1
|
Ige FA, Ohihoin GA, Osuolale K, Dada A, Onyia N, Johnson A, Okwuraiwe AP, Odediran O, Liboro G, Aniedobe M, Mogaji S, Nwaiwu SO, Akande IR, Audu RA, Salako BL. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG among healthcare workers in Lagos, Nigeria. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292440. [PMID: 37796780 PMCID: PMC10553227 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are disproportionately infected with SARS-CoV-2 when compared to members of the general public; estimating the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody and SARS-CoV-2 infection rate among HCWs is therefore crucial. This study was carried out in four health facilities in Lagos Nigeria to determine the prevalence of IgG antibodies (seroprevalence) and SARS-CoV-2 active infection rate via a positive rtPCR result, the cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2020 and July 2021. Nasopharyngeal and blood samples were collected from HCWs and screened for SARS-CoV-2 infection using the rtPCR technique and antibody using the Abbott anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG CMIA assay, respectively. Demographic and occupational exposures data were obtained and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, variables significant via inferential statistics were subjected to a multivariate analysis. A total of 413 participants were enrolled, with a mean age in years of 38.4±11.0. The seroprevalence was 30.9% (115/372) while 63/395 (15.9%) were actively infected with the virus. HCWs whose job role had direct contact with patients had a higher percentage of SARS-CoV-2 infection when compared with those not in direct contact, also being a health care worker was significantly associated with getting a positive COVID-19 PCR result. In conclusion the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence seen in this study was higher than national serosurvey estimates indicating HCWs are at higher risk of COVID-19 infection when compared to the general public. Vaccination and effective implementation of infection control measures are important to protect HCWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fehintola Anthonia Ige
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Gregory Aigbe Ohihoin
- Clinical Science Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Kazeem Osuolale
- Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Ngozi Onyia
- Paelon Memorial Medical Center, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Azuka Patrick Okwuraiwe
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Omoladun Odediran
- Body Soul and Spirit Project, Department of Community Health and Primary Care College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Gideon Liboro
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Maureen Aniedobe
- Clinical Diagnostic Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | - Stephanie Ogechi Nwaiwu
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ibukun Ruth Akande
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Rosemary Ajuma Audu
- Center for Human Virology and Genomics, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Lawal Salako
- Clinical Science Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yu EA, Jackman RP, Glesby MJ, Narayan KV. Bidirectionality between Cardiometabolic Diseases and COVID-19: Role of Humoral Immunity. Adv Nutr 2023; 14:1145-1158. [PMID: 37302794 PMCID: PMC10256583 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.06.003] [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: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiometabolic diseases and abnormalities have recently emerged as independent risk factors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity, including hospitalizations, invasive mechanical ventilation, and mortality. Determining whether and how this observation translates to more effective long-term pandemic mitigation strategies remains a challenge due to key research gaps. Specific pathways by which cardiometabolic pathophysiology affects humoral immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and vice versa, remain unclear. This review summarizes current evidence of the bidirectional influences between cardiometabolic diseases (diabetes, adiposity, hypertension, CVDs) and SARS-CoV-2 antibodies induced from infection and vaccination based on human studies. Ninety-two studies among >408,000 participants in 37 countries on 5 continents (Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America) were included in this review. Obesity was associated with higher neutralizing antibody titers following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies conducted prior to vaccinations found positive or null associations between binding antibodies (levels, seropositivity) and diabetes; after vaccinations, antibody responses did not differ by diabetes. Hypertension and CVDs were not associated with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Findings underscore the importance of elucidating the extent that tailored recommendations for COVID-19 prevention, vaccination effectiveness, screening, and diagnoses among people with obesity could reduce disease burden caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine A Yu
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, CA; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Rachael P Jackman
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, CA; University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Marshall J Glesby
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Km Venkat Narayan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Emory Global Diabetes Research Center of Woodruff Health Sciences Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jorgensen P, Schmid A, Sulo J, Preza I, Hasibra I, Kissling E, Fico A, Sridhar S, Rubin-Smith JE, Kota M, Vasili A, Daja R, Nika M, Pebody R, Lafond KE, Katz MA, Bino S. Factors associated with receipt of COVID-19 vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among healthcare workers in Albania (February 2021-June 2022): secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2023; 27:100584. [PMID: 37013112 PMCID: PMC9969343 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been disproportionally affected by COVID-19. We investigated factors associated with two- and three-dose COVID-19 vaccine uptake and SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among 1504 HCWs enrolled (19 February-7 May 2021) in a prospective COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness cohort in Albania through a secondary analysis. Methods We collected sociodemographic, occupational, health, prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, and COVID-19 vaccination data from all HCWs at enrollment. Vaccination status was assessed weekly through June 2022. A serum sample was collected from all participants at enrollment and tested for anti-spike SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. We analyzed HCWs characteristics and outcomes using multivariable logistic regression. Findings By 11 June 2022, 1337 (88.9%) HCWs had received two COVID-19 vaccine doses, of whom 255 (19.1%) received a booster. Factors significantly associated with receiving three doses (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 95% CIs) were being ≥35 years (35-44 years: 1.76 (1.05-2.97); 45-54 years: 3.11 (1.92-5.05); ≥55 years: 3.38 (2.04-5.59)) and vaccinated against influenza (1.78; 1.20-2.64). Booster dose receipt was lower among females (0.58; 0.41-0.81), previously infected (0.67; 0.48-0.93), nurses and midwives (0.31; 0.22-0.45), and support staff (0.19; 0.11-0.32). Overall 1076 (72%) were SARS-CoV-2 seropositive at enrollment. Nurses and midwifes (1.45; 1.05-2.02), support staff (1.57; 1.03-2.41), and HCWs performing aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) (1.40; 1.01-1.94) had higher odds of being seropositive, while smokers had reduced odds (0.55; 0.40-0.75). Interpretation In a large cohort of Albanian HCWs, COVID-19 vaccine booster dose uptake was very low, particularly among younger, female, and non-physician HCWs, despite evidence demonstrating the added benefit of boosters in preventing infection and severe disease. Reasons behind these disparities should be explored to develop targeted strategies in order to promote uptake in this critical population. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was higher among non-physicians and HCWs performing APGs. A better understanding of the factors contributing to these differences is needed to inform interventions that could reduce infections in the future. Funding This study was funded by the Task Force for Global Health (US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) cooperative agreement # NU51IP000873) and the World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pernille Jorgensen
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, Marmorvej 51, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexis Schmid
- Boston Children's Hospital Global Health Program, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonilda Sulo
- Southeast European Center for Surveillance and Control of Infectious Diseases, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Iria Preza
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Iris Hasibra
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Albana Fico
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Shela Sridhar
- Boston Children's Hospital Global Health Program, Boston, MA, USA
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Global Health Equity, 651 Huntington Avenue FXB, Building, 7th Floor, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Majlinda Kota
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Adela Vasili
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Rovena Daja
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Miljana Nika
- Tirana University Hospital “Mother Theresa”, Dibra Street N.372, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| | - Richard Pebody
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, Marmorvej 51, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kathryn E. Lafond
- Influenza Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mark A. Katz
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, Marmorvej 51, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Silvia Bino
- Institute of Public Health, Alexander Moisiut Street N.80, 1001, Tirana, Albania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Irizar P, Pan D, Kapadia D, Bécares L, Sze S, Taylor H, Amele S, Kibuchi E, Divall P, Gray LJ, Nellums LB, Katikireddi SV, Pareek M. Ethnic inequalities in COVID-19 infection, hospitalisation, intensive care admission, and death: a global systematic review and meta-analysis of over 200 million study participants. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 57:101877. [PMID: 36969795 PMCID: PMC9986034 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has exacerbated existing ethnic inequalities in health. Little is known about whether inequalities in severe disease and deaths, observed globally among minoritised ethnic groups, relates to greater infection risk, poorer prognosis, or both. We analysed global data on COVID-19 clinical outcomes examining inequalities between people from minoritised ethnic groups compared to the ethnic majority group. Methods Databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, EMCARE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library) were searched from 1st December 2019 to 3rd October 2022, for studies reporting original clinical data for COVID-19 outcomes disaggregated by ethnicity: infection, hospitalisation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and mortality. We assessed inequalities in incidence and prognosis using random-effects meta-analyses, with Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) use to assess certainty of findings. Meta-regressions explored the impact of region and time-frame (vaccine roll-out) on heterogeneity. PROSPERO: CRD42021284981. Findings 77 studies comprising over 200,000,000 participants were included. Compared with White majority populations, we observed an increased risk of testing positive for infection for people from Black (adjusted Risk Ratio [aRR]:1.78, 95% CI:1.59-1.99, I2 = 99.1), South Asian (aRR:3.00, 95% CI:1.59-5.66, I2 = 99.1), Mixed (aRR:1.64, 95% CI:1.02-1.67, I2 = 93.2) and Other ethnic groups (aRR:1.36, 95% CI:1.01-1.82, I2 = 85.6). Black, Hispanic, and South Asian people were more likely to be seropositive. Among population-based studies, Black and Hispanic ethnic groups and Indigenous peoples had an increased risk of hospitalisation; Black, Hispanic, South Asian, East Asian and Mixed ethnic groups and Indigenous peoples had an increased risk of ICU admission. Mortality risk was increased for Hispanic, Mixed, and Indigenous groups. Smaller differences were seen for prognosis following infection. Following hospitalisation, South Asian, East Asian, Black and Mixed ethnic groups had an increased risk of ICU admission, and mortality risk was greater in Mixed ethnic groups. Certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Interpretation Our study suggests that systematic ethnic inequalities in COVID-19 health outcomes exist, with large differences in exposure risk and some differences in prognosis following hospitalisation. Response and recovery interventions must focus on tackling drivers of ethnic inequalities which increase exposure risk and vulnerabilities to severe disease, including structural racism and racial discrimination. Funding ESRC:ES/W000849/1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Irizar
- School of Social Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Pan
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Infection and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust, United Kingdom
- Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Oxford Big Data Institute, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, United Kingdom
| | - Dharmi Kapadia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Laia Bécares
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Shirley Sze
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Harry Taylor
- School of Social Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Amele
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Eliud Kibuchi
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Pip Divall
- University Hospitals of Leicester, Education Centre Library, Glenfield Hospital and Leicester Royal Infirmary, United Kingdom
| | - Laura J Gray
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Laura B Nellums
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Manish Pareek
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Infection and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust, United Kingdom
