Dengue en paciente de 32 días de vida. Reporte de un caso poco habitual / Dengue fever in a 32-day-old patient. A rare case report

El dengue es una enfermedad viral transmitida por la picadura del mosquito Aedes aegypti. El comportamiento del dengue en Argentina es epidémico; la mayoría de los casos se observan en los meses de mayor temperatura. Hasta la semana epidemiológica (SE) 20/2023, se registraron en Argentina 106 672 casos; se vieron afectadas 18 de las 24 provincias que conforman el país. Dentro de los principales grupos de riesgo, se incluyen los menores de 2 años. Reconocer los signos, síntomas e identificar los factores de riesgo es fundamental para el manejo de casos con mayor riesgo de gravedad. Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 32 días de vida que se internó por síndrome febril sin foco, con diagnósticos diferenciales de meningitis viral y sepsis, evolucionó con leucocitosis, plaquetopenia, hipoalbuminemia, asociado a exantema y edemas. Se llegó al diagnóstico de dengue por la clínica, epidemiologia e IgM positiva.

Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. In Argentina, dengue fever is an epidemic disease; most cases are reported during the hot months.Until epidemiological week (EW) 20/2023, 106 672 cases were reported across 18 of the 24 provinces of Argentina. Children younger than 2 years are among the main groups at risk. Recognizing signs and symptoms and identifying risk factors is fundamental for the management of cases at a higher risk of severity. Here we describe the case of a 32-day-old female patient who was hospitalized due to febrile syndrome without a source, who had a differential diagnosis of viral meningitis and sepsis and progressed to leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, hypoalbuminemia in association with rash and edema. The diagnosis of dengue fever was established based on clinical, epidemiological, and positive IgM data.

Adherencia de adultos de la compañía Chauria para la vacunación contra la COVID-19

Introducción: La pandemia del COVID-19 ha provocado cambios que afectan a los sistemas sanitarios y al enfoque de las enfermedades infecciosas en todo el mundo. La demanda de vacunas contra el COVID-19 se encuadra en un espectro que va desde el rechazo hasta la demanda, con una aceptación pasiva en el medio. Objetivo: Determinar la adherencia de los adultos a la vacunación contra la COVID-19. Chauria-Caballero, Paraguay 2022. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, con enfoque cuantitativo. El muestreo fue no probabilístico por conveniencia. La muestra estuvo conformada por un total de 225 adultos; los datos fueron recabados por medio de una encuesta elaborada por la investigadora, los datos fueron procesados con el software EPI INFO. Resultados: La mayoría de los sujetos de estudio se vacunaron, y hubo adherencia de la población a la vacuna contra la COVID-19 en un 93 %; diversos factores influyeron en las decisiones de estos; el porcentaje de adultos no vacunados mencionan como motivos su desconfianza (69 %) y el miedo/temor a la vacunación (31 %). Discusión: El estudio encontró una alta adherencia en general, la gran mayoría de los participantes vacunados contra COVID-19, porcentajes significativos se reportaron en Chile, China y Catar, cifras muy altas con relación a la aceptación de la vacuna a nivel país, teniendo una cobertura con un porcentaje mayor a la mitad con al menos una dosis.

Introduction: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused changes that affect health systems and the approach to infectious diseases worldwide. The demand for COVID-19 vaccines falls on a spectrum from rejection to demand, with passive acceptance in between. Objective: To determine the adherence of adults to vaccination against COVID-19. Chauria-Caballero, Paraguay 2022. Methods: This was an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach. For convenience, the sampling was non-probabilistic. The sample comprised of 225 adults. The data were collected through a survey elaborated by the researcher, and the data were processed using EPI INFO software. Results: The majority of the study subjects were vaccinated, and there was 93% adherence of the population to the COVID-19 vaccine. Various factors influenced their decisions; the percentage of unvaccinated adults mentioned their distrust (69%) and fear of vaccination (31%). Discussion: The study found high adherence in general, the vast majority of participants were vaccinated against COVID-19, with significant percentages reported in Chile, China, and Qatar, very high figures in relation to the acceptance of the vaccine at the country level, with coverage of more than half with at least one dose.

