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Huang HL, Lu CY, Liu YC, Chang TH, Yen TY, Huang KYA, Tang HJ, Chang LY, Huang LM. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in self-reported COVID-19-free children. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2024:S1684-1182(24)00080-X. [PMID: 38777654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 poses risks and leads to complications for vulnerable populations, including children. Unreported cases of COVID-19 among children hinder our understanding of the true disease burden. In this study, we aimed to investigate the proportion of children who report no prior infection to SARS-CoV-2 but who nevertheless exhibit serological evidence of prior infection. METHODS Between November 2022 and February 2023, we recruited children and adolescents under 19 years of age who lacked a prior history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants underwent SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing to assess the presence of IgG antibodies specific to nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) proteins. Demographic and contact information were also collected. RESULTS Among 260 COVID-19-free children, the overall anti-N antibody positivity rate, which varied across age groups (4%-25%), was 9.2% (24/260). Contact with individuals who were positive for COVID-19, particularly the children's mothers, significantly increased the likelihood of antibody positivity. The median age of the 34 children who remained unvaccinated against COVID-19 was lower than that of the children who were vaccinated (6.5 vs. 9 years; p < 0.001). Until January 2024, the overall infection rate was 41.9% (99/236) among children who were negative for anti-N antibodies, irrespective of vaccination status or the presence of chronic disease. CONCLUSION We discovered previously undisclosed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection among children. The risk of seropositivity increases substantially with household contact. Regarding children who report no prior exposure to COVID-19, clinicians must remain vigilant, as SARS-CoV-2 remains a concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Lun Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan; Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yi Lu
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Chung Liu
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tu-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Ting-Yu Yen
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Ying A Huang
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Jen Tang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Luan-Yin Chang
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Li-Min Huang
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Powell AA, Dowell AC, Moss P, Ladhani SN. Current state of COVID-19 in children: 4 years on. J Infect 2024; 88:106134. [PMID: 38432584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Children have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite evidence of a very low risk of severe disease, children were subjected to extensive lockdown, restriction and mitigation measures, including school closures, to control the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 in most parts of the world. In this review we summarise the UK experience of COVID-19 in children four years into the largest and longest pandemic of this century. We address the risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection, immunity, transmission, severity and outcomes in children. We also assess the implementation, uptake, effectiveness and impact of COVID-19 vaccination, as well as the emergence, evolution and near disappearance of PIMS-TS (paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2) and current understanding of long COVID in children. This review consolidates current knowledge on childhood COVID-19 and emphasises the importance of continued research and the need for research-driven public health actions and policy decisions, especially in the context of new variants and future vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabel A Powell
- Public Health Programmes, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK.
| | - Alexander C Dowell
- Institute of Immunology & Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul Moss
- Institute of Immunology & Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shamez N Ladhani
- Public Health Programmes, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK; Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, St. George's University of London, London, UK
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Duan C, Liu L, Wang T, Wang G, Jiang Z, Li H, Zhang G, Ye L, Li C, Cao Y. Evidence linking COVID-19 and the health/well-being of children and adolescents: an umbrella review. BMC Med 2024; 22:116. [PMID: 38481207 PMCID: PMC10938697 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03334-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiences during childhood and adolescence have enduring impacts on physical and mental well-being, overall quality of life, and socioeconomic status throughout one's lifetime. This underscores the importance of prioritizing the health of children and adolescents to establish an impactful healthcare system that benefits both individuals and society. It is crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers to examine the relationship between COVID-19 and the health of children and adolescents, as this understanding will guide the creation of interventions and policies for the long-term management of the virus. METHODS In this umbrella review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023401106), systematic reviews were identified from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; EMBASE (OvidSP); and MEDLINE (OvidSP) from December 2019 to February 2023. Pairwise and single-arm meta-analyses were extracted from the included systematic reviews. The methodological quality appraisal was completed using the AMSTAR-2 tool. Single-arm meta-analyses were re-presented under six domains associated with COVID-19 condition. Pairwise meta-analyses were classified into five domains according to the evidence classification criteria. Rosenberg's FSN was calculated for both binary and continuous measures. RESULTS We identified 1551 single-arm and 301 pairwise meta-analyses from 124 systematic reviews that met our predefined criteria for inclusion. The focus of the meta-analytical evidence was predominantly on the physical outcomes of COVID-19, encompassing both single-arm and pairwise study designs. However, the quality of evidence and methodological rigor were suboptimal. Based on the evidence gathered from single-arm meta-analyses, we constructed an illustrative representation of the disease severity, clinical manifestations, laboratory and radiological findings, treatments, and outcomes from 2020 to 2022. Additionally, we discovered 17 instances of strong or highly suggestive pairwise meta-analytical evidence concerning long-COVID, pediatric comorbidity, COVID-19 vaccines, mental health, and depression. CONCLUSIONS The findings of our study advocate for the implementation of surveillance systems to track health consequences associated with COVID-19 and the establishment of multidisciplinary collaborative rehabilitation programs for affected younger populations. In future research endeavors, it is important to prioritize the investigation of non-physical outcomes to bridge the gap between research findings and clinical application in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengchen Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianyi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Guanru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhishen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Honglin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Gaowei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Evidence-Based Stomatology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yubin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No.14, 3rd Section of Ren Min Nan Rd., Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
- Department of Evidence-Based Stomatology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Vyas N, Bennett A, Shaver N, Beck A, Zitiktye G, Whelan B, O’Regan R, Conway A, Skidmore B, Moher D, Little J. SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk for common group activities and settings: a living scoping review. Eur J Public Health 2024; 34:196-201. [PMID: 37995320 PMCID: PMC10843946 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the modes of transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) are well studied, the risk of transmission in various group settings or activities is less clear. This living scoping review aims to summarize the risk factors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread in common group activities (e.g. social gatherings) or settings (e.g. schools, hospitals, shared workplaces) to understand the drivers of transmission and to inform a risk assessment profile tool for use of rapid antigen detection tests. METHODS We systematically searched electronic databases, MEDLINE and Embase, from January 2019 until February 2022. We included studies that evaluated the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in activities and settings, deemed strategically important to government departments in Ireland, provided by the Department of Health (Ireland) Expert Advisory Group on Rapid Testing. RESULTS After screening 14 052 records, data from 139 studies were narratively synthesized. The risk was consistently reported as 'high' for large social events (e.g. weddings) and indoor sports, working in healthcare settings and shared workplaces, working/living in residential settings and travelling via public transportation. Most studies were from healthcare settings, with common risk factors including close contact with COVID-19 cases, working in high-risk departments and inappropriate use of personal protective equipment. For other settings and activities, lack of infection prevention and control practices reportedly contributed to infection transmission. CONCLUSION The heterogeneity across studies and lack of direct information on dominant variants, preventive measures, vaccination coverage necessitates further research on transmission risk within group activities to inform infection prevention and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niyati Vyas
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandria Bennett
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicole Shaver
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Beck