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hannum ME, Koch RJ, Ramirez VA, Marks SS, Toskala AK, Herriman RD, Lin C, Joseph PV, Reed DR. Taste loss as a distinct symptom of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Chem Senses 2023; 48:bjad043. [PMID: 38100383 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjad043] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory scientists have been skeptical that reports of COVID-19 taste loss are genuine, in part because before COVID-19 taste loss was rare and often confused with smell loss. Therefore, to establish the predicted prevalence rate of taste loss in COVID-19 patients, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 376 papers published in 2020-2021, with 235 meeting all inclusion criteria. Drawing on previous studies and guided by early meta-analyses, we explored how methodological differences (direct vs. self-report measures) may affect these estimates. We hypothesized that direct measures of taste are at least as sensitive as those obtained by self-report and that the preponderance of evidence confirms taste loss is a symptom of COVID-19. The meta-analysis showed that, among 138,015 COVID-19-positive patients, 36.62% reported taste dysfunction (95% confidence interval: 33.02%-40.39%), and the prevalence estimates were slightly but not significantly higher from studies using direct (n = 15) versus self-report (n = 220) methodologies (Q = 1.73, df = 1, P = 0.1889). Generally, males reported lower rates of taste loss than did females, and taste loss was highest among middle-aged adults. Thus, taste loss is likely a bona fide symptom of COVID-19, meriting further research into the most appropriate direct methods to measure it and its underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie E Hannum
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Riley J Koch
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Vicente A Ramirez
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- Department of Public Health, University of California Merced, Merced, CA 95348, USA
| | - Sarah S Marks
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Aurora K Toskala
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Riley D Herriman
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Cailu Lin
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Paule V Joseph
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Danielle R Reed
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Socan M, Prosenc K, Kukec A, Zaletel-Kragelj L, Remec T, Grmek-Kosnik I. Determinants of seropositivity for SARS-CoV-2 in hospital staff in the second wave of the pandemic in Slovenia. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2022; 35:571-584. [PMID: 35856815 PMCID: PMC10464744 DOI: 10.13075/ijomeh.1896.01932] [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: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) affected a disproportionately high percentage of healthcare workers (HCWs). The aim of the study was to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibodies in nurses and clinicians working in 2 Slovenian regional hospitals, and to identify the factors associated with seropositivity. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was designed as a crosssectional study. Clinicians and nurses were invited to participate in November-December 2020. The respondents (813, 65.8%) completed a questionnaire and consented to provide 10 ml of blood for determining the presence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. RESULTS The authors observed a seroprevalence rate of 20.4%. The results of the univariate analysis proved that the age of a nurse or clinician was the factor most strongly associated with seropositivity - in fact, the youngest nurses and clinicians were 8.33 times more likely to be seropositive than those in the oldest age group (p = 0.041). Being in contact with a family/household member who was SARS-CoV-2-positive was also a very important factor. In the work-related factors group, being in the contact with a SARS-CoV-2-positive colleague (OR = 2.35, p = 0.026) or being in contact with a COVID-19 patient (OR = 1.96, p = 0.004) correlated with seropositivity. In the primary work location/department group, the only significant association appeared among those working in surgical, ENT or ophthalmology departments. The results of the multivariate analysis further supported the thesis that the age of nurses and clinicians was the factor most strongly associated with seropositivity. The youngest nurses and clinicians were 12.5 times more likely to be seropositive than those in the oldest age group (p = 0.024). Being in contact with a SARS-CoV-2-positive family/household member remained the second most important factor. CONCLUSIONS A significant number of clinicians and nurses working in secondary healthcare were infected in the first 9 months of the pandemic. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(5):571-84.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Socan
- National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Centre for Communicable Diseases)
| | - Katarina Prosenc
- National Laboratory for Health, Food and Environment, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Laboratory for Public Health Virology)
| | - Andreja Kukec
- University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Medical Faculty, Chair for Public Health)
| | | | - Tatjana Remec
- Novo Mesto General Hospital, Novo Mesto, Slovenia (Department for Infectious Diseases)
| | - Irena Grmek-Kosnik
- National Laboratory for Health, Food and Environment, Kranj, Slovenia (Laboratory for Human Microbiology)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Azami M, Moradi Y, Moradkhani A, Aghaei A. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence around the world: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Med Res 2022; 27:81. [PMID: 35655237 PMCID: PMC9160514 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-022-00710-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Covid-19 has been one of the major concerns around the world in the last 2 years. One of the challenges of this disease has been to determine its prevalence. Conflicting results of the serology test in Covid explored the need for an updated meta-analysis on this issue. Thus, this systematic review aimed to estimate the prevalence of global SARS-CoV-2 serology in different populations and geographical areas. METHODS To identify studies evaluating the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2, a comprehensive literature search was performed from international databases, including Medline (PubMed), Web of Sciences, Scopus, EMBASE, and CINHAL. RESULTS In this meta-analysis, the results showed that SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence is between 3 and 15% worldwide. In Eastern Mediterranean, the pooled estimate of seroprevalence SARS-CoV-2 was 15% (CI 95% 5-29%), and in Africa, the pooled estimate was 6% (CI 95% 1-13%). In America, the pooled estimate was 8% (CI 95% 6-11%), and in Europe, the pooled estimate was 5% (CI 95% 4-6%). Also the last region, Western Pacific, the pooled estimate was 3% (CI 95% 2-4%). Besides, we analyzed three of these areas separately. This analysis estimated the prevalence in subgroups such as study population, diagnostic methods, sampling methods, time, perspective, and type of the study. CONCLUSION The present meta-analysis showed that the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 has been between 3 and 15% worldwide. Even considering the low estimate of this rate and the increasing vaccination in the world, many people are still susceptible to SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mobin Azami
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Science, Sanandaj, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Asra Moradkhani
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Abbas Aghaei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Science, Sanandaj, Iran.