Psychometric properties and reliability of the Brazilian version of Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccine (PACV-BR) / Propriedades psicométricas e confiabilidade da versão brasileira do Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccine (PACV-BR)

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties and reliability of the Brazilian version of the tool Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccine (PACV-BR). Methods: The sample included 110 parents of children up to two years old served by Family Health Basic Units. The tool's internal consistency and factor validity were respectively assessed by Cronbach's alpha and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The test-retest reliability was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: The EFA results indicated a proper structural adequacy of the PACV-BR (15 items and two factors). The reliability generated Cronbach's alpha values between 0.715 and 0.854 for the items, of 0.918 for the tool as a whole, of 0.877 for factor 1 and of 0.825 for factor 2, in addition to an ICC of 0.984. Conclusions: The PACV-BR showed evidence of construct validity and reliability.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as propriedades psicométricas e a confiabilidade da versão brasileira do instrumento Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccine (PACV-BR). Métodos: A amostra incluiu 110 pais de crianças de até dois anos atendidas em Unidades Básicas de Saúde da Família. A consistência interna e a validade fatorial do instrumento foram avaliadas, respectivamente, pelo alfa de Cronbach e pela análise fatorial exploratória (EFA). A confiabilidade teste-reteste foi avaliada pelo coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (ICC). Resultados: Os resultados da AFE indicaram adequação estrutural do PACV-BR (15 itens e dois fatores). A confiabilidade indicou valores de alfa de Cronbach entre 0,715 e 0,854 para os itens, de 0,918 para o instrumento como um todo, de 0,877 para o fator 1 e de 0,825 para o fator 2, além de ICC de 0,984. Conclusões: O PACV-BR apresentou evidências de validade de construto e confiabilidade.

Efficacy of current vaccines against recently isolated foot and mouth disease virus type A South America (Venezuela) in Egypt 2022

Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant economic threat to cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle and sheep. The emergence of a novel foot and mouth disease virus-A isolate, FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022, in Egypt in 2022 has raised concerns about its potential impact on existing vaccination programs. Given that vaccination is a key strategy for foot and mouth disease virus control, the present study was aimed to assess the cross-protective efficacy of both local and imported inactivated vaccines against this new threat. Through challenge experiments and serum neutralization tests, we observed limited effectiveness of both vaccine types. The calculated r1-values at 28 days post-vaccination indicated a minimal immune response to FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 (0.176 and 0.175 for local and imported vaccines, respectively). Challenge experiments further confirmed these findings, revealing 0percent protection from the local vaccine and only 20percent rotection from imported vaccines by day 7 post-challenge. These results underscore the urgent need to update existing foot and mouth disease virus vaccines in Egypt by incorporating the newly circulating FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 strain. This proactive measure is crucial to prevent future outbreaks and ensure effective disease control(AU)

La fiebre aftosa es una enfermedad vírica muy contagiosa que supone una importante amenaza económica para los animales biungulados, entre ellos el ganado vacuno y ovino. La aparición de un nuevo aislado del virus A de la fiebre aftosa, el FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022, en Egipto en 2022 ha suscitado preocupación por su posible impacto en los programas de vacunación existentes. Dado que la vacunación es una estrategia clave para el control del virus de la fiebre aftosa, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la eficacia protectora cruzada de las vacunas inactivadas locales e importadas frente a esta nueva amenaza. Mediante experimentos de desafío y pruebas de seroneutralización, observamos una eficacia limitada de ambos tipos de vacuna. Los valores r1 calculados a los 28 días posvacunación indicaron una respuesta inmunitaria mínima frente a FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 (0,176 y 0,175 para las vacunas local e importada, respectivamente). Los experimentos de provocación confirmaron aún más estos resultados, revelando un 0 por ciento de protección de la vacuna local y sólo un 20 por ciento de protección de las vacunas importadas al séptimo día después de la provocación. Estos resultados subrayan la urgente necesidad de actualizar las vacunas existentes contra el virus de la fiebre aftosa en Egipto incorporando la nueva cepa circulante FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022. Esta medida proactiva es crucial para prevenir futuros brotes y garantizar un control eficaz de la enfermedad(AU)

Egg allergy and yellow fever vaccination

Abstract Objective Evaluate biomarkers capable of safely guiding Yellow fever vaccine (YFV) vaccination among individuals suspicious of hen's egg allergy, and identify factors associated with a higher risk for adverse events after immunization (AEAI). Methods Patients underwent skin prick test (SPT) for standardized allergens: whole egg, egg white, egg yolk; YFV (1:10 dilution; Biomanguinhos-Fiocruz), and intradermal test (IDT; YFV 0.02 mL, 1:100 dilution) and positive and negative controls. Serum levels of specific IgE (sIgE) for a whole egg, egg white, egg yolk, egg albumin, ovomucoid, lysozyme, and conalbumin (ImmunoCap®; ThermoFisher®) were obtained. Patients sensitized to YFV were submitted to YFV desensitization, and those negatives received YFV (0.5mL) and remained under surveillance for at least one hour. Results 103 patients were enrolled, 95% under 12 years old. 71% (81/103) of patients had reactions: 80% immediate, 11% mixed, and 9% delayed. There was an association between positive skin test results with YFV and the severity of the reaction (OR:7.64; 95%CI:1.61-36.32; p =0,011). Only the presence of sIgE to ovomucoid was associated with clinical symptoms (p =0,025). Thirty patients underwent the YFV desensitization protocol. Conclusion There is a relationship between the positivity of the egg's components and the severity of the clinical reaction. Furthermore, the relationship between the positivity of the tests with the YFV and egg's components may show a tendency to look at ovomucoid and conalbumin, but it is not a certainty. Therefore, further studies are needed to confirm these associations, and for now, the authors still recommend using the vaccine for testing when necessary.

