological distress, which emphasizes the importance of education and institutional continuing support. Our study showed that academic education was seriously disrupted and the satisfaction rate with virtual education was low. CONCLUSION Although COVID-19 has less impact today, it has taught us that it is necessary to be ready for new pandemics in the future. The required measures should be taken urgently and effectively healthcare professionals should follow a rational and applicable disaster plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- İdris Murğ
- Department of Pediatrics, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emre Leventoğlu
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aysun Bideci
- Department of Pediatrics, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Koray Boduroğlu
- Department of Pediatrics, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Enver Hasanoğlu
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Grisel B, Kaur K, Swain S, Gorenshtein L, Chime C, O'Callaghan E, Vasireddy A, Moore L, Shin C, Won M, Ebangwese S, Tripoli T, Lumpkin S, Ginsberg Z, Cantrell S, Freeman J, Agarwal S, Haines K. The Ethical Obligation to Treat Infectious Patients: A Systematic Review of Reasons. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 79:339-347. [PMID: 39149937 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciae162] [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: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
During pandemics, healthcare providers struggle with balancing obligations to self, family, and patients. While HIV/AIDS seemed to settle this issue, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rekindled debates regarding treatment refusal. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL Complete, and Web of Science using terms including obligation, refusal, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and pandemics. After duplicate removal and dual, independent screening, we analyzed 156 articles for quality, ethical position, reasons, and concepts. Diseases in our sample included HIV/AIDS (72.2%), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) (10.2%), COVID-19 (10.2%), Ebola (7.0%), and influenza (7.0%). Most articles (81.9%, n = 128) indicated an obligation to treat. COVID-19 had the highest number of papers indicating ethical acceptability of refusal (60%, P < .001), while HIV had the least (13.3%, P = .026). Several reason domains were significantly different during COVID-19, including unreasonable risks to self/family (26.7%, P < .001) and labor rights/workers' protection (40%, P < .001). A surge in ethics literature during COVID-19 has advocated for permissibility of treatment refusal. Balancing healthcare provision with workforce protection is crucial in effectively responding to a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braylee Grisel
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kavneet Kaur
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sonal Swain
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Laura Gorenshtein
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chinecherem Chime
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ellen O'Callaghan
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Avani Vasireddy
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Moore
- Department of Surgery, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Christina Shin
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michelle Won
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Santita Ebangwese
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Todd Tripoli
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stephanie Lumpkin
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Zachary Ginsberg
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah Cantrell
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer Freeman
- Department of Surgery, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Suresh Agarwal
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Krista Haines
- Division of Trauma, Acute, and Critical Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Song XD, Tan H, Gao HX, Xie YY, Zhang X, Zhang CM, Wang YL, Dai EH. Prevalence of infection and reinfection among healthcare workers in a hospital of Northern China between BA.5/BF. 7 and XBB.1.5 wave. Am J Infect Control 2024:S0196-6553(24)00643-6. [PMID: 39151826 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.08.009] [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: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a crucial role as frontline responders during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of the first SARS-CoV-2 infection and reinfection associated with the emergence of Omicron variant in HCWs. METHODS We enrolled 760 HCWs who received 2-4 vaccination doses of COVID-19 and followed by BA.5/BF.7 and/or XBB.1.5 breakthrough infections between December 2022 and July 2023. Serum sample from each individual were collected approximately 1,3 and 6 months after last exposure. IgM, IgG and Total antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Meanwhile, we created an Enterprise WeChat link for HCWs to self-report SARS-CoV-2 infections, symptoms and post COVID-19 conditions. RESULTS Our study revealed that the reinfection rate among HCWs reached 26.1%. The main symptoms were fever (91.2% vs. 60.1%), cough (78.8% vs. 58.0%), and sore throat (75.4% vs. 59.6%) during infection and reinfection in Omicron BA.5/BF.7 and XBB.1.5 wave, and the interval for reinfection ranged from 91 to 210 days (median 152 days). Fatigue (23.6%), memory loss (18.8%) and coughing (18.6%) were the most prevalent long COVID symptoms in HCWs, with a higher prevalence among female HCWs. CONCLUSIONS HCWs reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 causes milder symptoms, but high reinfection rate and short intervals. Enhancing prevention strategies, protection and training is crucial to mitigating HCW infection risk and improving health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Dong Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Handan Central Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Handan, Hebei, 056001, China.
| | - Hao Tan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China
| | - Hui-Xia Gao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China
| | - Yan-Yan Xie
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China
| | - Chen-Min Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China
| | - Yu-Ling Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China.
| | - Er-Hei Dai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Immune Mechanism of Major Infectious Diseases and New Technology of Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China.
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Barnekow T, Peters C, Dulon M, Nienhaus A. Impact of pre-existing conditions on the severity of post-COVID syndrome among workers in healthcare and social services in Germany. J Occup Med Toxicol 2024; 19:32. [PMID: 39090746 PMCID: PMC11293209 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-024-00431-8] [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: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The underlying mechanisms of post-COVID syndrome (PCS) are still not fully understood. While pre-existing conditions have been described as a risk factor for severe PCS in the general population, data specific to different occupational groups in this context is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the impact of pre-existing conditions on severe post-COVID syndrome among the occupational group of healthcare and social services employees. METHODS Baseline data from a longitudinal, observational study were analysed. In February 2021, health workers who had a COVID-19 infection in 2020 were surveyed about sequelae of the infection. Factors influencing severe PCS with at least one persistent symptom categorised as severe were subjected to a multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Of a total of 2,053 participants, 21.5% had severe PCS. Underlying respiratory (OR 1.94; CI 1.44-2.61), cardiovascular (OR 1.35; CI 1.04-1.77) and urogenital (OR 1.79; CI 1.10-2.91) disease were risk factors for severe PCS overall. Respiratory and mental illnesses had a statistically significant impact on persistent fatigue/exhaustion, concentration/memory difficulties and shortness of breath categorised as severe. Urogenital disease was associated with severe fatigue/exhaustion. Other significant risk factors for severe PCS were female sex, smoking, physical exercise and hospitalisation due to COVID-19 infection. CONCLUSION Workers in healthcare and social services with pre-existing conditions may face a higher risk of developing severe PCS. Additional analyses performed as part of the longitudinal study will show if and how this result changes over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiana Barnekow
- Competence Centre for Epidemiology and Health Services Research for Healthcare Professionals (CVcare), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Claudia Peters
- Competence Centre for Epidemiology and Health Services Research for Healthcare Professionals (CVcare), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Madeleine Dulon
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hazardous Substances and Public Health, Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Healthcare and Welfare Services, 22089, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Albert Nienhaus
- Competence Centre for Epidemiology and Health Services Research for Healthcare Professionals (CVcare), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), 20246, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hazardous Substances and Public Health, Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Healthcare and Welfare Services, 22089, Hamburg, Germany
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6
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de Vos AJBM, de Kok E, Maassen SM, Booy M, Weggelaar-Jansen AMJWM. Learning from a crisis: a qualitative study on how nurses reshaped their work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Nurs 2024; 23:515. [PMID: 39075448 PMCID: PMC11287935 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-02177-4] [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: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global nursing shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a drastic reorganization in nursing practices. Work routines, the composition of teams and subsequently mundane nursing practices were all altered to sustain the accessibility and quality of care. These dramatic changes demanded a reshaping of the nurses' work environment. The aim of this study was to explore how nurses reshaped their work environment in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A descriptive study comprising 26 semi-structured interviews conducted in a large Dutch teaching hospital between June and September 2020. Participants were nurses (including intensive care unit nurses), outpatient clinic assistants, nurse managers, and management (including one member of the Nurse Practice Council). The interviews were analysed with open, axial, and selective coding. RESULTS We identified five themes: 1) the Nursing Staff Deployment Plan created new micro-teams with complementary roles to meet the care needs of COVID-19 infected patients; 2) nurse-led adaptations effectively managed the increased workload, thereby ensuring the quality of care; 3) continuous professional development ensured adequate competence levels for all roles; 4) interprofessional collaboration resulted in experienced solidarity, a positive atmosphere, and increased autonomy for nurses; and, 5) supportive managers reduced nurses' stress and improved work conditions. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that nurses positively reshaped their work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. They contributed to innovative solutions in an environment of equal interprofessional collaboration, which led to greater respect for their knowledge and competencies, enhanced their autonomy and improved management support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie J B M de Vos
- Academy of Nursing Science and Education, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekse Weg 60, 5022 GC, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
- Fontys School of People and Health Studies, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Professor Goossenslaan 1-01, 5022 DM, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
- Centre of Expertise Perspective in Health, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Hogeschoollaan 1, 4818 CR, Breda, The Netherlands.
- Nursing Staff Board, Amphia Hospital, Molengracht 21, 4818 CK, Breda, The Netherlands.
| | - Eline de Kok
- Dutch Nurses' Association, Orteliuslaan 1000, 3528 BD, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne M Maassen
- Department of Quality and Patientcare, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Tranzo, Tilburg University, Professor Cobbenhagenlaan 125, Tilburg, 5037 DB, The Netherlands
| | - Monique Booy
- Nursing Staff Board, Amphia Hospital, Molengracht 21, 4818 CK, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Marie J W M Weggelaar-Jansen
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, 3062 PA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Tranzo, Tilburg University, Professor Cobbenhagenlaan 125, Tilburg, 5037 DB, The Netherlands
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Castro-Mena M, Huamani-Echaccaya J, Yarasca-Berrocal E, Ladera-Castañeda M, Castro-Rojas M, Aroste-Andía R, Hernández-Vergara C, Cervantes-Ganoza L, Cayo-Rojas C. Impact of Fear of COVID-19, Depression, Anxiety and Stress on Temporomandibular Disorders in Peruvian Dental Students in the Post-Pandemic Period: A Multivariable Regression Analysis. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4410. [PMID: 39124676 PMCID: PMC11313219 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13154410] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Dentists, who frequently encounter potentially infected patients, have experienced significant changes worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the fear of COVID-19, depression, anxiety and stress on the presence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), taking into account possible confounding variables, in Peruvian dental students during the post-pandemic period. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study assessed 607 Peruvian dental students from two regions of Peru. The study utilized the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and the Short Form of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (SFAI). Possible confounding variables were sex, age, year of study, marital status, place of origin, area of residence, history of mental illness and living with people vulnerable to COVID-19. For the multivariable analysis, we utilized a Poisson regression model with an adjusted robust variance. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results: The rates of depression, anxiety, stress, fear of COVID-19 and temporomandibular disorders were 47.0%, 50.4%, 35.9%, 30.6% and 54.2%, respectively. Moreover, the study revealed that students with depression and anxiety were 38% and 75% more likely to have temporomandibular disorders compared to those without depression (APR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.15-1.66) and anxiety (APR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.44-2.13), respectively. Similarly, the likelihood of presenting temporomandibular disorders was 55% higher in women than in men (APR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.28-1.87). Furthermore, we found that stress and fear of COVID-19 did not determine the development of temporomandibular disorders (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Almost half of the dental students experienced depression, anxiety and TMD in the post-pandemic period. In addition, depression and anxiety were influential factors in the occurrence of TMDs, with the female gender being a risk factor. However, factors such as fear of COVID-19, stress, age, year of study, marital status, place of origin, area of residence, history of mental illness or living with people vulnerable to COVID-19 were not significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Castro-Mena
- School of Stomatology, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Lima 15067, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Miriam Castro-Rojas
- Postgraduate School, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima 15001, Peru
| | - Rosa Aroste-Andía
- School of Stomatology, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Ica 11004, Peru
| | | | | | - César Cayo-Rojas
- School of Stomatology, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Lima 15067, Peru