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sansone E, Sala E, Albini E, Tiraboschi M, Cipriani L, De Palma G. Effectiveness of a digital data gathering system to manage the first pandemic wave among healthcare workers in a main European coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tertiary-care hospital. ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP & HEALTHCARE EPIDEMIOLOGY : ASHE 2022; 2:e66. [PMID: 36483445 PMCID: PMC9726499 DOI: 10.1017/ash.2022.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the information collected from workers infected with severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or close contacts using a digital data gathering system (DDGS) developed at the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to better manage the spread of infection at our hospital. DESIGN Observational retrospective study. SETTING Tertiary University Hospital "Spedali Civili" Hospital, Brescia, Italy. PARTICIPANTS Workers (most of whom are healthcare workers) employed at the hospital. METHODS The information collected by the DDGS was transferred to the IBM SPSS statistical software package and then statistically analyzed. RESULTS Overall, ∼16% of the hospital workforce was infected by SARS-CoV-2 in the first pandemic wave. Nurses were the professional category with the highest infection rate (∼15%). The asymptomatic rate of infection was between 31% and 62%. Positive molecular swabs were significantly more frequent in workers undergoing the test after sending a signaling form to our DDGS. Among workers sending the signaling forms, the information about symptoms was more predictive in terms of risk, compared to the close-contact information. The concordance between molecular swabs and subsequent serological testing was significantly higher in workers signaling their at-risk condition through the DDGS. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our data demonstrate the advantages of a digital system to gather information from workers, which is useful for managing emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This holds particularly true for large organizations such as hospitals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Sansone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Unit of Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Emma Sala
- Unit of Occupational Health, Hygiene, Toxicology and Prevention, University Hospital “Spedali Civili Di Brescia,” Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Albini
- Unit of Occupational Health, Hygiene, Toxicology and Prevention, University Hospital “Spedali Civili Di Brescia,” Brescia, Italy
| | - Mara Tiraboschi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Unit of Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cipriani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Unit of Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Palma
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Unit of Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Occupational Health, Hygiene, Toxicology and Prevention, University Hospital “Spedali Civili Di Brescia,” Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Role of serology tests in COVID-19 non-hospitalized patients: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266923. [PMID: 35421183 PMCID: PMC9009643 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) has imposed catastrophic impressions on the world. After all the focused researches conducted in the COVID-19 area, many features remain obscure. We have surveyed 1,363 outpatients with suspected COVID-19 in Tehran, Iran. The analysis emphasized on characteristics of patients with positive PCR or serology of SARS-CoV-2. METHODS The nasopharyngeal swabs were tested for SARS-CoV2 PCR. Serum specimens were tested for SARS-CoV2 IgG and IgM. Clinical presentations of the patients, history of chronic diseases or drug use, contact with a possible COVID-19 patient and previous infection with SARS-COV2 were investigated. RESULTS Of the total 1,363 investigated patients, 22% had positive SARS-CoV-2 PCRs, 82% had positive IgG, 38% had positive IgM, and 31% had both positive IgM and IgG values. Positive serologic tests were significantly associated with a positive PCR test obtained previously in the course of the current disease (P value<0.001). IgG and IgM antibody values were significantly associated with underlying disease, cough, fever, chills, fatigue, and myalgia (all P values <0.001). Dyspnea was significantly associated with IgG levels (P value = 0.01), yet it was not associated with IgM serology (P value = 0.2). Positive serology tests were not associated with symptoms of coryza. GI symptoms were not associated with positive IgG test (P value = 0.1), yet it did show an association with positive IgM test (P value = 0.02). Cough, fever, chills, myalgia fatigue, dyspnea, and GI symptoms were all significantly associated with positive PCR (all P values <0.001), and symptoms of coryza did not show a significant relationship (P value = 0.8). CONCLUSION Assessing antibody titers in outpatients is invaluable due to the epidemiological importance of investigations in mild or even asymptomatic cases. Since the number of such studies in non-hospitalized patients is not high, the current study can be used as a comparison model.