The decline of measles antibody titers in previously vaccinated adults: a cross-sectional analysis

ABSTRACT The global reemergence of measles in 2018-2019 reinforces the relevance of high-coverage immunization to maintain the disease elimination. During an outbreak in the Sao Paulo State in 2019, several measles cases were reported in individuals who were adequately vaccinated according to the current immunization schedule recommends. This study aimed to assess measles IgG antibody seropositivity and titers in previously vaccinated adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted at CRIE-HC-FMUSP (Sao Paulo, Brazil) in 2019. It included healthy adults who had received two or more Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccines (MMR) and excluded individuals with immunocompromising conditions. Measles IgG antibodies were measured and compared by ELISA (Euroimmun®) and chemiluminescence (LIASON®). The association of seropositivity and titers with variables of interest (age, sex, profession, previous measles, number of measles-containing vaccine doses, interval between MMR doses, and time elapsed since the last MMR dose) was analyzed. A total of 162 participants were evaluated, predominantly young (median age 30 years), women (69.8%) and healthcare professionals (61.7%). The median interval between MMR doses was 13.2 years, and the median time since the last dose was 10.4 years. The seropositivity rate was 32.7% by ELISA and 75.3% by CLIA, and a strong positive correlation was found between the tests. Multivariate analyses revealed that age and time since the last dose were independently associated with positivity. Despite being a single-center evaluation, our results suggest that measles seropositivity may be lower than expected in adequately immunized adults. Seropositivity was higher among older individuals and those with a shorter time since the last MMR vaccine dose.

Safety of the yellow fever vaccine in people living with HIV: a longitudinal study exploring post-vaccination viremia and hematological and liver kinetics

ABSTRACT Background: Safety data on the yellow fever vaccine 17DD in People Living with HIV (PLWH) are limited. This study explored the occurrence of post-vaccination 17DD viremia and the kinetics of hematological and liver laboratorial parameters in PLWH and HIV-uninfected participants [HIV(-) controls]. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of a longitudinal interventional trial (NCT03132311) study that enrolled PLWH and HIV(-) controls to receive a single 17DD dose and were followed at 5, 30 and 365 days after vaccination in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 17DD viremia (obtained throughreal-time PCR and plaque forming units' assays), hematological (neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelets counts) and liver enzymes (ALT and AST) results were assessed at baseline and Days 5 and 30 post-vaccination. Logistic regression models explored factors associated with the odds of having positive 17DD viremia. Linear regression models explored variables associated with hematological and liver enzymes results at Day 5. Results: A total of 202 PLWH with CD4 > 200 cells/μL and 68 HIV(-) controls were included in the analyses. 17DD viremia was found in 20.0 % of the participants and was twice more frequent in PLWH than in HIV(-) controls (22.8% vs. 11.8 %, p-value < 0.001). Neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelets counts dropped at Day 5 and returned to baseline values at Day 30. 17DD viremia was associated with lower nadir of lymphocytes and platelets at Day 5. ALT levels did not increase post-vaccination and were not associated with 17DD viremia. Conclusions: 17DD was safe and well-tolerated in PLWH with CD4 > 200 cells/μL. Post-vaccination viremia was more frequent in PLWH than in controls. Transient and self-limited decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils occurred early after vaccination. 17DD viremia was associated with lower lymphocytes and platelets nadir after vaccination. We did not observe elevations in ALT after 17DD vaccination.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A survey of unvaccinated adults

Background: Concerns and misconceptions surrounding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines may account for vaccine hesitancy and low uptake. Aim: To determine prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, vaccine-related misconceptions, and predictors of vaccine hesitancy among South Africans. Setting: Community setting in five districts in KwaZulu- Natal province. Methods: Between August 20, 2021, and September 27, 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional survey, interviewing 300 unvaccinated adults amid the national vaccination campaign. Predictors of hesitancy were identified through multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Participants had a median age of 29 years (IQR: 23­39), 86.7% were Black African, 63.2% were male, 53.3% resided in rural communities, and 59.3% (95% CI: 53.8% ­ 64.9%) were classified as vaccine hesitant. The primary reason for not vaccinating was a lack of trust in the vaccine (62.1%). Factors associated with reduced vaccine hesitancy included age (participants aged 35­49 years: OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.18­0.64, p = 0.003; participants over 50 years: OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.07­0.47, p = 0.0004), previous COVID-19 infection (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.11­0.87, p = 0.03), and receiving vaccine information from healthcare workers (OR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.10­1.0, p = 0.05). Unemployed (OR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.1­4.2, p = 0.03) and self-employed individuals (OR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.27­7.02, p = 0.01) were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy rates are high in KwaZulu-Natal. Uptake could be enhanced by healthcare workers leading information campaigns with messages targeting younger individuals, the unemployed, and the self-employed. Contribution: This survey provides evidence to improve COVID-19 vaccination uptake in South Africa.

