First Wave of COVID-19 in French Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Occurrence of COVID-19 in cystic fibrosis patients: a review

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic ailment caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. This autosomal recessive disorder is characterized by diverse pathobiological abnormalities, such as the disorder of CFTR channels in mucosal surfaces, caused by inadequate clearance of mucus and sputum, in addition to the malfunctioning of mucous organs. However, the primary motive of mortality in CF patients is pulmonary failure, which is attributed to the colonization of opportunistic microorganisms, formation of resistant biofilms, and a subsequent decline in lung characteristics. In December 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the radical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a worldwide public health crisis, which unexpectedly spread not only within China but also globally. Given that the respiration system is the primary target of the COVID-19 virus, it is crucial to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the pathogenesis and mortality of CF patients, mainly in the context of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Therefore, the goal of this review is to comprehensively review the present literature on the relationship between cystic fibrosis, COVID-19 contamination, and development of ARDS. Several investigations performed during the early stages of the virus outbreak have discovered unexpected findings regarding the occurrence and effectiveness of COVID-19 in individuals with CF. Contrary to initial expectancies, the rate of infection and the effectiveness of the virus in CF patients are lower than those in the overall population. This finding may be attributed to different factors, including the presence of thick mucus, social avoidance, using remedies that include azithromycin, the fairly younger age of CF patients, decreased presence of ACE-2 receptors, and the effect of CFTR channel disorder on the replication cycle and infectivity of the virus. However, it is important to notice that certain situations, which include undergoing a transplant, can also doubtlessly boost the susceptibility of CF patients to COVID-19. Furthermore, with an increase in age in CF patients, it is vital to take into account the prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in this population. Therefore, ordinary surveillance of CF patients is vital to evaluate and save the population from the capability of transmission of the virus given the various factors that contribute to the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in this precise organization.

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with cystic fibrosis undergoing CFTR channel modulators treatment: a literature review

Several risk factors for Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) disease have been highlighted in clinical evidence. Among the various risk factors are advanced age, metabolic illness such as diabetes, heart disease, and diseases of the respiratory system. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a rare disease with autosomal recessive transmission, characterised by a lack of synthesis of the CFTR channel protein, and multi-organ clinical symptoms mainly affecting the respiratory tract with recurrent pulmonary exacerbations. In view of the pathophysiological mechanisms, CF disease should be in theory considered a risk factor for SARS-CoV2 or severe COVID-19. However, recent clinical evidence seems to point in the opposite direction, suggesting that CF could be a protective factor against severe COVID-19. Possibly, the lack of presence or function of the CFTR channel protein could be linked to the expression of the membrane glycoprotein ACE-2, a key enzyme for the endocellular penetration of SARS-CoV-2 and related to the pathophysiology of COVID-19 disease. Furthermore, CFTR channel modulating agents could indirectly influence the expression of ACE-2, playing an important role in restoring the proper functioning of mucociliary clearance and the pulmonary microbiome in the host response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review, the authors attempt to shed light on these important associations of issues that are not yet fully elucidated.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in children with cystic fibrosis: A cross-sectional multicenter study in Spain. New waves, new knowledge

INTRODUCTION

The association between viral infections and pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis (cwCF) is well established. However, the question of whether cwCF are at a higher risk of COVID-19 or its adverse consequences remains controversial.

METHODS

We conducted an observational, multicenter, cross-sectional study of cwCF infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) between March 2020 and June 2022, (first to sixth COVID-19 pandemic waves) in Spain. The study aimed to describe patients' basal characteristics, SARS-CoV-2 clinical manifestations and outcomes, and whether there were differences across the pandemic waves.

RESULTS

During study time, 351 SARS-CoV2 infections were reported among 341 cwCF. Median age was 8.5 years (range 0-17) and 51% were female. Cases were unevenly distributed across the pandemic, with most cases (82%) clustered between November 2021 and June 2022 (sixth wave, also known as Omicron Wave due to the higher prevalence of this strain in that period in Spain). Most cwCF were asymptomatic (24.8%) or presented with mild Covid-19 symptoms (72.9%). Among symptomatic, most prevalent symptoms were fever (62%) and increased cough (53%). Infection occurring along the sixth wave was the only independent risk factor for being symptomatic. Just eight cwCF needed hospital admission. No multisystem inflammatory syndrome, persisting symptoms, long-term sequelae, or deaths were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Spanish current data indicate that cwCF do not experience higher risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection nor worse health outcomes or sequelae. Changes in patients' basal characteristics, clinical courses, and outcomes were detected across waves. While the pandemic continues, a worldwide monitoring of COVID-19 in pediatric CF patients is needed.