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da Cunha QB, Freitas EDO, Pai DD, dos Santos JLG, da Silva RM, Camponogara S. Adherence to standard precautions in university hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed study. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2024; 58:e20230289. [PMID: 39028846 PMCID: PMC11259396 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2023-0289en] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze adherence to standard precautions by healthcare professionals and associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazilian university hospitals. METHOD Multicenter study, with a mixed approach, with a concomitant incorporated strategy and a sample of 559 health professionals and 53 managers from five university hospitals in Southern Brazil. Data collected online from September 2020 to October 2021 with the Instrument of Variables Related to Standard Precautions and sociodemographic and pandemic-related variables. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis (Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis test) and content analysis were performed. RESULTS High level of adherence to standard precautions, with a significant association with having children (p = 0.014); COVID area (p < 0.001), biosafety training (p = 0.018), and social distancing (p < 0.001). The testimonies demonstrated a high risk perception and search for the use of protective equipment and biosafety knowledge. CONCLUSION High adherence to standard precautions, associated with having children, working in COVID-19 care units, receiving biosafety guidance/training at the institution and practicing social distancing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daiane Dal Pai
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Escola de Enfermagem, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Silviamar Camponogara
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Departamento de Enfermagem, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
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9
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Stefanizzi P, Di Lorenzo A, Capodiferro L, Moscara L, Noviello C, Vimercati L, De Maria L, Tafuri S. Increasing vaccination coverage among healthcare workers: Active call and mandatory laws. Data from a large general hospital in Southern Italy. Vaccine 2024:S0264-410X(24)00739-4. [PMID: 39013692 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.06.065] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are respiratory pathogens which significantly impact healthcare systems. Seasonal vaccination is recommended for all healthcare workers (HCWs) to reduce the risk for both operators and patients. Puglia, a region in Southern Italy, has been enforcing since 2018 a law mandating influenza vaccination in healthcare workers. However, vaccination coverages for this category have always been suboptimal. Our study tests the effectiveness of an active recall intervention on vaccination coverage for influenza and SARS-CoV-2 in the HCWs of a large Apulian hospital (Southern Italy). During the 2023-2024 influenza vaccination season, unvaccinated HCWs of Bari's Policlinico General Hospital were contacted. The e-mail reminded them of a regional law mandating influenza vaccination to all HCWs and offered an appointment for vaccination. SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was also offered. In 2022-2023, 43.16 % of HCWs were vaccinated against influenza and 21.87 % against SARS-CoV-2. Coverage changed during the 2023-2024 season to 54.11 % and 13.58 %, respectively. A regression model showed that vaccination uptake's increase was associated with the e-mail reception and with the operator being a physician vs. non-medical personnel. On the contrary, subjects who received the e-mail did not show an increased SARS-CoV-2 vaccination uptake, which was on the contrary influenced by the worker's age, sex, job title, and area of risk. Our soft-mandate intervention was effective in increasing vaccination uptake by HCWs. Communication with a trained specialist was probably useful, and the possibility to access vaccination services with dedicated appointments increased convenience. Mandatory vaccination policies and active recall seem to synergically impact vaccination uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Di Lorenzo
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
| | - Luca Capodiferro
- Bari Policlinico General University Hospital, Board of Medical Directors, Control Room Program Unit, Italy
| | - Lorenza Moscara
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
| | - Chiara Noviello
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
| | - Luigi Vimercati
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
| | - Luigi De Maria
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
| | - Silvio Tafuri
- Bari Aldo Moro University, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Italy
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Rosser EN, Klein SL, Rothman RE, Pekosz A, Morgan R. Vaccinating the Frontlines: A Qualitative Exploration of Hospital Healthcare Worker Perspectives on Influenza and COVID-19 Immunization. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.07.10.24310248. [PMID: 39040199 PMCID: PMC11261956 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.10.24310248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Although they face higher occupational risk of contracting viral respiratory infections, hospital healthcare worker vaccine hesitancy persists. While most studies have used survey methods to quantify the prevalence of and reasons for healthcare worker vaccine hesitancy, this study employs a qualitative approach to understand their attitudes and beliefs associated with influenza and COVID-19 vaccination. Methods To understand frontline healthcare worker experiences and perspectives on influenza and COVID-19 vaccination, 30 semi-structured interviews were conducted in summer/fall 2022 with staff recruited from two Johns Hopkins hospitals in Maryland. An in-depth, key informant interview was conducted with an expert in public health audience engagement. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed for thematic and Framework analysis using NVivo software (QSR International, Melbourne, Australia). Results Healthcare workers engaged in little influenza vaccine information seeking due to their familiarity with the disease and low perceived disease severity. Approximately half (n=16) of healthcare workers reported no vaccine hesitancy towards influenza or COVID-19 vaccines. No physicians or physician assistants expressed any vaccine hesitancy, while most nurses expressed some (n=10). More than half of the women (n=14) expressed COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy compared to none of the men. Structural factors including hospital tier, unit assignment, and professional role influenced perceived risk of disease exposure and subsequent healthcare worker vaccination decisions. Institutional policies, including mandates and a pro-vaccine environment encouraged vaccination uptake. Healthcare workers reported being more receptive to vaccine messaging that focused on protection from disease, scientific and public health data and their heightened occupational exposure to pathogens. Conclusions Despite their medical knowledge, healthcare workers are susceptible to vaccine hesitancy. Strategies to address specific concerns are needed and can be informed by our findings. A flexible and multi-pronged approach that considers individual anxieties, workplace structures, and the need for open communication with tailored messaging is necessary to promote vaccine acceptance in healthcare settings. KEY MESSAGES What is already known on this topic: Healthcare worker vaccine hesitancy has been associated with many factors including race, gender, age and concerns about vaccine safety.What this study adds: Much of the research on healthcare worker vaccine hesitancy has used surveys and questionnaires giving a broad description of the prevalence and patterns of vaccine hesitancy in the healthcare workforce. This qualitative study examines vaccine behavior (rather than merely intent) through a cross comparison of healthcare workers' experiences and attitudes towards influenza and COVID-19 vaccination.How this study might affect research, practice or policy: Study findings can be used to help tailor vaccine messaging to hospital healthcare workers which could offset concerns regarding vaccine efficacy and risk, to promote vaccine uptake.
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Müller K, Ottiger M, Poppele I, Wastlhuber A, Stegbauer M, Schlesinger T. Physical Health in Patients with Post-COVID-19 6 and 12 Months after an Inpatient Rehabilitation: An Observational Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3988. [PMID: 38999552 PMCID: PMC11242682 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133988] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Rehabilitation is an effective and feasible approach for post-COVID patients to improve physical health. However, knowledge regarding the long-term impact of rehabilitation on the physical health of these patients is lacking. Methods: Changes in physical health of 127 patients with COVID-19 as an occupational disease or work accident were assessed in a longitudinal observational study. Post-COVID symptoms, functional status, functional exercise capacity, endurance capacity, physical performance, quadricep strength, handgrip strength, motor balance ability, and self-reported physical performance were examined at the beginning as well as 6 and 12 months after the rehabilitation. Group differences concerning sex, age, acute COVID status, comorbidities prior to COVID-19, and aftercare interventions were also analysed. Results: Even 12 months after rehabilitation, the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms (28.6-94.7%) remained remarkably high in the study population. Significant improvements in various aspects of physical health were observed 6 (r = 0.288-0.755) and 12 months (r = 0.189-0.681) after the rehabilitation. Participants demonstrated enhanced endurance, strength, and balance function, as well as improvement in subjective physical ability. Significant group differences were observed between younger and older patients, those with mild-moderate and severe-critical COVID-19, and patients with and without pre-existing cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, psychological disease, neuro-sensory disease, musculoskeletal disease, and exercising in an outpatient group. Conclusions: The study identifies persistent challenges in COVID-19 recovery, despite significant improvements in physical health 6 and 12 months after rehabilitation. Further research and the implementation of standardised approaches are required to enhance the outcomes of post-COVID rehabilitation, with a focus on developing personalised care strategies for long-term recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Müller
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (M.O.); (I.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Marcel Ottiger
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (M.O.); (I.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Iris Poppele
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (M.O.); (I.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Alois Wastlhuber
- BG Hospital for Occupational Disease Bad Reichenhall, 83435 Bad Reichenhall, Germany; (A.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Michael Stegbauer
- BG Hospital for Occupational Disease Bad Reichenhall, 83435 Bad Reichenhall, Germany; (A.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Torsten Schlesinger
- Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (M.O.); (I.P.); (T.S.)
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Madani TA, Al-Abdullah NA, Binmahfooz SM, Neyazi AY, Madani ST, Alshehri RA, Alnajjar JA, Alqurashi BS, Aladni IS, Alsharif SA. COVID-19 infections among health care workers at a university hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Am J Infect Control 2024:S0196-6553(24)00585-6. [PMID: 38969070 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.06.022] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection among health care workers (HCWs) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS A prospective cross-sectional study of HCWs confirmed to have COVID-19 infection from March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022. RESULTS A total of 746 HCWs were diagnosed with COVID-19. Patients' age ranged from 22 to 60 years with a mean ± standard deviation of 37.4 ± 8.7 years. The infection was community-acquired in 584 (78.3%) HCWs. The vast majority (82.6%) of the infected HCWs had no comorbidities. Nurses (400/746 or 53.6%) represented the largest professional group, followed by physicians (128/746 or 17.2%), administrative staff (125/746 or 16.8%), respiratory therapists (54/746 or 7.2%), and physiotherapists (39/746 or 5.2%). Symptoms included fever (64.1%), cough (55.6%), sore throat (44.6%), headache (22.9%), runny nose (19.6%), shortness of breath (19.0%), fatigue (12.7%), body aches (11.4%), diarrhea (10.9%), vomiting (4.4%), and abdominal pain (2.8%). Most (647 or 86.7%) patients were managed as outpatients. Four (0.5%) HCWs died. CONCLUSIONS HCWs face a dual risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, both from community exposure and within the hospital setting. Comprehensive infection control strategies are needed to protect HCWs both inside and outside the hospital environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq A Madani
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Infection Control and Environmental Health Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Nabeela A Al-Abdullah
- Infection Control and Environmental Health Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Department of Public Health, College of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh M Binmahfooz
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Amir Y Neyazi
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Salman T Madani
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan A Alshehri
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawad A Alnajjar
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Badran S Alqurashi
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim S Aladni
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaker A Alsharif
- Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Kim E, Park Y, Choi H. Factors influencing nurses' compliance related to the use of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Nurs Open 2024; 11:e2235. [PMID: 38958036 PMCID: PMC11220485 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.2235] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To determine how nurses' experiences with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic affected their knowledge, awareness, and compliance related to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. DESIGN A descriptive cross-sectional study. METHODS A total of 247 nurses in South Korea participated in this study between May 10 and 19, 2023. An online self-report questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic and occupational characteristics, COVID-19 experience, knowledge, awareness, and compliance related to the use of PPE. Factors affecting compliance were analysed using hierarchical multiple linear regression. RESULTS Mean age of the nurses was 31.92, and 94.3% were women. Most had a bachelor's degree or higher and the mean clinical experience as a nurse was 6.45 years. Knowledge of the use of PPE was 8.45 out of 10, awareness was 3.52 out of 5, and compliance was 4.28 out of 5. Knowledge and awareness were correlated with compliance related to PPE use. Awareness (β = 0.234, p < 0.001), knowledge (β = 0.218, p < 0.001), experience caring for COVID-19 patients (β = 0.234, p = 0.004), optional fourth dose vaccine (β = 0.150, p = 0.017), clinical experience (β = 0.140, p = 0.022), and COVID-19 infection control education (β = 0.115, p = 0.037) were found to have a significant impact on compliance. CONCLUSION During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses' knowledge and awareness of PPE use was a crucial factor in compliance. factors such as clinical experience, experience in caring for COVID-19 patients, optional vaccination, and completion of COVID-19 education also influenced compliance. We hope that these factors can provide a basis for developing training programs for nurses to respond to future emerging infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun‐Jin Kim
- Department of NursingSeoul National University HospitalSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Yeon‐Hwan Park
- College of Nursing, The Research Institute of Nursing ScienceSeoul National UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Hye‐Ran Choi
- Department of Clinical NursingUniversity of UlsanSeoulRepublic of Korea
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Vieira KMR, Vieira FU, Bittencourt ZZLDC. COVID-19 pandemic: what factors compromised the mental capacity to work of nursing technicians? Rev Bras Enferm 2024; 77Suppl 1:e20220783. [PMID: 38958351 PMCID: PMC11213538 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2022-0783] [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: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to identify the factors that influenced the mental capacity to work of nursing technicians during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS a cross-sectional study, carried out at two reference hospitals in assisting the population during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 237 professionals from Intensive Care Units participated and answered a questionnaire. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the correlation between mental capacity to work and variables related to risks of contamination, institutional support and health. RESULTS lack of COVID-19 tests, lack of knowledge of routine, absences in 2021 and mental illness contributed to worse mental capacity to work. Management embracement and physical capacity were considered protective factors. CONCLUSIONS reduced work capacity in relation to mental demands can affect professional performance and quality of care, with implications for patients and health institutions.