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gabriele Zitiktye
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barbara Whelan
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Rhea O’Regan
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Aileen Conway
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland & Cochrane Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Becky Skidmore
- Independent Information Specialist, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Moher
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julian Little
- Knowledge Synthesis and Application Unit, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Samerton P, Apiwattanakul N, Assawawiroonhakarn S, Sahakijpicharn T, Thongchai R, Techasaensiri C, Boonsathorn S, Chaisavaneeyakorn S. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection rate among pediatric patients with respiratory symptoms. Pediatr Int 2024; 66:e15740. [PMID: 38641935 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in children has been increasing worldwide since the onset of the pandemic. This study examined the risk factors and characteristics of COVID-19 among pediatric patients compared to other respiratory viral infections. METHODS This was a prospective cross-sectional study. Patients aged 0-18 years presenting with respiratory symptoms from October 2020 to December 2021 were included. Demographic and clinical data were reviewed. RESULTS In total, 738 pediatric patients were enrolled. Of these, 48.5% had COVID-19, and 41.3% were infected with another respiratory virus. The COVID-19 incidence increased from 0.5% during the original strain outbreak (October 2020 to March 2021) to 56.5% and 73.4% during the alpha (April to June 2021) and delta (July to December 2021) periods, respectively. Children aged 6-18 years, being female, obesity, exposure to household members with COVID-19, and the delta period were risk factors for COVID-19. Being aged 1-5 years, obesity, shortness of breath, productive cough, and chest pain were associated with COVID-19 pneumonia. Children aged 5-18 years, underlying neurological disease, a history of COVID-19 pneumonia, and the delta period were associated with long COVID. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric COVID-19 patients presenting with respiratory symptoms who are obese or have been exposed to household members with COVID-19 should be tested for COVID-19. COVID-19 patients who are obese, younger than five years old, or who present with shortness of breath, productive cough, or chest pain should be evaluated for pneumonia. COVID-19 patients with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia or underlying neurological disease should receive follow-up for long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penpitcha Samerton
- Department of Pediatrics, Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Nopporn Apiwattanakul
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surapat Assawawiroonhakarn
- Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Samut Prakan, Thailand
| | - Thiantip Sahakijpicharn
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rakruthai Thongchai
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chonnamet Techasaensiri
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sophida Boonsathorn
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sujittra Chaisavaneeyakorn
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Endriyas M, Woldemariam B, Shibru E, Hussen M, Bedru B, Moges M, Melka M, Lemango F, Mate M, Lejiso T, Gebremedhin B, Tolcha A, Shiferaw B, Wondimu G, Terefe T, Ayele S, Misganaw T, Samuel T, Kelaye T, Gebru A, Assefa A, Getachew W, Yalew B, Geleta D. Readiness of public schools before reopening during COVID-19 pandemic: School-based cross-sectional survey in southern Ethiopia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293722. [PMID: 37906545 PMCID: PMC10617685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293722] [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: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND School closures in response to the COVID-19 impacted children's education, protection, and wellbeing. After understanding these impacts and that children were not super spreaders, countries including Ethiopia decided to reopen schools with specified preconditions. But when deciding to reopen schools, the benefits and risks across education, public health and socio-economic factors have to be evaluated. However, there was information gap on status of schools as per preconditions. Hence, this study was designed to investigate status of schools in Southern Ethiopia. METHODS School based cross-sectional study was conducted in October 2020 in Southern Ethiopia. Sample of 430 schools were included. National school reopening guideline was used to develop checklist for assessment. Data was collected by public health experts at regional emergency operation center. Descriptive analysis was performed to summarize data. RESULTS A total of 430 schools were included. More than two thirds, 298 (69.3%), of schools were from rural areas while 132 (30.7%) were from urban settings. The general infection prevention and water, sanitation and hygiene (IPC-WASH) status of schools were poor and COVID-19 specific preparations were inadequate to meet national preconditions to reopen schools during the pandemic. Total score from 24 items observed ranged from 3 to 22 points with mean score of 11.75 (SD±4.02). No school scored 100% and only 41 (9.5%) scored above 75% while 216 (50.2%%) scored below half point that is 12 items. CONCLUSION Both the basic and COVID-19 specific IPC-WASH status of schools were inadequate to implement national school reopening preconditions and general standards. Some of strategies planned to accommodate teaching process and preconditions maximized inequalities in education. Although COVID-19 impact lessened due to vaccination and other factors, it is rational to consider fulfilling water and basic sanitation facilities to schools to prevent communicable diseases of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misganu Endriyas
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Belete Woldemariam
- Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mamush Hussen
- Public Health Institute Director Office, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Bersabeh Bedru
- Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Mathewos Moges
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Mintesinot Melka
- Public Health Institute Director Office, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Fiseha Lemango
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Male Mate
- Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Lejiso
- Maternal, Child Health and Nutrition Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Biruk Gebremedhin
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Tolcha
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Biniam Shiferaw
- Medical Services Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Girma Wondimu
- Public Health Laboratory Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfatsion Terefe
- Public Health Emergency Management, Southwest Ethiopia Health Bureau, Tercha, Southwest Ethiopia, Ethiopia
| | - Sinafikish Ayele
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Tebeje Misganaw
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Teka Samuel
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, Sidama Regional Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Temesgen Kelaye
- Health Research and Technology Transfer Directorate, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Agegnehu Gebru
- Transform Primary Health Care Project, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Assefa
- Transform Primary Health Care Project, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Wogene Getachew
- Technical Assistant at EOC, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Bereket Yalew
- Technical Assistant at EOC, SNNPR Health Bureau, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Dereje Geleta
- College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
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Stanke Z, Spouge JL. Estimating age-stratified transmission and reproduction numbers during the early exponential phase of an epidemic: A case study with COVID-19 data. Epidemics 2023; 44:100714. [PMID: 37595401 PMCID: PMC10528737 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2023.100714] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In a pending pandemic, early knowledge of age-specific disease parameters, e.g., susceptibility, infectivity, and the clinical fraction (the fraction of infections coming to clinical attention), supports targeted public health responses like school closures or sequestration of the elderly. The earlier the knowledge, the more useful it is, so the present article examines an early phase of many epidemics, exponential growth. Using age-stratified COVID-19 case counts collected in Canada, China, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom before April 23, 2020, we present a linear analysis of the exponential phase that attempts to estimate the age-specific disease parameters given above. Some combinations of the parameters can be estimated by requiring that they change smoothly with age. The estimation yielded: (1) the case susceptibility, defined for each age-group as the product of susceptibility to infection and the clinical fraction; (2) the mean number of transmissions of infection per contact within each age-group; and (3) the reproduction number of infection within each age-group, i.e., the diagonal of the age-stratified next-generation matrix. Our restriction to data from the exponential phase indicates the combinations of epidemic parameters that are intrinsically easiest to estimate with early age-stratified case counts. For example, conclusions concerning the age-dependence of case susceptibility appeared more robust than corresponding conclusions about infectivity. Generally, the analysis produced some results consistent with conclusions confirmed much later in the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, our analysis showed that in some countries, the reproduction number of infection within the half-decade 70-75 was unusually large compared to other half-decades. Our analysis therefore could have anticipated that without countermeasures, COVID-19 would spread rapidly once seeded in homes for the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Stanke
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA
| | - John L Spouge
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA.
