Prophylactic Antibiotic Use for Penetrating Trauma in Prolonged Casualty Care: A Review of the Literature and Current Guidelines

ABSTRACT

Prolonged casualty care (PCC), previously known as prolonged field care, is a system to provide patient care for extended periods of time when evacuation or mission requirements surpass available capabilities. Current guidelines recommend a 7-10-day course of ertapenem or moxifloxacin, with vancomycin if methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is suspected, for all penetrating trauma in PCC. Data from civilian and military trauma have demonstrated benefit for antibiotic prophylaxis in multiple types of penetrating trauma, but the recommended regimens and durations differ from those used in PCC, with the PCC guidelines generally recommending broader coverage. We present a review of the available civilian and military literature on antibiotic prophylaxis in penetrating trauma to discuss whether a strategy of broader coverage is necessary in the PCC setting, with the goal of optimizing patient outcomes and antibiotic stewardship, while remaining cognizant of the challenges of moving medial material to and through combat zones. Empiric extended gram-negative coverage is unlikely to be necessary for thoracic, maxillofacial, extremity, and central nervous system trauma in most medical settings. However, providing the narrowest appropriate antimicrobial coverage is challenging in PCC due to limited resources, most notably delay to surgical debridement. Antibiotic prophylaxis regimen must be determined on a case-by-case basis based on individual patient factors while still considering antibiotic stewardship. Narrower regimens, which focus on matching up the site of infection to the antibiotic chosen, may be appropriate based on available resources and expertise of treating providers.When resources permit in PCC, the narrower cefazolin-based regimens (with the addition of metronidazole for esophageal or abdominal involvement, or gross contamination of CNS trauma) likely provide adequate coverage. Levofloxacin is appropriate for ocular trauma. Ideally, cefazolin and metronidazole should be carried by medics in addition to first-line antibiotics (moxifloxacin and ertapenem).

SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with self-reported post-acute neuropsychological symptoms within six months of follow-up

BACKGROUND

Chronic neuropsychological sequelae following SARS-CoV-2 infection, including depression, anxiety, fatigue, and general cognitive difficulties, are a major public health concern. Given the potential impact of long-term neuropsychological impairment, it is important to characterize the frequency and predictors of this post-infection phenotype.

METHODS

The Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential (EPICC) study is a longitudinal study assessing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in U.S. Military Healthcare System (MHS) beneficiaries, i.e. those eligible for care in the MHS including active duty servicemembers, dependents, and retirees. Four broad areas of neuropsychological symptoms were assessed cross-sectionally among subjects 1-6 months post-infection/enrollment, including: depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-7), fatigue (PROMIS® Fatigue 7a), and cognitive function (PROMIS® Cognitive Function 8a and PROMIS® Cognitive Function abilities 8a). Multivariable Poisson regression models compared participants with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection history on these measures, adjusting for sex, ethnicity, active-duty status, age, and months post-first positive or enrollment of questionnaire completion (MPFP/E); models for fatigue and cognitive function were also adjusted for depression and anxiety scores.

RESULTS

The study population included 2383 participants who completed all five instruments within six MPFP/E, of whom 687 (28.8%) had at least one positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Compared to those who had never tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the positive group was more likely to meet instrument-based criteria for depression (15.4% vs 10.3%, p<0.001), fatigue (20.1% vs 8.0%, p<0.001), impaired cognitive function (15.7% vs 8.6%, p<0.001), and impaired cognitive function abilities (24.3% vs 16.3%, p<0.001). In multivariable models, SARS-CoV-2 positive participants, assessed at an average of 2.7 months after infection, had increased risk of moderate to severe depression (RR: 1.44, 95% CI 1.12-1.84), fatigue (RR: 2.07, 95% CI 1.62-2.65), impaired cognitive function (RR: 1.64, 95% CI 1.27-2.11), and impaired cognitive function abilities (RR: 1.41, 95% CI 1.15-1.71); MPFP/E was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection were up to twice as likely to report cognitive impairment and fatigue as the group without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings underscore the continued importance of preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection and while time since infection/enrollment was not significant through 6 months of follow-up, this highlights the need for additional research into the long-term impacts of COVID-19 to mitigate and reverse these neuropsychological outcomes.

Doxycycline Prophylaxis for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections in Naval Special Warfare Trainees, United States1

In 2015, several severe cases of skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) among US Naval Special Warfare trainees prompted the introduction of doxycycline prophylaxis during the highest-risk portion of training, Hell Week. We performed a retrospective analysis of the effect of this intervention on SSTI incidence and resulting hospital admissions during 2013-2020. In total, 3,371 trainees underwent Hell Week training during the study period; 284 SSTIs were diagnosed overall, 29 of which led to hospitalization. After doxycycline prophylaxis was introduced, admission rates for SSTI decreased from 1.37 to 0.64 admissions/100 trainees (p = 0.036). Overall SSTI rates remained stable at 7.42 to 8.86 SSTIs/100 trainees (p = 0.185). Hospitalization rates per diagnosed SSTI decreased from 18.4% to 7.2% (p = 0.009). Average length of hospitalization decreased from 9.01 days to 4.33 days (p = 0.034). Doxycycline prophylaxis was associated with decreased frequency and severity of hospitalization for SSTIs among this population.

Decreased Self-reported Physical Fitness Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection and the Impact of Vaccine Boosters in a Cohort Study

Background

The long-term effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on physical fitness are unclear, and the impact of vaccination on that relationship is uncertain.

Methods

We compared survey responses in a 1-year study of US military service members with (n = 1923) and without (n = 1591) a history of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We fit Poisson regression models to estimate the association between history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and fitness impairment, adjusting for time since infection, demographics, and baseline health.

Results

The participants in this analysis were primarily young adults aged 18-39 years (75%), and 71.5% were male. Participants with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection were more likely to report difficulty exercising (38.7% vs 18.4%; P < .01), difficulty performing daily activities (30.4% vs 12.7%; P < .01), and decreased fitness test (FT) scores (42.7% vs 26.2%; P < .01) than those without a history of infection. SARS-CoV-2-infected participants were at higher risk of these outcomes after adjusting for other factors (unvaccinated: exercising: adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 3.99; 95% CI, 3.36-4.73; activities: aRR, 5.02; 95% CI, 4.09-6.16; FT affected: aRR, 2.55; 95% CI, 2.19-2.98). Among SARS-CoV-2-positive participants, full vaccination before infection was associated with a lower risk of post-COVID-19 fitness impairment (fully vaccinated: exercise: aRR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.70-0.95; activities: aRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.64-0.91; FT: aRR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.76-1.00; boosted: exercise: aRR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.51-0.74; activities: aRR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.41-0.65; FT: aRR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.49-0.70).

Conclusions

In this study of generally young, healthy military service members, SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with lower self-reported fitness and exercise capacity; vaccination and boosting were associated with lower risk of self-reported fitness loss.

Ten golden rules for optimal antibiotic use in hospital settings: the WARNING call to action

Antibiotics are recognized widely for their benefits when used appropriately. However, they are often used inappropriately despite the importance of responsible use within good clinical practice. Effective antibiotic treatment is an essential component of universal healthcare, and it is a global responsibility to ensure appropriate use. Currently, pharmaceutical companies have little incentive to develop new antibiotics due to scientific, regulatory, and financial barriers, further emphasizing the importance of appropriate antibiotic use. To address this issue, the Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery established an international multidisciplinary task force of 295 experts from 115 countries with different backgrounds. The task force developed a position statement called WARNING (Worldwide Antimicrobial Resistance National/International Network Group) aimed at raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance and improving antibiotic prescribing practices worldwide. The statement outlined is 10 axioms, or "golden rules," for the appropriate use of antibiotics that all healthcare workers should consistently adhere in clinical practice.