Collapse
|
10
|
Oliva-Arocas A, Benavente P, Ronda E, Diaz E. Health of International Migrant Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:816597. [PMID: 35252094 PMCID: PMC8888537 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.816597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and control measures adopted have had a disproportionate impact on workers, with migrants being a group specifically affected but poorly studied. This scoping review aims to describe the evidence published on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical and mental health of migrant workers. Methods Papers written in English covering physical and mental health among international migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, retrieved from six electronic databases searched on July 31, 2021, were included. A total of 1,096 references were extracted, of which 26 studies were finally included. Results Most of the migrant populations studied were born in Asia (16 of 26) and Latin America (8 of 26) and were essential workers (15 of 26). Few studies described the length of stay in the host country (9 of 26), the legal status of the migrant population (6 of 26), or established comparison groups (7 of 26). Ten studies described COVID-19 outbreaks with high infection rates. Fourteen studies evaluated mental health (anxiety, depression, worries, fears, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder). Three of the 26 studies presented collateral positive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic because of improved hygiene. Conclusion There is a limited number of original publications related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical and mental health of migrant workers around the world. These publications mainly focus on migrants born in Asia and Latin America. The physical, long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has, so far, not been evaluated. The positive collateral effects of improving healthcare conditions for migrant workers should also be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Oliva-Arocas
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- *Correspondence: Adriana Oliva-Arocas
| | - Pierina Benavente
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Elena Ronda
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esperanza Diaz
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Unit for Migration and Health, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Screening in Healthcare Workers and Its Correlation with Clinical Presentation in Tertiary Care Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal, from November 2020 to January 2021. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2022; 2022:8515051. [PMID: 35116064 PMCID: PMC8805447 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8515051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibody titer and the life span of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 have been found to be associated with the clinical presentation in individuals. The extent of exposure of healthcare workers and the general public to SARS-CoV-2 needs to be assessed to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this study is an attempt in assessing the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody in health care workers. Methods This laboratory-based cross-sectional study was performed in Manmohan Memorial Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu from November 2020 to January 2021. A total of 185 HCWs were enrolled in this study. Their serum samples were screened for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, and a structured questionnaire was administered to collect further information. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody screening was performed using lateral flow immunoassay. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results Among 185 HCWs that participated in the study, 41 (22.2%) tested positive for the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody. Of these 41 HCWs, 37 tested positive for IgG only and 4 of them tested positive for both IgM and IgG antibodies. The presence of the previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection (p < 0.001), the presence of flu-like symptoms within the last 6 months (p < 0.001), and the presence of positive contact history (p=0.002) were statistically significant with the presence of the antibody among HCWs. Conclusion Healthcare workers carry a high burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection and are at risk of acquiring infection from their workplace. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody screening among healthcare workers is highly recommended in multiple healthcare settings as it can help in monitoring transmission dynamics and evaluation of infection control policies.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lombardi A, Renisi G, Consonni D, Oggioni M, Bono P, Renteria SU, Piatti A, Pesatori AC, Castaldi S, Muscatello A, Riboldi L, Ceriotti F, Gori A, Bandera A. Clinical characteristics of healthcare workers with SARS-CoV-2 infection after vaccination with BNT162b2 vaccine. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:97. [PMID: 35090388 PMCID: PMC8795942 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07083-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), had a significant impact worldwide. Vaccines against COVID-19 appear as a tool able to curb out mortality and reduce the circulation of the virus. Little is known so far about the clinical characteristics of individuals who developed SARS-CoV-2 infection after having received the vaccination, as well as the temporal relationship between vaccine administration and symptoms onset. Methods Retrospective cohort study among the 3219 healthcare workers (HCWs) of the Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico of Milano who received a full immunization with the BNT162b2 vaccine and who developed SARS-CoV-2 infection (documented through positive RT-PCR on nasopharyngeal swab) in March–April 2021. Results Overall, we have identified 15 HCWs with SARS-CoV-2 infection after vaccination, 7 (46.7%) of them were male and the mean age was 38.4 years (SD 14). In 4 of them, the presence of SARS-CoV-2 anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies was assessed before vaccination and resulted positive in 1 case. In all HCWs the presence of SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike (anti-S1) antibodies was assessed, on average 42.2 days after the completion of vaccination, with a mean value of 2055 U/mL (SD 1927.3). SARS-CoV-2 infection was ascertained on average 56.2 days after vaccination. The mean cycle threshold (Ct) of SARS-CoV-2 PCR was 26.4, the lineage was characterized in 9 HCWs. None of the HCWs reported a primary or secondary immunodeficiency. Regarding symptoms, they were reported only by 7 (46.7%) HCWs and appeared on average 55 days after the second dose of vaccination. Of those who reported symptoms, one (14.3%) had fever, 7 (100%) rhinitis/conjunctivitis, 4 (57.1%) taste and smell alterations, none had respiratory symptoms, 4 headache/arthralgia (57.1%) and 1 gastrointestinal symptom (14.3%). All symptoms disappeared in a few days and no other unclassified symptoms were reported. Conclusions Infections occurring after vaccination with the BNT162b2 vaccine are mostly asymptomatic and are not associated with the serum titre of anti-S1 antibodies. We did not find a predominance of specific viral variants, with several lineages represented.