Mechanisms by which the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator may influence SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease severity

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) exhibit pronounced respiratory damage and were initially considered among those at highest risk for serious harm from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Numerous clinical studies have subsequently reported that individuals with CF in North America and Europe-while susceptible to severe COVID-19-are often spared from the highest levels of virus-associated mortality. To understand features that might influence COVID-19 among patients with cystic fibrosis, we studied relationships between SARS-CoV-2 and the gene responsible for CF (i.e., the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, CFTR). In contrast to previous reports, we found no association between CFTR carrier status (mutation heterozygosity) and more severe COVID-19 clinical outcomes. We did observe an unexpected trend toward higher mortality among control individuals compared with silent carriers of the common F508del CFTR variant-a finding that will require further study. We next performed experiments to test the influence of homozygous CFTR deficiency on viral propagation and showed that SARS-CoV-2 production in primary airway cells was not altered by the absence of functional CFTR using two independent protocols. On the contrary, experiments performed in vitro strongly indicated that virus proliferation depended on features of the mucosal fluid layer known to be disrupted by absent CFTR in patients with CF, including both low pH and increased viscosity. These results point to the acidic, viscous, and mucus-obstructed airways in patients with cystic fibrosis as unfavorable for the establishment of coronaviral infection. Our findings provide new and important information concerning relationships between the CF clinical phenotype and severity of COVID-19.

Epidemiological Profile of Hospitalized Patients with Cystic Fibrosis in Brazil Due to Severe Acute Respiratory Infection during the COVID-19 Pandemic and a Systematic Review of Worldwide COVID-19 in Those with Cystic Fibrosis

Since the onset of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19 pandemic, concern arose for those who might be at higher risk of a worse COVID-19 prognosis, such as those with cystic fibrosis (CF). In this context, we evaluated the features of hospitalized patients with CF due to severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) in Brazil and we also performed a systematic review including all the studies published from the beginning of the first case of COVID-19 (17 November 2019) to the date of this search (23 May 2022) which included, concomitantly, patients with CF and COVID-19 in the worldwide population. In our Brazilian data, we evaluated the period from December 2019 to March 2022, and we included 33 demographical and clinical patients' features. We classified the patients into groups: (G1) SARI due to another viral infection than severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (23; 5.4%), (G2) SARI due to an unknown etiological agent (286; 67.1%), and (G3) SARI due to SARS-CoV-2 infection (117; 27.5%). The individuals in G3 tended to be older, especially over 50 years old, and presented a higher prevalence of dyspnea, peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO₂) <95%, and cardiopathy. The highest prevalence for intensive care unit (ICU) treatment (52; 44.4%) and invasive mechanical ventilation (29; 24.8%) was for patients in G3. Almost half of the patients in G3 died (51; 43.6%); in contrast, none in G1 died. However, we observed 43 (15.0%) deaths in G2. In addition, 12 (4.2%) and one (0.9%) death not associated with SARI occurred, respectively, in the G2 and G3. The patients who died due to SARS-CoV-2 infection had a higher frequency of SpO₂ <95% (46; 90.2%), ICU treatment (34; 66.7%), and invasive mechanical ventilation (27; 52.9%) when compared to those who recovered. The systematic review comprised a total of 31 papers published as observational studies. These studies comprised 661,386 patients in total, including children, adults, and elderly age groups. However, only 19,150 (2.9%) patients were diagnosed with CF and, from these patients, 2523 (0.4%) were diagnosed with both CF and COVID-19. It was observed that the most common outcome was the need for hospitalization (n = 322 patients with CF), and the need for oxygen support (n = 139 patients with CF). One hundred patients with CF needed intensive care units, fifty patients needed non-invasive mechanical ventilation support, and only three patients were described as receiving invasive mechanical ventilation support. Deaths were described in 38 patients with CF. Importantly, lung-transplanted patients with CF represented an increased risk of death in one publication; in accordance, another study described that lung transplantation and moderate to severe lung disease were independent risk factors for severe outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection. In contrast with the literature, in conclusion, Brazilian patients in G3 presented a severe phenotype, even though most of the other studies did not observe worse outcomes in patients with CF and COVID-19.

Crosslink between SARS-CoV-2 replication and cystic fibrosis hallmarks

SARS-CoV-2, the etiological cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, can cause severe illness in certain at-risk populations, including people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). Nevertheless, several studies indicated that pwCF do not have higher risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection nor do they demonstrate worse clinical outcomes than those of the general population. Recent in vitro studies indicate cellular and molecular processes to be significant drivers in pwCF lower infection rates and milder symptoms than expected in cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. These range from cytokine releases to biochemical alterations leading to morphological rearrangements inside the cells associated with CFTR impairment. Based on available data, the reported low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among pwCF is likely a result of several variables linked to CFTR dysfunction, such as thick mucus, IL-6 reduction, altered ACE2 and TMPRSS2 processing and/or functioning, defective anions exchange, and autophagosome formation. An extensive analysis of the relation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and pwCF is essential to elucidate the mechanisms involved in this lower-than-expected infection impact and to possibly suggest potential new antiviral strategies.