A geopositioned and evidence-graded pan-species compendium of Mayaro virus occurrence

Mayaro Virus (MAYV) is an emerging health threat in the Americas that can cause febrile illness as well as debilitating arthralgia or arthritis. To better understand the geographic distribution of MAYV risk, we developed a georeferenced database of MAYV occurrence based on peer-reviewed literature and unpublished reports. Here we present this compendium, which includes both point and polygon locations linked to occurrence data documented from its discovery in 1954 until 2022. We describe all methods used to develop the database including data collection, georeferencing, management and quality-control. We also describe a customized grading system used to assess the quality of each study included in our review. The result is a comprehensive, evidence-graded database of confirmed MAYV occurrence in humans, non-human animals, and arthropods to-date, containing 262 geo-positioned occurrences in total. This database - which can be updated over time - may be useful for local spill-over risk assessment, epidemiological modelling to understand key transmission dynamics and drivers of MAYV spread, as well as identification of major surveillance gaps.

Fatal septic shock due to disseminated coccidioidomycosis: a case series and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection endemic to the southwestern United States and regions of Latin America. Disseminated disease occurs in < 1% of cases. Septic shock is even rarer, with high mortality despite therapy. We describe two cases of coccidioidal septic shock. Both patients were older men of Filipino ancestry presenting with respiratory failure and vasopressor-dependent shock. Antifungal drugs were initiated after failure to improve with empiric antibiotics; in both, Coccidioides was isolated from respiratory cultures. Despite aggressive care, both patients ultimately died of their infections. We provide a review of the published literature on this topic.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the 33 reported cases of coccidioidal septic shock occurred in men (88%) of non-white race and ethnicity (78%). The overall mortality rate was 76%. All survivors received amphotericin B as part of their treatment. Coccidioidomycosis-related septic shock is a rare disease with poor outcomes; delays in diagnosis and treatment are common. Improved diagnostic testing for coccidioidomycosis could enhance recognition of this disease in the future. Although data are limited, early treatment with amphotericin B in cases of coccidioidal septic shock may reduce mortality.

Baricitinib Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Is Associated With a Reduction in Secondary Infections

We performed a secondary analysis of the National Institutes of Health-sponsored Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial (ACTT-2) randomized controlled trial and found that baricitinib was associated with a 50% reduction in secondary infections after controlling for baseline and postrandomization patient characteristics. This finding provides a novel mechanism of benefit for baricitinib and supports the safety profile of this immunomodulator for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019.

The Microbiome and Antimicrobial Stewardship in Surgical Patients

Abstract The human microbiome plays a critical role in health and disease. The microbiota of the human body undergoes disruptions in critical illness, in part due to alterations in physiology but also as the result of medical interventions, most notably antimicrobial drug administration. These alterations may lead to a significant dysbiosis, with increased risks of multi-drug-resistant organism-based secondary infections, Clostridioides difficile promotion, and other infection-related complications. Antimicrobial stewardship is a process that seeks to optimize antimicrobial drug prescription, with recent evidence emphasizing shorter courses of therapy, earlier transitions from empiric to pathogen-specific regimens, and enhanced diagnostic testing. Through a combination of prudent stewardship and wise use of diagnostic testing, clinicians can improve outcomes, reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance, and help improve the integrity of the microbiome.

Critical Care Staffing in Pandemics and Disasters: A Consensus Report from a Sub-committee of the Task Force for Mass Critical Care- Systems Strategies to Sustain the Healthcare Workforce

BACKGROUND

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented mental health disturbances, burnout, and moral distress among healthcare workers, impacting their ability to care for themselves and their patients.

METHODS

The Workforce Sustainment subcommittee of the Task Force for Mass Critical Care (TFMCC) utilized a consensus development process, incorporating evidence from literature review with expert opinion through a modified Delphi approach to determine factors impacting mental health, burnout, and moral distress in healthcare workers, in order to propose necessary actions to help prevent these issues and enhance workforce resilience, sustainment, and retention.

RESULTS

Consolidation of evidence gathered from literature review and expert opinion resulted in 197 total statements that were synthesized into 14 major suggestions. These suggestions were organized into three categories: (1) mental health and wellbeing for staff in medical settings, (2) system-level support and leadership, and (3) research priorities and gaps. Suggestions include both general and specific occupational interventions to support healthcare worker basic physical needs, psychological distress, reduce moral distress and burnout, and foster mental health and resilience.

CONCLUSIONS

The Workforce Sustainment subcommittee of the TFMCC offers evidence-informed operational strategies to assist healthcare workers and hospitals plan, prevent, and treat the factors impacting healthcare worker mental health, burnout, and moral distress to improve resilience and retention following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Persistent COVID-19 Symptoms at 6 Months After Onset and the Role of Vaccination Before or After SARS-CoV-2 Infection

IMPORTANCE

Understanding the factors associated with post-COVID conditions is important for prevention.

OBJECTIVE

To identify characteristics associated with persistent post-COVID-19 symptoms and to describe post-COVID-19 medical encounters.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study used data from the Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases With Pandemic Potential (EPICC) study implemented in the US military health system (MHS); MHS beneficiaries aged 18 years or older who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from February 28, 2020, through December 31, 2021, were analyzed, with 1-year follow-up.

EXPOSURES

SARS-CoV-2 infection.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The outcomes analyzed included survey-reported symptoms through 6 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision diagnosis categories reported in medical records 6 months following SARS-CoV-2 infection vs 3 months before infection.

RESULTS

More than half of the 1832 participants in these analyses were aged 18 to 44 years (1226 [66.9%]; mean [SD] age, 40.5 [13.7] years), were male (1118 [61.0%]), were unvaccinated at the time of their infection (1413 [77.1%]), and had no comorbidities (1290 [70.4%]). A total of 728 participants (39.7%) had illness that lasted 28 days or longer (28-89 days: 364 [19.9%]; ≥90 days: 364 [19.9%]). Participants who were unvaccinated prior to infection (risk ratio [RR], 1.39; 95% CI, 1.04-1.85), reported moderate (RR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.47-2.22) or severe (RR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.80-2.81) initial illnesses, had more hospitalized days (RR per each day of hospitalization, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03), and had a Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 5 or greater (RR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.01-2.37) were more likely to report 28 or more days of symptoms. Among unvaccinated participants, postinfection vaccination was associated with a 41% lower risk of reporting symptoms at 6 months (RR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.40-0.89). Participants had higher risk of pulmonary (RR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.40-2.84), diabetes (RR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.00-2.13), neurological (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.02-1.64), and mental health-related medical encounters (RR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.01-1.62) at 6 months after symptom onset than at baseline (before SARS-CoV-2 infection).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, more severe acute illness, a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and being unvaccinated were associated with a higher risk of reporting COVID-19 symptoms lasting 28 days or more. Participants with COVID-19 were more likely to seek medical care for diabetes, pulmonary, neurological, and mental health-related illness for at least 6 months after onset compared with their pre-COVID baseline health care use patterns. These findings may inform the risk-benefit ratio of COVID-19 vaccination policy.

80. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with decreased reported physical fitness in a US military longitudinal cohort

Background

COVID-19 may have deleterious effects on the fitness of active duty US military service members. We seek to understand the long-term functional consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in this critical population, and in other military healthcare beneficiaries.

Methods

The Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential (EPICC) study is a longitudinal cohort study to describe the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in US Military Health System beneficiaries. Subjects provided information about difficulties experienced with daily activities, exercise, and physical fitness performance via electronic surveys. Subjects completed surveys at enrollment and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Results

5,910 subjects completed survey fitness questions, 3,244 (55%) of whom tested SARS-CoV-2 positive at least once during the period of observation. Over 75% of subjects were young adults and over half were male (Table 1). 1,093 (34.3%) of SARS-CoV-2-positive subjects reported new or increased difficulty exercising compared to 393 (14.8%) SARS-CoV-2 negative subjects (p < 0.01) (Table 2). The most commonly reported symptoms related to problems with exercise and activities were dyspnea and fatigue. Among the active-duty members who answered the question about their service-mandated physical fitness test scores, 43.2% of SARS-CoV-2-positive participants reported that their scores had worsened in the study period, compared with 24.3% of SARS-CoV-2 negative participants. Among SARS-CoV-2-positive subjects, reports of difficulty exercising and performing daily activities were highest within one month of the first positive test, decreasing in prevalence among the cohort only slightly to 24% and 18%, respectively, at 12 months (Figure 1).