Collapse
|
13
|
Hannum ME, Koch RJ, Ramirez VA, Marks SS, Toskala AK, Herriman RD, Lin C, Joseph PV, Reed DR. Taste loss as a distinct symptom of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Chem Senses 2022; 47:bjac001. [PMID: 35171979 PMCID: PMC8849313 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory scientists have been skeptical that reports of COVID-19 taste loss are genuine, in part because before COVID-19 taste loss was rare and often confused with smell loss. Therefore, to establish the predicted prevalence rate of taste loss in COVID-19 patients, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 376 papers published in 2020-2021, with 241 meeting all inclusion criteria. Drawing on previous studies and guided by early meta-analyses, we explored how methodological differences (direct vs. self-report measures) may affect these estimates. We hypothesized that direct measures of taste are at least as sensitive as those obtained by self-report and that the preponderance of evidence confirms taste loss is a symptom of COVID-19. The meta-analysis showed that, among 138,897 COVID-19-positive patients, 39.2% reported taste dysfunction (95% confidence interval: 35.34%-43.12%), and the prevalence estimates were slightly but not significantly higher from studies using direct (n = 18) versus self-report (n = 223) methodologies (Q = 0.57, df = 1, P = 0.45). Generally, males reported lower rates of taste loss than did females, and taste loss was highest among middle-aged adults. Thus, taste loss is likely a bona fide symptom of COVID-19, meriting further research into the most appropriate direct methods to measure it and its underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie E Hannum
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Riley J Koch
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Vicente A Ramirez
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
- Department of Public Health, University of California Merced, Merced, CA 95348, USA
| | - Sarah S Marks
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Aurora K Toskala
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Riley D Herriman
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Cailu Lin
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Paule V Joseph
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Danielle R Reed
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pang KW, Tham SL, Ng LS. Exploring the Clinical Utility of Gustatory Dysfunction (GD) as a Triage Symptom Prior to Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) in the Diagnosis of COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1315. [PMID: 34947846 PMCID: PMC8706269 DOI: 10.3390/life11121315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of COVID-19 is made using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) but its sensitivity varies from 20 to 100%. The presence of gustatory dysfunction (GD) in a patient with upper respiratory tract symptoms might increase the clinical suspicion of COVID-19. AIMS To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (LR+), negative likelihood ratio (LR-) and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of using GD as a triage symptom prior to RT-PCR. METHODS PubMed and Embase were searched up to 20 June 2021. Studies published in English were included if they compared the frequency of GD in COVID-19 adult patients (proven by RT-PCR) to COVID-19 negative controls in case control or cross-sectional studies. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. RESULTS 21,272 COVID-19 patients and 52,298 COVID-19 negative patients were included across 44 studies from 21 countries. All studies were of moderate to high risk of bias. Patients with GD were more likely to test positive for COVID-19: DOR 6.39 (4.86-8.40), LR+ 3.84 (3.04-4.84), LR- 0.67 (0.64-0.70), pooled sensitivity 0.37 (0.29-0.47) and pooled specificity 0.92 (0.89-0.94). While history/questionnaire-based assessments were predictive of RT-PCR positivity (DOR 6.62 (4.95-8.85)), gustatory testing was not (DOR 3.53 (0.98-12.7)). There was significant heterogeneity among the 44 studies (I2 = 92%, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS GD is useful as a symptom to determine if a patient should undergo further testing, especially in resource-poor regions where COVID-19 testing is scarce. Patients with GD may be advised to quarantine while repeated testing is performed if the initial RT-PCR is negative. FUNDING None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khang Wen Pang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (S.-L.T.); (L.S.N.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Martínez PT, García PD, Salas MR, Sánchez RR, Avendaño-Ortíz J, Guerrero-Monjo S, García F, Llamas MÁ, López-Collazo E, Saz-Leal P, Del Fresno C. SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity in a cohort of 449 non-hospitalized individuals during Spanish COVID-19 lockdown. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21612. [PMID: 34732800 PMCID: PMC8566591 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00990-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 led the Spanish government to impose a national lockdown in an attempt to control the spread of the infection. Mobility restrictions and the requirement of a medical prescription for serological testing for COVID-19 were included among the control measures. Under this scenario, between April 15th and June 15th, 2020, we performed an observational study including 449 individuals allowed to be tested according to the governmental restrictions, i.e. fulfilling the following prescription requirements: manifestation of COVID-19-compatible symptoms, contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient, or employment as an essential worker, including health care workers, firefighters and public safety personnel such as police. Importantly, a relevant feature of the studied cohort was that none of the participants had been hospitalized. We analyzed SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity in this specific cohort, uncovering intrinsic features of great demographic interest. The overall rate of IgG seropositivity was 33.69% (95% CI: 29.27-38.21). This frequency was comparable among the different participant occupations. A RT-PCR positive test, contact with a household member previously tested positive and the presence of COVID-19-compatible symptoms were positively associated with IgG + results. Among these symptoms, ageusia/anosmia was positively and independently associated with SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity, while odynophagia was inversely associated. However, fever, ageusia/anosmia and asthenia were the most frequent symptoms described by IgG + subjects. Therefore, our data illustrate how specific cohorts display particular characteristics that should be taken into account when studying population-wide SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and key defining symptoms of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - José Avendaño-Ortíz