CFTR Inhibitors Display In Vitro Antiviral Activity against SARS-CoV-2

Several reports have indicated that SARS-CoV-2 infection displays unexpected mild clinical manifestations in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF), suggesting that CFTR expression and function may be involved in the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. To evaluate the possible association of CFTR activity with SARS-CoV-2 replication, we tested the antiviral activity of two well-known CFTR inhibitors (IOWH-032 and PPQ-102) in wild type (WT)-CFTR bronchial cells. SARS-CoV-2 replication was inhibited by IOWH-032 treatment, with an IC₅₀ of 4.52 μM, and by PPQ-102, with an IC₅₀ of 15.92 μM. We confirmed this antiviral effect on primary cells (MucilAir^TM wt-CFTR) using 10 μM IOWH-032. According to our results, CFTR inhibition can effectively tackle SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting that CFTR expression and function might play an important role in SARS-CoV-2 replication, revealing new perspectives on the mechanisms governing SARS-CoV-2 infection in both normal and CF individuals, as well as leading to potential novel treatments.

COVID-19 and pediatric pulmonology: Feedback from an expert center after the first year of the pandemic

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has evolved with different waves corresponding to subsequent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mutations. While the most severe cases have been observed in the elderly and in individuals with underlying comorbidities, severe pediatric and young adult cases have been observed, as well as post-infectious inflammatory syndromes and persistent symptoms leading to long-COVID. This manuscript describes the experience of a pediatric respiratory unit during the first year of the pandemic and reviews the corresponding literature with a special emphasis on children and young people with underlying conditions, such as immunosuppression, sickle cell disease, and cystic fibrosis.

SARS-CoV-2 viral entry and replication is impaired in Cystic Fibrosis airways due to ACE2 downregulation

As an inherited disorder characterized by severe pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis could be considered a comorbidity for coronavirus disease 2019. Instead, current clinical evidence seems to be heading in the opposite direction. To clarify whether host factors expressed by the Cystic Fibrosis epithelia may influence coronavirus disease 2019 progression, here we describe the expression of SARS-CoV-2 receptors in primary airway epithelial cells. We show that angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression and localization are regulated by Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) channel. Consistently, our results indicate that dysfunctional CFTR channels alter susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in reduced viral entry and replication in Cystic Fibrosis cells. Depending on the pattern of ACE2 expression, the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein induced high levels of Interleukin 6 in healthy donor-derived primary airway epithelial cells, but a very weak response in primary Cystic Fibrosis cells. Collectively, these data support that Cystic Fibrosis condition may be at least partially protecting from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Immunogenicity and Safety of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis with or without Lung Transplantation

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by a progressive decline in lung function, which may be further impaired by viral infections. CF is therefore considered a comorbidity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and SARS-CoV-2 vaccine prioritization has been proposed for patients with (pw)CF. Poor outcomes have been reported in lung transplant recipients (LTR) after SARS-CoV-2 infections. LTR have also displayed poor immunization against SARS-CoV-2 after mRNA-based BNT162b2 vaccination, especially in those undergoing immunosuppressive treatment, mostly those receiving mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) therapy. We aimed to determine here the immunogenicity and safety of the BNT162b2 vaccine in our cohort of 260 pwCF, including 18 LTR. Serum levels of neutralizing anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA antibodies were quantified after the administration of two doses. PwCF displayed a vaccine-induced IgG and IgA antiviral response comparable with that seen in the general population. We also observed that the immunogenicity of the BNT162b2 vaccine was significantly impaired in the LTR subcohort, especially in patients undergoing MMF therapy. The BNT162b2 vaccine also caused minor adverse events as in the general population, mostly after administration of the second dose. Overall, our results justify the use of the BNT162b2 vaccine in pwCF and highlight the importance of a longitudinal assessment of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA neutralizing antibody response to COVID-19 vaccination.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of incident cases of COVID-19 in unvaccinated adult cystic fibrosis patients in southern Brazil: a prospective cohort study conducted during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVE

There is still limited information on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with COVID-19 in Brazil. The objective of this study was to describe the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 in CF patients, as well as their clinical characteristics and outcomes.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study involving unvaccinated adult CF patients and conducted during the first year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the city of Porto Alegre, in southern Brazil. The clinical course of the disease was rated on the WHO Ordinal Scale for Clinical Improvement. The primary outcome was the number of incident cases of COVID-19.