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Calaf J, Perelló-Capó J, Gich-Saladich I, Lete I, Novalbos J. Effects of SARS-COVID-19 lockdown on menstrual patterns: A transversal large sample survey. Med Clin (Barc) 2024; 162:581-587. [PMID: 38614906 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2024.01.016] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To elucidate the presence, importance, and characteristics of menstrual changes related to stressful circumstances during the COVID-19 lockdown in Spain. STUDY DESIGN An online survey was administered in Spain to menstruating women aged 15-55 who had not contracted COVID-19. It collected information on activities during the lockdown, sexual activity, perceptions of emotional status, any changes in menstrual characteristics, and impact on quality of life. The analysis of menstrual changes was limited to responders who did not use hormonal contraception. RESULTS A total of 6449 women answered the survey, and 4989 surveys were valid for the final analysis. 92.3% of women had at least one menstruation period during the lockdown, while 7.7% had amenorrhea. Quality of life (QoL) associated with menstruation worsened in 19% of women, did not change in 71.7%, and improved in 1.6%. For 50.1% of the women, global QoL worsened during the lockdown; 41.3% remained about the same and 8.7% reported improvement. Sexual activity during the lockdown decreased in 49.8% of the respondents, remained unchanged in 40.7%, and increased in 9.5%. As far the menstrual changes are concerned, there were no statistically significant differences in amenorrhea incidence, regularity of the menstrual cycle, or the amount or duration of menstrual bleeding in non-hormonal contraceptive users when evaluated by the length and characteristics of isolation, the perception of exposure to COVID-19 and the economic or employment situation. Conversely, we found statistically significant differences according to the intensity of changes in emotional status due to lockdown stressors and changes in regularity, duration, and heaviness of menstruation. CONCLUSION Changes in emotional status, but not the length and intensity of the isolation or exposure to the disease, significantly influenced menstrual disturbances during the COVID-19 lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Calaf
- Institut de Recerca and Servei de Ginecologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Josep Perelló-Capó
- Institut de Recerca and Servei de Ginecologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignasi Gich-Saladich
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), IIB Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iñaki Lete
- Servicio de Ginecologia, Hospital Universitario Araba, Vitoria, Spain
| | - Jesús Novalbos
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Madrid, Spain
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Wang D, Zhu D, Xia M, Wang X, Zou N. Epidemiology, risk factors, and vaccine effectiveness for SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers during the omicron pandemic in Shanghai, China. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32182. [PMID: 38947465 PMCID: PMC11214455 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed healthcare workers (HCWs) to serious risk of infection. The aims of our study were to investigate the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs, and evaluate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) during the Omicron pandemic in Shanghai, China. Methods Active surveillance of COVID-19 was performed among HCWs who worked in Shanghai General Hospital from December 2022 to January 2023. A case-control study was conducted by questionnaire survey to analyse the infection-related risk factors. A retrospective cohort study was explored to evaluate VE against primary infection. Results During the Omicron outbreak, 2,008 of 2,460 (81.6%) HCWs were infected with SARS-CoV-2. The infection rate was higher in women, younger age groups, nurses and medical technicians. Among the 1,742 participants in the questionnaire, 1,463 (84.0%) were tested positive, and 95.1% of them developed symptoms. Most of the infections (53.0%) were acquired outside the hospital. The risk factors associated with higher odds of infection were working in the emergency department (aOR 3.77, 95% CI 1.69-8.38) and medical examination area (aOR 2.47, 95% CI 1.10-5.51). The protective factors associated with lower odds of infection were previous infection with SARS-CoV-2 (aOR 0.01, 95% CI 0-0.07) and receiving four doses of vaccines (aOR 0.40, 95% CI 0.17-0.97). For frontline HCWs, those who had oral-nasal exposure to coworkers were more likely to be infected (aOR 1.74, 95% CI 1.21-2.51). In VE analysis, the risk of primary infection was lower in HCWs who received the emergency heterologous booster (the fourth dose) during the epidemic (aHR 0.25, 95% CI 0.15-0.40), resulting in an adjusted-VE of 75.1%. Conclusions In response to future pandemic, it is important for public health policies to aim at protecting HCWs through risk-differentiated infection control measures, strengthening personal protection and recommending vaccination to vulnerable individuals before the arrival of Omicron wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Xia
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ni Zou
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Cao Z, Sun F, Ding H, Tian Z, Cui Y, Yang W, Hu S, Shi L. A retrospective analysis of the influencing factors of nucleic acid CT value fluctuation in COVID-19 patients infected with Omicron variant virus in Changchun city. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1377135. [PMID: 38947348 PMCID: PMC11211536 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1377135] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to determine the risk factors associated with fluctuations in nucleic acid CT values in patients infected with the Omicron variant during an outbreak at a hospital in Changchun city. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on general information, medical history, vaccination history, and laboratory test data of COVID-19 patients infected with the Omicron variant and admitted to the hospital in Changchun from March 2022 to April 2022. The study aimed to explore the factors influencing nucleic acid CT value fluctuations in COVID-19 patients infected with the Omicron variant in Changchun city. Results Fluctuations in nucleic acid CT values were significantly correlated with occupation composition (p = 0.030), hospital stay duration (p = 0.000), heart rate (p = 0.026), creatinine (p = 0.011), platelet count (p = 0.000), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (p = 0.045), and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (p = 0.017). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant correlations between hospital stay duration (p = 0.000), platelet count (p = 0.019), heart rate (p = 0.036), and nucleic acid CT value fluctuations (p < 0.05), indicating that they were independent risk factors. Red blood cell count was identified as a factor influencing nucleic acid CT value fluctuations in Group A patients. Occupation composition, direct bilirubin, and platelet count were identified as factors influencing nucleic acid CT value fluctuations in Group B patients. Further binary logistic regression analysis indicated that occupational composition and direct bilirubin are significant independent factors for nucleic acid CT value fluctuations in Group B patients, positively correlated with occupational risk and negatively correlated with direct bilirubin. Conclusion Therefore, enhancing patients' immunity, increasing physical exercise to improve myocardial oxygen consumption, reducing the length of hospital stays, and closely monitoring liver function at the onset of hospitalization to prevent liver function abnormalities are effective measures to control fluctuations in nucleic acid CT values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenghua Cao
- Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Feng Sun
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Huan Ding
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhiyu Tian
- Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yingzi Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shaodan Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Li Shi
- Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Crispim PMC, Kawagoe JY, Rosseti AC, de Menezes FG. Factors underlying the high occupational risk of healthcare personnel for COVID-19 infection. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2024; 22:eAO0433. [PMID: 38865569 PMCID: PMC11155719 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2024ao0433] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Crispim et al. demonstrated the independent risk factors for acquiring COVID-19 among healthcare personnel. They also showed the importance of infection prevention training to avoid acquiring COVID-19 in this population. OBJECTIVE To verify the rate of COVID-19 infection among healthcare personnel at high and low risk of COVID-19 infection and identify the underlying risk factors. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 1, 2020 and February 28, 2021. Associations were verified between the levels of risk (high or low) of occupational COVID-19 infection and participant characteristics using the World Health Organization risk assessment questionnaire and adjusted using logistic regression models in single and multiple approaches. RESULTS Of the 486 participants, 57.4% were classified as having a high occupational risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a diagnosis rate of 12.1%. The factors identified in the multivariate analysis for high occupational risk were age up to 29 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.7, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 1.63-4.47), monthly family income greater than eight times the basic salary (OR= 1.8, 95%CI= 1.07-3.16), and healthcare personnel who did not participate in initial training to work in the area of patients with COVID-19 infection (OR= 2.39, 95%CI= 1.53-3.75). CONCLUSION Encouraging training for occupational infection prevention is very important to reduce the impact of infectious diseases on healthcare personnel, especially young health professionals. COVID-19 infection among healthcare personnel has impacted the workforce in hospitals. Knowledge of the risk factors for COVID-19 infection is important for disease prevention measures. Failure to train healthcare personnel is an important risk factor for acquiring COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Montesano Cunha Crispim
- Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazil Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Julia Yaeko Kawagoe
- Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazil Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana Cristina Rosseti
- Hospital Municipal da BrasilândiaSão PauloSPBrazil Hospital Municipal da Brasilândia, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fernando Gatti de Menezes
- Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazil Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Lee HR, Kim SR, Cho MH, Kim DE, Jang SY, Lee JE, Jeong HR, Kang HJ, Song JY, Chun BC. Incidence and risk factors of COVID-19 in a tertiary hospital and the effectiveness of booster vaccination among health care workers: A retrospective cohort study, January 2020 to June 2022. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:688-695. [PMID: 38246494 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care workers (HCWs) face a higher risk of infection and may transmit pathogens to patients during a pandemic. This study aims to evaluate infection-control measures by analyzing the incidence and risk factors of COVID-19 and estimating vaccine effectiveness (VE) at a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Republic of Korea. METHODS This study included 2,516 HCWs from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022. Data were analyzed to determine the incidence density and cumulative incidence; the results were compared by the age- and gender-specific standardized incidence ratios (SIR). VE was estimated with multivariate Cox proportional-hazard models as 1-adjusted hazard ratio × 100%. RESULTS SIR indicated a lower COVID-19 risk in the hospital population than in the general Korean population (SIR, 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76-0.87). Multivariate Cox analysis indicated that, compared to doctors, nonmedical service supporters and other HCWs (excluding doctors and nurses) were high-risk groups (adjusted hazard ratio [95% CI], 1.72 [1.04-2.83] and 1.76 [1.20-2.58], respectively). Compared to the outpatient unit, the emergency department was a high-risk department (1.70 [1.16-2.50]). The VE of the booster dose was 55.47%, compared to no or incomplete vaccination (95% CI: 22.63-74.37). CONCLUSIONS Besides encouraging HCWs vaccination, effective infection-control measures should target high-risk groups and departments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae Ry Lee
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Epidemiology and Health Informatics, Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Ran Kim
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min Hee Cho
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Da Eun Kim
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Su Yeon Jang
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae Eun Lee
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Rin Jeong
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong Kang
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joon Young Song
- Infection Control Team, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, South Korea; Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Byung Chul Chun
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Informatics, Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.