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of military service-members in this cohort have reported impairment of their service-mandated physical fitness scores after COVID-19; this proportion is significantly higher than those who are SARS-CoV-2 negative and persists to 12 months in many; similar complaints were reported among non-active duty. Further objective evaluation of post-COVID fitness impairment in this population is warranted.

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, AiCuris: Grant/Research Support|Sound Pharmaceuticals: Grant/Research Support|Trauma Insights, LLC: Advisor/Consultant Julia S. Rozman, n/a, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response David R. Tribble, DrPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Mark P. Simons, PhD, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Timothy Burgess, MD, MPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response.

295. SARS-CoV-2 Associated Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults (MIS-A): a Multicenter Case Series

Background

MIS-A frequently presents with symptoms including fevers, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal mucocutaneous, and neurologic involvement in both children and adults. Predominantly occurs in previously healthy children and young adults, disproportionately affecting individuals of African,Latino and Asian descent. Represents one of the most significant and yet under-recognized clinical consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of the identified MIS-A cases admitted to two institutions between January 2020-December 2021. Included cases required evidence of present or previous SARS-CoV-2 infection by either PCR or antigen testing; and meeting the CDC definition for MIS-A. After case identification, we collected clinical and laboratory data to analyze demographics, clinical symptoms, laboratory result, imaging, length of hospitalization and therapeutic interventions.

Results

Ten cases were identified in the established period of time. The average interval to hospital admission was 31days. Clinical symptoms included fever, malaise, gastrointestinal complaints, dyspnea, diffuse rash. Males outnumbered females in a ratio of 7:3,with African American and Latino patients comprising 80% of the cases. All patients had elevated inflammatory markers and the most commonly manifesting organ dysfunction was cardiovascular system.

Conclusion

This case series helps reinforce the characterization of an as yet incompletely understood and challenging clinical syndrome, providing insight to guide diagnosis and treatment of MIS-A. A greater understanding of MIS-A may facilitate earlier syndromic recognition in order to improve outcomes, reduce unnecessary antimicrobial use, and reduce costs.

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, AiCuris: Grant/Research Support|Sound Pharmaceuticals: Grant/Research Support|Trauma Insights, LLC: Advisor/Consultant.

1066. Precision phenotyping of “long COVID” through machine learning

Background

Characterizing, diagnosing, and caring for “long COVID” patients has proven to be challenging due to heterogenous symptoms and broad definitions of these post-acute sequelae. Here, we take a machine learning approach to identify discrete clusters of long COVID symptoms which may define specific long COVID phenotypes.

Figure 1: (A) Principal component analysis followed by K-means clustering identified three groups of participants. (B) Heatmap depicting three distinct clusters (high values are in red and low value are in blue); Cluster 1 exhibits sensory symptoms (e.g., loss of smell and/or taste), Cluster 2 exhibits fatigue and difficulty thinking (e.g., changes in ability to think) symptoms, and Cluster 3 exhibits difficulty breathing and exercise intolerance symptoms. (C) Clinical and demographic characteristics of 97 military health system beneficiaries by identified clusters

Methods

The Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential (EPICC) study is a longitudinal COVID-19 cohort study with data and biospecimens collected from 10 military treatment facilities and online recruitment. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected using case report forms and surveys completed at enrollment and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. For this analysis, we identified those who reported any moderate to severe persistent symptoms on surveys collected 6-months post-COVID-19 symptom onset. Using the survey responses, we applied principal component analysis (PCA) followed by unsupervised machine learning clustering algorithm K-means to identify groups with distinct clusters of symptoms.

Results

Of 1299 subjects with 6-month survey responses, 97 (7.47%) reported moderate to severe persistent symptoms. Among these subjects, three clusters were identified using PCA (Figure 1A). Cluster 1 is characterized by sensory symptoms (loss of taste and/or smell), Cluster 2 by fatigue and difficulty thinking, and Cluster 3 by difficulty breathing and exercise intolerance (Figure 1B). More than half of these subjects (57%) were female, 64% were 18-44 years old, and 64% had no comorbidities at enrollment (Figure 1C). Those in the sensory symptom cluster were all outpatients at the time of initial COVID-19 presentation (p &lt; 0.01). The difficulty breathing and exercise intolerance symptom-clusters had a higher proportion of older participants (Age group ≥ 45-64) with more comorbidities (CCI ≥ 1-2).

Conclusion

We identified three distinct ‘long COVID’ phenotypes among those with moderate to severe COVID-19 symptoms at 6-months post-symptom onset. With further validation and characterization, this framework may allow more precise classification of long COVID cases, and potentially improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of post- infectious sequelae.

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, AiCuris: Grant/Research Support|Sound Pharmaceuticals: Grant/Research Support|Trauma Insights, LLC: Advisor/Consultant Julia S. Rozman, n/a, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Mark P. Simons, PhD, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response David R. Tribble, DrPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Timothy Burgess, MD, MPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response.

1102. The Host Response to SARS-CoV-2 Infection Differs by Age

Background

Infection with SARS-CoV-2 and the resulting host immune response has been primarily characterized in middle and older aged populations due to a higher incidence of symptoms in these age groups. Due to reduced severity of disease, children were poorly studied and assumed to be less frequently infected compared to older age groups. We measured the viral load and adaptive immune response across the age-spectrum to define the age-dependent viral and host responses.

Methods

From March 2020-March 2022, we enrolled individuals across the age spectrum who presented to U.S. military medical treatment facilities with COVID-19-like symptoms. In this longitudinal cohort study, demographic and clinical data were collected in addition to nasopharyngeal swabs and peripheral blood. Magnitude of viral RNA was measured by quantitative PCR (qPCR) from nasopharyngeal samples and SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibodies were measured from blood with multiplex microsphere immunoassays.

Results

4,768 SARS-CoV-2 positive participants were enrolled, among whom 42, 64, 89, 380, 948 and 245 individuals were in age brackets 0-4y, 5-11y, 12-17y, 18-44, 45-64y, and &gt;65y, respectively. Viral load as measured by qPCR was determined to be similar across age groups within the first week post symptom onset. The magnitude of the IgG antibody response against the spike protein was also compared across age groups at early and convalescent time points and was higher in those over the age of 65 years.

Conclusion

Early viral load during acute infection did not correlate with age in individuals who experienced COVID-19. These findings diverge from other respiratory viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus and influenza where children tend to have higher viral loads. In contrast, the magnitude of the antibody response against the spike protein correlated with older age at acute and convalescent time points. Together our data suggest that the host response against SAR-CoV-2 differs with age and is not associated with the acute viral load. Defining age-dependent immunity against SARS-CoV-2 has the potential to identify key immunologic responses that can be used to optimize treatment and vaccine strategies.

Disclosures

Julia S. Rozman, n/a, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Ryan C. Maves, MD, AiCuris: Grant/Research Support|Sound Pharmaceuticals: Grant/Research Support|Trauma Insights, LLC: Advisor/Consultant Mark P. Simons, PhD, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response David Tribble, MD, DrPH, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Timothy Burgess, MD, MPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response.

1380. Impact of Doxycycline Prophylaxis on Skin and Soft Tissue Infections in Naval Special Warfare Trainees

Background

Several severe cases of SSTIs caused by salt-water associated Gram-negative pathogens (mainly Shewanella algae) among U.S. Naval Special Warfare (NSW) trainees prompted introduction of doxycycline prophylaxis during the highest risk portion of training, “Hell Week”. We present analysis of this intervention’s impact on disease incidence and hospital admission for serious SSTI.