RESULTS

Between April 30, 2020 and April 29, 2021, 98 CF patients were included in the study. Seventeen patients were diagnosed with COVID-19. For the CF patients, the annual cumulative incidence of COVID-19 was 17.3%, similar to that for the general population, adjusted for age (18.5%). The most common symptoms at diagnosis of COVID-19 were cough (in 59%), dyspnea (in 53%), fatigue (in 53%), and fever (in 47%). Only 6 (35%) of the patients required hospitalization, and 3 (17.6%) required oxygen support. Only 1 patient required mechanical ventilation, having subsequently died.

CONCLUSIONS

During the first year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in southern Brazil, the cumulative incidence rate of COVID-19 was similar between CF patients and the general population. More than 50% of the CF patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection had a mild clinical presentation, without the need for hospital admission, and almost the entire sample recovered completely from the infection, the exception being 1 patient who had advanced lung disease and who died.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown measures on the management, health, and behavior of the cystic fibrosis population in France during 2020 (MUCONFIN)

Background

Most of the studies on cystic fibrosis (CF) focused on SARS-CoV-2 prevalence and suggested a low incidence of infection in this population. We aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic and related lockdown measures implemented in May 2020 in response to the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 infection on healthcare access, health, and behavior in CF patients.

Methods

A national questionnaire opened online from May 15th, 2020 to June 11^th, 2020 was completed by 751 CF-patients, aged 14 years and over. It comprised questions about access to healthcare, anxiety and depression, smoking, alcohol, drug and psychotropic drug consumption, adherence to CF treatment, and constraints. A semi-structured comprehensive interview was performed no later than 1 month after the end of the lockdown in 16 CF-patients.

Results

The mean age of the population was 28.0 [interquartile range (IQR) 20.0-37.0] years old. More than 75% of in-person consultations scheduled during the lockdown were canceled. Alternatively, 27% were postponed, and telehealth consultations were proposed and accepted in almost 40% of cases. More than 75% of the scheduled physiotherapy sessions were canceled and replaced mainly by self-drainage. Annual follow-up clinic visits were consistently postponed whereas required hospitalizations at CF centers for exacerbation were maintained in most cases. While 43.2% CF-patients had signs of anxiety, 51.0% presented symptoms of depression, both associated with increased use of psychotic medications and inversely correlated to COVID-19 prevalence. Among the lower and lower middle classes, very little medical information was obtained or requested by the patient, participation to sports or other activities was low, while excessive home confinement and isolation were more frequent. In contrast, in the upper middle and upper classes, individuals solicitated help to their CF centre, had more physical activities, and maintained contact with friends or families.

Conclusion

The first lockdown in France had only minimal impact on the management care of CF-patients but was associated with increased symptoms of anxiety and depression, together with behavioral changes that varied with social class.

Trial registration

NCT04463628.

Impact of COVID-19 on Lung Disease in People with Cystic Fibrosis: A 6-Month Follow-Up Study on Respiratory Outcomes

Background: The impact of COVID-19 on respiratory outcomes in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) has not been clearly characterized. We evaluated changes in respiratory function indicators derived from spirometry and pulmonary exacerbation rates 6 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: This multicentre prospective study was based on pwCF enrolled between October, 2020 and June, 2021 in the DECO COVID-19 project. PwCF complaining of COVID-like symptoms were tested with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 on nasopharyngeal swab. Mean changes in respiratory function indicators and time to first episode of pulmonary exacerbation were compared between RT-PCR-positive and RT-PCR-negative patients. Regression models were used to adjust for baseline percent predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (ppFEV1) values, number of comorbidities, and initiation of CFTR modulator therapy during the follow-up. Results: We enrolled 26 pwCF with RT-PCR-confirmed infection and 42 with a RT-PCR-negative test. After 6 months of follow-up, mean ppFEV1 changes were not significantly different between groups (+0.3% in positive vs. +0.2% in negative patients, p = 0.19). The 6-month cumulative probabilities of a first episode of pulmonary exacerbation were: 0.575 among RT-PCR-negative patients and 0.538 among those with a positive test (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.44–1.75). Conclusions: COVID-19 did not appear to negatively affect respiratory outcomes of pwCF at 6 months from infection.

Impact of COVID-19 in Children with Chronic Lung Diseases

BACKGROUND

since December 2019, the world has become victim of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The aim of our narrative review is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 in children suffering from chronic lung disease (CLD).