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8
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Paulo MS, Peyroteo M, Maia MR, Pries C, Habl C, Lapão LV. Impacts of public health and social measures on COVID-19 in Europe: a review and modified Delphi technique. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1226922. [PMID: 37719729 PMCID: PMC10501783 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1226922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 led countries to implement a set of public health and social measures (PHSMs) attempting to contain the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This study aims to review the existing literature regarding key results of the PHSMs that were implemented, and to identify the PHSMs considered to have most impacted the epidemiological curve of COVID-19 over the last years during different stages of the pandemic. Methods The PHSM under study were selected from the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT), supplemented by topics presented during the Rapid Exchange Forum (REF) meetings in the scope of the Population Health Information Research Infrastructure (PHIRI) project (H2020). The evidence- based review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to identify which reviews have already been published about each PHSMs and their results. In addition, two modified Delphi panel surveys were conducted among subject matter experts from 30 European countries to uphold the results found. Results There were 3,212 studies retrieved from PubMed, 162 full texts assessed for eligibility and 35 included in this PHSMs summary. The measures with clearest evidence on their positive impact from the evidence-based review include social distancing, hygiene measures, mask measures and testing policies. From the modified Delphi panel, the PHSMs considered most significant in the four periods analyzed were case isolation at home, face coverings, testing policy, and social distancing, respectively. Discussion The evidence found has significant implications for both researchers and policymakers. The study of PHSMs' impact on COVID-19 illustrates lessons learned for future pan- and epidemics, serving as a contribution to the health systems resilience discussion. These lessons, drawn from both the available scientific evidence and the perspectives of relevant subject matter experts, should also be considered in educational and preparedness programs and activities in the public health space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília Silva Paulo
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mariana Peyroteo
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- UNIDEMI, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal
- LASI, Laboratório Associado de Sistemas Inteligentes, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Mélanie R. Maia
- UNIDEMI, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal
- LASI, Laboratório Associado de Sistemas Inteligentes, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cara Pries
- Gesundheit Österreich GmbH (Austrian National Public Health Institute), Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Habl
- Gesundheit Österreich GmbH (Austrian National Public Health Institute), Vienna, Austria
| | - Luís Velez Lapão
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- UNIDEMI, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal
- LASI, Laboratório Associado de Sistemas Inteligentes, Guimarães, Portugal
- WHO Collaborating Center for Health Workforce Policy and Planning, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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9
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Soriano-Arandes A, Brett A, Buonsenso D, Emilsson L, de la Fuente Garcia I, Gkentzi D, Helve O, Kepp KP, Mossberg M, Muka T, Munro A, Papan C, Perramon-Malavez A, Schaltz-Buchholzer F, Smeesters PR, Zimmermann P. Policies on children and schools during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Western Europe. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1175444. [PMID: 37564427 PMCID: PMC10411527 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1175444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
During the pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), mitigation policies for children have been a topic of considerable uncertainty and debate. Although some children have co-morbidities which increase their risk for severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and complications such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome and long COVID, most children only get mild COVID-19. On the other hand, consistent evidence shows that mass mitigation measures had enormous adverse impacts on children. A central question can thus be posed: What amount of mitigation should children bear, in response to a disease that is disproportionally affecting older people? In this review, we analyze the distinct child versus adult epidemiology, policies, mitigation trade-offs and outcomes in children in Western Europe. The highly heterogenous European policies applied to children compared to adults did not lead to significant measurable differences in outcomes. Remarkably, the relative epidemiological importance of transmission from school-age children to other age groups remains uncertain, with current evidence suggesting that schools often follow, rather than lead, community transmission. Important learning points for future pandemics are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Soriano-Arandes
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunodeficiencies Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Brett
- Infectious Diseases Unit and Emergency Service, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Louise Emilsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
- Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Isabel de la Fuente Garcia
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, National Pediatric Center, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Despoina Gkentzi
- Department of Paediatrics, Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Otto Helve
- Department of Health Security, Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Pediatric Research Center, Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kasper P. Kepp
- Section of Biophysical and Biomedicinal Chemistry, DTU Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Maria Mossberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Taulant Muka
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Epistudia, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alasdair Munro
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Cihan Papan
- Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Aida Perramon-Malavez
- Computational Biology and Complex Systems (BIOCOM-SC) Group, Department of Physics, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC·BarcelonaTech), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Pierre R. Smeesters
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Brussels, Academic Children’s Hospital Queen Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Petra Zimmermann
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Paediatrics, Fribourg Hospital, Fribourg, Switzerland
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10
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Zheng L, Lin Y, Yang J, Fang K, Wu J, Zheng M. Global variability of influenza activity and virus subtype circulation from 2011 to 2023. BMJ Open Respir Res 2023; 10:e001638. [PMID: 37491131 PMCID: PMC10577751 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2023-001638] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although decreased influenza activity has been reported in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains unknown how global influenza activity has changed. We described the global variability of influenza activity and virus subtype circulation from 2011 to 2023 to prepare for the potential influenza outbreak with the control of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Influenza virological surveillance data between 2011 and 2023 were obtained from the WHO-FluNet database. We first calculated and compared the influenza activity before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. For countries whose influenza activity has recovered, we also described changes in the duration of influenza epidemics. We then determined the proportion of influenza cases caused by the different influenza virus types. RESULTS In total, 73 countries with 2.17 million influenza cases were included. In the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, decreased influenza activity was observed in all WHO regions. In 2022 and 2023, rebound in influenza activity was observed in all WHO regions, especially in Western Pacific Region. At the same time, a change in the duration of the influenza epidemic was observed in several Southern Hemisphere countries. Moreover, in all WHO regions, few B/Yamagata viruses were detected during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Lack of exposure to influenza will diminish population immunity and increase the severity of large epidemics on a future global resurgence. Ongoing monitoring of the changes in the duration of the influenza epidemic and circulation subtypes should be the focus of future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yushi Lin
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kailu Fang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Min Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang, China
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11
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Mansour Ghanaie R, Boone I, Shamshiri AR, Karimi A, Amirali A, Marhamati N, Rostami MH, Pashaei N, Janbazi S, Azimi L, Khodaei H, Fallah F, Eckmanns T, Jansen A, Baradaran HR, Momeny Ourimi M, Maham S, Elikaei A, Alebouyeh M. Seroepidemiological and Molecular Survey for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Children in Iran, September 2020 to June 2021: 1-Year Cross-Sectional Study. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1672. [PMID: 37512845 PMCID: PMC10386463 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A population-based seroepidemiological and molecular survey on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was performed to detect induced antibodies to prior exposure and active infection of children aged 14 years or less in Tehran between 19 September 2020 and 21 June 2021. Moreover, correlations between the children's demographic data and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms with the infection status were investigated. Out of 1517 participants, cardinal symptoms of COVID-19 (fever > 38 °C and/or cough and/or diarrhea) were detected in 18%, and serological history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity were confirmed in 33.2% and 10.7% of the weighted population, respectively. The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was significantly higher among 10-14-year-old children. Active infection was significantly higher in symptomatic children and during autumn 2020 and spring 2021. The quantitative reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) positivity was significantly higher among families with a lower socioeconomic status, whereas no association between RT-qPCR or seropositivity was determined with household size, underlying diseases, or gender. In conclusion, high SARS-CoV-2 infection prevalence and seroprevalence were detected in children in Tehran in different seasons. Infection prevalence was significantly higher in older children and in those with a positive history of close contact with infected cases and/or lower socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Mansour Ghanaie
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Idesbald Boone
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ahmad Reza Shamshiri
- Research Center for Caries Prevention, Dentistry Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1439955934, Iran
- Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1439955934, Iran
| | - Abdollah Karimi
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Arezu Amirali
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran 1993893973, Iran
| | - Noushin Marhamati
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | | | - Niloofar Pashaei
- Central Laboratory, Deputy of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717443, Iran
| | - Shahriar Janbazi
- Department of Health and Medical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1983969411, Iran
| | - Leila Azimi
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Hannan Khodaei
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Fallah
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Tim Eckmanns
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Jansen
- Centre for International Health Protection, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Hamid Reza Baradaran
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Maryam Momeny Ourimi
- Mofid Children's Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Saeed Maham
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
| | - Ameneh Elikaei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran 1993893973, Iran
| | - Masoud Alebouyeh
- Pediatric Infections Research Centre, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1546815514, Iran
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12
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Musalkova D, Piherova L, Kwasny O, Dindova Z, Stancik L, Hartmannova H, Slama O, Peckova P, Pargac J, Minarik G, Zima T, Bleyer AJ, Radina M, Pohludka M, Kmoch S. Trends in SARS-CoV-2 cycle threshold values in the Czech Republic from April 2020 to April 2022. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6156. [PMID: 37061534 PMCID: PMC10105352 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32953-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The inability to predict the evolution of the COVID-19 epidemic hampered abilities to respond to the crisis effectively. The cycle threshold (Ct) from the standard SARS-CoV-2 quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-qPCR) clinical assay is inversely proportional to the amount of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the sample. We were interested to see if population Ct values could predict future increases in COVID-19 cases as well as subgroups that would be more likely to be affected. This information would have been extremely helpful early in the COVID-19 epidemic. We therefore conducted a retrospective analysis of demographic data and Ct values from 2,076,887 nasopharyngeal swab RT-qPCR tests that were performed at a single diagnostic laboratory in the Czech Republic from April 2020 to April 2022 and from 221,671 tests that were performed as a part of a mandatory school surveillance testing program from March 2021 to March 2022. We found that Ct values could be helpful predictive tools in the real-time management of viral epidemics. First, early measurement of Ct values would have indicated the low viral load in children, equivalent viral load in males and females, and higher viral load in older individuals. Second, rising or falling median Ct values and differences in Ct distribution indicated changes in the transmission in the population. Third, monitoring Ct values and positivity rates would have provided early evidence as to whether prevention measures are effective. Health system authorities should thus consider collecting weekly median Ct values of positively tested samples from major diagnostic laboratories for regional epidemic surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dita Musalkova
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Piherova
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | | | - Hana Hartmannova
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Otomar Slama
- Faculty of Safety Engineering, Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Charles University Innovations Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Peckova
- Regional Authority of the Central Bohemia Region, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Tomas Zima
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, General University Hospital and the First Faculty of Medicine of Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anthony J Bleyer
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- Section on Nephrology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Stanislav Kmoch
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Medirex Group Academy, Trnava, Slovakia.
- Section on Nephrology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
- GeneSpector, Prague, Czech Republic.