Necrotizing fasciitis caused by Vibrio harveyi in an NSW trainee during “Hell Week” prior to introduction of doxycycline prophylaxis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study examining data from hospital admissions for SSTI in trainees between 2013-2020. We assessed hospital admission rates for SSTIs, hospitalization rates per SSTI diagnosed at the clinic level, overall rates of SSTI, length of hospital stays and blood and wound culture data. We then compared data from pre- and post-intervention cohorts.

Results

3371 NSW trainees participated in “Hell Week” training during the study period with 284 SSTIs diagnosed overall, 29 of which led to hospital admission. After introduction of doxycycline prophylaxis, admission rates for SSTI decreased from 1.37 to 0.64 admissions per 100 trainees (p=0.036). Overall SSTI rates diagnosed at the clinic level remained stable from 7.42 to 8.86 SSTI per 100 trainees (p=0.185). Hospitalization rates per diagnosed SSTI decreased from 18.4% to 7.2% (p=0.009). Average length of hospitalization decreased from 9.01 days to 4.33 days (p=0.034). Blood and wound culture data showed a notable decrease in SSTI from salt-water associated Gram-negative rods (Shewanella algae and Vibrio spp.).

Total number of SSTI diagnosed at Naval Special Warfare Center (NSWCEN) medical clinic each “Hell Week” training period with corresponding percentage of NSW trainees diagnosed with SSTI in each class. Date of doxycycline prophylaxis initiation labeled for reference.

Wound and blood culture (Cx) data from the pre-intervention and post-intervention cohorts

Conclusion

Doxycycline prophylaxis during “Hell Week” training for NSW trainees was associated with decreased frequency and severity of hospitalization for SSTI, as well as near elimination of infection with invasive salt-water associated pathogens.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures.

Antigenic cartography of well-characterized human sera shows SARS-CoV-2 neutralization differences based on infection and vaccination history

The rapid emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants challenges vaccination strategies. Here, we collected 201 serum samples from persons with a single infection or multiple vaccine exposures, or both. We measured their neutralization titers against 15 natural variants and 7 variants with engineered spike mutations and analyzed antigenic diversity. Antigenic maps of primary infection sera showed that Omicron sublineages BA.2, BA.4/BA.5, and BA.2.12.1 are distinct from BA.1 and more similar to Beta/Gamma/Mu variants. Three mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations increased neutralization of BA.1 more than BA.4/BA.5 or BA.2.12.1. BA.1 post-vaccination infection elicited higher neutralization titers to all variants than three vaccinations alone, although with less neutralization to BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/BA.5. Those with BA.1 infection after two or three vaccinations had similar neutralization titer magnitude and antigenic recognition. Accounting for antigenic differences among variants when interpreting neutralization titers can aid the understanding of complex patterns in humoral immunity that informs the selection of future COVID-19 vaccine strains.

Temporal Improvements in COVID-19 Outcomes for Hospitalized Adults: A Post Hoc Observational Study of Remdesivir Group Participants in the Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 standard of care (SOC) evolved rapidly during 2020 and 2021, but its cumulative effect over time is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether recovery and mortality improved as SOC evolved, using data from ACTT (Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial).

DESIGN

ACTT is a series of phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that evaluated COVID-19 therapeutics from February 2020 through May 2021. ACTT-1 compared remdesivir plus SOC to placebo plus SOC, and in ACTT-2 and ACTT-3, remdesivir plus SOC was the control group. This post hoc analysis compared recovery and mortality between these comparable sequential cohorts of patients who received remdesivir plus SOC, adjusting for baseline characteristics with propensity score weighting. The analysis was repeated for participants in ACTT-3 and ACTT-4 who received remdesivir plus dexamethasone plus SOC. Trends in SOC that could explain outcome improvements were analyzed. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04280705 [ACTT-1], NCT04401579 [ACTT-2], NCT04492475 [ACTT-3], and NCT04640168 [ACTT-4]).

SETTING

94 hospitals in 10 countries (86% U.S. participants).

PARTICIPANTS

Adults hospitalized with COVID-19.

INTERVENTION

SOC.

MEASUREMENTS

28-day mortality and recovery.

RESULTS

Although outcomes were better in ACTT-2 than in ACTT-1, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were close to 1 (HR for recovery, 1.04 [95% CI, 0.92 to 1.17]; HR for mortality, 0.90 [CI, 0.56 to 1.40]). Comparable patients were less likely to be intubated in ACTT-2 than in ACTT-1 (odds ratio, 0.75 [CI, 0.53 to 0.97]), and hydroxychloroquine use decreased. Outcomes improved from ACTT-2 to ACTT-3 (HR for recovery, 1.43 [CI, 1.24 to 1.64]; HR for mortality, 0.45 [CI, 0.21 to 0.97]). Potential explanatory factors (SOC trends, case surges, and variant trends) were similar between ACTT-2 and ACTT-3, except for increased dexamethasone use (11% to 77%). Outcomes were similar in ACTT-3 and ACTT-4. Antibiotic use decreased gradually across all stages.

LIMITATION

Unmeasured confounding.

CONCLUSION

Changes in patient composition explained improved outcomes from ACTT-1 to ACTT-2 but not from ACTT-2 to ACTT-3, suggesting improved SOC. These results support excluding nonconcurrent controls from analysis of platform trials in rapidly changing therapeutic areas.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Welder's Anthrax: A Tale of 2 Cases

Bacillus anthracis has traditionally been considered the etiologic agent of anthrax. However, anthrax-like illness has been documented in welders and other metal workers infected with Bacillus cereus group spp. harboring pXO1 virulence genes that produce anthrax toxins. We present 2 recent cases of severe pneumonia in welders with B. cereus group infections and discuss potential risk factors for infection and treatment options, including antitoxin.

Coccidioidomycosis Seroincidence and Risk among Military Personnel, Naval Air Station Lemoore, San Joaquin Valley, California, USA1

We conducted a retrospective cohort study that tested 2,000 US military personnel for Coccidioides antibodies in a disease-endemic region. The overall incidence of seroconversion was 0.5 cases/100 person-years; 12.5% of persons who seroconverted had illnesses requiring medical care. No significant association was found between demographic characteristics and seroconversion or disease.

Baricitinib versus dexamethasone for adults hospitalised with COVID-19 (ACTT-4): a randomised, double-blind, double placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Baricitinib and dexamethasone have randomised trials supporting their use for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. We assessed the combination of baricitinib plus remdesivir versus dexamethasone plus remdesivir in preventing progression to mechanical ventilation or death in hospitalised patients with COVID-19.