METHODS

we searched the MEDLINE/Pubmed database using the terms "SARS-CoV-2" or "COVID-19" or "Coronavirus Diseases 2019"; AND "chronic lung diseases" or "chronic respiratory diseases" or "asthma" or "cystic fibrosis" or "primary ciliary dyskinesia" or "bronchopulmonary dysplasia"; and limiting the search to the age range 0-18 years.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

although COVID-19 rarely presents with a severe course in children, CLD may represent a risk factor; especially when already severe or poorly controlled before SARS-CoV-2 infection. On the other hand, typical features of children with CLD (e.g., the accurate adoption of prevention measures, and, in asthmatic patients, the regular use of inhaled corticosteroids and T2 inflammation) might have a role in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, from a psychological standpoint, the restrictions associated with the pandemic had a profound impact on children and adolescents with CLD.

The genetic and evolutionary determinants of COVID-19 susceptibility

Devastating pandemics, such as that due to COVID-19, can provide strong testimony to our knowledge of the genetic and evolutionary determinants of infectious disease susceptibility and severity. One of the most remarkable aspects of such outbreaks is the stunning interindividual variability observed in the course of infection. In recent decades, enormous progress has been made in the field of the human genetics of infectious diseases, and an increasing number of human genetic factors have been reported to explain, to a great extent, the observed variability for a large number of infectious agents. However, our understanding of the cellular, molecular, and immunological mechanisms underlying such disparities between individuals and ethnic groups, remains very limited. Here, we discuss recent findings relating to human genetic predisposition to infectious disease, from an immunological or population genetic perspective, and show how these and other innovative approaches have been applied to deciphering the genetic basis of human susceptibility to COVID-19 and the severity of this disease. From an evolutionary perspective, we show how past demographic and selection events characterizing the history of our species, including admixture with archaic humans, such as Neanderthals, facilitated modern human adaptation to the threats imposed by ancient pathogens. In the context of emerging infectious diseases, these past episodes of genetic adaptation may contribute to some of the observed population differences in the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the severity of COVID-19 illness.

The clinical impact of the Covid-19 pandemic first wave on patients with cystic fibrosis in New York

BACKGROUND

People with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) may be at risk of complications from COVID-19 but the impact of COVID-19 on pwCF remains unknown.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic first wave on pwCF in the New York metropolitan area (NY) from March 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020. Objectives were to determine (1) the prevalence of COVID-19 by PCR and IgG antibody testing, (2) the clinical characteristics of COVID-19, (3) delay in routine outpatient care, and (4) the effect on anxiety and depression in pwCF.

RESULTS

There were 26 COVID-19 cases diagnosed by PCR or antibody testing among the study cohort of 810 pwCF. The prevalence of COVID-19 by PCR (1.6%) and IgG antibody (12.2%) testing was low. 58% of cases were asymptomatic and 82% were managed at home. 8% were hospitalized and 1 person died. 89% of pwCF experienced delay in care. The prevalence of anxiety increased from 43% baseline to 58% during the pandemic (P<0.01). In post-hoc analysis, the proportion of patients with diabetes (38% versus 16%, P<0.01) and pancreatic insufficiency (96% versus 66%, P<0.01) were higher while CFTR modulator use was lower (46% versus 65%, P = 0.05) in pwCF who tested positive for COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of COVID-19 among pwCF in NY during the pandemic first wave was low and most cases were managed at home. CFTR modulators may be protective. PwCF experienced delay in routine care and increased anxiety.

Cumulative Incidence and Risk Factors for Severe COVID-19 in French People with Cystic Fibrosis

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections are closely monitored in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF), with a special emphasis on severe cases. Previous studies used hospitalization rates as proxy for severity.

Methods

We evaluated data from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases diagnosed in French pwCF followed in one of the 47 French CF center over the first year of the pandemic.

Objective

criteria were applied for defining severity (e.g., respiratory failure and/or death). Data were compared to those from all French pwCF using the French CF Registry.

Results

As of April 30, 2021, 223 pwCF were diagnosed with COVID-19, with higher risks in adults (≥18 years, odds ratio [OR] = 2.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.82-3.48) and post-transplant individuals (OR = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.98-3.63). Sixty (26.9%) patients were hospitalized, with an increased risk in post-transplant individuals (OR = 4.74, 95% CI = 2.49-9.02). In 34 (15%) cases, COVID-19 was considered severe; 28/60 (46.7%) hospitalizations occurred in patients without objective criteria of severity. Severe cases occurred mostly in adults (85.3%) and post-transplant pwCF (61.8%, OR = 6.02, 95% CI = 2.77-13.06). In non-transplanted pwCF, risk factors for severity included low lung function (median ppFEV₁ 54.6% vs. 75.1%, OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.08) and CF-associated diabetes (OR = 3.26, 95% CI = 1.02-10.4). While most cases recovered without sequelae (n = 204, 91.5%), 16 (13%) were followed for possible sequelae, and three post-transplant females died.