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13
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Seroprevalence and socioeconomic impact of the first SARS-CoV-2 infection wave in a small town in Navarre, Spain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3862. [PMID: 36890175 PMCID: PMC9992915 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30542-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The characterization of the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 and its determinants are key for the understanding of COVID-19. The identification of vulnerable populations to the infection and to its socioeconomic impact is indispensable for inclusive policies. We conducted an age-stratified cross-sectional community-based seroprevalence survey between June 12th and 19th 2020-during the easing of lockdown-in Cizur, Spain. We quantified IgG, IgM and IgA levels against SARS-CoV-2 spike and its receptor-binding domain in a sample of 728 randomly selected, voluntarily registered inhabitants. We estimated a 7.9% seroprevalence in the general population, with the lowest seroprevalence among children under ten (n = 3/142, 2.1%) and the highest among adolescents (11-20 years old, n = 18/159, 11.3%). We found a heterogeneous immune-response profile across participants regarding isotype/antigen-specific seropositivity, although levels generally correlated. Those with technical education level were the most financially affected. Fifty-five percent had visited a supermarket and 43% a sanitary centre since mid-February 2020. When comparing by gender, men had left the household more frequently. In conclusion, few days after strict lockdown, the burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection was the lowest in children under 10. The findings also suggest that a wider isotype-antigen panel confers higher sensitivity. Finally, the economic impact biases should be considered when designing public health measures.
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14
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Akhtar E, Mily A, Sarker P, Chanda BC, Haque F, Kuddusi RU, Haq MA, Lourda M, Brighenti S, Raqib R. Immune cell landscape in symptomatic and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected adults and children in urban Dhaka, Bangladesh. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152350. [PMID: 36822063 PMCID: PMC9938758 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2023.152350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study of cellular immunity to SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for evaluating the course of the COVID-19 disease and for improving vaccine development. We aimed to assess the phenotypic landscape of circulating lymphocytes and mononuclear cells in adults and children who were seropositive to SARS-CoV-2 in the past 6 months. METHODS Blood samples (n = 350) were collected in a cross-sectional study in Dhaka, Bangladesh (Oct 2020-Feb 2021). Plasma antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 were determined by an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay while lymphocyte and monocyte responses were assessed using flow cytometry including dimensionality reduction and clustering algorithms. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity was observed in 52% of adults (18-65 years) and 56% of children (10-17 years). Seropositivity was associated with reduced CD3+T cells in both adults (beta(β) = -2.86; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = -5.98, 0.27) and children (β = -8.78; 95% CI = -13.8, -3.78). The frequencies of T helper effector (CD4+TEFF) and effector memory cells (CD4+TEM) were increased in seropositive compared to seronegative children. In adults, seropositivity was associated with an elevated proportion of cytotoxic T central memory cells (CD8+TCM). Overall, diverse manifestations of immune cell dysregulations were more prominent in seropositive children compared to adults, who previously had COVID-like symptoms. These changes involved reduced frequencies of CD4+TEFF cells and CD163+CD64+ classical monocytes, but increased levels of intermediate or non-classical monocytes, as well as CD8+TEM cells in symptomatic children. CONCLUSION Seropositive individuals in convalescence showed increased central and effector memory T cell phenotypes and pro-resolving/healing monocyte phenotypes compared to seronegative subjects. However, seropositive children with a previous history of COVID-like symptoms, displayed an ongoing innate inflammatory trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evana Akhtar
- Infectious Diseases Division, icddrb, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Akhirunnesa Mily
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 141 52, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Protim Sarker
- Infectious Diseases Division, icddrb, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | | | - Farjana Haque
- Infectious Diseases Division, icddrb, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Ahsanul Haq
- Infectious Diseases Division, icddrb, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Magda Lourda
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 141 52, Huddinge, Sweden; Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanna Brighenti
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 141 52, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Rubhana Raqib
- Infectious Diseases Division, icddrb, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.
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15
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Dao TL, Vu Thi H, Gautret P, Al-Tawfiq JA, Nguyen TL, Chu DT, Hoang VT. Willingness and attitudes of parents towards COVID-19 vaccines for children in Vietnam. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:75-82. [PMID: 36919804 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2022.2150207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With an increasing need for COVID-19 vaccination around the globe, we aim to investigate willingness and attitudes of parents regarding COVID-19 vaccines for children in Vietnam. METHOD A 24-item online survey was conducted among 602 parents and legal guardians of children under 18 years of age. RESULTS There were 82.6% of parents willing to vaccinate their children. The principal reasons for willingness were: the need for vaccination to control the COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission when children return to school. The most common reason for refusing COVID-19 vaccine was the concern about vaccine side effects in children (73.3%), followed by perceived lack of scientific research on COVID-19 vaccines in children (31.4%). The main associated factors with increased willingness of parents towards childhood COVID-19 vaccine were: willingness to allow children to participate in a clinical vaccine trial (aOR = 3.58); possible increase in COVID-19-related mortality (aOR = 3.69); and positive media information regarding COVID-19 vaccine (aOR = 2.04). Noteworthy, higher educational status of parents was associated with decreased willingness for childhood COVID-19 vaccine (aOR = 0.26). CONCLUSION Understanding reasons of parents to accept childhood COVID-19 vaccines will help future plans in COVID-19 vaccination program. A larger sample size study at a national level is needed to verify the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Loi Dao
- Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Binh, Vietnam
| | - Hue Vu Thi
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Philippe Gautret
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France.,IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq
- Infectious Disease Unit, Specialty Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.,Infectious Disease Division, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Infectious Disease Division, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thanh Lam Nguyen
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dinh Toi Chu
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Van Thuan Hoang
- Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Binh, Vietnam
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16
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Stein-Zamir C, Sinai-Zaken O, Zvulun E, Najajra G, Pinto R, Koren S, Shoob H, Abramson N. SARS-CoV-2 infection characteristics among students and staff in a large high school COVID-19 outbreak and secondary transmission in households. INFECTIOUS MEDICINE 2023; 2:36-43. [PMID: 38013775 PMCID: PMC9977694 DOI: 10.1016/j.imj.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Background SARS-CoV-2 clinical presentation is associated with the patients' age group. Overall, young individuals present higher proportions of asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 infection, compared to adults. Data on secondary COVID-19 transmission in households, according to the cases' age group, are accumulating. Methods We performed a follow-up cohort study including all COVID-19 real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed cases (adolescent students and school staff) diagnosed in an epidemiological investigation of a large high school outbreak. We compared the adolescent and adult groups regarding clinical symptoms, time to negative COVID-19 RT-PCR tests, and infection transmission in households. Results The study population included 817 persons. The confirmed COVID-19 RT-PCR outbreak cases (n = 178) were followed (students aged 12-19 years, median age 14 years, n = 153, school staff aged 24-67 years, median age 39 years, n = 25) and the cases' household close contacts (n = 639) were tested. The adolescents had lower symptomatic infection rates, shorter time to negative COVID-19 RT-PCR tests, and lower transmission rates to household members, compared to the adults. The general transmission rate among household contacts was 13.5%, (86/639) ranging from 8.6% in asymptomatic students' contacts to 27.3% in symptomatic staff contacts. COVID-19 transmission rates were significantly higher in contacts of symptomatic cases compared to asymptomatic cases (odds ratio: 2.06, 95% CI 1.26-3.4) and higher in adults compared to adolescents (odds ratio: 2.69, 95% CI 1.43-4.89). Conclusions Adolescents and adults diagnosed in an outbreak investigation differ as to COVID-19 clinical presentation and transmission. As adolescents may show mild or no symptoms, COVID-19 prevention in school settings is challenging. Implementing nonpharmaceutical measures and promoting vaccination programs in eligible staff and students should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Stein-Zamir
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Hebrew University and Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ora Sinai-Zaken
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eti Zvulun
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ghada Najajra
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rinat Pinto
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shahar Koren
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Hebrew University and Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hanna Shoob
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nitza Abramson
- Jerusalem District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
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17
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Gobena D, Kebede Gudina E, Yilma D, Girma T, Gebre G, Gelanew T, Abdissa A, Mulleta D, Sarbessa T, Asefa H, Woldie M, Shumi G, Kenate B, Kroidl A, Wieser A, Eshetu B, Degfie TT, Mekonnen Z. Escalating spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection after school reopening among students in hotspot districts of Oromia Region in Ethiopia: Longitudinal study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280801. [PMID: 36735689 PMCID: PMC9897530 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic caused by extended variants of SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 350 million people, resulting in over 5.5 million deaths globally. However, the actual burden of the pandemic in Africa, particularly among children, remains largely unknown. We aimed to assess the seroepidemiological changes of SARS-CoV-2 infection after school reopening among school children in Oromia, Ethiopia. METHODS A prospective cohort study involving students aged 10 years and older were used. A serological survey was performed twice, at school reopening in December 2020 and four months later in April 2021. Participants were selected from 60 schools located in 15 COVID-19 hotspot districts in Oromia Region. Serology tests were performed by Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid assay. Data were collected using CSentry CSProData Entry 7.2.1 and exported to STATA version 14.2 for data cleaning and analysis. RESULTS A total of 1884 students were recruited at baseline, and 1271 completed the follow-up. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence almost doubled in four months from 25.7% at baseline to 46.3% in the second round, with a corresponding seroincidence of 1910 per 100,000 person-week. Seroincidence was found to be higher among secondary school students (grade 9-12) compared to primary school students (grade 4-8) (RR = 1.6, 95% CI 1.21-2.22) and among those with large family size (> = 5) than those with a family size of <3 (RR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.09-4.17). The increase in SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among the students corresponded with Ethiopia's second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak. CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among students in hotspot districts of the Oromia Region was high even at baseline and almost doubled within four months of school recommencement. The high seroincidence coincided with the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Ethiopia, indicating a possible contribution to school opening for the new outbreak wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dabesa Gobena