Progress in research on novel BC adjuvant system / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Vaccines with novel adjuvants have been listed abroad,while in China,except for aluminum adjuvants widely used in vaccine research and production,few other novel adjuvants have been successfully listed. This paper briefly summarized the source,development history,research progress on biological activity and immune mechanism as well as safety evaluation of the novel BC adjuvant system with independent intellectual property right which has been applied to the vaccine in clinical research stage,so as to provide theoretical support for selection of the adjuvant in the development of novel vaccine.

Development and verification of a high performance liquid chromatography method for determination of aluminium adjuvant content in vaccine / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To develop a high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)method for determination of aluminium adjuvant content in vaccine,and verify and preliminarily apply the method.Methods The 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatization method was used for determination. The chromatographic column was phenyl-hexyl column[Luna 5u PhenylHexyl(250 mm × 4. 6 mm)],and the mobile phase was composed of ammonium acetate solution-acetonitrile(with 8-hydroxyquinoline)(60 ∶ 40)containing 20 mg/L ascorbic acid,while eluted at a flow rate of 1. 0 mL/min with the isocratic eluent. The excitation wavelength and the emission wavelength of the fluorescence detector were 380 nm and 520 nm respectively. The column temperature was 40 ℃,and the sample injection was 50 μL. The developed method was verified for the specificity,linear range,accuracy,repeatability,stability and durability,and used to determine the aluminum content in 12 batches of vaccines. The results were compared with those determined by titration in general principle 3106of Chinese Pharmacopoeia(VolumeⅢ,2020 edition).Results No interference peaks appeared in the sample chromatogram,and the non-aluminum adjuvant vaccine components and phosphate buffer had no interference with the determination. The linearity of aluminum standard was good in the concentration range of 6. 25 ～ 100 μg/mL,r = 0. 999 6. The average results of spike recoveries of aluminum content in inactivated hepatitis A vaccine,recombinant hepatitis B vaccine,adsorbed acellular DTP vaccine and inactivated enterovirus 71 vaccine were 98. 32%,100. 85%,101. 09% and 99. 31%,respectively in the verification for accuracy. The relative standard deviations(RSDs) of the determination results of aluminum content in the solution of six samples of the four vaccines in the same batch were 1. 09%,1. 42%,0. 97% and1. 30%,respectively. The RSDs of aluminum content of four vaccine samples stored at room tempe-rature for 0,2,4,6 and8 h were 0. 82%,0. 73%,0. 40% and 0. 48%,respectively. When the ratio of ammonium acetate solution to 8-hydroxyquinoline acetonitrile solution in mobile phase changed within 5%,the fluctuation range of aluminum content of four vaccines was less than 2%. There was no significant difference between the developed HPLC method and the titration method of Chinese Pharmacopoeia(VolumeⅢ,2020 edition)for determination of aluminum content in the 12 batches of vaccine samples.Conclusion A HPLC method for determination of aluminum adjuvant content in vaccines has been successfully established with good specificity,linearity,accuracy,repeatability,stability and durability,simple operation,high degree of automation and less interference of manual factors. It can realize the determination of aluminium content in single dose,which provides an effective means for the rapid and large-scale determination of aluminum content in vaccine products and monitoring the dispensing of semi-final products in the production process.

Trend analysis of hemagglutinin and ovalbumin content for influenza virus split vaccines in 2021 / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To analyze the trend of the hemagglutinin(HA) and ovalbumin contents in the lot release of influenza virus split vaccines in 2021,and evaluate the quality and quality control level of the vaccines.Methods The HA and ovalbumin content data of influenza virus split vaccines from two domestic enterprises in 2021 were collected and collated. The mean value and standard deviation were calculated according to the first 40 batches of data of the enterprise in the year,and the warning limit and action limit were established. The trend analysis of the above indexes was carried out to evaluate the stability and consistency of the product quality of the enterprise. Statistical data comparison and consistency analysis were made between the test results of the batch inspected by the lot release institution and the results of the enterprise.Results Through the retrospective data analysis of quadrivalent influenza virus split vaccines from two vaccine enterprises A and B,it was found that the content of H1N1 subtype HA and ovalbumin in the two enterprises and the content of Bv HA in the B enterprise had out of trend(OOT)situations,while the trend of other items was stable. The results of paired student's t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test of the samples inspected by the lot release institution showed that except Bv subtype HA(t = 1. 094 and 0. 742 respectively)and ovalbumin(w =-64 and 36 respectively)contents showed no statistically significant difference(P > 0. 05),the HA contents of H1N1(t = 3. 862,w = 232),H3N2(t = 8. 225 and3. 473 respectively)and By(t = 5. 616 and 4. 934 respectively)of the two enterprises had significant differences(P <0. 05). The results of enterprises were generally higher than the lot release institution. Bland-Altman test analysis found that the consistency between the test data of enterprise A's HA content and the data of the lot release institution was better than that of enterprise B.Conclusion The stability and consistency of data trends of active ingredients and main impurity ingredients of quadrivalent influenza virus split vaccine batches in 2021 were generally good. The trend analysis can identify potential problems in vaccine production,and enterprises should carefully implement trend analysis and effectively monitor the product quality of vaccines.