Conclusions

Severe COVID-19 cases occurred infrequently during the first year of the pandemic in French pwCF. Non-transplanted adults with severe respiratory disease or diabetes and post-transplant individuals were at risk for severe COVID-19. Thus, specific preventive measures should be proposed.

Risk factors for admission to the pediatric critical care unit among children hospitalized with COVID-19 in France

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 infection is less severe among children than among adults; however, some patients require hospitalization and even critical care. Using data from the French national medico-administrative database, we estimated the risk factors for critical care unit (CCU) admissions among pediatric COVID-19 hospitalizations, the number and characteristics of the cases during the successive waves from January 2020 to August 2021 and described death cases.

METHODS

We included all children (age < 18) hospitalized with COVID-19 between January 1st, 2020, and August 31st, 2021. Follow-up was until September 30th, 2021 (discharge or death). Contiguous hospital stays were gathered in "care sequences." Four epidemic waves were considered (cut off dates: August 11th 2020, January 1st 2021, and July 4th 2021). We excluded asymptomatic COVID-19 cases, post-COVID-19 diseases, and 1-day-long sequences (except death cases). Risk factors for CCU admission were assessed with a univariable and a multivariable logistic regression model in the entire sample and stratified by age, whether younger than 2.

RESULTS

We included 7,485 patients, of whom 1988 (26.6%) were admitted to the CCU. Risk factors for admission to the CCU were being younger than 7 days [OR: 3.71 95% CI (2.56-5.39)], being between 2 and 9 years old [1.19 (1.00-1.41)], pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome (PIMS) [7.17 (5.97-8.6)] and respiratory forms [1.26 (1.12-1.41)], and having at least one underlying condition [2.66 (2.36-3.01)]. Among hospitalized children younger than 2 years old, prematurity was a risk factor for CCU admission [1.89 (1.47-2.43)]. The CCU admission rate gradually decreased over the waves (from 31.0 to 17.8%). There were 32 (0.4%) deaths, of which the median age was 6 years (IQR: 177 days-15.5 years).

CONCLUSION

Some children need to be more particularly protected from a severe evolution: newborns younger than 7 days old, children aged from 2 to 13 years who are more at risk of PIMS forms and patients with at least one underlying medical condition.

Flagellin From Pseudomonas aeruginosa Modulates SARS-CoV-2 Infectivity in Cystic Fibrosis Airway Epithelial Cells by Increasing TMPRSS2 Expression

In the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) health crisis, one major challenge is to identify the susceptibility factors of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in order to adapt the recommendations for populations, as well as to reduce the risk of COVID-19 development in the most vulnerable people, especially patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF). Airway epithelial cells (AECs) play a critical role in the modulation of both immune responses and COVID-19 severity. SARS-CoV-2 infects the airway through the receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, and a host protease, transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), plays a major role in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity. Here, we show that Pseudomonas aeruginosa increases TMPRSS2 expression, notably in primary AECs with deficiency of the ion channel CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Further, we show that the main component of P. aeruginosa flagella, the protein flagellin, increases TMPRSS2 expression in primary AECs and Calu-3 cells, through activation of Toll-like receptor-5 and p38 MAPK. This increase is particularly seen in Calu-3 cells deficient for CFTR and is associated with an intracellular increased level of SARS-CoV-2 infection, however, with no effect on the amount of virus particles released. Considering the urgency of the COVID-19 health crisis, this result may be of clinical significance for CF patients, who are frequently infected with and colonized by P. aeruginosa during the course of CF and might develop COVID-19.

Chronic respiratory diseases other than asthma in children: the COVID-19 tsunami

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects all components of the respiratory system, including the neuromuscular breathing apparatus, conducting and respiratory airways, pulmonary vascular endothelium, and pulmonary blood flow. In contrast to other respiratory viruses, children have less severe symptoms when infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A minority of children experience a post-infectious inflammatory syndrome, the pathology and long-term outcomes of which are poorly understood. The reason for the lower burden of symptomatic disease in children is not yet clear, but several pathophysiological characteristics are postulated. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has brought distinct challenges to the care of children globally. Proper recommendations have been proposed for a range of non-asthmatic respiratory disorders in children, including primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. These recommendations involve the continuation of the treatment during this period and ways to maintain stability. School closures, loss of follow-up visit attendance, and loss of other protective systems for children are the indirect outcomes of measures to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, COVID-19 has reshaped the delivery of respiratory care in children, with non-urgent and elective procedures being postponed, and distancing imperatives have led to rapid scaling of telemedicine. The pandemic has seen an unprecedented reorientation in clinical trial research towards COVID-19 and a disruption in other trials worldwide, which will have long-lasting effects on medical science. In this narrative review, we sought to outline the most recent findings on the direct and indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on pediatric respiratory chronic diseases other than asthma, by critically revising the most recent literature on the subject.