- Public Health Emergency Management and Health Research Directorate, Oromia Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Daniel Yilma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Tsinuel Girma
- Fenot Project, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Getu Gebre
- Public Health Emergency Management and Health Research Directorate, Oromia Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Daba Mulleta
- Public Health Emergency Management and Health Research Directorate, Oromia Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tarekegn Sarbessa
- Public Health Emergency Management and Health Research Directorate, Oromia Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Asefa
- Department of Epidemiology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mirkuzie Woldie
- Fenot Project, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Gemechu Shumi
- Fenot Project, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Birhanu Kenate
- Fenot Project, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Arne Kroidl
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Wieser
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Beza Eshetu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Tizta Tilahun Degfie
- Fenot Project, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zeleke Mekonnen
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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18
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Haile SR, Raineri A, Rueegg S, Radtke T, Ulyte A, Puhan MA, Kriemler S. Heterogeneous evolution of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in school-age children: Results from the school-based cohort study Ciao Corona in November-December 2021 in the canton of Zurich. Swiss Med Wkly 2023; 153:40035. [PMID: 36787493 DOI: 10.57187/smw.2023.40035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Much remains unknown regarding the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and variability in seropositive children in districts, schools and classes as only a few school-based cohort studies exist. Vaccination of children, initiated at different times for different age groups, adds additional complexity to the understanding of how seroprevalence developed in the school aged population. AIM We investigated the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in children and its variability in districts, schools and classes in Switzerland from June/July 2020 to November/December 2021. METHODS In this school-based cohort study, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were measured in primary and secondary school children from randomly selected schools in the canton of Zurich in October/November 2020, March/April 2021 and November/December 2021. Seroprevalence was estimated using Bayesian logistic regression to adjust for test sensitivity and specificity. Variability of seroprevalence between school classes was expressed as maximum minus minimum seroprevalence in a class and summarised as median (interquartile range). RESULTS 1875 children from 287 classes in 43 schools were tested, with median age 12 years (range 6-17), 51% 12+ vaccinated. Seroprevalence increased from 5.6% (95% credible interval [CrI] 3.5-7.6%) to 31.1% (95% CrI 27.0-36.1%) in unvaccinated children, and 46.4% (95% CrI 42.6-50.9%) in all children (including vaccinated). Earlier in the pandemic, seropositivity rates in primary schools were similar to or slightly higher (<5%) than those in secondary schools, but by late 2021, primary schools had 12.3% (44.3%) lower seroprevalence for unvaccinated (all) subjects. Variability in seroprevalence among districts and schools increased more than two-fold over time, and in classes from 11% (95% CrI 7-17%) to 40% (95% CrI 22-49%). CONCLUSIONS Seroprevalence in children increased greatly, especially in 2021 following introduction of vaccines. Variability in seroprevalence was high and increased substantially over time, suggesting complex transmission chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Haile
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alessia Raineri
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Rueegg
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Radtke
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Agne Ulyte
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Milo A Puhan
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susi Kriemler
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Vardavas CI, Nikitara K, Aslanoglou K, Kamekis A, Puttige Ramesh N, Symvoulakis E, Agaku I, Phalkey R, Leonardi-Bee J, Fernandez E, Condell O, Lamb F, Deogan C, Suk JE. Systematic review of outbreaks of COVID-19 within households in the European region when the child is the index case. BMJ Paediatr Open 2023; 7:10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001718. [PMID: 36649374 PMCID: PMC9835947 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review aims to identify the secondary attack rates (SAR) to adults and other children when children are the index cases within household settings. METHODS This literature review assessed European-based studies published in Medline and Embase between January 2020 and January 2022 that assessed the secondary transmission of SARS-CoV-2 within household settings. The inclusion criteria were based on the Population, Exposure, Outcome framework for systematic reviews. Thus, the study population was restricted to humans within the household setting in Europe (population), in contact with paediatric index cases 1-17 years old (exposure) that led to the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 reported as either an SAR or the probability of onward infection (outcome). RESULTS Of 1819 studies originally identified, 19 met the inclusion criteria. Overall, the SAR ranged from 13% to 75% in 15 studies, while there was no evidence of secondary transmission from children to other household members in one study. Evidence indicated that asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 index cases also have a lower SAR than those with symptoms and that younger children may have a lower SAR than adolescents (>12 years old) within household settings. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 secondary transmission from paediatric index cases ranged from 0% to 75%, within household settings between January 2020 and January 2022, with differences noted by age and by symptomatic/asymptomatic status of the index case. Given the anticipated endemic circulation of SARS-CoV-2, continued monitoring and assessment of household transmission is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine I Vardavas
- School of Medicine, University of Crete School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece.,Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katerina Nikitara
- School of Medicine, University of Crete School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Katerina Aslanoglou
- School of Medicine, University of Crete School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Apostolos Kamekis
- School of Medicine, University of Crete School of Medicine, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Nithya Puttige Ramesh
- Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Israel Agaku
- Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Revati Phalkey
- Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jo Leonardi-Bee
- Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Esteve Fernandez
- Tobacco Control Unit, Catalan Institute of Oncology Institut Català d'Oncologia (ICO), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Tobacco Control Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvithe (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Orla Condell
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Favelle Lamb
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Deogan
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonathan E Suk
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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Jallul M, Elgriw N, Eltaib FI, Al Dwigen SM, Elfallah A, Elgheriani HM, Atwear WS, Milad MB, Alhudiri IM, Elzagheid A. Parents' concerns and attitudes towards school reopening during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey-Tripoli, Libya, 2021. Libyan J Med 2022; 17:2087847. [PMID: 35791596 PMCID: PMC9262368 DOI: 10.1080/19932820.2022.2087847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The issue of school reopening has raised several concerns; therefore, the parent’s opinion is essential to consider. This study aimed to evaluate the parent’s attitudes and concerns toward school reopening in the COVID-19 era. A cross-sectional survey was performed using in-person self-administered questionnaires, the data was collected in the period between January and April 2021 covering parents’ concerns and attitudes toward school reopening. A total of 402 parents participated in the survey. Analysis showed that 56.7% of parents have agreed with school reopening, but 54% have raised some legitimate concerns. Importantly, there was a strong correlation between parents’ opinions towards school reopening and their level of education, and their concerns about their children’s safety if the school was reopened. Despite parents’ concerns, it does seem that slightly over half were in favour of school reopening and would send their children to school only if the schools did apply strict precautions and restriction measures. Sharing parents’ views toward school reopening with school leaders and decision-makers is important to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of return to schools and to improve existing prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mwada Jallul
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Nada Elgriw
- Department of Microbiology, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Farag I Eltaib
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Samira M Al Dwigen
- Department of Cell Biology, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Asma Elfallah
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Hajer M Elgheriani
- Department of Microbiology, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Wafeya S Atwear
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Mohamed Burid Milad
- Department of Cell Biology, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Inas M Alhudiri
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Adam Elzagheid
- Department of Genetic Engineering, Libyan Centre for Biotechnology Research, Tripoli, Libya
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21
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Chen F, Tian Y, Zhang L, Shi Y. The role of children in household transmission of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 122:266-275. [PMID: 35562045 PMCID: PMC9091150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore household transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 in children in new-variants dominating periods. METHODS Through retrieval in PubMed and Embase, studies were included in two parts: meta-analysis of the household secondary attack rate (SAR) and case analysis of household pediatric infections. RESULTS A total of 95 articles were included: 48 for meta-analysis and 47 for case analysis. Pediatric COVID-19 only comprised a minority of the household transmission. The total pooled household SAR of child index cases and contacts were 0.20 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15-0.26) and 0.24 (95% CI: 0.18-0.30). Lower household transmissibility was reported in both child index cases and contacts than in adults (relative risk [RR] = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.50-0.81; RR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.64-0.85). Younger children were as susceptible as the older children (RR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.72-1.10). Through subgroup analyses of different variants and periods, increased household SAR was observed in children (Wild: 0.20; Alpha: 0.42; Delta: 0.35; Omicron: 0.56), and no significant difference was found in household SAR between children and adults when new variants dominated. CONCLUSION Although children were found not to be dominant in the household transmission, their transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 appeared to be on the rise as new variants emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yuan Shi
- Corresponding author: Yuan Shi, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China, Mob: 00862363635678
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22
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Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in K-12 Schools, British Columbia, Canada April to June 2021. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0062222. [PMID: 35862938 PMCID: PMC9430687 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00622-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is concern that schools may be a setting where asymptomatic infections might result in significant “silent” transmission of SARS-CoV-2, particularly after the emergence of more transmissible variants of concern. After the programmatic implementation of a strategy of asymptomatic testing of close COVID-19 contacts as part of contact tracing in the school setting, the majority of the secondary cases were still found to have occurred in home or social contacts.