Research progress on diabetes and human papilloma virus infection and vaccination / 公共卫生与预防医学

Diabetes is a common chronic non-infectious disease. Diabetic patients not only suffer from metabolic disorders, but are also prone to immune deficiencies and are at a higher risk of being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV). Many studies at home and abroad have shown that the HPV infection rate of patients with diabetes is higher than that of non-diabetic patients. Patients with diabetes can benefit from HPV vaccination, and the tolerance is good. HPV vaccination is recommended for diabetic patients. This article reviews the research on diabetes, HPV infection, and HPV vaccine, which will provide references for HPV vaccination in diabetic patients.

Compatibility Theory of Yiqi Zengmian Prescription as Vaccine Adjuvant / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveThis study explored the application of Yiqi Zengmian prescription as a vaccine adjuvant， aiming to provide a new scheme for the prevention and control of corona virus disease 2019（COVID-19） with traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）. By analyzing the compatibility and efficacy， this paper examines the compatibility effect of Yiqi Zengmian prescription， which is modified from the classic tonifying agent Si Junzitang， as a vaccine adjuvant. MethodUsing the Database of Ancient Classical Prescriptions， this paper analyzed the composition of Yiqi Zengmian prescription and probed into the theoretical basis for the compatibility of this prescription from the properties， medicine combination， and efficacy. Furthermore， the compatibility effect of this prescription with vaccines was analyzed. ResultAs a TCM prescription， Yiqi Zengmian prescription focuses on the lung and spleen and enhances the Qi in the two organs. The lung governs Qi movement. The body breathes fresh air through the lungs and exchanges the turbid gas in the lungs， and the gas circulates alternately in the lungs to ensure the normal breathing of the human body. The spleen governing transportation and transformation is the hub for Qi movement， and Qi is the embodiment of metabolic function. By regulating qi movement and enhancing the functions of Qi and blood， Yiqi Zengmian prescription can enhance the immunogenicity of the vaccine， which provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the immune effects of vaccines. ConclusionYiqi Zengmian prescription has the effects of replenishing Qi and invigorating spleen， regulating Qi and drying dampness， and enhancing immunity. The in-depth analysis of the TCM theory of Yiqi Zengmian prescription as a vaccine adjuvant and the results of clinical and laboratory studies suggest that Yiqi Zengmian prescription may enhance the induction of immune response after vaccination and maintain the immune memory. However， the mechanism of Yiqi Zengmian prescription in regulating the complex immune network remains to be elucidated.

Hepatitis B and Celiac Disease: A Cause for Concern?

Some theories suggest that the development of the immune response to clear hepatitis B triggers the intestinal tissue damage seen in celiac disease in genetically predisposed individuals. Although the role of hepatitis B virus infection in the development of autoimmune diseases has been widely discussed in the literature, it remains a controversial topic. Our objective is to review whether there is an association between hepatitis B and celiac disease and the particularities of vaccination against hepatitis B in celiac patients.

Algunas teorías sugieren que el desarrollo de la respuesta inmunitaria para la eliminación de la hepatitis B desencadena el daño del tejido intestinal observado en la enfermedad celíaca en individuos genéticamente predispuestos. Aunque el papel de la infección por el virus de la hepatitis B en el desarrollo de enfermedades autoinmunes se ha discutido ampliamente en la literatura, sigue siendo un tema controvertido. Nuestro objetivo es revisar si existe una asociación entre la hepatitis B y la enfermedad celíaca y las particularidades de la vacunación contra la hepatitis B en pacientes celíacos.