METHODS

In this randomised, double-blind, double placebo-controlled trial, patients were enrolled at 67 trial sites in the USA (60 sites), South Korea (two sites), Mexico (two sites), Singapore (two sites), and Japan (one site). Hospitalised adults (≥18 years) with COVID-19 who required supplemental oxygen administered by low-flow (≤15 L/min), high-flow (>15 L/min), or non-invasive mechanical ventilation modalities who met the study eligibility criteria (male or non-pregnant female adults ≥18 years old with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection) were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either baricitinib, remdesivir, and placebo, or dexamethasone, remdesivir, and placebo using a permuted block design. Randomisation was stratified by study site and baseline ordinal score at enrolment. All patients received remdesivir (≤10 days) and either baricitinib (or matching oral placebo) for a maximum of 14 days or dexamethasone (or matching intravenous placebo) for a maximum of 10 days. The primary outcome was the difference in mechanical ventilation-free survival by day 29 between the two treatment groups in the modified intention-to-treat population. Safety analyses were done in the as-treated population, comprising all participants who received one dose of the study drug. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04640168.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 1, 2020, and April 13, 2021, 1047 patients were assessed for eligibility. 1010 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned, 516 (51%) to baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo and 494 (49%) to dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo. The mean age of the patients was 58·3 years (SD 14·0) and 590 (58%) of 1010 patients were male. 588 (58%) of 1010 patients were White, 188 (19%) were Black, 70 (7%) were Asian, and 18 (2%) were American Indian or Alaska Native. 347 (34%) of 1010 patients were Hispanic or Latino. Mechanical ventilation-free survival by day 29 was similar between the study groups (Kaplan-Meier estimates of 87·0% [95% CI 83·7 to 89·6] in the baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo group and 87·6% [84·2 to 90·3] in the dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo group; risk difference 0·6 [95% CI -3·6 to 4·8]; p=0·91). The odds ratio for improved status in the dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo group compared with the baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo group was 1·01 (95% CI 0·80 to 1·27). At least one adverse event occurred in 149 (30%) of 503 patients in the baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo group and 179 (37%) of 482 patients in the dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo group (risk difference 7·5% [1·6 to 13·3]; p=0·014). 21 (4%) of 503 patients in the baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo group had at least one treatment-related adverse event versus 49 (10%) of 482 patients in the dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo group (risk difference 6·0% [2·8 to 9·3]; p=0·00041). Severe or life-threatening grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred in 143 (28%) of 503 patients in the baricitinib plus remdesivir plus placebo group and 174 (36%) of 482 patients in the dexamethasone plus remdesivir plus placebo group (risk difference 7·7% [1·8 to 13·4]; p=0·012).

INTERPRETATION

In hospitalised patients with COVID-19 requiring supplemental oxygen by low-flow, high-flow, or non-invasive ventilation, baricitinib plus remdesivir and dexamethasone plus remdesivir resulted in similar mechanical ventilation-free survival by day 29, but dexamethasone was associated with significantly more adverse events, treatment-related adverse events, and severe or life-threatening adverse events. A more individually tailored choice of immunomodulation now appears possible, where side-effect profile, ease of administration, cost, and patient comorbidities can all be considered.

FUNDING

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

An Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Reactogenicity: Variation by Type, Dose, and History, Severity, and Recency of Prior SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Background

There is limited information on the functional consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine side effects. To support patient counseling and public health messaging, we describe the risk and correlates of COVID-19 vaccine side effects sufficient to prevent work or usual activities and/or lead to medical care (“severe” side effects).

Methods

The EPICC study is a longitudinal cohort study of Military Healthcare System beneficiaries including active duty service members, dependents, and retirees. We studied 2789 adults who were vaccinated between December 2020 and December 2021.

Results

Severe side effects were most common with the Ad26.COV2.S (Janssen/Johnson and Johnson) vaccine, followed by mRNA-1273 (Moderna) then BNT162b2 (Pfizer/BioNTech). Severe side effects were more common after the second than first dose (11% vs 4%; P < .001). First (but not second) dose side effects were more common in those with vs without prior severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection (9% vs 2%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.84; 95% CI, 3.8–9.1), particularly if the prior illness was severe or critical (13% vs 2%; aOR, 10.57; 95% CI, 5.5–20.1) or resulted in inpatient care (17% vs 2%; aOR, 19.3; 95% CI, 5.1–72.5). Side effects were more common in women than men but not otherwise related to demographic factors.

Conclusions

Vaccine side effects sufficient to prevent usual activities were more common after the second than first dose and varied by vaccine type. First dose side effects were more likely in those with a history of COVID-19—particularly if that prior illness was severe or associated with inpatient care. These findings may assist clinicians and patients by providing a real-world evaluation of the likelihood of experiencing impactful postvaccine symptoms.

COVID-19 patient reported symptoms using FLU-PRO Plus in a cohort study: associations with infecting genotype, vaccine history, and return-to-health

Background

Patient reported outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection are an important measure of the full burden of COVID. Here, we examine how 1) infecting genotype and COVID-19 vaccination correlate with FLU-PRO Plus score, including by symptom domains, and 2) FLU-PRO Plus scores predict return to usual activities and health.

Methods

The EPICC study was implemented to describe the short- and long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a longitudinal, observational cohort. Multivariable linear regression models were run with FLU-PRO Plus scores as the outcome variable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models evaluated effects of FLU-PRO Plus scores on return to usual health or activities.

Results

Among the 764 participants included in this analysis, 63% were 18-44 years old, 40% were female, and 51% were white. Being fully vaccinated was associated with lower total scores (β=-0.39 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.57, -0.21)). The Delta variant was associated with higher total scores (β=0.25 (95% CI 0.05, 0.45)). Participants with higher FLU-PRO Plus scores were less likely to report returning to usual health and activities (Health: hazard ratio (HR) 0.46 (95% CI 0.37, 0.57); Activities: HR 0.56 (95% CI 0.47, 0.67)). Fully vaccinated participants were more likely to report returning to usual activities (HR 1.24 (95% CI 1.04, 1.48)).

Conclusions

Full SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is associated with decreased severity of patient-reported symptoms across multiple domains, which in turn is likely to be associated with earlier return to usual activities. In addition, infection with the Delta variant was associated with higher FLU-PRO Plus scores than previous variants, even after controlling for vaccination status.

Understanding "Hybrid Immunity": Comparison and Predictors of Humoral Immune Responses to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection (SARS-CoV-2) and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccines

BACKGROUND

Comparison of humoral responses in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccinees, those with SARS-CoV-2 infection, or combinations of vaccine/ infection ("hybrid immunity") may clarify predictors of vaccine immunogenicity.

METHODS

We studied 2660 US Military Health System beneficiaries with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection-alone (n = 705), vaccination-alone (n = 932), vaccine-after-infection (n = 869), and vaccine-breakthrough-infection (n = 154). Peak anti-spike-immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses through 183 days were compared, with adjustment for vaccine product, demography, and comorbidities. We excluded those with evidence of clinical or subclinical SARS-CoV-2 reinfection from all groups.

RESULTS

Multivariable regression results indicated that vaccine-after-infection anti-spike-IgG responses were higher than infection-alone (P < .01), regardless of prior infection severity. An increased time between infection and vaccination was associated with greater post-vaccination IgG response (P < .01). Vaccination-alone elicited a greater IgG response but more rapid waning of IgG (P < .01) compared with infection-alone (P < .01). BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 vaccine-receipt was associated with greater IgG responses compared with JNJ-78436735 vaccine-receipt (P < .01), regardless of infection history. Those with vaccine-after-infection or vaccine-breakthrough-infection had a more durable anti-spike-IgG response compared to infection-alone (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Vaccine-receipt elicited higher anti-spike-IgG responses than infection-alone, although IgG levels waned faster in those vaccinated (compared to infection-alone). Vaccine-after-infection elicits a greater humoral response compared with vaccine or infection alone; and the timing, but not disease severity, of prior infection predicted these post-vaccination IgG responses. While differences between groups were small in magnitude, these results offer insights into vaccine immunogenicity variations that may help inform vaccination timing strategies.

PICU in the MICU: How Adult ICUs Can Support Pediatric Care in Public Health Emergencies

Initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic have largely spared children. With the advent of vaccination in many older age groups and the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant, however, children now represent a growing percentage of COVID-19 cases. PICU capacity is far less than that of adult ICUs. Adult ICUs may need to support pediatric care, much as PICUs provided adult care earlier in the pandemic. Critically ill children selected for care in adult settings should be at least 12 years of age and ideally have conditions common in children and adults alike (eg, community-acquired sepsis, trauma). Children with complex, pediatric-specific disorders are best served in PICUs and are not recommended for transfer. The goal of such transfers is to maintain critical capacity for those children in greatest need of the PICU's unique abilities, therefore preserving systems of care for all children.

Patients with HIV-associated cancers have evidence of increased T cell dysfunction and exhaustion prior to cancer diagnosis

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV (PLWH) have increased risk of developing cancers after controlling traditional risk factors and viral suppression. This study explores whether T cells can serve as a marker of risk for cancer among HIV-infected virally suppressed patients.