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23
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Maciel ELN, Jabor PM, Goncalves Jr E, Soares KKS, Prado TND, Zandonade E. COVID-19 in children in Espirito Santo State – Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE SAÚDE MATERNO INFANTIL 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9304202200020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: to characterize school-aged children, adolescents, and young people’s profile and their associations with positive COVID-19 test results. Methods: an observational and descriptive study of secondary data from the COVID-19 Panel in Espírito Santo State in February to August 2020. People suspected of COVID-19, in the 0–19-years old age group, were included in order to assess clinical data and demographic and epidemiological factors associated with the disease. Results: in the study period, 27,351 COVID-19 notification were registered in children, adolescents, and young people. The highest COVID-19 test confirmation was found in Caucasians and were 5-14 years age group. It was also observed that headache was the symptom with the highest test confirmation. Infection in people with disabilities was more frequent in the confirmed cases. The confirmation of cases occurred in approximately 80% of the notified registrations and 0.3% of the confirmed cases, died. Conclusion: children with confirmed diagnosis for COVID-19 have lower mortality rates, even though many were asymptomatic. To control the chain of transmission and reduce morbidity and mortality rates, it was necessaryto conduct more comprehensive research and promote extensive testing in the population.
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24
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Citerne A, Rancière F, Roda C, Momas I. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Lockdown: Morbidity, Perception, Behaviors, and Attitudes in French Families From the PARIS Birth Cohort. Front Public Health 2022; 10:907456. [PMID: 35685753 PMCID: PMC9170922 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.907456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Few studies have examined the overall experience of adolescents and their families during COVID-19 lockdowns. This study describes COVID-19-related morbidity in the PARIS birth cohort families during the first lockdown in France and identifies family profiles in terms of morbidity, perception, behaviors, and attitudes. Methods Online questionnaires were sent to adolescents of the PARIS birth cohort and their parents. Possible COVID-19 was defined by symptoms using the ECDC definition. Household transmission was estimated by calculating the observed clinical secondary attack rates. Perception, behaviors and attitudes were assessed by levels of stress, degree of satisfaction regarding levels of information about COVID-19, degree of agreement with the lockdown and preventive measures. COVID-19 morbidity in adolescents and parents was compared using chi-squared or Student's t-tests. Within each family, perception, behaviors, and attitudes were compared between adolescents and parents using matched-pairs tests. To identify contrasting family profiles, a K-means cluster analysis was implemented. Results Of 1,549 families contacted, 1,051 (68%) participated. Adolescents were less affected by possible COVID-19 than their parents (138.7 vs. 192.7 per 1,00,000 person-days). Household transmission of possible COVID-19 was higher when possible COVID-19 came from adults than from adolescents. Most families implemented preventive measures. Adolescents and parents generally shared the same attitudes, but adolescents were less compliant with restrictive measures. Four family profiles were identified which differed mainly regarding family stress, COVID-19 in the household, and compliance with preventive measures. Conclusion Improving information dissemination to parents and adolescents, including dedicated adolescent messages, would increase adherence to preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Citerne
- Health Environmental Risk Assessment (HERA) Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Fanny Rancière
- Health Environmental Risk Assessment (HERA) Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Célina Roda
- Health Environmental Risk Assessment (HERA) Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Célina Roda
| | - Isabelle Momas
- Health Environmental Risk Assessment (HERA) Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Cellule Cohorte, Direction de l'Action Sociale de l'Enfance et de la Santé, Mairie de Paris, Paris, France
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25
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Prenatal and adolescent alcohol exposure programs immunity across the lifespan: CNS-mediated regulation. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 216:173390. [PMID: 35447157 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
For many individuals, first exposure to alcohol occurs either prenatally due to maternal drinking, or during adolescence, when alcohol consumption is most likely to be initiated. Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) and its associated Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in humans is associated with earlier initiation of alcohol use and increased rates of Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD). Initiation of alcohol use and misuse in early adolescence correlates highly with later AUD diagnosis as well. Thus, PAE and adolescent binge drinking set the stage for long-term health consequences due to adverse effects of alcohol on subsequent immune function, effects that may persist across the lifespan. The overarching goal of this review, therefore, is to determine the extent to which early developmental exposure to alcohol produces long-lasting, and potentially life-long, changes in immunological function. Alcohol affects the whole body, yet most studies are narrowly focused on individual features of immune function, largely ignoring the systems-level interactions required for effective host defense. We therefore emphasize the crucial role of the Central Nervous System (CNS) in orchestrating host defense processes. We argue that alcohol-mediated disruption of host immunity can occur through both (a) direct action of ethanol on neuroimmune processes, that subsequently disrupt peripheral immune function (top down); and (b) indirect action of ethanol on peripheral immune organs/cells, which in turn elicit consequent changes in CNS neuroimmune function (bottom up). Recognizing that alcohol consumption across the entire body, we argue in favor of integrative, whole-organism approaches toward understanding alcohol effects on immune function, and highlight the need for more work specifically examining long-lasting effects of early developmental exposure to alcohol (prenatal and adolescent periods) on host immunity.