Vacunas contra el virus chikungunya: avances y perspectivas

El virus chikungunya (CHIKV) es un alfavirus cuya infección provoca una enfermedad caracterizada principalmente por fiebre y dolores articulares/musculares. Entre 25-50% de las infecciones se presentan con enfermedad crónica que puede durar de meses a años. El primer brote de CHIKV en Paraguay corresponde al año 2015, siendo el último en el año 2022/2023. Diversos candidatos vacunales contra CHIKV se encuentran en diferentes etapas de desarrollo, e incluso recientemente (noviembre/2023) fue aprobada la primera vacuna contra CHIKV llamada VLA1553 (Ixchiq). Adicionalmente, al menos 30 candidatos vacunales se encuentran en ensayos preclínicos/clínicos. Con la aprobación de la primera vacuna contra CHIKV y la posibilidad de otras que lleguen al mercado prontamente, debido al estado avanzado de otros candidatos vacunales, se abrirá un nuevo escenario en esta enfermedad. Se espera que la introducción de vacunas efectivas genere un avance importante para la prevención de esta enfermedad, disminuyendo los casos agudos y los efectos crónicos de la infección por el virus. En este trabajo de revisión se analiza el avance de las vacunas contra CHIKV, además de examinar los desafíos de vigilancia epidemiológica que plantean la introducción de estas vacunas.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an alphavirus that causes an illness characterized mainly by fever and joint/muscle pain. Between 25-50% of infections present with chronic diseases that can last from months to years. The first outbreak of CHIKV in Paraguay occurred in 2015, with the last outbreak occurring in 2022/2023. Several vaccine candidates against CHIKV are in different stages of development, and even recently (November/2023), the first vaccine against CHIKV, called VLA1553 (Ixchiq), was approved. In addition, at least 30 vaccine candidates are available for preclinical and clinical trials. With the approval of the first vaccine against CHIKV and the possibility of others coming to the market soon, due to the advanced status of other vaccine candidates, a new scenario will open for this disease. The introduction of effective vaccines is expected to generate an important advance in the prevention of this disease, reducing acute cases and the chronic effects of viral infection. This review analyzes the progress of CHIKV vaccines and examines the epidemiological surveillance challenges posed by the introduction of these vaccines.

Características microbiológicas de la enfermedad neumocócica en niños menores de 5 años de Santiago de Cuba / Microbiologic characteristics of the pneumococcus disease in children under 5 years from Santiago de Cuba i: en

Introducción: La infección por Streptococcus pneumoniae constituye una causa importante de morbimortalidad en el mundo, sobre todo en niños menores de 5 años, en los que ocasiona de 1 a 2 millones de muertes anuales. Objetivo: Determinar la presencia de S. pneumoniae en muestras clínicas obtenidas en niños. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal en niños menores de 5 años de edad con diagnóstico clínico de enfermedad neumocócica invasiva, asistidos en dos hospitales pediátricos de Santiago de Cuba durante el periodo 2014-2018. De las 1466 muestras clínicas tomadas y procesadas, en 131 fue aislado el agente patógeno; estas correspondieron a 59 pacientes con formas clínicas de la infección y 72 portadores. Para el procesamiento estadístico de la información se utilizaron las frecuencias absoluta y relativa como medidas de resumen. Resultados: En general, la positividad por S. pneumoniae fue de 8,9 %, con mayores frecuencias de aislamiento en las muestras de líquido cefalorraquídeo (81,8 %), líquido pleural (47,1 %) y exudado ótico (21,9 %), que asimismo coincidieron con los porcentajes más elevados de neumonía (61,0), otitis media aguda (23,7) y meningitis (15,3), como formas clínicas de la enfermedad neumocócica, que aquejó principalmente a niños de 1 año de edad, seguidos de los mayores de 2 años. De igual modo, se identificaron 9 serotipos de S. pneumoniae, con predominio del 19A (39,0 %), el 14 (25,4 %) y el 6A (11,9 %). En los pacientes que portaban la bacteria en la nasofaringe se identificaron 8 tipos serológicos, predominantemente el 19A y el 14. Por último, se halló una alta resistencia microbiana a la eritromicina y a la combinación trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio proporcionaron un referente científico antes de la introducción de la vacuna antineumocócica cubana, lo que permitirá evaluar su impacto en la incidencia de dicha enfermedad.

Introduction: The infection due to Streptococcus pneumoniae constitutes an important cause of morbimortality in the world, mainly in children under 5 years, that causes from 1 to 2 million annual deaths. Objective: To determine the presence of S. pneumoniae in clinical samples obtained in children. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in children under 5 years with clinical diagnosis of invasive pneumococcus disease, assisted in two children hospitals from Santiago de Cuba during the period 2014-2018. Of the 1466 clinical samples taken and processed, in 131 the pathogen agent was isolated; these corresponded to 59 patients with clinical forms of the infection and 72 carriers of the disease. For the statistical processing of the information the absolute and relative frequencies were used as summary measures. Results: In general the positivity for S. pneumoniae was of 8.9 %, with more isolation frequencies in the samples of cerebrospinal fluid (81.8 %), pleural fluid (47.1 %) and otic exudate (21.9 %) that also coincided with the highest percentages of pneumonia (61.0), acute otitis media (23.7) and meningitis (15.3), as clinical forms of the neumococcus disease that mainly affected 1 year children, followed by those over 2 years. In a same way, 9 serotypes of S. pneumoniae were identified, with prevalence of the 19A (39.0 %), and 14 (25.4 %) and the 6A (11.9 %). In the nasopharyngeal carriers 8 serotypes were identified, of which the 19A and 14 prevailed. Lastly, a high microbian resistance to erythromycin and the combination trimethoprim-sulfametoxazole was found. Conclusions: The results of this study provided a scientific referent before the introduction of the Cuban antipneumococcus vaccine that will allow to evaluate its impact in the incidence of this disease.