COVID-19 outcomes in people with cystic fibrosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The COVID-19 global pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a dramatic impact that is still ongoing around the world. Cystic fibrosis (CF) has been identified as a possible risk factor of poor outcome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Data collected by multiple National CF registries around the world have indicated that persons with CF (PwCF) are not more likely to be affected by SARS-CoV-2 than the general population. The course of SARS-CoV-2 is usually mild in PwCF who are relatively young. Severe outcomes have been described in patients with low lung function and in those with immune suppression (i.e. solid organ transplantation). Indirect impact of the pandemic on the CF community has also been observed, including difficulties in the organization of CF care, leading to a dramatic increase in telehealth for PwCF. The pandemic has further affected clinical research by complicating ongoing clinical trials. Vaccination appears important to all PwCF, with special priority on developing adequate vaccination scheme for transplant recipients. Long-term effects of COVID-19 on the CF population remains unknown.

SUMMARY

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant impacts on PwCF and on healthcare professionals who provide specialized CF care and clinical research.

Factors for severe outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection in people with cystic fibrosis in Europe

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) can lead to severe outcomes.

METHODS

In this observational study, the European Cystic Fibrosis Society Patient Registry collected data on pwCF and SARS-CoV-2 infection to estimate incidence, describe clinical presentation and investigate factors associated with severe outcomes using multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Up to December 31, 2020, 26 countries reported information on 828 pwCF and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Incidence was 17.2 per 1000 pwCF (95% CI: 16.0-18.4). Median age was 24 years, 48.4% were male and 9.4% had lung transplants. SARS-CoV-2 incidence was higher in lung-transplanted (28.6; 95% CI: 22.7-35.5) versus non-lung-transplanted pwCF (16.6; 95% CI: 15.4-17.8) (p≤0.001).SARS-CoV-2 infection caused symptomatic illness in 75.7%. Factors associated with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection were age >40 years, at least one F508del mutation and pancreatic insufficiency.Overall, 23.7% of pwCF were admitted to hospital, 2.5% of those to intensive care, and regretfully 11 (1.4%) died. Hospitalisation, oxygen therapy, intensive care, respiratory support and death were 2- to 6-fold more frequent in lung-transplanted versus non-lung-transplanted pwCF.Factors associated with hospitalisation and oxygen therapy were lung transplantation, cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD), moderate or severe lung disease and azithromycin use (often considered a surrogate marker for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and poorer lung function).

CONCLUSION

SARS-CoV-2 infection yielded high morbidity and hospitalisation in pwCF. PwCF with forced expiratory volume in 1 s <70% predicted, CFRD and those with lung transplants are at particular risk of more severe outcomes.

Management of chronic pulmonary disease in the time of coronavirus disease 2019

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to discuss the most recent data describing the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the pediatric population with chronic pulmonary disease. We specifically focus on children with asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and lung transplant recipients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Children with asthma, CF, and lung transplant recipients do not appear to have an increased risk of morbidity or mortality with COVID-19 infection compared to the general pediatric population. Data does not support the change or withdrawal of any asthma or CF maintenance medications; however, does advocate for the cessation of aerosolized medications whenever possible to minimize transmission risk. It may not be necessary to adjust immunosuppressive therapy when managing COVID-19 in pediatric lung transplant patients. Mechanisms of infection in airway epithelial cells in children may differ from adults, resulting in a milder phenotype.

SUMMARY

Current data about pediatric patients with chronic lung disease infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is promising but remains scarce. Additional study is needed to definitively understand the complex interplay of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the airway of children with chronic lung disease, how it differs from adults, and how best to manage the symptoms of acute infection.

Systematic review: cystic fibrosis in the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the development of life-threatening COVID-19 are believed to disproportionately affect certain at-risk populations. However, it is not clear whether individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at a higher risk of COVID-19 or its adverse consequences. Recurrent respiratory viral infections are often associated with perturbation and pulmonary exacerbations of CF as evidenced by the significant morbidity observed in CF individuals during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. The primary goal of this review was to systematically survey published accounts of COVID-19 in CF and determine if individuals with CF are disproportionally affected by SARS-CoV-2 and development of COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search using EMBASE and Medline between April 28 and December 10, 2020. Six evaluable studies reporting on a total of 339 individuals with CF who developed COVID-19 were included in this study.