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26
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Coleman BL, Fischer K, Maunder R, Kim J, Straus S, Bondy S, McGeer A. Study of the epidemiology of COVID-19 in Ontario elementary and secondary school education workers: an interim analysis following the first school year. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 113:185-195. [PMID: 35175584 PMCID: PMC8853268 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-022-00613-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Objective To estimate the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 in education workers and the factors associated with infection between March 2020 and July 2021. Methods A prospective cohort study of education workers working ≥8 h per week in Ontario, Canada. Participants self-reported results of tests for SARS-CoV-2 and completed online surveys about demographic information, exposures, and vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2. Participants submitted self-collected dried blood spots. Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike, the receptor binding domain of spike, and nucleocapsid were assessed. Multivariable regression was used to assess risk factors for infection. Results Of 2834 participants, 85% were female, 81% were teaching staff, and 86% had received at least one dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Of the 1983 who had been tested via a respiratory specimen, 4.9% reported a positive test. Five additional participants had serologic testing suggestive of a previous infection (3.6% overall incidence). In multivariable regression analysis, risk factors for infection included exposure to a SARS-CoV-2 infected adult (adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) 13.6; 95% confidence interval 8.6, 21.3) or child (aIRR 2.3; 1.3, 4.2) in the household, or school student (aIRR 1.9; 1.2, 3.2), or travel outside the province within 14 days of testing (aIRR 6.0; 1.5, 23.6). Conclusion In the first 18 months of the pandemic, education workers had a similar risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 as other Ontario residents. Practicing protective measures whenever any household member has been exposed to a possible case and at all times when exposed to anyone from outside the home would help reduce the risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda L Coleman
- Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | | | - Robert Maunder
- Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John Kim
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sharon Straus
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Unity Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Allison McGeer
- Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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27
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Mercado-Reyes MM, Daza M, Pacheco A, Meneses-Gil MX, Galindo M, Catama J, Botero LS, Muñoz L, Quinche G, Ospina ML. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Children and Adolescents: Results From a Population-Based Survey in 10 Colombian Cities. Glob Pediatr Health 2022; 9:2333794X221085385. [PMID: 35342777 PMCID: PMC8941708 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x221085385] [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: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Understanding COVID-19 dynamics in Colombia during
the first pandemic year (2020) gives important insights surrounding population’s
exposure risk and specific susceptibilities. Seroprevalence studies can aid in
having a broader understanding of the disease, offering a more inclusive view of
the pandemic’s impact across the population. Methods. A
population-based cross-sectional study to assess antibodies against SARS-CoV-2
in 10 Colombian cities was developed between September and December 2020. Cities
were grouped according development typology (Robust (RD), Intermediate (ID) and
Incipient (InD)). Detection of total antibodies (IgM + IgG) against SARS-CoV-2
was employed. Univariate Odds Ratios (OR) were estimated for antibody results
and selected variables. Results. About 3124 children aged
between 5 and 17 years were included. Factors related to lower seropositive
results were affiliation to the employer-based health insurance in RD and ID
cities (OR: 0.579, 95% CI 0.477-0.703, OR: 0.648, 95%CI 0.480-0.874
respectively) and living in a household with adequate access to public services
only for ID cities (OR: 0.679. 95% CI 0.491-0.939). Higher seropositivity rates
in RD and ID cities were seen in children belonging to the low socioeconomic
stratum (RD: OR: 1.758, 95% CI 1.427-2.165; ID: OR: 2.288, 95% CI 1.599-3.275)
and living in an overcrowded household (RD: OR: 1.846, 95% CI 1.467-2.323; ID:
OR: 2.379, 95% CI 1.769-3.199). Conclusions. Children and
adolescents showed substantial impact from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Disadvantageous living conditions were found to be significantly related to
having a positive SARS-CoV-2 antibody test. These results highlight the need to
prioritize vulnerable populations in the context of health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lyda Muñoz
- Instituto Nacional de Salud, Bogotá, Colombia
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Fukuda Y, Fukuda K. Educators' Psychosocial Burdens Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and Predictive Factors: A Cross-Sectional Survey of the Relationship with Sense of Coherence and Social Capital. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042134. [PMID: 35206324 PMCID: PMC8872629 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to identify the social and psychological burdens placed on educators during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan and to propose an optimal form of support. We investigated educators' perceptions of psychological and socioeconomic anxieties and burdens, sense of coherence, and social capital using a questionnaire survey of 1000 educators in January 2021. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to analyze the associations between the variables. Results: Approximately 80% of the respondents considered COVID-19 a formidable, life-threatening illness. Our results revealed that the higher the social capital, the greater the fear of COVID-19, and the higher the sense of coherence, the lower this fear. Conclusions: The anxiety burden of implementing infection prevention was higher than the anxiety burden associated with distance learning. The predictive factors for educators' perceptions of burden included sense of coherence, gender, and age. Our findings suggest the importance of having the government and educational institutions provide multidimensional assistance that matches educators' individual characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasue Fukuda
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka 513-8670, Mie, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-59-373-7030
| | - Koji Fukuda
- Faculty of Political Science and Economics, Waseda University, Tokyo 169-8050, Japan;
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Hou Y, Zhou Y, Jehi L, Luo Y, Gack MU, Chan T, Yu H, Eng C, Pieper AA, Cheng F. Aging-related cell type-specific pathophysiologic immune responses that exacerbate disease severity in aged COVID-19 patients. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13544. [PMID: 35023286 PMCID: PMC8844132 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is especially severe in aged patients, defined as 65 years or older, for reasons that are currently unknown. To investigate the underlying basis for this vulnerability, we performed multimodal data analyses on immunity, inflammation, and COVID‐19 incidence and severity as a function of age. Our analysis leveraged age‐specific COVID‐19 mortality and laboratory testing from a large COVID‐19 registry, along with epidemiological data of ~3.4 million individuals, large‐scale deep immune cell profiling data, and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing data from aged COVID‐19 patients across diverse populations. We found that decreased lymphocyte count and elevated inflammatory markers (C‐reactive protein, D‐dimer, and neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio) are significantly associated with age‐specific COVID‐19 severities. We identified the reduced abundance of naïve CD8 T cells with decreased expression of antiviral defense genes (i.e., IFITM3 and TRIM22) in aged severe COVID‐19 patients. Older individuals with severe COVID‐19 displayed type I and II interferon deficiencies, which is correlated with SARS‐CoV‐2 viral load. Elevated expression of SARS‐CoV‐2 entry factors and reduced expression of antiviral defense genes (LY6E and IFNAR1) in the secretory cells are associated with critical COVID‐19 in aged individuals. Mechanistically, we identified strong TGF‐beta‐mediated immune–epithelial cell interactions (i.e., secretory‐non‐resident macrophages) in aged individuals with critical COVID‐19. Taken together, our findings point to immuno‐inflammatory factors that could be targeted therapeutically to reduce morbidity and mortality in aged COVID‐19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Hou
- Genomic Medicine Institute Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
| | - Yadi Zhou
- Genomic Medicine Institute Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
| | - Lara Jehi
- Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
- Neurological Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
| | - Yuan Luo
- Division of Health and Biomedical Informatics Department of Preventive Medicine Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute and Center for Health Information Partnerships Northwestern University Evanston Illinois USA
| | - Michaela U. Gack
- Florida Research and Innovation Center Cleveland Clinic Port Saint Lucie Florida USA
| | - Timothy A. Chan
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno‐Oncology Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
| | - Haiyuan Yu
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
- Department of Computational Biology Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Ohio USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland Ohio USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland Ohio USA
| | - Andrew A. Pieper
- Harrington Discovery Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland Ohio USA
- Department of Psychiatry Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Ohio USA
- Geriatric Psychiatry GRECC Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center Cleveland Ohio USA
- Institute for Transformative Molecular Medicine School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Ohio USA
- Weill Cornell Autism Research Program Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University New York New York USA
| | - Feixiong Cheng
- Genomic Medicine Institute Lerner Research Institute Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Ohio USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Ohio USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland Ohio USA
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SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in children and their family members, July-October 2020, Brussels. Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:1009-1016. [PMID: 34677664 PMCID: PMC8532097 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04284-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a pediatric population after the first pandemic wave in Belgium. All patients requiring a blood sample between 1 July 2020 and 31 October 2020 in our institution were invited to participate. Their parents and siblings could also participate to estimate familial transmission and the congruence between serological statuses. A questionnaire was completed for each participant to identify symptoms consistent with COVID-19 in the previous months. Blood samples were tested for SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoglobulin G using ELISA. The final population included 112 children, 24 siblings of these children, and 36 adults. The seroprevalence of cases was 6.9% before 8 September, a date that corresponds to 1 week after the beginning of the second wave in Belgium and 22.5% afterwards (OR = 3.89, 95% CI (1.20; 12.58), p-value = 0.03). Twenty-five percent of children were asymptomatic, and none experienced severe disease. The symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2-positive antibodies were diarrhoea (OR = 9.9, 95% CI [2.88; 33.87.65] p-value < 0.01), fever (OR = 3.8, 95% CI [1.44; 10.22] p-value < 0.01), rhinitis (OR = 3.9, 95% CI [1.38; 10.90] p-value = 0.01), or anosmia (OR = 31.5, 95% CI [1.45; 682.7], p-value = 0.02). A child was the first symptomatic household member in 50% of the familial clusters.Conclusion: Seroprevalence in children was comparable to that of the general population. Children could represent the source of infection in the household. What is Known: • COVID-19 infection is generally mild or asymptomatic in children and adolescents. • Belgian strategy of testing was focused on symptoms. • Adults are believed to be responsible for most of familial clusters. What is New: • Serological testing gives a more accurate view of the rate of infected children. • Based on serological results, children have been infected as frequently as adults during the first and second wave in Belgium. • Seventy-five percent of SARS-CoV-2 IgG-positive children presented a mild symptomatology, and 25% were totally asymptomatic. • Children could represent the source of infection within household.