METHODS

A nested case control study design was pursued with 17 cancer cases and 73 controls (PLWH without cancer)ouidentified among the US Military HIV Natural History Study cohort, and were matched for CD4 + count, duration of HIV infection, and viral suppression. Cells were obtained from PLWH on an average of 12 months prior to clinical cancer diagnosis. Expression of inhibitory receptors (PD-1, CD160, CD244, Lag-3, and TIGIT), and transcription factors (T-bet, Eomesodermin, TCF-1, and (TOX) was measured on CD8 +T cells from that early time point.

RESULTS

We found that cases have increased expression of PD-1 +CD160+CD244+ ('triple positive') on total and effector CD8 + compared with controls (p=0.02). Furthermore, CD8 +T cells that were both PD-1 +CD160+CD244+ and T-bet^dimEomes^hi were significantly elevated in cases at time point before cancer detection, compared with controls without cancer (p=0.008). This was driven by the finding that transcriptional factor profile of cells was altered in cancers compared with controls. Triple-positive cells were noted to retain the ability for cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion mediated by expression of CD160 and PD-1, respectively. However, triple-positive cells demonstrated high expression of TOX-1, a transcription factor associated with T cell exhaustion.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we have found a subset of dysfunctional CD8 +T cells, PD-1 +CD160+CD244+T-bet^dimEomes^hi, that is elevated 12 months before cancer diagnosis, suggesting that peripheral T cell alterations may serve as a biomarker of increased cancer risk among PLWH.

Statin usage and cardiovascular risk among people living with HIV in the U.S. Military HIV Natural History Study

OBJECTIVES

Using the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2013 atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) management guidelines, we conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of people living with HIV in the US Military HIV Natural History Study to determine whether individuals were receiving statins when indicated.

METHODS

Prescription data was taken from Military Health System data. Statin eligibility was defined by ASCVD guidelines. We used the 10-year ASCVD pooled cohorts' equation to evaluate risk for each participant.

RESULTS

Across all categories, 31.9% (n = 390) of individuals met criteria for statin use, and when adding these subjects to the number of those already receiving statins (n = 96), 62.1% of all eligible subjects (n = 302/486) were actually receiving statin therapy. In multivariable analysis, individuals of African American race [odds ratio (OR) = 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.31-0.73] or Hispanic ethnicity (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19-0.94) were less likely to receive statin prescriptions than white individuals. Individuals with a higher CD4 count (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.05-1.20 per 100 cells/μL]) were significantly more likely to receive a statin prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight discrepancies between ASCVD guidelines and primary care management of people living with HIV (PLWH) in the military health system, along with important racial differences. Targeted interventions are critical to identify and treat appropriate candidates for statin therapy among PLWH in the military and other settings.

Clinical factors and outcomes associated with immune non-response among virally suppressed adults with HIV from Africa and the United States

A significant minority of people living with HIV (PLWH) achieve viral suppression (VS) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) but do not regain healthy CD4 counts. Clinical factors affecting this immune non-response (INR) and its effect on incident serious non-AIDS events (SNAEs) have been challenging to understand due to confounders that are difficult to control in many study settings. The U.S. Military HIV Natural History Study (NHS) and African Cohort Study (AFRICOS). PLWH with sustained VS (< 400 copies/ml for at least two years) were evaluated for INR (CD4 < 350 cells/µl at the time of sustained VS). Logistic regression estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for factors associated with INR. Cox proportional hazards regression produced adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for factors associated with incident SNAE after sustained VS. INR prevalence was 10.8% and 25.8% in NHS and AFRICOS, respectively. Higher CD4 nadir was associated with decreased odds of INR (aOR = 0.34 [95% CI 0.29, 0.40] and aOR = 0.48 [95% CI 0.40, 0.57] per 100 cells/µl in NHS and AFRICOS, respectively). After adjustment, INR was associated with a 61% increase in relative risk of SNAE [95% CI 1.12, 2.33]. Probability of "SNAE-free" survival at 15 years since sustained VS was approximately 20% lower comparing those with and without INR; nearly equal to the differences observed by 15-year age groups. CD4 monitoring before and after VS is achieved can help identify PLWH at risk for INR. INR may be a useful clinical indicator of future risk for SNAEs.

COVID-19 Outcomes Among US Military Health System Beneficiaries Include Complications Across Multiple Organ Systems and Substantial Functional Impairment

Background

We evaluated clinical outcomes, functional burden, and complications 1 month after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in a prospective US Military Health System (MHS) cohort of active duty, retiree, and dependent populations using serial patient-reported outcome surveys and electronic medical record (EMR) review.

Methods

MHS beneficiaries presenting at 9 sites across the United States with a positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) test, a COVID-19-like illness, or a high-risk SARS-CoV-2 exposure were eligible for enrollment. Medical history and clinical outcomes were collected through structured interviews and International Classification of Diseases-based EMR review. Risk factors associated with hospitalization were determined by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 1202 participants were enrolled. There were 1070 laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 cases and 132 SARS-CoV-2-negative participants. In the first month post-symptom onset among the SARS-CoV-2-positive cases, there were 212 hospitalizations, 80% requiring oxygen, 20 ICU admissions, and 10 deaths. Risk factors for COVID-19-associated hospitalization included race (increased for Asian, Black, and Hispanic compared with non-Hispanic White), age (age 45-64 and 65+ compared with <45), and obesity (BMI≥30 compared with BMI<30). Over 2% of survey respondents reported the need for supplemental oxygen, and 31% had not returned to normal daily activities at 1 month post-symptom onset.

Conclusions

Older age, reporting Asian, Black, or Hispanic race/ethnicity, and obesity are associated with SARS-CoV-2 hospitalization. A proportion of acute SARS-CoV-2 infections require long-term oxygen therapy; the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on short-term functional status was substantial. A significant number of MHS beneficiaries had not yet returned to normal activities by 1 month.

Durability of SARS-CoV-2-Specific T-Cell Responses at 12 Months Postinfection

BACKGROUND

Characterizing the longevity and quality of cellular immune responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enhances understanding of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immunity that influences clinical outcomes. Prior studies suggest SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells are present in peripheral blood 10 months after infection. Analysis of the function, durability, and diversity of cellular response long after natural infection, over a range of ages and disease phenotypes, is needed to identify preventative and therapeutic interventions.

METHODS

We identified participants in our multisite longitudinal, prospective cohort study 12 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection representing a range of disease severity. We investigated function, phenotypes, and frequency of T cells specific for SARS-CoV-2 using intracellular cytokine staining and spectral flow cytometry, and compared magnitude of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies.

RESULTS

SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies and T cells were detected 12 months postinfection. Severe acute illness was associated with higher frequencies of SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4 T cells and antibodies at 12 months. In contrast, polyfunctional and cytotoxic T cells responsive to SARS-CoV-2 were identified in participants over a wide spectrum of disease severity.

CONCLUSIONS

SARS-CoV-2 infection induces polyfunctional memory T cells detectable at 12 months postinfection, with higher frequency noted in those who experienced severe disease.

Anatomical site, viral RNA abundance, and time of sampling correlate with molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 during infection

Background

Nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs are the standard for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis. If less invasive alternatives to NP swabs (eg, oropharyngeal [OP] or nasal swabs [NS]) are comparably sensitive, the use of these techniques may be preferable in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety.

Methods

This study compared the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in swab samples collected on the same day among participants with at least one positive PCR test.

Results

Overall, 755 participants had at least one set of paired swabs. Concordance between NP and other swab types was 75% (NS), 72% (OP), 54% (rectal swabs [RS]), and 78% (NS/OP combined). Kappa values were moderate for the NS, OP, and NS/OP comparisons (0.50, 0.45, and 0.54, respectively). Highest sensitivity relative to NP (0.87) was observed with a combination of NS/OP tests (positive if either NS or OP was positive). Sensitivity of the non-NP swab types was highest in the first week postsymptom onset and decreased thereafter. Similarly, virus RNA quantity was highest in the NP swabs as compared with NS, OP, and RS within two weeks postsymptom onset. OP and NS performance decreased as virus RNA quantity decreased. No differences were noted between NS specimens collected at home or in clinic.