- The Innate Immune Response Group, La Paz University Hospital Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Miguel Ángel Llamas
- EMPIREO Diagnóstico Molecular, Madrid, Spain
- LABIANA Pharmaceuticals SLU, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo López-Collazo
- The Innate Immune Response Group, La Paz University Hospital Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
- CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Del Fresno
- The Innate Immune Response Group, La Paz University Hospital Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hannum ME, Koch RJ, Ramirez VA, Marks SS, Toskala AK, Herriman RD, Lin C, Joseph PV, Reed DR. Taste loss as a distinct symptom of COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.10.09.21264771. [PMID: 34671775 PMCID: PMC8528083 DOI: 10.1101/2021.10.09.21264771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Chemosensory scientists have been skeptical that reports of COVID-19 taste loss are genuine, in part because before COVID-19, taste loss was rare and often confused with smell loss. Therefore, to establish the predicted prevalence rate of taste loss in COVID-19 patients, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 376 papers published in 2020-2021, with 241 meeting all inclusion criteria. Additionally, we explored how methodological differences (direct vs. self-report measures) may affect these estimates. We hypothesized that direct prevalence measures of taste loss would be the most valid because they avoid the taste/smell confusion of self-report. The meta-analysis showed that, among 138,897 COVID-19-positive patients, 39.2% reported taste dysfunction (95% CI: 35.34-43.12%), and the prevalence estimates were slightly but not significantly higher from studies using direct (n = 18) versus self-report (n = 223) methodologies (Q = 0.57, df = 1, p = 0.45). Generally, males reported lower rates of taste loss than did females and taste loss was highest in middle-aged groups. Thus, taste loss is a bona fide symptom COVID-19, meriting further research into the most appropriate direct methods to measure it and its underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Riley J Koch
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Vicente A Ramirez
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
- Department of Public Health, University of California Merced, Merced, CA 95348
| | - Sarah S Marks
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Aurora K Toskala
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Riley D Herriman
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Cailu Lin
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Paule V Joseph
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Danielle R Reed
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market St, Philadelphia PA 19104
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lessons learnt from the first large outbreak of COVID-19 in health-care settings in Tasmania, Australia. Western Pac Surveill Response J 2021; 12:1-7. [PMID: 35251738 PMCID: PMC8873910 DOI: 10.5365/wpsar.2021.12.4.884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem One month after the initial case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Tasmania, an island state of Australia, two health-care workers (HCWs) from a single regional hospital were notified to public health authorities following positive tests for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid. These were the first recognized cases in an outbreak that overwhelmed the hospital’s ability to function. Context The outbreak originated from two index cases. Both had returned to Tasmania following travel on a cruise ship and required hospital admission for management of COVID-19. A total of 138 cases were subsequently linked to this outbreak: 81 HCWs (most being nurses) and 23 patients across three hospitals, one resident of an aged-care facility and 33 close contacts. Action The outbreak was controlled through the identification and isolation of cases, identification and quarantining of close contacts and their household members, closure of the affected facilities and community-level restrictions to reduce social mixing in the affected region. Lessons learnt Factors that were likely to have contributed to ongoing transmission in this setting included workplace practices that prevented adequate physical distancing, attending work while symptomatic, challenges in rapidly identifying contacts, mobility of staff and patients between facilities, and challenges in the implementation of infection control practices. Discussion Many commonly accepted hospital practices before the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the outbreak. The lessons learnt from this investigation changed work practices for HCWs and led to wider public health interventions in the management of potential primary and secondary contacts.
Collapse
|
18
|
Comelli A, Consonni D, Lombardi A, Viero G, Oggioni M, Bono P, Uceda Renteria SC, Ceriotti F, Mangioni D, Muscatello A, Piatti A, Pesatori AC, Castaldi S, Riboldi L, Bandera A, Gori A. Nasopharyngeal Testing among Healthcare Workers (HCWs) of a Large University Hospital in Milan, Italy during Two Epidemic Waves of COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:8748. [PMID: 34444497 PMCID: PMC8392643 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND since October 2020, a second SARS-CoV-2 epidemic wave has hit Italy. We investigate the frequency of positive nasopharyngeal swabs among HCWs during the two waves and the association with occupation and demographic characteristics. METHODS this is a retrospective, observational study conducted in a large university hospital in Milan, Northern Italy. We defined two epidemic waves: 1st (February 2020-July 2020) and 2nd (August 2020-January 2021). Occupational and demographic characteristics of HCWs who underwent nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 were collected. RESULTS in the 1st wave, 242 positive subjects (7.2%) were found among 3378 HCWs, whereas in the 2nd wave, the positive subjects were 545 out of 4465 (12.2%). In both epidemic waves positive NPSs were more frequent among HCWs with health-related tasks and lower among students (p < 0.001). However, in the 2nd wave, workers engaged in non-health-related tasks had a peak of 20.7% positivity. Among 160 positive HCWs in the 1st wave who were tested again in the 2nd wave, the rate of reinfection based on SARS-CoV2 RNA cycle quantification value was 0.6%. CONCLUSIONS during the 2nd epidemic wave, we confirmed a significant impact of COVID-19 among HCWs. The rise of infection rate among HCWs seems to reflect the increasing spread of SARS-CoV-2 among the overall population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Comelli
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Dario Consonni
- Epidemiology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.C.); (A.C.P.)