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Samardžić T, Žaja R, Macan J. Sick leaves among healthy pregnant Croatian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic due to loopholes in the occupational safety system. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2024; 75:110-115. [PMID: 38963140 PMCID: PMC11223506 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2024-75-3851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore occupational safety in pregnant Croatian healthcare workers (HCWs) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. To this end we composed an anonymous questionnaire that included pregnancy data, risk assessment and mitigation, and workplace intervention and distributed it to HCWs through social media of their groups and associations. The study includes a total of 173 respondents (71.1 % physicians, 19.7 % nurses, 9.2 % other HCWs) diagnosed with pregnancy in 2020 and 2021. Employers were notified about HCWs' pregnancy at the eighth (IQR 7.0-11.0) week of pregnancy, which delayed workplace risk assessment and mitigation beyond the first trimester. Only 19.6 % of the participants had the risk assessed and mitigated, mostly on their own initiative (76.5 %). After notifying employers about pregnancy, 37.0 % of participants opted for temporary work incapacity (TWI) due to "pregnancy complications" despite healthy pregnancy, 16.8 % were granted a pregnant worker's paid leave at the expense of the employer, while 5.8 % continued to work at the same workplace. Nurses used the TWI benefit more frequently than physicians (58.8 % vs 30.1 %, P=0.004). Our findings suggest that occupational safety of pregnant HCWs in Croatia lacks clear-cut and transparent strategies to protect pregnant HCWs, forcing them to misuse the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roko Žaja
- University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Macan
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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Madinga J, Mbala-Kingebeni P, Nkuba-Ndaye A, Baketana-Kinzonzi L, Matungulu-Biyala E, Mutombo-Lupola P, Seghers CA, Smekens T, Ariën KK, Van Damme W, Kalk A, Peeters M, Ahuka-Mundeke S, Muyembe-Tamfum JJ, Vanlerberghe V. COVID-19 seroprevalence cohort survey among health care workers and their household members in Kinshasa, DR Congo, 2020-2022. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2024; 43:74. [PMID: 38824595 PMCID: PMC11144309 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-024-00536-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Serological surveys offer the most direct measurement to define the immunity status for numerous infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, and can provide valuable insights into understanding transmission patterns. This study describes seroprevalence changes over time in the context of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where COVID-19 case presentation was apparently largely oligo- or asymptomatic, and vaccination coverage remained extremely low. METHODS A cohort of 635 health care workers (HCW) from 5 health zones of Kinshasa and 670 of their household members was interviewed and sampled in 6 rounds between July 2020 and January 2022. At each round, information on risk exposure and a blood sample were collected. Serology was defined as positive when binding antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid proteins were simultaneously present. RESULTS The SARS-CoV-2 antibody seroprevalence was high at baseline, 17.3% (95% CI 14.4-20.6) and 7.8% (95% CI 5.5-10.8) for HCW and household members, respectively, and fluctuated over time, between 9% and 62.1%. Seropositivity was heterogeneously distributed over the health zones (p < 0.001), ranging from 12.5% (95% CI 6.6-20.8) in N'djili to 33.7% (95% CI 24.6-43.8) in Bandalungwa at baseline for HCW. Seropositivity was associated with increasing rounds adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 1.75 (95% CI 1.66-1.85), with increasing age aOR 1.11 (95% CI 1.02-1.20), being a female aOR 1.35 (95% CI 1.10-1.66) and being a HCW aOR 2.38 (95% CI 1.80-3.14). There was no evidence that HCW brought the COVID-19 infection back home, with an aOR of 0.64 (95% CI 0.46-0.91) of seropositivity risk among household members in subsequent surveys. There was seroreversion and seroconversion over time, and HCW had a lower risk of seroreverting than household members (aOR 0.60 (95% CI 0.42-0.86)). CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels were high and dynamic over time in this African setting with low clinical case rates. The absence of association with health profession or general risk behaviors and with HCW positivity in subsequent rounds in HH members, shows the importance of the time-dependent, and not work-related, force of infection. Cohort seroprevalence estimates in a 'new disease' epidemic seem insufficient to guide policy makers for defining control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joule Madinga
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kikwit, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Placide Mbala-Kingebeni
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale & Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Antoine Nkuba-Ndaye
- Virology Unit, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Leonel Baketana-Kinzonzi
- Virology Unit, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Elysé Matungulu-Biyala
- Virology Unit, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Patrick Mutombo-Lupola
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Tom Smekens
- Public Health Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kevin K Ariën
- Virology Unit, Institute of Tropical Medicine & Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Damme
- Public Health Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Andreas Kalk
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Bonn, Germany
| | - Martine Peeters
- Unit Trans VIHMI, University of Montpellier, IRD/INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Steve Ahuka-Mundeke
- Virology Unit, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale & Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jean-Jacques Muyembe-Tamfum
- Virology Unit, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale & Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Veerle Vanlerberghe
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Unit, Public Health Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Us MC, Boran P, Yalçın SS, Savcı RG, Kural B, Özdemir DF. Social-emotional and behavioural problems in young children of healthcare worker mothers during the COVID-19 outbreak: a case-control study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:407. [PMID: 38816756 PMCID: PMC11137945 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05801-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pandemic has had a significant impact on the daily lives of children and their families, particularly the children of health care workers, due to changes in family routines as a result of their parents' work schedules. We aimed to explore the socioemotional and behavioural (SEB) problems of children of healthcare worker mothers (HCWM) during the COVID-19 pandemic and compare them with age-matched children and their mothers from other occupations. METHOD A case-control study design was applied, and a snowball approach was used to enrol volunteered participants aged between 6 and 36 months of age, through a Google survey. We used the Brief Infant-Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment (BITSEA) questionnaire to assess children's SEB problems and a Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) to evaluate the psychological distress of mothers. Differences in BITSEA, BSI and MSPSS scores were examined using chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests, as appropriate. A logistic regression model was used to identify independent predictors of children's behavioural and emotional problems. RESULTS In total, 600 questionnaires were analysed. It was observed that children in the HCWM group were separated from their mothers more often and for longer periods of time than their counterparts (p < 0.010, p = 0.002). Changes in the child's structured outdoor activities during the pandemic period were more likely to be observed in the HCWM group (p < 0.05). The percentage of children with the BITSEA problem subscale above the subclinical cut-off, externalizing and dysregulation scores were significantly higher in the HCWM group (p = 0.044, p = 0.031, and p = 0.016). Moreover, each point increase in BSI global index scores (p < 0.001, RR:3.34, 95%CI:1.91-5.82) was found as a risk factor for clinically significant SEB problems. CONCLUSION Overall, the current study suggests HCWM's have experienced occupational inequality, and young children of HCWM's were at increased risk for externalizing and dysregulation problems during the pandemic. Maternal psychological stress had a significant impact on their children's socio-emotional well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut Caner Us
- Institute of Health Sciences, Social Pediatrics PhD Program, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Perran Boran
- School of Medicine, Department of Social Paediatrics, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sıddika Songül Yalçın
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Hacettepe University, Samanpazari, Ankara, 06100, Turkey.
| | | | - Bahar Kural
- School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul Haliç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dilşad Foto Özdemir
- School of Medicine, Department of Child Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Bouhadfane M, Monfardini E, Loundou A, Roy P, Martin F, Boufercha R, Bajon F, Beque C, Villa A, Lehucher-Michel MP. Correlation between unproven therapies and delayed return-to-work for COVID-19-infected healthcare workers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2024; 79:45-56. [PMID: 38767268 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2024.2353264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate factors influencing the time to return to work (RTW) of HealthCare Workers (HCW) infected with COVID-19 during the initial wave of the pandemic in a southern French university hospital. Data collection of 170 HCW (between March 16 to June 1, 2020) included demographic and professional information, clinical profiles, comorbidities, medical management, therapies and RT-PCR results. The mean time to RTW was 15.6 days. Multivariate analyses revealed that the time to RTW was shorter among laboratory and emergency workers, while it was longer for HCW aged 40 to 49 years, at higher risk of severe illness, with a delayed negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR or those treated with azithromycin and/or hydroxychloroquine. This study highlights diverse factors affecting HCW RTW post-COVID-19 infection, underscoring the importance of exercising caution in administering unproven therapies to HCW during the early stages of a novel infectious pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pierre Roy
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
| | - Françoise Martin
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
| | - Rafika Boufercha
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Bajon
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
| | - Christine Beque
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
| | - Antoine Villa
- APHM, Service de Médecine et Santé au Travail, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, CEReSS, Marseille, France
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24
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Ma R, Lu B, Zhang Y, Shen Y, Xu J, Chen H, Qian Y, Miao P, Xu B, Guo H, Chen B. Duration and severity of COVID-19 symptoms among primary healthcare workers: A cross-sectional survey. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38712473 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16212] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
AIMS This study aims to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 infection among healthcare workers, including the severity, duration of infection, post-infection symptoms and related influencing factors. METHODS A self-administered questionnaire was utilized to assess the post-infection status of primary healthcare workers in Jiangsu Province. The questionnaire collected information on demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, post-infection clinical manifestations, work environment and recovery time of the respondents. Customized outcome events were selected as dependent variables and logistic regression models were employed to analyse the risk factors. Phi-coefficient was used to describe the relationship between post-infection symptoms. RESULTS The analysis revealed that several factors, such as female, older age, obesity, previous medical history, exposure to high-risk environments and stress, were associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing more severe outcomes. On the other hand, vaccination and regular exercise were found to contribute to an earlier resolution of the infection. Among the post-infection symptoms, cough, malaise and muscle aches were the most frequently reported. Overall, there was a weak association among symptoms persisting beyond 14 days, with only cough and malaise, malaise and dizziness and headache showing a stronger correlation. CONCLUSION The study findings indicate that the overall severity of the first wave of infection, following the complete lifting of restrictions in China, was low. The impact on primary healthcare workers was limited, and the post-infection symptoms exhibited similarity to those observed in other countries. It is important to highlight that these conclusions are specifically relevant to the population infected with the Omicron variant. IMPACTS This study helps to grasp the impacts of the first wave of COVID-19 infections on healthcare workers in China after the national lockdown was lifted. PATIENTS Primary healthcare workers in Jiangsu Province, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other personnel from primary healthcare units such as community health service centres and health centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongji Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Beier Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongjie Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya Shen
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinshui Xu
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Hualing Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongkang Qian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pengcheng Miao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Biyun Xu
- Medical Statistics and Analysis Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Haijian Guo
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Bingwei Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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25
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Ibanes-Gutierrez C, Martínez-Rivera N, Martin-Onraet A, Rivera-Buendia F, Piñeirua-Menendez A, Villaseñor-Echavarri R, Serrano-Ortega J, Vilar-Compte D. SARS-CoV-2 infection in health care workers during the first 2-years of the pandemic at a cancer hospital in Mexico. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:517-524. [PMID: 38103647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.12.004] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care workers (HCWs) are occupationally exposed to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). This study aimed to characterize COVID-19 in HCWs at an oncology hospital in Mexico City over 2-years, identify factors associated with severity, and establish transmission dynamics. METHODS This retrospective study included HCWs with confirmed COVID-19. Socio-demographic, clinical, and outcome data were retrieved from March 2020 to March 2022. We compared the proportion of HCWs affected in each wave. A survey on COVID-19 transmission dynamics was conducted in a subgroup. RESULTS We included 1,058 workers. The risk of COVID-19 was higher during the Omicron odds ratio (OR 2.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.77-2.50, P < .001). Age ≥41 years old (OR 6.32, 95% CI 2.4-16.62) and being administrative staff (OR 5.51, 95% CI 1.72-17.6) or medical staff (OR 6.82, CI 95% 1.77-26.23), compared to nursing staff, were associated with severity. Vaccination with ≥1 vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 was a protective factor for severe disease (OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.005-0.331). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the impact of COVID-19 on HCWs in a cancer hospital in Mexico City and the impact of vaccination as a protective factor against severity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Frida Rivera-Buendia
- Clinical Research Department, Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia, Mexico & Health Research Consortium, CISIDAT, Mexico; President, Health Research Consortium, CISIDAT, Mexico
| | | | | | - Janis Serrano-Ortega
- Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Diana Vilar-Compte
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Instituto Nacional de Cancerologia, Mexico.
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Topçu S, Emlek Sert Z. Intern nursing students' experiences in the COVID-19 vaccination unit and views on the COVID-19 vaccine: A phenomenological qualitative study. Work 2024:WOR220655. [PMID: 38701167 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220655] [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: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among nursing students is an important strategy for both preventing infection and building public confidence in the vaccine. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the views of intern nursing students on the COVID-19 vaccine and to evaluate their experiences in the COVID-19 vaccination unit. METHODS This was a phenomenological qualitative study with a descriptive design. The 46 intern nursing students included in this study were all trained in the COVID-19 vaccination unit. The data was collected at focus group interviews conducted during June 2021 and October 2021. RESULTS The mean age of intern nursing students was 22.78±0.91. From the focus group interviews, two themes were identified regarding the views of intern nursing students on the COVID-19 vaccine and their experiences in the COVID-19 vaccination unit: Theme 1. Positive views; Theme 2. Negative views. Intern nursing students described that they trust the COVID-19 vaccine and believe in its protection. Intern nursing students who performed their clinical practices in COVID-19 vaccination unit stated that they realized their responsibilities toward patients and the community. CONCLUSIONS From the INSs' point of view, confidence in the vaccine, responsibility towards patients, their families and the community, and VU practice experience, the health risk associated with COVID-19 positively affected their decision to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The participation of intern nursing students in clinical practice during the pandemic influenced both intern nursing students and population in terms of the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines.