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31
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Schulze Heuling D, Helm C. [School Closures - an Ethical Challenge]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR BILDUNGSFORSCHUNG 2022; 12:631-645. [PMID: 36713970 PMCID: PMC9549434 DOI: 10.1007/s35834-022-00364-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led many countries around the world to take drastic measures. Regardless of the epidemiological impact, it is undisputed that these measures have had significant negative effects on scholastic attainment, psychosocial and physical health of children and adolescents. Given their consequences, such interventions evoke the question of their ethical justifiability. This article introduces the most common ethical theories and, building on them, discusses the ethical evaluation of the COVID-19-related school closures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Schulze Heuling
- Staatswissenschaftliche Fakultät, Universität Erfurt, Nordhäuser Str. 63, 99089 Erfurt, Deutschland
| | - Christoph Helm
- Linz School of Education, Johannes Kepler Universität Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Österreich
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32
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Lordan R, Prior S, Hennessy E, Naik A, Ghosh S, Paschos GK, Skarke C, Barekat K, Hollingsworth T, Juska S, Mazaleuskaya LL, Teegarden S, Glascock AL, Anderson S, Meng H, Tang SY, Weljie A, Bottalico L, Ricciotti E, Cherfane P, Mrcela A, Grant G, Poole K, Mayer N, Waring M, Adang L, Becker J, Fries S, FitzGerald GA, Grosser T. Considerations for the Safe Operation of Schools During the Coronavirus Pandemic. Front Public Health 2021; 9:751451. [PMID: 34976917 PMCID: PMC8716382 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.751451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
During the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, providing safe in-person schooling has been a dynamic process balancing evolving community disease burden, scientific information, and local regulatory requirements with the mandate for education. Considerations include the health risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its post-acute sequelae, the impact of remote learning or periods of quarantine on education and well-being of children, and the contribution of schools to viral circulation in the community. The risk for infections that may occur within schools is related to the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections within the local community. Thus, persistent suppression of viral circulation in the community through effective public health measures including vaccination is critical to in-person schooling. Evidence suggests that the likelihood of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 within schools can be minimized if mitigation strategies are rationally combined. This article reviews evidence-based approaches and practices for the continual operation of in-person schooling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan Lordan
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Samantha Prior
- Faculty of Science & Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth Hennessy
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amruta Naik
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Soumita Ghosh
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Georgios K. Paschos
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Carsten Skarke
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kayla Barekat
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Taylor Hollingsworth
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sydney Juska
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Liudmila L. Mazaleuskaya
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarah Teegarden
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Abigail L. Glascock
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sean Anderson
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hu Meng
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Soon-Yew Tang
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Aalim Weljie
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lisa Bottalico
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Emanuela Ricciotti
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Perla Cherfane
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Antonijo Mrcela
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Gregory Grant
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kristen Poole
- Department of English, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Natalie Mayer
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael Waring
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laura Adang
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Julie Becker
- Division of Public Health, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Susanne Fries
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Garret A. FitzGerald
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tilo Grosser
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Murewanhema G, Mukwenha S, Dzinamarira T, Mukandavire Z, Cuadros D, Madziva R, Chingombe I, Mapingure M, Herrera H, Musuka G. Optimising COVID-19 Vaccination Policy to Mitigate SARS-CoV-2 Transmission within Schools in Zimbabwe. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1481. [PMID: 34960227 PMCID: PMC8709186 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9121481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the learning of millions of children across the world. Since March 2020 when the first cases of COVID-19 were reported in Zimbabwe, the country, like many others, has gone through periods of closing and re-opening of schools as part of the national COVID-19 control and mitigation measures. Schools promote the social, mental, physical, and moral development of children. With this viewpoint, the authors argue that schools should not be closed to provide a measured and efficient response to the threats posed by the COVID-19 epidemic. Rather, infection prevention and control strategies, including vaccination of learners and teachers, and surveillance in schools should be heightened. The use of multiple prevention strategies discussed in this viewpoint has shown that when outbreaks in school settings are adequately managed, the transmission usually is low. The information presented here suggests that schools should remain open due to the preponderance of evidence indicating the overriding positive impacts of this policy on the health, development, and wellbeing of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Murewanhema
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe;
| | - Solomon Mukwenha
- ICAP at Columbia University, Harare, Zimbabwe; (S.M.); (I.C.); (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Tafadzwa Dzinamarira
- ICAP at Columbia University, Harare, Zimbabwe; (S.M.); (I.C.); (M.M.); (G.M.)
- School of Health Systems & Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Zindoga Mukandavire
- Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Emirates Aviation University, Dubai P.O. Box 53044, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Diego Cuadros
- Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
| | - Roda Madziva
- School of Sociology and Social Policy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Innocent Chingombe
- ICAP at Columbia University, Harare, Zimbabwe; (S.M.); (I.C.); (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | | | - Helena Herrera
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK;
| | - Godfrey Musuka
- ICAP at Columbia University, Harare, Zimbabwe; (S.M.); (I.C.); (M.M.); (G.M.)
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34
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Wang L, Li G, Yuan C, Yang Y, Ling G, Zheng J, Zhou Y, Zhang T, Lin W, Lin Z. Progress in the Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19 in Children: A Review. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:8097-8108. [PMID: 34795516 PMCID: PMC8594783 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s335888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been circulating in many countries around the world, characterized by long incubation period, strong infectivity, strong variability, high population susceptibility and diversified transmission methods. Its causative agent is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Compared with adult patients, the clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in children are often dominated by mild or asymptomatic infections, but children are also important virus carriers and play an important role in the transmission of the virus. In addition, some children will show excessive inflammatory response and experience serious complications such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). At present, the research on COVID-19 in children is still imperfect. This article will review epidemiological characteristics, the mechanism of action, variant characteristics, clinical manifestations, auxiliary examinations and treatment of children with COVID-19, in order to provide help for the diagnosis, treatment and research of children with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Gan Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Yuan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuele Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Gongxia Ling
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinyu Zheng
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiyang Zhou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianlei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenlang Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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35
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36
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Bhutta ZA, Yount KM, Bassat Q, Moyer CE. Sustainable Developmental Goals interrupted: Overcoming challenges to global child and adolescent health. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003802. [PMID: 34582461 PMCID: PMC8478232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiqar A. Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Global Health & Development, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kathryn M. Yount
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Caitlin E. Moyer
- Public Library of Science, San Francisco, California, United States of America and Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Dash GC, Subhadra S, Turuk J, Parai D, Rout UK, Rath S, Sabat J, Nanda RR, Choudhary HR, Pati S, Bhattacharya D. COVID-19 in children in Odisha state, India: a retrospective review. BMJ Paediatr Open 2021; 5:e001284. [PMID: 34754950 PMCID: PMC8568531 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2021-001284] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We retrospectively analysed the swab samples tested for COVID-19 from 7 March 2020 to 17 August 2021 at the Indian Council of Medical Research-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. 553 763 nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from individuals suspected with COVID-19 in Odisha state. 75 190 (13.6%) samples were positive by reverse transcription-PCR. There were 5988 (8%) cases in children and young people under 18 years old. Odisha reported 996 153 COVID-19 cases which resulted in 6985 deaths in adults and 36 in children and young people under 18 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Chandra Dash
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Subhra Subhadra
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Jyotirmayee Turuk
- VRDL, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Debaprasad Parai
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Usha Kiran Rout
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Sonalika Rath
- VRDL, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Jyotsnamayee Sabat
- VRDL, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Rashmi Ranjan Nanda
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Hari Ram Choudhary
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Sanghamitra Pati
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
| | - Debdutta Bhattacharya
- Department of Microbiology, Regional Medical Research Centre Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India
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