| | - Andrea Lombardi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Viero
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Massimo Oggioni
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.O.); (P.B.); (S.C.U.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Patrizia Bono
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.O.); (P.B.); (S.C.U.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Sara Colonia Uceda Renteria
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.O.); (P.B.); (S.C.U.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Ferruccio Ceriotti
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.O.); (P.B.); (S.C.U.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Davide Mangioni
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonio Muscatello
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Alessandra Piatti
- Medical Direction, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Angela Cecilia Pesatori
- Epidemiology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.C.); (A.C.P.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvana Castaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Quality Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Luciano Riboldi
- Occupational Health Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Bandera
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Centre for Multidisciplinary Research in Health Science (MACH), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Gori
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (D.M.); (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Centre for Multidisciplinary Research in Health Science (MACH), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lombardi A, Consonni D, Oggioni M, Bono P, Uceda Renteria S, Piatti A, Pesatori AC, Castaldi S, Muscatello A, Riboldi L, Ceriotti F, Bandera A, Gori A. SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibody titres after vaccination with BNT162b2 in naïve and previously infected individuals. J Infect Public Health 2021; 14:1120-1122. [PMID: 34293641 PMCID: PMC8285930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Great expectations are placed in vaccines against COVID-19 to control the pandemic. We reviewed the antibody titres in a cohort of healthcare workers (HCWs) vaccinated with BNT162b2 to assess the influence of a previous infection on them. We stratified the results according to the individual history of nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) and symptoms. Among 3475 HCWs the highest titres were recorded among those infected more than 6 months before vaccination, independently of symptoms, followed by those infected less than 6 months before vaccination, especially in those with symptoms, and by uninfected HCWs. Vaccination with BNT162b2 can boost immunity acquired through infection, particularly in those infected more than 6 months before vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lombardi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Dario Consonni
- Epidemiology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Oggioni
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Bono
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Uceda Renteria
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piatti
- Medical Direction, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela C Pesatori
- Epidemiology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvana Castaldi
- Department Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Quality and Internal Audit Privacy Unit, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Muscatello
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Luciano Riboldi
- Occupational Health Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale MaggiorePoliclinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Ceriotti
- Clinical Laboratory, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bandera
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Centre for Multidisciplinary Research in Health Science (MACH), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Gori
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Centre for Multidisciplinary Research in Health Science (MACH), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Scozzari G, Costa C, Migliore E, Coggiola M, Ciccone G, Savio L, Scarmozzino A, Pira E, Cassoni P, Galassi C, Cavallo R. Prevalence, Persistence, and Factors Associated with SARS-CoV-2 IgG Seropositivity in a Large Cohort of Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care University Hospital in Northern Italy. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061064. [PMID: 34205134 PMCID: PMC8229066 DOI: 10.3390/v13061064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This observational study evaluated SARS-CoV-2 IgG seroprevalence and related clinical, demographic, and occupational factors among workers at the largest tertiary care University-Hospital of Northwestern Italy and the University of Turin after the first pandemic wave of March–April 2020. Overall, about 10,000 individuals were tested; seropositive subjects were retested after 5 months to evaluate antibodies waning. Among 8769 hospital workers, seroprevalence was 7.6%, without significant differences related to job profile; among 1185 University workers, 3.3%. Self-reporting of COVID-19 suspected symptoms was significantly associated with positivity (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.07, 95%CI: 1.76–2.44), although 27% of seropositive subjects reported no previous symptom. At multivariable analysis, contacts at work resulted in an increased risk of 69%, or 24% for working in a COVID ward; contacts in the household evidenced the highest risk, up to more than five-fold (OR 5.31, 95%CI: 4.12–6.85). Compared to never smokers, being active smokers was inversely associated with seroprevalence (OR 0.60, 95%CI: 0.48–0.76). After 5 months, 85% of previously positive subjects still tested positive. The frequency of SARS-COV-2 infection among Health Care Workers was comparable with that observed in surveys performed in Northern Italy and Europe after the first pandemic wave. This study confirms that infection frequently occurred as asymptomatic and underlines the importance of household exposure, seroprevalence (OR 0.60, 95%CI: 0.48–0.76).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gitana Scozzari
- Hospital Medical Direction, Ospedale Molinette, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.S.); (L.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Cristina Costa
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(11)6335953
| | - Enrica Migliore
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.M.); (G.C.); (C.G.)
- Cancer Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Maurizio Coggiola
- Occupational Medicine Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (M.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Giovannino Ciccone
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.M.); (G.C.); (C.G.)
| | - Luigi Savio
- Hospital Medical Direction, Ospedale Molinette, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.S.); (L.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonio Scarmozzino
- Hospital Medical Direction, Ospedale Molinette, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (G.S.); (L.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Enrico Pira
- Occupational Medicine Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (M.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Paola Cassoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pathology Unit, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Claudia Galassi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.M.); (G.C.); (C.G.)
| | - Rossana Cavallo
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, University Hospital Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | | |
Collapse
|