Conclusions

NP swabs detected more SARS-CoV-2 cases than non-NP swabs, and the sensitivity of the non-NP swabs decreased with time postsymptom onset. While other swabs may be simpler to collect, NP swabs present the best chance of detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA, which is essential for clinical care as well as genomic surveillance.

337. SARS-CoV-2 Viral Load Does Not Predict Incident Venous Thromboembolism in COVID-19

Background

The risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in COVID-19 warrant further study. We leveraged a cohort in the Military Health System (MHS) to identify clinical and virological predictors of incident deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other VTE within 90-days after COVID-19 onset.

Methods

PCR or serologically-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infected MHS beneficiaries were enrolled via nine military treatment facilities (MTF) through April 2021. Case characteristics were derived from interview and review of the electronic medical record (EMR) through one-year follow-up in outpatients and inpatients. qPCR was performed on upper respiratory swab specimens collected post-enrollment to estimate SARS-CoV-2 viral load. The frequency of incident DVT, PE, or other VTE by 90-days post-COVID-19 onset were ascertained by ICD-10 code. Correlates of 90-day VTE were determined through multivariate logistic regression, including age and sampling-time-adjusted log10-SARS-CoV-2 GE/reaction as a priori predictors in addition to other demographic and clinical covariates which were selected through stepwise regression.

Results

1473 participants with SARS-CoV-2 infection were enrolled through April 2021. 21% of study participants were inpatients; the mean age was 41 years (SD = 17.0 years). The median Charlson Comorbidity Index score was 0 (IQR = 0 - 1, range = 0 - 13). 27 (1.8%) had a prior history of VTE. Mean maximum viral load observed was 1.65 x 10⁷ genome equivalents/reaction. 36 (2.4%) of all SARS-CoV-2 cases (including inpatients and outpatients), 29 (9.5%) of COVID-19 inpatients, and 7 (0.6%) of outpatients received an ICD-10 diagnosis of any VTE within 90 days after COVID-19 onset. Logistic regression identified hospitalization (aOR = 11.1, p = 0.003) and prior VTE (aOR = 6.2 , p = 0.009) as independent predictors of VTE within 90 days of symptom onset. Neither age (aOR = 1.0, p = 0.50), other demographic covariates, other comorbidities, nor SARS-CoV-2 viral load (aOR = 1.1, p = 0.60) were associated with 90-day VTE.

Conclusion

VTE was relatively frequent in this MHS cohort. SARS-CoV-2 viral load did not increase the odds of 90-day VTE. Rather, being hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 and prior VTE history remained the strongest predictors of this complication.

Disclosures

Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca (Other Financial or Material Support, HJF, in support of USU IDCRP, funded under a CRADA to augment the conduct of an unrelated Phase III COVID-19 vaccine trial sponsored by AstraZeneca as part of USG response (unrelated work)) Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) David A. Lindholm, MD, American Board of Internal Medicine (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Member of Auxiliary R&D Infectious Disease Item-Writer Task Force. No financial support received. No exam questions will be disclosed ., Other Financial or Material Support David Tribble, M.D., DrPH, Astra Zeneca (Other Financial or Material Support, HJF, in support of USU IDCRP, funded under a CRADA to augment the conduct of an unrelated Phase III COVID-19 vaccine trial sponsored by AstraZeneca as part of USG response (unrelated work))

458. A Machine Learning Approach Identifies Distinct Early-Symptom Cluster Phenotypes Which Correlate with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Outcomes

Background

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic remains a global challenge. Accurate COVID-19 prognosis remains an important aspect of clinical management. While many prognostic systems have been proposed, most are derived from analyses of individual symptoms or biomarkers. Here, we take a machine learning approach to first identify discrete clusters of early stage-symptoms which may delineate groups with distinct symptom phenotypes. We then sought to identify whether these groups correlate with subsequent disease severity.

Methods

The Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential (EPICC) study is a longitudinal cohort study with data and biospecimens collected from nine military treatment facilities over 1 year of follow-up. Demographic and clinical characteristics were measured with interviews and electronic medical record review. Early symptoms by organ-domain were measured by FLU-PRO-plus surveys collected for 14 days post-enrollment, with surveys completed a median 14.5 (Interquartile Range, IQR = 13) days post-symptom onset. Using these FLU-PRO-plus responses, we applied principal component analysis followed by unsupervised machine learning algorithm k-means to identify groups with distinct clusters of symptoms. We then fit multivariate logistic regression models to determine how these early-symptom clusters correlated with hospitalization risk after controlling for age, sex, race, and obesity.

Results

Using SARS-CoV-2 positive participants (n = 1137) from the EPICC cohort (Figure 1), we transformed reported symptoms into domains and identified three groups of participants with distinct clusters of symptoms. Logistic regression demonstrated that cluster-2 was associated with an approximately three-fold increased odds [3.01 (95% CI: 2-4.52); P &lt; 0.001] of hospitalization which remained significant after controlling for other factors [2.97 (95% CI: 1.88-4.69); P &lt; 0.001].

Conclusion

Our findings have identified three distinct groups with early-symptom phenotypes. With further validation of the clusters’ significance, this tool could be used to improve COVID-19 prognosis in a precision medicine framework and may assist in patient triaging and clinical decision-making.

Disclaimer

Disclosures

David A. Lindholm, MD, American Board of Internal Medicine (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Member of Auxiliary R&D Infectious Disease Item-Writer Task Force. No financial support received. No exam questions will be disclosed ., Other Financial or Material Support Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca (Other Financial or Material Support, HJF, in support of USU IDCRP, funded under a CRADA to augment the conduct of an unrelated Phase III COVID-19 vaccine trial sponsored by AstraZeneca as part of USG response (unrelated work))

677. Compliance and Performance Characteristics of Subject Collected Versus Health-care Worker Collected Nasal Swabs for Respiratory Viral Surveillance

Background

Self-collection of mid-nasal swabs (SCNS) at home is a convenient alternative to health-care worker-collected nasal swabs (HCWC) for determining the pathogen-specific epidemiology of influenza-like illness (ILI). We evaluated the compliance and performance characteristics of SCNS vs. HCWC for respiratory pathogens during 2019-2020 flu season.

Methods

Adult Military Health System (MHS) beneficiaries were enrolled in an influenza vaccine effectiveness trial (PAIVED). Following vaccination, subjects were instructed on SCNS and completion of a symptom diary and were contacted weekly to ascertain ILI symptoms (fever, sore throat, and/or cough). In the event of an ILI, subjects completed the symptom diary and SCNS and were scheduled a clinic visit for HCWC. Swabs were tested with the Luminex NxTAG® Respiratory Pathogen Panel. We evaluated compliance with swab collection, positive percent agreement (PPA) of SCNS using PCR detection from either HCWC or SCNS as the reference standard, and agreement between paired swabs using the Cohen Kappa coefficient (Κ).

Results

1808 ILI were reported by 972 participants enrolled during the study period. Compliance with HCWC was higher than SCNS (58% [1042] vs. 42% [766]; p&lt; 0.001). SCNS were associated with a shorter interval from symptom onset (median: 4 days [IQR:2-6 days] vs. clinic collect: 7 days [IQR:4-9 days]; p &lt; 0.001). 663 paired swabs were available for 609 participants (Table 1). The overall detection rate was higher in SCNS (36%) than HCWC (26%; p&lt; 0.001) (Figure 1). The overall PPA was 85.7% and a PPA of approximately 80% of greater was observed for influenza, rhino/enterovirus, parainfluenza and respiratory syncytial virus. Agreement between paired swabs was poor due to the lower detection rates in HCWC.