To study the effect of 'Covishield' vaccination on pre-donation platelet counts of plateletpheresis donors

ABSTRACT Introduction: Approximately 55.52% of the Indian population had been fully vaccinated by Jan. 2022, since its first roll out on January 16, 2021. A few concerns were raised concerning the Covishield vaccination related to thrombotic thrombocytopenia. Apheresis-derived platelet concentrates are frequently required in a plethora of clinical situations and post-vaccination decrement of platelet counts might lead to increased deferral of the plateletpheresis donors. Objectives. The aim of the study was to discover the effect of the Covishield vaccination on deferral rates of plateletpheresis donors. Methods: Blood samples were collected from the potential platelet donors for the completion of the standard questionnaire for the complete blood count. The data collected were tabulated in the MS Excel spreadsheet and the biostatistical analysis was performed with the SPSS v23. A p-value of < 0.05 was taken as significant. We compared this data with age-and sex-matched controls. Results: The mean age of cases and controls was 29.69 ± 8.57 and 30.15 ± 7.11, respectively. There was a significant difference in platelet counts of cases (188496.35 ± 72065.66/cumm) and controls (269524.50 ± 53981.60/cumm). Furthermore, donors who received one dose had higher platelet counts of 248676.47 ± 80075.24/cumm than those who received both doses of vaccine (179970.83 ± 66773.73/cumm). The difference in deferral rates between the two groups was remarkable (34.7% vs. 0.9%, with the p-value < 0.001). Conclusion: Vaccination certainly increased the deferral rates of plateletpheresis donors due to low platelet counts. Average platelet counts were low in fully vaccinated individuals, however, the platelets returned to normal counts as the post-vaccination days progressed.

Assessment of humoral immune response to different COVID-19 vaccines in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis / Avaliação da resposta imune humoral a diferentes vacinas contra a COVID-19 em pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise de manutenção

ABSTRACT Introduction: The immune response to different Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines is under-investigated in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. We carried out this research to estimate the effectiveness of COVID-19 immunization in ESKD patients on regular hemodialysis (HD). Methods: In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 60 ESKD patients on regular HD who had completed COVID-19 vaccination and 30 vaccinated healthy participants. Serum levels of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 immunoglobulin G (SARS-COV2 IgG) were quantified 1 month after completing the vaccination schedule, and all participants were followed up from October 2021 to March 2022. The vaccines used in the study were from Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm. Results: The median level of SARS-COV2 IgG was lower in HD patients than in healthy participants (p < 0.001). Regarding the type of COVID-19 vaccination, there was no statistical difference in SARS-COV2 IgG levels among HD patients. During the observation period, none of the HD patients had COVID-19. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccination appeared to be protective in HD patients for 6 months and the side effects of vaccines were tolerable.

RESUMO Introdução: A resposta imune a diferentes vacinas contra a doença do coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19) é pouco investigada em pacientes com doença renal em estágio terminal (DRET), especialmente no Oriente Médio e norte da África. Realizamos esta pesquisa para estimar a eficácia da imunização contra a COVID-19 em pacientes com DRET em hemodiálise regular (HD). Métodos: Nesse estudo observacional prospectivo, inscrevemos 60 pacientes com DRET em HD regular que haviam concluído o esquema de vacinação contra a COVID-19 e 30 participantes saudáveis vacinados. Os níveis séricos de imunoglobulina G da síndrome respiratória aguda grave do coronavírus 2 (SARS-COV2 IgG) foram quantificados um mês após a conclusão do esquema vacinal, e todos os participantes foram acompanhados de outubro de 2021 a março de 2022. As vacinas utilizadas no estudo eram da Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca e Sinopharm. Resultados: O nível mediano de SARS-COV2 IgG foi menor em pacientes em HD do que em participantes saudáveis (p < 0,001). Com relação ao tipo de vacinação contra a COVID-19, não houve diferença estatística nos níveis de SARS-COV2 IgG entre pacientes em HD. Durante o período de observação, nenhum dos pacientes em HD teve COVID-19. Conclusão: A vacinação contra a COVID-19 pareceu ser eficaz na proteção de pacientes em HD por 6 meses e os efeitos colaterais das vacinas foram toleráveis.