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Albrecht S, Grässli F, Cusini A, Brucher A, Goppel S, Betschon E, Möller JC, Ortner M, Ruetti M, Stocker R, Vuichard-Gysin D, Besold U, Risch L, Von Kietzell M, Schlegel M, Vernazza P, Kuster SP, Kahlert CR, Kohler P. SARS-CoV-2 immunity and reasons for non-vaccination among healthcare workers from eastern and northern Switzerland: results from a nested multicentre cross-sectional study. Swiss Med Wkly 2024; 154:3734. [PMID: 38689545 DOI: 10.57187/s.3734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS OF THE STUDY We aimed to assess the extent of SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity elicited by previous infections and/or vaccination among healthcare workers, and to identify reasons why healthcare workers decided against vaccination. METHODS This nested cross-sectional study included volunteer healthcare workers from 14 healthcare institutions in German-speaking Switzerland. In January 2021, SARS-CoV-2 vaccines were available for healthcare workers. In May and June 2022, participants answered electronic questionnaires regarding baseline characteristics including SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status (with one or more vaccine doses defined as vaccinated) and previous SARS-CoV-2 infections. Unvaccinated participants indicated their reasons for non-vaccination. Participants underwent testing for SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike (anti-S) and anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies. Antibody prevalence was described across age groups. In addition, we performed multivariable logistic regression to identify baseline characteristics independently associated with non-vaccination and described reasons for non-vaccination. RESULTS Among 22,438 eligible employees, 3,436 (15%) participated; the median age was 43.7 years (range 16-73), 2,794 (81.3%) were female, and 1,407 (47.7%) identified as nurses; 3,414 (99.4%) underwent serology testing, among whom 3,383 (99.0%) had detectable anti-S (3,357, 98.3%) antibodies, anti-N (2,396, 70.1%) antibodies, or both (2,370, 69.4%). A total of 296 (8.6%) healthcare workers were unvaccinated, whereas 3,140 (91.4%) were vaccinated. In multivariable analysis, age (adjusted OR [aOR] 1.02 per year, 95% CI 1.01-1.03), being a physician (aOR 3.22, 95% CI 1.75-5.92) or administrator (aOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.27-2.80), and having higher education (aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.09-4.57) were positively associated with vaccine uptake, whereas working in non-acute care (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.34-0.97), active smoking (aOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.51-0.91), and taking prophylactic home remedies against SARS-CoV-2 (aOR 0.42, 95% CI 0.31-0.56) were negatively associated. Important reasons for non-vaccination were a belief that the vaccine might not have long-lasting immunity (267/291, 92.1%) and a preference for gaining naturally acquired instead of vaccine-induced immunity (241/289, 83.4%). CONCLUSIONS Almost all healthcare workers in our cohort had specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from natural infection and/or from vaccination. Young healthcare workers and those working in non-acute settings were less likely to be vaccinated, whereas physicians and administrative staff showed higher vaccination uptake. Presumed ineffectiveness of the vaccine is an important reason for non-vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Albrecht
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Grässli
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Alexia Cusini
- Cantonal Hospital of Grisons, Division of Infectious Diseases, Chur, Switzerland
| | - Angela Brucher
- Psychiatry Services of the Canton of St. Gallen (South), Trübbach, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Goppel
- Psychiatry Services of the Canton of St. Gallen (North), Wil, Switzerland
| | | | - J Carsten Möller
- Center for Neurological Rehabilitation, Zihlschlacht, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Ortner
- Rheintal Werdenberg Sarganserland Hospital Group, Grabs, Switzerland
| | - Markus Ruetti
- Fuerstenland Toggenburg Hospital Group, Wil, Switzerland
| | | | - Danielle Vuichard-Gysin
- Thurgau Hospital Group, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Muensterlingen, Switzerland
- Swiss National Centre for Infection Prevention (Swissnoso), Berne, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Besold
- Geriatric Clinic St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Lorenz Risch
- Labormedizinisches Zentrum Dr Risch Ostschweiz AG, Buchs, Switzerland
- Private Universität im Fürstentum Liechtenstein, Institut für Labormedizin, Triesen, Liechtenstein
- Center of Laboratory Medicine, University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University of Berne, Inselspital, Berne, Switzerland
| | | | - Matthias Schlegel
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Pietro Vernazza
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Stefan P Kuster
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Christian R Kahlert
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Kohler
- Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, St Gallen, Switzerland
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Swearinger H, Lapham JL, Martinson ML, Berridge C. Older Adults' Unmet Needs at the End of Life: A Cross-Country Comparison of the United States and England. J Aging Health 2024:8982643241245249. [PMID: 38613317 DOI: 10.1177/08982643241245249] [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: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to compare the end-of-life (EOL) experiences in concentration with place of death, for older adults in the U.S. and England. Methods: Weighted comparative analysis was conducted using harmonized Health and Retirement Study and English Longitudinal Study of Ageing datasets covering the period of 2006-2012. Results: At the EOL, more older adults in the U.S. (64.14%) than in England (54.09%) had unmet needs (I/ADLs). Home was the main place of death in the U.S. (47.34%), while it was the hospital in England (58.01%). Gender, marital status, income, place of death, previous hospitalization, memory-related diseases, self-rated health, and chronic diseases were linked to unmet needs in both countries. Discussion: These findings challenge the existing assumptions about EOL experiences and place of death outcomes, emphasizing the significance of developing integrated care models to bolster support for essential daily activities of older adults at the EOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Swearinger
- Department of Social Work, Cankiri Karatekin University, Çankırı, Turkey
| | | | | | - Clara Berridge
- Department of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Liu M, Huang W, Wen J. The influencing factors of changes in physical activity levels of pregnant women during pregnancy: From the perspective of continuous care. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37575. [PMID: 38608122 PMCID: PMC11018226 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of physical activity levels (PAL) among Chinese pregnant women and an exploration, from a continuous care perspective, of various factors influencing these activity levels. Investigating the correlations between adverse habits, psychological factors, and PAL in prenatal health management. This study aims to provide substantial guidance for prenatal health management and personalized care, offering recommendations to healthcare professionals and policymakers to enhance the overall health and well-being of pregnant women. This study enrolled 1256 pregnant women as research subjects. Baseline information was collected through a personal information collection form. Subsequently, continuous care was provided during the early, middle, and late stages of pregnancy, documenting the respective influencing factors. Simultaneously, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was utilized to assess the PAL of pregnant women across different trimesters. Finally, using the SPSS software version 25.0, a combined approach of generalized linear mixed effects (GLME) models and multivariate logistic regression was used to statistically analyze the collected data, comprehensively exploring the influencing factors of PAL during pregnancy. The proportion of research subjects engaged in low-level physical activity decreased from 60.80% to 40.34% across various stages of pregnancy, while the proportion engaged in moderate-level physical activity ranged from 25.32% to 40.75%. Meanwhile, the proportion engaged in high-level physical activity accounted for 13.88% to 18.91%.There was P = .021 and β = -0.276 for smoking before pregnancy. The P-value of pregnant women who smoke in the second trimester was.035, the Odds Ratio (OR) value was 0.638, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) was (0.406, 0.972). The difference was statistically significant (all P < .05). In China, the physical activity level of pregnant women is generally low, which is related to factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep disorders, and depression during pregnancy. Medical personnel should improve the living habits of pregnant women and enhance their PAL through measures such as health education and psychological counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Obstetrics Nursing, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenxia Huang
- Department of Health Management Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiao Wen
- Department of Obstetrics Nursing, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Baltacioglu M. Mental Symptoms Among Mental Health Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Nerv Ment Dis 2024; 212:213-218. [PMID: 38113929 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT We aimed to examine the psychological reactions of healthcare professionals working in the field of mental health during the pandemic and their relationship with sleep quality, eating attitudes, and burnout. A cross-sectional survey was conducted over online platforms. A total of 128 mental health workers were included. Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Maslach Burnout Inventory, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index, and Eating Attitudes Test were administered. Depression was detected in 38.3%, anxiety in 73.4%, decreased sleep quality in 89.1%, emotional burnout in 64.8%, depersonalization in 85.9%, and decreased personal achievement in 75.8% of the participants. Anxiety scores of participants who did not take an active role in COVID-19 (22.23 ± 5.067) were significantly higher ( p < 0.001) than those who took an active role in COVID-19 (16.5 ± 6.273). Special attention must be paid to the mental health professionals, especially during crisis periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Baltacioglu
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Rize, Turkey
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Galarneau JM, Labrèche F, Durand-Moreau Q, Ruzycki S, Adisesh A, Burstyn I, Zadunayski T, Cherry N. Excess risk of COVID-19 infection and mental distress in healthcare workers during successive pandemic waves: Analysis of matched cohorts of healthcare workers and community referents in Alberta, Canada. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2024; 115:220-229. [PMID: 38227180 PMCID: PMC11006634 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-023-00848-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate changes in risk of infection and mental distress in healthcare workers (HCWs) relative to the community as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed. METHODS HCWs in Alberta, Canada, recruited to an interprovincial cohort, were asked consent to link to Alberta's administrative health database (AHDB) and to information on COVID-19 immunization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Those consenting were matched to records of up to five community referents (CRs). Physician diagnoses of COVID-19 were identified in the AHDB from the start of the pandemic to 31 March 2022. Physician consultations for mental health (MH) conditions (anxiety, stress/adjustment reaction, depressive) were identified from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2022. Risks for HCW relative to CR were estimated by fitting wave-specific hazard ratios. RESULTS Eighty percent (3050/3812) of HCWs consented to be linked to the AHDB; 97% (2959/3050) were matched to 14,546 CRs. HCWs were at greater risk of COVID-19 overall, with first infection defined from either PCR tests (OR=1.96, 95%CI 1.76-2.17) or physician records (OR=1.33, 95%CI 1.21-1.45). They were also at increased risk for each of the three MH diagnoses. In analyses adjusted for confounding, risk of COVID-19 infection was higher than for CRs early in the pandemic and during the fifth (Omicron) wave. The excess risk of stress/adjustment reactions (OR=1.52, 95%CI 1.35-1.71) and depressive conditions (OR=1.39, 95%CI 1.24-1.55) increased with successive waves during the epidemic, peaking in the fourth wave. CONCLUSION HCWs were at increased risk of both COVID-19 and mental ill-health with the excess risk continuing late in the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Galarneau
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - France Labrèche
- Research Department, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Shannon Ruzycki
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Anil Adisesh
- Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Igor Burstyn
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tanis Zadunayski
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nicola Cherry
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Sinaga BYM, Siagian P, Sinaga JP, Samodra YL. Fatigue in healthcare workers with mild COVID-19 survivors in Indonesia. NARRA J 2024; 4:e656. [PMID: 38798861 PMCID: PMC11125418 DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i1.656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Persistent symptoms after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19, known as post-COVID syndrome (PCS), presented an ongoing health burden among COVID-19 survivors, including health workers. The existence of fatigue in mild COVID-19 survivors has not been widely reported. The aim of this study was to present the symptoms of fatigue in healthcare workers who experienced mild COVID-19 and the factors associated with fatigue. A cross-sectional study was conducted at H. Adam Malik General Hospital in Medan, Indonesia, from September to December 2022, included doctors, nurses, ancillary workers, and medical support workers who experienced mild COVID-19. Fatigue was measured by a fatigue assessment scale (FAS). The assessed possible risk factors were gender, age, vaccination history, comorbid, presence of PCS, duration of PCS symptoms, and number of PCS symptoms. The Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used to assess the association between the incidence of fatigue and risk factors. A total of 100 healthcare workers of mild COVID-19 survivors were included. Most of them were nurses (58%), women (81%), and aged 19-30 years old (36%). The majority had incomplete vaccination history (64%), experienced PCS (71%), no comorbidities (61%), and experienced <3 months of PCS symptoms (55%). Mild to moderate fatigue was found in 23% of healthcare workers and only 1% experienced severe fatigue. No significant association was found between gender, vaccination history, and comorbidities with the incidence of fatigue. However, a significant association was observed between age (p=0.021), the presence of PCS (p=0.041), and the number of PCS symptoms (p=0.047) with fatigue incidence. Furthermore, there were significant associations between symptoms of PCS (confusion (p=0.004), insomnia (p=0.001), myalgia (p=0.035), arthralgia (p=0.028), throat pain (p=0.042), headache (p=0.042), and chest pain (p=0.011)) with fatigue. These findings can contribute to providing the necessary support for mild COVID-19 survivors and persistent fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bintang YM. Sinaga
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Parluhutan Siagian
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Joshua P. Sinaga
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
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Kern J, Wiesmüller GA, Kossow A, Hurraß J. [Test Concept of the City of Cologne for Critical Infrastructure (KRITIS) during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2024; 86:304-310. [PMID: 38065549 PMCID: PMC11003250 DOI: 10.1055/a-2189-2449] [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: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Public Health Department of the City of Cologne established preferential testing for critical infrastructure (KRITIS) personnel. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze this concept. METHODS Test results as well as demographic and job-related data from March to April 2020 were collected and descriptively analyzed using a specially developed software. KRITIS personnel who tested positive were systematically interviewed over the phone. RESULTS 1521 individuals were tested, of whom 896 (59%) were from the healthcare sector, particularly from the nursing professions (35%). Testing and consultation services were also utilized by employees of non-profit organizations (8%), administration (7%), fire department (11%), and police (4%). KRITIS personnel who tested positive suspected increased risk from contacts at the workplace (58%), mostly without adequate protection (85%). Of those surveyed, 83% rated the KRITIS concept as 'good' or 'very good'. Processes at the testing center were rated as 'good' or 'very good' by 89%, while 47% rated phone support as 'good' or 'very good', and 30% as 'sufficient' or poor. Free comments showed that frequent phone contact from the Public Health Department was perceived as positive and even more often as negative interindividually. Communication and advice were positively highlighted, while lack of competence and coordination were criticized. The respondents criticized the comparatively lower provision of testing services for family members, for example, due to limited resources. CONCLUSION With the KRITIS concept, the Public Health Department of Cologne developed and implemented an offer for system-relevant professional groups that was intensively used and mostly assessed as positive. This concept can be used as a blueprint for other pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Kern
- Institut für Arbeits-, Sozial- und Umweltmedizin, Uniklinik
RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gerhard A. Wiesmüller