Table 1. Demographics and swab collection data for 609 participants who provided 663 paired swabs

Conclusion

SCNS were associated with higher detection rates compared to HCWC, likely due to the shorter interval between symptom onset and swab collection. Strategies to improve compliance with SCNS and minimize the interval between symptom onset and swab collection are needed to optimize detection of respiratory pathogens in this MHS cohort.

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) Jitu Modi, MD, GSK (Speaker's Bureau)

05. Pragmatic Assessment of Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness in the DoD (PAIVED): Updates from Year 3 of Multi-Site Trial

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has spotlighted respiratory infections and the value of effective vaccines. The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine has been remarkably effective; however, influenza vaccine effectiveness has been reported to be lower among active duty military populations than in the general public (18% vs 36%). The Pragmatic Assessment of Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness in the DoD (PAIVED) study compares 3 FDA-licensed influenza vaccine types (egg-based, cell-based, and recombinant) to assess differences in immunogenicity and effectiveness in adults.

Methods

Participants in the 3rd year of PAIVED (2020/21 influenza season) were enrolled from October 2020 through January 2021. Participants received weekly surveys about influenza-like-illnesses (ILI) experienced in the past week; if they reported an ILI, they were queried about symptom duration and severity, and asked to self-collect a nasal swab and dried blood sample. Four weeks later, more information about symptom duration and illness burden was obtained via telephone interview, and the participant collected a second blood sample.

Results

PAIVED year 3 enrolled 3,269 participants (Table 1). 278 participants reported 1 ILI , while 60 reported 2 ILIs, and 18 reported 3 ILIs. No pathogen was identified for most processed ILI samples (78%); the most common viruses were SARS-CoV-2 (25, 12%), rhinovirus (24, 12%), and seasonal coronaviruses (4, 2%). No influenza has been identified thus far. Among those participants who had convalescent ILI visits (275), the median duration of the reported ILIs was 9 days (IQR 5, 15), with a median of 4 days (IQR 2, 7) of limited activity, and 2 days (IQR 0, 3) with fever. Three individuals were hospitalized.

Conclusion

There have been relatively low rates of ILI identified in this study during this season, with only 11% of the participants reporting an ILI so far, consistent with low rates of non-COVID-19 ILI reported elsewhere during the current pandemic. We anticipate some influenza cases may be identified as more samples are processed. Planned analyses include calculating comparative influenza vaccine effectiveness to inform future vaccine purchasing decisions, as well as comparing serological response to the different vaccines.

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) Jitu Modi, MD, GSK (Speaker’s Bureau)

34. Long-term clinical outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection include persistent symptoms and cardiovascular disease beyond 3 months post-infection

Background

The long-term health effects after SARS-CoV-2 infection remain poorly understood. We evaluated health and healthcare usage after SARS-CoV-2 infection via surveys and longitudinal electronic medical record (EMR) review within the Military Health System (MHS).

Methods

We studied MHS beneficiaries enrolled in the Epidemiology, Immunology, and Clinical Characteristics of Emerging Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential (EPICC) cohort from March to December 2020. COVID-19 illness symptom severity and duration were derived from surveys initiated in late 2020. In addition, multi-year healthcare encounter history before and after onset of COVID-19 symptoms was collected from the MHS EMR. Odds of organ-system clinical diagnoses within the 3 months pre- and post-symptom onset were calculated using generalized linear models, controlling for age, sex, and race, and including participant as a random effect.

Results

1,015 participants were included who were SARS-CoV-2 positive, symptomatic, and had 3-month follow-up data available in the EMR (Table 1). 625 of these participants had survey data collected more than 28 days post-symptom onset, among whom 17% and 6% reported persistent symptoms at 28-84 days, and 85+ days, respectively. 9.6% had not resumed normal activities by one month. The most frequently reported symptoms persisting beyond 28 days were dyspnea, loss of smell and/or taste, fatigue, and exercise intolerance (Figure 1A). When compared with the period 61 to 90 days prior to symptom onset, the first month post-symptom onset period was associated with increases of pulmonary (aOR = 57, 95% CI 28-112), renal (aOR = 29, 95% CI 10-84), cardiovascular (aOR = 7, 95% CI 5-11), and neurological diagnoses (aOR = 3, 95% CI 2-4) (Figures 1B and 1C). Cardiovascular disease diagnoses remained elevated through 3 months (aOR = 2, 95% CI 1-3).

Table 1. Characteristics of SARS-CoV-2+ EPICC participants, and illness duration among those with 28+ days post-symptom onset survey data collection.

Figure 1

Fig1A. Symptoms reported by EPICC participants with illnesses longer than 28 days; 1B. Percent of participants with organ system specific diagnoses on each day, 90 days pre- and post-symptom onset; 1C. Odds of organ system specific diagnoses within each month, +/- 3 months of symptom onset, were calculated using generalized linear models, controlling for age, sex, and race and included participants as a random effect. Odds shown are relative to the earliest period included in the model, 61-90 days before onset.

Conclusion

In this MHS cohort, a significant proportion of participants had persistent symptoms and cardiovascular disease diagnoses 3 months after COVID-19 illness onset. These findings emphasize the long-term morbidity of COVID-19 and the importance of mitigating SARS-CoV-2 infections. Further analyses will evaluate demographic, clinical, and biomarker predictors of medium-to-long term organ-specific post-acute sequelae.

Disclosures

Simon Pollett, MBBS, Astra Zeneca (Other Financial or Material Support, HJF, in support of USU IDCRP, funded under a CRADA to augment the conduct of an unrelated Phase III COVID-19 vaccine trial sponsored by AstraZeneca as part of USG response (unrelated work)) Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) David A. Lindholm, MD, American Board of Internal Medicine (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Member of Auxiliary R&D Infectious Disease Item-Writer Task Force. No financial support received. No exam questions will be disclosed ., Other Financial or Material Support

1338. Before and After: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Influenza-Like Illness Trends in PAIVED

Background

The Pragmatic Assessment of Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness in the DoD (PAIVED) is a multicenter study assessing influenza vaccine effectiveness in active duty service members, retirees, and dependents. PAIVED recently completed its third year and offers a unique opportunity to examine influenza-like illness (ILI) trends prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a prospective, well-defined cohort.

Methods

During the 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2020-21 influenza seasons, PAIVED enrolled DoD beneficiaries presenting for annual influenza vaccination. After collecting baseline demographic data, participants were randomized to receive egg-based, cell-based, or recombinant-derived influenza vaccine. Weekly throughout the influenza season of enrollment, participants were surveyed electronically for ILI, defined as (1) having cough or sore throat, plus (2) feeling feverish/having chills or having body aches/fatigue. Participants with ILI completed a daily symptom diary for seven days and submitted a nasal swab for pathogen detection.

Results

Over the three seasons, there were 10,656 PAIVED participants: 1514 (14.2%) in 2018-19, 5876 (55.1%) in 2019-20, and 3266 (30.6%) in 2020-21. The majority were male (68-73% per year) with a mean age of 34±14.8 years at enrollment. 2266 participants reported a total of 2673 unique ILIs. The highest percentage of participants with ILI was in 2019-20 (28.2%), versus 19.6% in 2018-19 and 9.6% in 2020-21. Figure 1 depicts the percent of individuals reporting ILI by week of the season for each of the PAIVED seasons. Notably, after March 21, 2020, the weekly incidence of participants reporting ILI never exceeded 1%.

Figure 1. Percent of PAIVED participants reporting ILI by week of season.

Conclusion

The low incidence of reported ILI in PAIVED participants during the COVID-19 pandemic is consistent with national influenza surveillance reports of influenza and outpatient ILI activity, suggesting that mitigation measures taken to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2 reduced the spread of other respiratory viruses.

Disclaimer

Disclosures

Ryan C. Maves, MD, EMD Serono (Advisor or Review Panel member)Heron Therapeutics (Advisor or Review Panel member) Jitu Modi, MD, GSK (Speaker’s Bureau)