Historia de la rabia en Chile: tres tesis médicas

En la antigüedad ya se describía la rabia como una enfermedad zoonótica fatal cuyo pronóstico inexorable superaba todas las alter-nativas terapéuticas de los más célebres médicos. La realidad chilena sobre esta enfermedad a fines del siglo XIX fue descrita certeramente por el médico mártir Pedro Videla Órdenes en su tesis "La rabia" de 1879, destacando la descripción clínica de la rabia, su pronóstico fatal y la ausencia de tratamientos eficaces. Tan sólo seis años después, en 1885, el aclamado químico y microbiólogo Louis Pasteur desarrolló la vacuna antirrábica, logrando por primera vez en la historia de la humanidad prevenir esta terrible enfermedad. En Chile, se inició rápidamente la implementación de la vacuna Pasteur, vacunando al primer chileno el 7 de julio de 1896. Los doctores Milcíades Espinosa y Arturo Atria, en sus tesis "Generalidades sobre la rabia" (1898) y "Sobre la rabia y su profilaxia en Chile" (1905), respectivamente, abordaron esta primera etapa del desarrollo de la vacuna antirrábica en el país.

In antiquity, rabies was already described as a fatal zoonotic disease whose inexorable prognosis exceeded all the therapeutic alternatives of the most famous doctors. The Chilean reality about this disease at the end of the 19th century was accurately described by the martyred doctor Pedro Videla Ordenes in his thesis "La rabia" of 1879, highlighting in it his description about the unknown etiological agent, the fatal prognosis of the disease and the absence of effective treatments. Just six years later, in 1885, the acclaimed chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur developed the rabies vaccine, managing to prevent this terrible disease for the first time in human history. In Chile, the implementation of the Pasteur vaccine began rapidly, vaccinating the first Chilean on July 7, 1896. Doctors Milcíades Espinosa and Arturo Atria, in their theses "Generalidades sobre la rabia" (1898) and "Sobre la rabia y su profilaxia en Chile" (1905), respectively, addressed this first stage of the development of the rabies vaccine in the country.

Proctitis y úlcera ano-rectal como presentación inicial en pacientes con Viruela símica

Objetivo: Describir hallazgos clínicos, quirúrgicos e imagenológicos de la patología anorrectal en pacientes con Viruela Símica. Materiales y Métodos: Reporte de serie de casos clínicos, observacional, en pacientes con Viruela Símica tratados en un centro de salud privado desde agosto 2022 a diciembre 2022. Resultados: El 100% de los casos pertenecía al sexo masculino, la edad promedio fue de 32 años, todos los pacientes mantuvieron relaciones sexuales con otros hombres, la mayoría debuto con síntomas rectales, incluyendo proctalgia, prurito anal y heces diarreicas con mucosidad. El diagnóstico se confirmó mediante PCR (reacción de polimerasa en cadena) y el tratamiento fue sintomático, con mejoría en todos los pacientes en un seguimiento de 10 días. Discusión: La Viruela Símica es una enfermedad viral que se encuentra, principalmente, en regiones remotas de África Central, con brotes esporádicos en países africanos. Está relacionada con el virus de la viruela y se transmite, principalmente, del contacto con animales infectados o fluidos corporales. La enfermedad presenta síntomas similares a la gripe, seguidos del desarrollo de una erupción cutánea que progresa a pústulas y costras. No hay tratamiento específico para la viruela símica, el manejo medico alivia los síntomas. El brote de viruela símica en 2022 presentó características novedosas y atípicas en su forma de presentación. Conclusión: Los síntomas rectales asociados a una historia clínica compatible con viruela símica se deben considerar como diagnóstico diferencial a la proctitis por esta etiología específica y emergente.

Objective: To describe clinical, surgical and imaging findings of anorectal pathology in patients with monkeypox. Materials and Methods: Observational clinical case series report in patients with monkeypox treated in a private health center from August 2022 to December 2022. Results: 100% of the cases were male, the average age was 32 years old, all patients had sexual intercourse with other men, most debuted with rectal symptoms, including proctalgia, anal itching, and diarrheal stools with mucus. Diagnosis was confirmed by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and treatment was symptomatic, with improvement in all patients at a 10-day follow-up. Discussion: Monkeypox is a viral disease found mainly in remote regions of Central Africa, with sporadic outbreaks in African countries. It is related to the smallpox virus and is transmitted primarily from contact with infected animals or bodily fluids. The disease presents with flu-like symptoms, followed by the development of a skin rash that progresses to pustules and scabs. There is no specific treatment for monkeypox; medical management alleviates the symptoms. The monkeypox outbreak in 2022 presented novel and atypical characteristics in its presentation. Conclusion: Rectal symptoms associated with a clinical history compatible with monkeypox should be considered as a differential diagnosis of proctitis due to this specific and emerging etiology.