- Institut für Arbeits-, Sozial- und Umweltmedizin, Uniklinik
RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff, Köln, Germany
- Zentrum für Hygiene, Umwelt und Mykologie Köln (ZfMK),
Köln, Germany
| | - Annelene Kossow
- Institut für Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum
Münster, Germany
- Abteilung für Infektions- und Umwelthygiene, Gesundheitsamt der
Stadt Köln, Köln, Germany
| | - Julia Hurraß
- Abteilung für Infektions- und Umwelthygiene, Gesundheitsamt der
Stadt Köln, Köln, Germany
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Nose Y, Kato M, Aoyagi S, Akeo K, Yamashita K, Saito T, Tanaka K, Yamamoto K, Makino T, Takahashi T, Kurokawa Y, Eguchi H, Doki Y, Nakajima K. Use of current automatic smoke evacuation system in flexible gastrointestinal endoscopy: Its feasibility and potential usefulness. DEN OPEN 2024; 4:e367. [PMID: 38605997 PMCID: PMC11007223 DOI: 10.1002/deo2.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Flexible endoscopy does not have a system that can automatically evacuate surgical smoke generated in the gastrointestinal lumen. We aimed to investigate the feasibility and potential usefulness of automatic smoke evacuation systems in flexible endoscopy. Methods [Bench] After surgical smoke generated in the stomach was evacuated by the evacuator, the degree of residual smoke and gastric luminal collapse were evaluated to optimize the evacuator settings. [Animal] Insufflation, suction, and total operation time to complete the protocol of 10 cauterizations of the gastric mucosa were measured in three groups: "manual suction only," "manual suction with automatic evacuation (50% force)," and "manual suction with automatic evacuation (70% force)." The stability of endoscopic visualization and operability was evaluated by 10 endoscopists blinded to those suction settings, and the number of manual suctions, insufflations, and total operation time were measured. Results [Bench] The degree of residual smoke and gastric luminal collapse were inversely correlated. [Animal] When the automatic evacuator was partially used, there was no difference in the insufflation time, but the suction time (vs 50%; p = 0.011, vs. 70%; p = 0.011) and total operation time (vs. 50%; p = 0.012, vs. 70%; p = 0.036) were significantly reduced compared to manual operation only. Furthermore, manual suction with automatic evacuation (50% force) significantly improved the stability of endoscopic visualization and operability compared to manual operation only (p = 0.041, p = 0.0085). Conclusions The automatic smoke evacuation in flexible gastrointestinal endoscopy was potentially feasible and useful by improving the device setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Nose
- Department of Next Generation Endoscopic Intervention (Project ENGINE)Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Motohiko Kato
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic EndoscopyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | | | | | - Kotaro Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Takuro Saito
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Koji Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Kazuyoshi Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Tomoki Makino
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Tsuyoshi Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yukinori Kurokawa
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Kiyokazu Nakajima
- Department of Next Generation Endoscopic Intervention (Project ENGINE)Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
- Department of Gastroenterological SurgeryGraduate School of Medicine Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
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Soemarko DS, Jahja FE, Adi NP, Anestherita F, Fitriani DY. Association between COVID-19 Post-infection and Work Capacity among Healthcare Workers in the National Referral Hospital in Indonesia. ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA 2024; 58:57-61. [PMID: 39005613 PMCID: PMC11239988 DOI: 10.47895/amp.vi0.6739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Background Patients who had severe COVID-19 infection were thought to be one of the factors affecting the suitability of work capacity. Functional capacity can be measured by 6-minute walking test (6MWT). Some particular jobs have a minimum functional capacity to be met. Objectives The aim of this research is to determine the relationship between severity of COVID-19 infection and work capacity among post-infected healthcare workers in the National Referral Hospital. Methods A cross-sectional study among healthcare workers who had COVID-19 infection from June to July 2021, and had undergone functional capacity examination from September to November 2021 was conducted. Data processing was carried out by collecting data from medical records of infected healthcare workers. Bivariate analysis statistic test was done to determine the association between degree of severity and work capacity. Determination of the suitability of work capacity was done by comparing the results of the functional capacity examination with the minimum estimated matabolic equivalents (METs) needs of workers. Results A total of 102 employees data from ages 25 to 58 years were collected. The result showed that 81 employees had unsuitable work capacity with most of them coming from the mild infected group (83.3%). Conclusion There is no significant relationship (p>0.05) between age, gender, BMI, sequelae, comorbidities, and degree of severity of COVID-19 infection and work capacity among healthcare workers. Even though there is no signficant relationship between severity of COVID-19 and work capacity, this research shows there are more than 50% post-infected healthcare workers who have unsuitable work capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dewi Sumaryani Soemarko
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Centre IMERI, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Felicia Erika Jahja
- Occupational Medicine Specialist Programme, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Nuri Purwito Adi
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Centre IMERI, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Fitri Anestherita
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Dewi Yunia Fitriani
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Centre IMERI, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
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Lam T, Saso A, Torres Ortiz A, Hatcher J, Woodman M, Chandran S, Thistlethwayte R, Best T, Johnson M, Wagstaffe H, Mai A, Buckland M, Gilmour K, Goldblatt D, Grandjean L. Socioeconomic and Demographic Risk Factors for SARS-CoV-2 Seropositivity Among Healthcare Workers in a UK Hospital: A Prospective Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:594-602. [PMID: 37647517 PMCID: PMC10954340 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad522] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To protect healthcare workers (HCWs) from the consequences of disease due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), it is necessary to understand the risk factors that drive exposure and infection within hospitals. Insufficient consideration of key socioeconomic variables is a limitation of existing studies that can lead to bias and residual confounding of proposed risk factors for infection. METHODS The Co-STARs study prospectively enrolled 3679 HCWs between April 2020 and September 2020. We used multivariate logistic regression to comprehensively characterize the demographic, occupational, socioeconomic, and environmental risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. RESULTS After adjusting for key confounders, relative household overcrowding (odds ratio [OR], 1.4 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.1-1.9]; P = .006), Black, Black British, Caribbean, or African ethnicity (OR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.2-2.3]; P = .003), increasing age (ages 50-60 years: OR, 1.8 [95% CI, 1.3-2.4]; P < .001), lack of access to sick pay (OR, 1.8 [95% CI, 1.3-2.4]; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Socioeconomic and demographic factors outside the hospital were the main drivers of infection and exposure to SARS-CoV-2 during the first wave of the pandemic in an urban pediatric referral hospital. Overcrowding and out-of-hospital SARS-CoV-2 contact are less amenable to intervention. However, lack of access to sick pay among externally contracted staff is more easily rectifiable. Our findings suggest that providing easier access to sick pay would lead to a decrease in SARS-CoV-2 transmission and potentially that of other infectious diseases in hospital settings. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT04380896.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Lam
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anja Saso
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Arturo Torres Ortiz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Hatcher
- Department of Microbiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marc Woodman
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shruthi Chandran
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Timothy Best
- Department of Microbiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marina Johnson
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Wagstaffe
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Annabelle Mai
- Clinical Immunology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Buckland
- Clinical Immunology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kimberly Gilmour
- Clinical Immunology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Goldblatt
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Grandjean
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Ally N, Ismail S, Naidu N, Makda I, Mayet I, Gyasi ME, Makafui P, Nomo A, Nanfack C, Madikane AT, Pohl WD, Mbambisa BN, Oettle JT, Adepoju F, Tota-Bolarinwa TB, Buque A, Khalau SJN, Zirima D, Takayidza B, Eze UA, Adedeji A, Sandi F, Feksi J, Okonkwo O, Hassan A, du Toit N, Petersen S, Tsimi C, Dovoma V, Bature M, Adamu M, Okeke S, Asimadu IN, Kizor-Akaraiwe NN, Ezisi CN, Nkumbe HE, Olivier TTM, Alli HD. Impact of COVID-19 on ophthalmic surgical procedures in sub-Saharan Africa: a multicentre study. Trop Med Health 2024; 52:24. [PMID: 38486241 PMCID: PMC10941409 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-024-00589-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on healthcare and ophthalmology services globally. Numerous studies amongst various medical and surgical specialties showed a reduction in patient attendance and surgical procedures performed. Prior published ophthalmic literature focused on specific types of procedures and were usually single centre. The current study attempts to quantify the impact on a larger scale, namely that of sub-Saharan Africa, and to include all ophthalmic subspecialties. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of the surgical records from 17 ophthalmology centres in seven countries located in East, Central, West and Southern Africa. The date of declaration of the first lockdown was used as the beginning of the pandemic and the pivot point to compare theatre records one year prior to the pandemic and the first year of the pandemic. We examined the total number of surgical procedures over the two year period and categorized them according to ophthalmic subspecialty and type of procedure performed. We then compared the pre-pandemic and pandemic surgical numbers over the two year period. RESULTS There were 26,357 ophthalmic surgical procedures performed with a significant decrease in the first year of the pandemic (n = 8942) compared to the year prior to the pandemic (n = 17,415). The number of surgical procedures performed was lower in the first year of the pandemic compared to the year prior to the pandemic by 49% [Incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.51, 95% CI 0.41-0.64), 27% (0.73, 0.55-0.99), 46% (0.54, 0.30-0.99), 40% (0.60, 0.39-0.92) and 59% (0.41, 0.29-0.57) in sub-Saharan Africa (4 regions combined), West, Central, East and Southern Africa, respectively]. The number of surgical procedures in the different sub-specialty categories in sub-Saharan Africa (4 regions combined) was significantly lower in the first year of the pandemic compared to the year prior to the pandemic, except for glaucoma (IRR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52-1.01), oncology (0.71, 0.48-1.05), trauma (0.90, 0.63-1.28) and vitreoretinal (0.67, 0.42-1.08) categories. CONCLUSION This study provides insight into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in multiple regions and countries on the African continent. The identification of which surgical subspecialty was most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in each region allows for better planning and resource allocation to address these backlogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naseer Ally
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Sarah Ismail
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Natasha Naidu
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ismail Makda
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ismail Mayet
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - Arlette Nomo
- Yaounde Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Chantal Nanfack
- Yaounde Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Walda D Pohl
- Tshwane District Hospital, Tshwane, South Africa
| | | | - Jonathan T Oettle
- Livingstone Hospital, Walter Sisulu University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Feyi Adepoju
- University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Douglas Zirima
- Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit, Paririnyetwa Hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Brian Takayidza
- Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit, Paririnyetwa Hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Frank Sandi
- The University of Dodoma Medical School, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Jacinta Feksi
- The University of Dodoma Medical School, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Nagib du Toit
- Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shahlaa Petersen
- Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Suhanyah Okeke
- Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hassan D Alli
- St John Eye Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Allahgholipour A, Safavi-Naini SAA, Shekarriz Foomany Z, Eskandari A, Nazari Rostami H, Honarvar MJ, Mohammadi M, Khalili P, Ilaghi M, Afshar H, Amini Baghbadorani A, Moghimi HR, Chamani Goorabi A, Mehrparvar A, Safari M, Nakhli AS, Mahmoudabadi M, Seifadini A, Sheikhansari S, Khojastehfar S, Mahdavi P, Mohammadi M, Ashrafi Barzideh S, Akbarzadeh N, Delavarpour Moghadam SH, Tavakoli Pirzaman A, Barary M, Emamhadi M. COVID-19 vaccines breakthrough infection and adverse reactions in medical students: a nationwide survey in Iran. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1348015. [PMID: 38544731 PMCID: PMC10965537 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1348015] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There are different types of COVID-19 vaccines approved worldwide. Since no national studies focus on vaccine-related adverse reactions and breakthrough cases, this study aimed to investigate the rate of adverse events and COVID-19 infection in medical students in Iran. Methods This retrospective cohort study included Iranian medical students who received two doses of COVID-19 vaccines. The medical team gathered the demographic characteristics, comorbidities, type of vaccine, adverse events following vaccination, and history of COVID-19 infection data through a phone interview. The frequency of adverse events and breakthrough infection was stratified by vaccine type (ChAdOx1-S, Gam-COVID-Vac, and BIBP-CorV). Results A total of 3,591 medical students enrolled in this study, of which 57.02% were females, with a mean age of 23.31 + 4.87. A PCR-confirmed and suspicious-for-COVID-19 breakthrough infection rate of 4.51 and 7.02% was detected, respectively. There was no significant relation between breakthrough infection and gender, BMI, blood groups, and comorbidities. However, there was a significant difference in breakthrough infection rate among different types of vaccines (p = 0.001) and history of COVID-19 infection (p = 0.001). A total of 16 participants were hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection after vaccination for reasons such as dyspnea, abnormal imaging, or decreased oxygen saturation. No severe infection or death was observed in the studied population. Conclusion Vaccination prevented severe COVID-19 infection, although a high breakthrough infection rate was evident among Iranian medical students during the Delta variant's peak. Vaccine effectiveness may be fragile during emerging new variants and in high-exposure settings. Moreover, adverse events are rare, and the benefits of vaccination outweigh the side effects. However, many limitations challenged this study, and the results should be cautious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirreza Allahgholipour
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Amir Ahmad Safavi-Naini
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shekarriz Foomany
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolvahab Eskandari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Nazari Rostami
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamad Javad Honarvar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mohammadi
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Parnian Khalili
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehran Ilaghi
- Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hossein Afshar
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Amini Baghbadorani
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Moghimi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Chamani Goorabi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Mehrparvar
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Safari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Sadat Nakhli
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mahmoudabadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Adib Seifadini
- Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sobhan Sheikhansari
- Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadaf Khojastehfar
- Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Mahdavi
- Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maede Mohammadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siyamak Ashrafi Barzideh
- Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nadia Akbarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hosein Delavarpour Moghadam
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Barary
- Student Research Committee, School of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - MohammadAli Emamhadi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Park MH, Sung KS, Kim JH, Myung J, Hong JY. Development and demonstration of the protective efficacy of a convertible respiratory barrier enclosure: a simulation study. Clin Exp Emerg Med 2024; 11:59-67. [PMID: 38018073 PMCID: PMC11009702 DOI: 10.15441/ceem.23.067] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The efficacy of previously developed respiratory barrier enclosures to limit healthcare workers' exposure to aerosols from COVID-19 patients remains unclear; in addition, the design of these devices is unsuitable for transportation or other emergency procedures. Therefore, we developed a novel negative pressure respiratory isolator to improve protection from patient-generated aerosols and evaluated its protective effect in conversion to systemic isolator. METHODS This in vitro study simulated droplets by nebulizing 1% glycerol + 99% ethanol solution. We performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and converted a respiratory barrier enclosure into a systemic isolator with a respiratory barrier as well as a respiratory barrier with negative pressure generator (NPG), which were compared with control and room air. During the procedure, particles were counted for 30 seconds and the count was repeated 10 times. RESULTS During CPR, the total number of particles in the respiratory barrier with NPG (280,529; interquartile range [IQR], 205,263-359,195; P=0.970) was similar to that in the control (308,789; IQR, 175,056-473,276). Using NPG with a respiratory barrier reduced the number of particles to 27,524 (IQR, 26,703- 28,905; P=0.001). Particle number during conversion of the respiratory barrier into a systemic isolator was also lower than in the control (25,845; IQR, 19,391- 29,772; P=0.001). CONCLUSION The novel isolator was converted to a systemic isolator without air leakage. The aerosol-blocking effect of the isolator was quantified using a particle counter during CPR. Further studies comparing the barrier effect of isolators within various pressure differentials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ho Park
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Ji Hoon Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jinwoo Myung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Young Hong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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40
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Piscitello GM, Parker WF. Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders by COVID-19 Status Throughout the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Chest 2024; 165:601-609. [PMID: 37778695 PMCID: PMC10925541 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2023.09.024] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether performing CPR on patients with COVID-19 would be effective or increase COVID-19 transmission to health care workers was unclear. RESEARCH QUESTION Did the prevalence of do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders by COVID-19 status change over the first year of the pandemic as risks such as COVID-19 transmission to health care workers improved? STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS This cross-sectional study assessed DNR orders for all adult patients admitted to ICUs at two academic medical centers in Chicago, IL, between April 2020 and April 2021. DNR orders by COVID-19 status were assessed using risk-adjusted mixed-effects logistic regression and propensity score matching by patient severity of illness. RESULTS The study population of 3,070 critically ill patients were 46% Black, 53% male, with median age (interquartile range [IQR]) 63 (50-73) years. Eighteen percent were COVID-19 positive and 27% had a DNR order. Black and Latinx patients had higher absolute rates of DNR orders than White patients (30% vs 29% vs 23%; P = .006). After adjustment for patient characteristics, illness severity, and hospital location, DNR orders were more likely in patients with COVID-19 in the nonpropensity score-matched (n = 3,070; aOR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.64-2.38) and propensity score-matched (n = 1,118; aOR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.45-2.52) cohorts. The prevalence of DNR orders remained higher for patients with COVID-19 than patients without COVID-19 during all months of the study period (difference in prevalence over time, P = .751). INTERPRETATION In this multihospital study, DNR orders remained persistently higher for patients with COVID-19 vs patients without COVID-19 with similar severity of illness during the first year of the pandemic. The specific reasons why DNR orders remained persistently elevated for patients with COVID-19 should be assessed in future studies, because these changes may continue to affect COVID-19 patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina M Piscitello
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; Palliative Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
| | - William F Parker
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL; MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Dost A, Sezgin D, Esin MN. The association between the work environment and the fear of COVID-19 experienced by nurses. Work 2024:WOR230121. [PMID: 38427519 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230121] [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: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The conditions in the workplace have a critical influence on the mental health of nurses and their attitudes toward their job, which may impact patient care. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between perceptions of the work environment and fear of COVID-19 experienced by nurses. METHODS The data were collected using a demographic data form, the Work Environment Scale (WES), and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The study was completed with 183 nurses who provide care to COVID-19 patients. RESULTS The mean scores for the WES and Fear of COVID-19 Scale were 63.59±12.35 and 21.98±8.36, respectively. There was a positive correlation between the points acquired from the "employee fears" section of the WES and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale mean ranks (r = 0.22). There was a weak negative correlation between the Fear of COVID-19 score and the WES "job satisfaction" score (r = -0.214). There was a weak negative correlation between the scores of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale and perceived support at work (r = -0.33) and between the WES scores and weekly working hours (r = -0.27). However, there was a weak to moderate positive correlation between the WES scores and number of days off per week (r = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS Nurses experience a high fear of COVID-19, and a decrease in their attitudes of the work environment was associated with an increased fear of COVID-19. The fear of COVID-19 may be reduced by various interventions to provide support at work and increase nurses' job satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Dost
- Department of Nursing, Health Sciences Faculty, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Duygu Sezgin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland - Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Melek Nihal Esin
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Lecona OA, Arroyo-Valerio AG, Bueno-Hernández N, Carrillo-Ruíz JD, Ruelas L, Márquez-Franco R, Aguado-García A, Barrón EV, Escobedo G, Ibarra-Coronado E, Olguín-Rodríguez PV, Barajas-Martínez A, Rivera AL, Fossion R. Risk factors contributing to infection with SARS-CoV-2 are modulated by sex. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297901. [PMID: 38416704 PMCID: PMC10901358 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Throughout the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico (August-December 2020), we closely followed a cohort of n = 100 healthcare workers. These workers were initially seronegative for Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and maintained close contact with patients afflicted by the disease. We explored the database of demographic, physiological and laboratory parameters of the cohort recorded at baseline to identify potential risk factors for infection with SARS-CoV-2 at a follow-up evaluation six months later. Given that susceptibility to infection may be a systemic rather than a local property, we hypothesized that a multivariate statistical analysis, such as MANOVA, may be an appropriate statistical approach. Our results indicate that susceptibility to infection with SARS-CoV-2 is modulated by sex. For men, different physiological states appear to exist that predispose to or protect against infection, whereas for women, we did not find evidence for divergent physiological states. Intriguingly, male participants who remained uninfected throughout the six-month observation period, had values for mean arterial pressure and waist-to-hip ratio that exceeded the normative reference range. We hypothesize that certain risk factors that worsen the outcome of COVID-19 disease, such as being overweight or having high blood pressure, may instead offer some protection against infection with SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio A. Lecona
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Nallely Bueno-Hernández
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Damian Carrillo-Ruíz
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
- Coordinación de Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Anahuac México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis Ruelas
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - René Márquez-Franco
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Aguado-García
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias (CInC), Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Eira Valeria Barrón
- Servicio de Medicina Genómica “Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Galileo Escobedo
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Ibarra-Coronado
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Paola V. Olguín-Rodríguez
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias (CInC), Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Antonio Barajas-Martínez
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ana Leonor Rivera
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ruben Fossion
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad (C3), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Crosby JC, Lee RA, McGwin G, Heath SL, Burkholder GA, Gravett RM, Overton ET, Locks G, Fleece ME, Franco R, Nafziger S. A COVID-19 monitoring process for healthcare workers utilizing occupational health. Occup Med (Lond) 2024; 74:71-77. [PMID: 37995321 PMCID: PMC10875928 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqad114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospital-based occupational health (HBOH) is uniquely positioned to not only prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission, but to care for healthcare workers (HCWs) sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). AIMS The primary objective of this study is to describe a system where HBOH services were adapted to provide a monitoring programme whereby HCWs with SARS-CoV-2 received daily evaluations and treatment options in order to improve access to care, and to report the clinical outcomes and predictors of hospitalization in HCWs enrolled in the programme. A secondary objective is to compare clinical outcomes to data on national HCWs with COVID-19. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used survey data collected on HCWs at a university health system with COVID-19 from 1 March 2020 through 1 December 2021. A firth regression model was used to examine the unadjusted and adjusted association between clinical factors and hospitalization. RESULTS The study cohort included 4814 HCWs with COVID-19. Overall hospitalizations were 119 (2%), and there were six deaths (0.12%). Predictors of hospitalization include several co-morbidities and symptoms. A total of 1835 HCWs monitored before vaccine or monoclonal antibody availability were compared with data on U.S. HCWs in a similar time period. The monitored HCWs had a lower rate of co-morbidities (19% versus 44%, P < 0.001), a lower hospitalization rate (3% versus 8% P < 0.001) and case-fatality rate (0.11% versus 0.95% P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This monitoring strategy for COVID-19 may be feasible for HBOH systems to implement and improve access to care, but more data are needed to determine if it improves outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Crosby
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - R A Lee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - G McGwin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - S L Heath
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - G A Burkholder
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - R M Gravett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - E T Overton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - G Locks
- UAB Employee Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - M E Fleece
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - R Franco
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heerskin School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
| | - S Nafziger
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, USA
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Ke M, Soothill G, Wilson K, Swietlik S, Leckie A, Sutherland R. Descriptive study of COVID-19 vaccinations and infections within an NHS workforce. Occup Med (Lond) 2024; 74:120-127. [PMID: 38029429 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqad126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers were a priority group for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination during the pandemic. Occupational exposure may account for some of the increased risk faced. AIMS Describe COVID-19 vaccine uptake and infection rates in staff across a large NHS board in Scotland to better understand occupational risk during the pandemic. METHODS Descriptive cross-sectional study. Demographic data were extracted on 5 August 2021 from 26 058 members of staff. COVID-19 vaccination status and positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results were extracted on two separate dates to describe the timeline of staff infections between March 2020 and January 2022. RESULTS There was high uptake of all three vaccine doses across all demographic groups in hospital staff. PCR positivity decreased with increasing age and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation score. Staff and nosocomial COVID-19 infections followed peaks in community infection rates. CONCLUSIONS NHS Lothian is a typical NHS workforce with good vaccine uptake. Beyond very early cases, there seems to be minimal evidence of occupational acquisition of COVID-19. The large number of nosocomial infections at the start of the pandemic may, in fact, reflect lack of community testing at this time. Despite protection from high vaccine coverage, job type and good Infection Prevention and Control practices, it seems that staff remain at high risk of catching the highly transmissible omicron variant from the community rather than work.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ke
- Clinical Infection Research Group, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP, UK
| | - G Soothill
- Regional Infectious Diseases Unit, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP, UK
| | - K Wilson
- Lothian Occupational Health and Safety Service, Edinburgh, EH9 2HL, UK
| | - S Swietlik
- Lothian NHS Board, Edinburgh, EH1 3EG, UK
| | - A Leckie
- Lothian Occupational Health and Safety Service, Edinburgh, EH9 2HL, UK
| | - R Sutherland
- Clinical Infection Research Group, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP, UK
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45
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Ripoll J, Chela-Alvarez X, Briones-Vozmediano E, Fiol de-Roque MA, Zamanillo-Campos R, Ricci-Cabello I, Llobera J, Calafat-Villalonga C, Serrano-Ripoll MJ. Impact of COVID-19 on mental health of health care workers in Spain: a mix-methods study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:463. [PMID: 38355471 PMCID: PMC10865523 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17979-z] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spain's lockdown measures couldn't prevent the severe impact of the COVID-19 first wave, leading to high infections, deaths, and strain on healthcare workers (HCWs). This study aimed to explore the mental health impact on HCWs in the Balearic Islands during the initial months of the pandemic, the influencing factors, and the experiences of those in a COVID-19 environment. METHODS Using a mixed-methods approach, the study encompassed quantitative and qualitative elements. Cross-sectional survey data from April to June 2020 comprised HCWs who were emailed invitations. The survey covered demographics, work, clinical and COVID-19 variables, along with psychological distress and PTSD symptoms, using validated measures. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with HCWs offered qualitative insights. RESULTS Three hundred thirty-six HCWs averaging 46.8 years, mainly women (79.2%), primarily nurses in primary care with over 10 years of experience. Anxiety symptoms were reported by 28.8%, 65.1% noted worsened sleep quality, and 27.7% increased psychoactive drug usage. Psychological distress affected 55.2%, while 27.9% exhibited PTSD symptoms. Gender, age, experience, COVID-19 patient contact, and workload correlated with distress, PTSD symptoms, sleep quality, and psychoactive drug usage. Interviews uncovered discomfort sources, such as fear of infection and lack of control, leading to coping strategies like information avoidance and seeking support. LIMITATIONS Static cross-sectional design, non-probabilistic sample, and telephone interviews affecting non-verbal cues, with interviews conducted during early pandemic lockdown. CONCLUSIONS HCWs faced significant psychological distress during the pandemic's first wave, underscoring the necessity for robust support and resources to counteract its impact on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ripoll
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain
| | - X Chela-Alvarez
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain.