Results

We found that although individuals with CF generally experience acute exacerbations of lung disease from infectious agents, COVID-19 incidence estimates in CF appear to be lower than in the general population. However, there are reports of subsets of CF, such as those who had organ transplants, that may experience a more severe COVID-19 course. Potential protective mechanisms in the CF population include pre-pandemic social isolation practices, infection prevention and control knowledge, altered expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme, and the use of certain medications.

Conclusions

Although individuals with CF are at risk of acute exacerbations often precipitated by respiratory tract viral infections, published evidence to date indicated that individuals with CF do not experience higher risks of contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, there is evidence that some subsets within the CF population, including those post-transplantation, may experience a more severe clinical course. As SARS-CoV-2 variants are identified and the pandemic goes through additional waves of disease outbreaks, ongoing monitoring of the risk of COVID-19 in individuals with CF is required.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in cystic fibrosis: A multicentre prospective study with a control group, Italy, February-July 2020

Objective

To describe the symptoms and clinical course of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF).

Methods

We carried out a prospective multicentre cohort study based on 32 CF centres and 6597 patients. Centres were contacted to collect baseline and follow-up data of patients who reported symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 or who had contact with a positive/suspected case between the end of February and July 2020. Symptoms and clinical course of the infection were compared between patients who tested positive by molecular testing (cases) and those who tested negative (controls).

Results

Thirty patients were reported from the centres, 16 of them tested positive and 14 tested negative. No differences in symptoms and outcome of the disease were observed between groups. Fever, cough, asthenia and dyspnea were the most frequently reported symptoms. Eight cases (50%) were hospitalized but none required ICU admission. Two adults with a history of lung transplant required non-invasive ventilation, none required ICU admission and all patients fully recovered without short-term sequelae.

Conclusions

The course of SARS-CoV-2 in our patients was relatively favorable. However, COVID-19 should not be considered a mild disease in CF patients, particularly for those with severely impaired respiratory function and organ transplant.

Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 in people with cystic fibrosis in Europe between February and June 2020

Background

Viral infections can cause significant morbidity in cystic fibrosis (CF). The current Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic could therefore have a serious impact on the health of people with CF (pwCF).

Methods

We used the 38-country European Cystic Fibrosis Society Patient Registry (ECFSPR) to collect case data about pwCF and SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Results

Up to 30 June 2020, 16 countries reported 130 SARS-CoV-2 cases in people with CF, yielding an incidence of 2.70/1000 pwCF. Incidence was higher in lung-transplanted patients (n=23) versus non-transplanted patients (n=107) (8.43 versus 2.36 cases/1000). Incidence was higher in pwCF versus the age-matched general population in the age groups <15, 15-24, and 25-49 years (p<0.001), with similar trends for pwCF with and without lung transplant. Compared to the general population, pwCF (regardless of transplantation status) had significantly higher rates of admission to hospital for all age groups with available data, and higher rates of intensive care, although not statistically significant.

Most pwCF recovered (96.2%), however 5 died, of whom 3 were lung transplant recipients. The case fatality rate for pwCF (3.85%, 95% CI: 1.26-8.75) was non-significantly lower than that of the general population (7.46%; p=0.133).

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection can result in severe illness and death for pwCF, even for younger patients and especially for lung transplant recipients. PwCF should continue to shield from infection and should be prioritized for vaccination.

SARS-CoV-2 infections in people with primary ciliary dyskinesia: neither frequent, nor particularly severe

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) had by March 2021 infected ≥115 million people worldwide and caused >2.5 million deaths. People with pre-existing chronic health conditions are reportedly at high risk of catching the disease and of having a severe disease course [1–4]. Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a multisystem, genetic disease which affects approximately 1 in 10 000 people and leads to chronic upper and lower airway disease, laterality defects, including congenital heart disease, and other health problems [5–8]. In March 2020, PCD patient support groups contacted the paediatric respiratory research group at the University of Bern (Bern, Switzerland) with the wish to set up a study that generates evidence on the risk and evolution of COVID-19 in people with PCD. This led to the launch of COVID-PCD, a longitudinal online survey of health, shielding behaviours and quality of life of people with PCD during the pandemic. COVID-PCD is a participatory study that collects data in real-time directly from people with PCD using online questionnaires. This article provides the first data on risk and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections among study participants for the time period between 30 May 2020 and 5 March 2021.

In this longitudinal study of people with PCD followed weekly via online questionnaires, the incidence rate of COVID-19 and the proportion of participants infected were low, and the observed severity mostly mildhttps://bit.ly/3frKICr