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain.
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain.
| | - E Briones-Vozmediano
- Departamento de Enfermería y Fisioterapia Grupo de estudios en sociedad, salud, educación y cultura (GESEC), Universidad de Lleida.Grup de Recerca en Cures en Salut (GRECS), Institut de Recerca Biomèdica (IRB) de Lleida, Lleida, 25001, Spain
| | - M A Fiol de-Roque
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain
| | - R Zamanillo-Campos
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
| | - I Ricci-Cabello
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain
| | - J Llobera
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain
| | - C Calafat-Villalonga
- Department of Psychology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, 07122, Spain
| | - M J Serrano-Ripoll
- Primary Care Research Unit of Mallorca, Palma, 07002, Spain
- Grup de Recerca Atenció Primària i Promoció (GRAPP-caIB) Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Ctra. Valldemossa, Hospital Universitari Son Espases 79, Palma, 07120, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Palma, 07120, Spain
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Makovski TT, Ghattas J, Monnier-Besnard S, Cavillot L, Ambrožová M, Vašinová B, Feteira-Santos R, Bezzegh P, Bollmann FP, Cottam J, Haneef R, Devleesschauwer B, Speybroeck N, Nogueira PJ, Forjaz MJ, Coste J, Carcaillon-Bentata L. Multimorbidity and frailty are associated with poorer SARS-CoV-2-related outcomes: systematic review of population-based studies. Aging Clin Exp Res 2024; 36:40. [PMID: 38353841 PMCID: PMC10866755 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-023-02685-4] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimating the risks and impacts of COVID-19 for different health groups at the population level is essential for orienting public health measures. Adopting a population-based approach, we conducted a systematic review to explore: (1) the etiological role of multimorbidity and frailty in developing SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-related short-term outcomes; and (2) the prognostic role of multimorbidity and frailty in developing short- and long-term outcomes. This review presents the state of the evidence in the early years of the pandemic. It was conducted within the European Union Horizon 2020 program (No: 101018317); Prospero registration: CRD42021249444. METHODS PubMed, Embase, World Health Organisation COVID-19 Global literature on coronavirus disease, and PsycINFO were searched between January 2020 and 7 April 2021 for multimorbidity and 1 February 2022 for frailty. Quantitative peer-reviewed studies published in English with population-representative samples and validated multimorbidity and frailty tools were considered. RESULTS Overall, 9,701 records were screened by title/abstract and 267 with full text. Finally, 14 studies were retained for multimorbidity (etiological role, n = 2; prognostic, n = 13) and 5 for frailty (etiological role, n = 2; prognostic, n = 4). Only short-term outcomes, mainly mortality, were identified. An elevated likelihood of poorer outcomes was associated with an increasing number of diseases, a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index, different disease combinations, and an increasing frailty level. DISCUSSION Future studies, which include the effects of recent virus variants, repeated exposure and vaccination, will be useful for comparing the possible evolution of the associations observed in the earlier waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana T Makovski
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries, French Public Health Agency (Santé publique France), Saint-Maurice, France.
| | - Jinane Ghattas
- Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stéphanie Monnier-Besnard
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries, French Public Health Agency (Santé publique France), Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Lisa Cavillot
- Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Monika Ambrožová
- National screening centre, Institute of Health Information and Statistics of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Vašinová
- National screening centre, Institute of Health Information and Statistics of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Rodrigo Feteira-Santos
- Área Disciplinar Autónoma de Bioestatística, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado TERRA, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter Bezzegh
- Directorate for Project Management, National Directorate General for Hospitals, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - James Cottam
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Romana Haneef
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries, French Public Health Agency (Santé publique France), Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Niko Speybroeck
- Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paulo Jorge Nogueira
- Área Disciplinar Autónoma de Bioestatística, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado TERRA, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação Em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, ENSP, CISP, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR-Centro de Investigação, Inovação e Desenvolvimento Em Enfermagem de Lisboa Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1600-190, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria João Forjaz
- National Center of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, RICAPPS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joël Coste
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries, French Public Health Agency (Santé publique France), Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Laure Carcaillon-Bentata
- Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries, French Public Health Agency (Santé publique France), Saint-Maurice, France
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Vyas N, Bennett A, Shaver N, Beck A, Zitiktye G, Whelan B, O’Regan R, Conway A, Skidmore B, Moher D, Little J. SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk for common group activities and settings: a living scoping review. Eur J Public Health 2024; 34:196-201. [PMID: 37995320 PMCID: PMC10843946 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the modes of transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) are well studied, the risk of transmission in various group settings or activities is less clear. This living scoping review aims to summarize the risk factors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread in common group activities (e.g. social gatherings) or settings (e.g. schools, hospitals, shared workplaces) to understand the drivers of transmission and to inform a risk assessment profile tool for use of rapid antigen detection tests. METHODS We systematically searched electronic databases, MEDLINE and Embase, from January 2019 until February 2022. We included studies that evaluated the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in activities and settings, deemed strategically important to government departments in Ireland, provided by the Department of Health (Ireland) Expert Advisory Group on Rapid Testing. RESULTS After screening 14 052 records, data from 139 studies were narratively synthesized. The risk was consistently reported as 'high' for large social events (e.g. weddings) and indoor sports, working in healthcare settings and shared workplaces, working/living in residential settings and travelling via public transportation. Most studies were from healthcare settings, with common risk factors including close contact with COVID-19 cases, working in high-risk departments and inappropriate use of personal protective equipment. For other settings and activities, lack of infection prevention and control practices reportedly contributed to infection transmission. CONCLUSION The heterogeneity across studies and lack of direct information on dominant variants, preventive measures, vaccination coverage necessitates further research on transmission risk within group activities to inform infection prevention and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niyati Vyas
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandria Bennett
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicole Shaver
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Beck
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gabriele Zitiktye
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barbara Whelan
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Rhea O’Regan
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Aileen Conway
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Becky Skidmore
- Independent Information Specialist, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Moher
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julian Little
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Tejiokem MC, Abessolo HA, Nkodo JM, Ouethy M, Mayaka GB, Touha Y, Dikoume UA, Tchatchueng‐Mbougua JB, Noumbissi DC, Ndjeukam WT, Mbarga HOO, Ngoupo PAT, Moussi C, Garoua BH, Njouom R, Richard V. High seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 among healthcare workers in Yaoundé, Cameroon after the first wave of Covid-19 pandemic and associated factors. Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2024; 18:e13239. [PMID: 38342486 PMCID: PMC10859237 DOI: 10.1111/irv.13239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HWs) are at a high risk of exposure to emerging health threats. Following the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Cameroon, we explored the presence and persistence of naturally acquired antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the factors associated with seropositivity in HWs. METHODS Staff at two referral hospitals in Yaoundé or two Health District Hospitals in Obala and Mbalmayo were included in a 6-month prospective cohort analysis or cross-sectional survey, respectively. Seroprevalence and associated factors were determined, and Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess antibody persistence or positive seroconversion over time. RESULTS From August 2020 to March 2021, 426 HWs (median age: 31 years, interquartile range: 27-37 years; 66.4% female) were enrolled. The overall seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 54.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 49.1-58.8) and was significantly different between study sites (p = 0.04). Of the 216 HWs included in the 6-month cohort, 109 (50.5%) HWs were seropositive at inclusion; the probability of persistent antibodies or of becoming seropositive was 93.8% (95% CI: 84.2-100) and 78.9% (95% CI: 61.7-88.4), respectively. Seroconversion was associated with study site and occupation but not with infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. CONCLUSIONS We observed high seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody and seroconversion among HWs associated with occupational risk. This suggests low compliance to the COVID-19 control measures. Continued training and implementation of IPC measures and accelerated preparedness are needed to better tackle future threats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hermine Abessolo Abessolo
- Centre Spécialisé de Prise en Charge des Patients Covid‐19annexe 2 Hôpital Central de YaoundéYaoundéCameroon
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Charlotte Moussi
- Délégation Régionale de la Santé Publique du CentreYaoundéCameroon
| | - Bonaventure Hollong Garoua
- Centre Spécialisé de Prise en Charge des Patients Covid‐19annexe 2 Hôpital Central de YaoundéYaoundéCameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Service de virologieCentre Pasteur du CamerounYaoundéCameroon
| | - Vincent Richard
- Direction Internationale, Institut Pasteur, Réseau International des Instituts PasteurParisFrance
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49
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Thapthim-On M, Chaiear N, Mitsungnern T. Which alternative well-fit masks can be used in medical procedures? J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:204-211. [PMID: 38113817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.11.023] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO and CDC recommended that healthcare personnel (HCPs) performing non-aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) don a properly fitted mask. We aimed to evaluate the fit factors (FFs) of eight alternative well-fit masks (AWMs) used by Thai HCPs. METHODS This comparative descriptive study was conducted on 33 HCPs between October and November 2022, categorized into three facial sizes: small, medium, and large. Each participant wore eight types of AWMs in random order: medical mask under adjustable ear-loop (AEL)-KF94 (MK), medical mask under AEL-KN95 with a hook (MN), medical mask under fabric mask (MF), AEL- KF94 (KF94), AEL-KF94 under fabric masks (KF), AEL-KF94 with a hook (KF94H), AEL-KN95 with a hook (KN95), and AEL-KN95 with a hook under fabric mask (NF). FFs were measured using a quantitative fit test. RESULTS The respective number of HCPs wearing small, medium, and large was 12, 12, and 9, and the mean±SD of face width and length was 132.98 ± 10.49 and 114.92 ± 10.10 mm. The highest respective median of FF was KN95 = 200, NF= 200, MN= 185, and KF94H = 171, and the respective passing fit-test rate was 97%, 84.8%, 63.6%, and 60.6%. There was no difference in FFs between the N95 and KN95 (p=0.72), the N95 and NF (p=0.202), and the three face sizes. Moreover, KF94H pass rates were significantly higher for females compared to males (OR = 13.3; p = 0.001) and for small facial sizes compared to either medium or large sizes (OR = 14.7; p = 0.009). CONCLUSION The AEL-KN95 with hook and sponge at the nosepiece is an effective respirator for use by HCPs in non-AGPs, as the FF and fit test pass rates were comparable to those of N95, and there were no differences in FFs between facial sizes. However, the female who had a small face size may use a KF94H as an alternative PPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maturin Thapthim-On
- Department of Community, Family, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Naesinee Chaiear
- Department of Community, Family, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Thapanawong Mitsungnern
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
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50
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Haley BM, Patil P, Levy JI, Spangler KR, Tieskens KF, Carnes F, Peng X, Klevens RM, Troppy TS, Fabian MP, Lane KJ, Leibler JH. Evaluating COVID-19 Risk to Essential Workers by Occupational Group: A Case Study in Massachusetts. J Community Health 2024; 49:91-99. [PMID: 37507525 PMCID: PMC10823035 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01249-x] [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] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2 varies by profession, but "essential workers" are often considered in aggregate in COVID-19 models. This aggregation complicates efforts to understand risks to specific types of workers or industries and target interventions, specifically towards non-healthcare workers. We used census tract-resolution American Community Survey data to develop novel essential worker categories among the occupations designated as COVID-19 Essential Services in Massachusetts. Census tract-resolution COVID-19 cases and deaths were provided by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. We evaluated the association between essential worker categories and cases and deaths over two phases of the pandemic from March 2020 to February 2021 using adjusted mixed-effects negative binomial regression, controlling for other sociodemographic risk factors. We observed elevated COVID-19 case incidence in census tracts in the highest tertile of workers in construction/transportation/buildings maintenance (Phase 1: IRR 1.32 [95% CI 1.22, 1.42]; Phase 2: IRR: 1.19 [1.13, 1.25]), production (Phase 1: IRR: 1.23 [1.15, 1.33]; Phase 2: 1.18 [1.12, 1.24]), and public-facing sales and services occupations (Phase 1: IRR: 1.14 [1.07, 1.21]; Phase 2: IRR: 1.10 [1.06, 1.15]). We found reduced case incidence associated with greater percentage of essential workers able to work from home (Phase 1: IRR: 0.85 [0.78, 0.94]; Phase 2: IRR: 0.83 [0.77, 0.88]). Similar trends exist in the associations between essential worker categories and deaths, though attenuated. Estimating industry-specific risk for essential workers is important in targeting interventions for COVID-19 and other diseases and our categories provide a reproducible and straightforward way to support such efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth M Haley
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Prasad Patil
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan I Levy
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Keith R Spangler
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Koen F Tieskens
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Fei Carnes
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Xiaojing Peng
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Monina Klevens
- Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - T Scott Troppy
- Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Patricia Fabian
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Kevin J Lane
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Jessica H Leibler
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
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