Cobertura de vacunación contra COVID-19 e influenza en personal de salud y administrativo en Paraguay

Introducción: A nivel mundial, la cobertura de vacunación contra el COVID-19, así como contra la influenza es baja tanto en la población general como en los profesionales de la salud a pesar de que la vacuna es gratuita y obligatoria en el personal sanitario. Objetivo: Describir la cobertura de vacunación contra el COVID -19, y la influenza en personal de salud y administrativo de un hospital de referencia del Ministerio de Salud Pública y Bienestar Social en el periodo 2021-2022. Metodología: Estudio observacional descriptivo de corte trasverso. Se hizo la revisión de los registros del personal sanitario y administrativo del centro vacunatorio del Hospital Nacional de Itauguá de la campaña vacunal contra el COVID-19 y de anti-influenza en el periodo 2021- 2022. Resultados: De los 3.586 funcionarios, 999 (27,9 %) eran médicos, 1494 (41,7 %) personal de enfermería, 366 (10,2 %) otra categoría de personal sanitario, y 727 (20,3 %) personal administrativo. En forma global, el 86,5 % de los funcionarios recibió por lo menos las dos dosis que constituyen el esquema primario y el 73 % la dosis de refuerzo. El 2,1 % del personal no recibió ninguna dosis de vacuna anti covid-19, la cifra fue mayor en el personal administrativo (4,8 %). La cobertura de vacunación contra la influenza fue de 20 % en el 2021 y 25 % en el 2022. Discusión: Si bien cobertura de vacunación anti-COVID-19 fue comparable a otros países, la vacunación contra la influenza fue muy baja. Es urgente implementar estrategias dirigidas a aumentar la percepción de riesgo y aceptabilidad de las vacunas obligatorias para el personal sanitario.

Introduction: Worldwide, vaccination coverage against COVID-19, as well as against influenza, is low both in the general population and in health professionals, despite the fact that the vaccine is free and mandatory for health personnel. Objective: To describe the COVID -19 and influenza vaccination coverage in health and administrative personnel of a reference hospital of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare in the period 2021-2022. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive observational study. Charts of the health and administrative personnel of the vaccination center of the Itauguá National Hospital of the COVID-19 and influenza vaccination campaign in the period 2021-2022 were reviewed. Results: Of the 3,586 personnel, 999 (27.9%) were medical personnel, 1,494 (41.7%) nursing personnel, 366 (10.2%) other category of health personnel, and 727 (20.3%) administrative personnel. Overall, 86.5% of the employees received at least the two doses that constitute the primary schedule and 73% the booster dose; 2.1% of the staff did not receive any dose of the anti COVID-19 vaccine, which was higher in the administrative staff (4.8%). Influenza vaccination coverage was 20% in 2021 and 25% in 2022. Discussion: Even though the vaccination coverage of anti-COVID-19 was comparable to other countries, vaccination anti-influenza was very low. It is urgent to implement strategies aimed at increasing the perception of risk and acceptability of mandatory vaccines for health personnel.

Long-term outcomes for epidemic viral pneumonia survivors after discharge from the intensive care unit: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Objective To review the long-term outcomes (functional status and psychological sequelae) of survivors of critical illnesses due to epidemic viral pneumonia before the COVID-19 pandemic and to establish a benchmark for comparison of the COVID-19 long-term outcomes. Methods This systematic review of clinical studies reported the long-term outcomes in adults admitted to intensive care units who were diagnosed with viral epidemic pneumonia. An electronic search was performed using databases: MEDLINE®, Web of Science™, LILACS/IBECS, and EMBASE. Additionally, complementary searches were conducted on the reference lists of eligible studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The results were grouped into tables and textual descriptions. Results The final analysis included 15 studies from a total of 243 studies. This review included 771 patients with Influenza A, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. It analyzed the quality of life, functionality, lung function, mortality, rate of return to work, rehospitalization, and psychiatric symptoms. The follow-up periods ranged from 1 to 144 months. We found that the quality of life, functional capacity, and pulmonary function were below expected standards. Conclusion This review revealed great heterogeneity between studies attributed to different scales, follow-up time points, and methodologies. However, this systematic review identified negative long-term effects on patient outcomes. Given the possibility of future pandemics, it is essential to identify the long-term effects of viral pneumonia outbreaks. This review was not funded. Prospero database registration: (www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero) under registration ID CRD42021190296.

Prevalence of immunization against influenza in elderly Brazilians: National Health Survey, 2019

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of influenza immunization in elderly people in Brazil in 2019. METHODS: This is a population-based cross-sectional study. The Brazilian individuals (≥60 years) who participated in the 2019 National Health Survey were included. The survey was conducted in permanent households in Brazil from August 2019 to March 2020. The prevalences of influenza vaccination and their respective confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated according to sociodemographic characteristics and the diagnosis of chronic diseases. RESULTS: The prevalence of influenza vaccination was 72.4% (95%CI 71.5-73.2), with statistically significant differences observed between genders (p=0.001), age groups (p=0.001), and those living with a spouse/partner (p=0.002). Significant differences were found in groups with arterial hypertension (75.2%, p<0.001), diabetes (77.2%, p<0.001), and arthritis or rheumatism (75.5%, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: A global prevalence of influenza vaccination of 72.4% was estimated among elderly people in Brazil.

Using guinea pig as a model for evaluation of equine influenza vaccine

Equine influenza is a highly contagious viral disease, specially among 1-5 years old naive horses. Vaccination is considered the best way to control the disease spread and outbreaks. Although foals are the main animal used for evaluation of equine influenza vaccines, guinea pigs were chosen as an alternative model in the present work, as they have a negligible antibody titer against equine influenza virus and are cheaper and easier to handle than foals. Five equine influenza vaccine batches were evaluated in two animal models, foals and guinea pigs, by injection of two doses/animal with 4 weeks apart using 2 mL/animal/dose and evaluation of immune responses by hemagglutination inhibition test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. On the 7th week post vaccination, equine influenza antibodies titers reached maximum values of 9-10.2 and 8.7-10 hemagglutination inhibition units for foals and guinea pigs, respectively; sample/negative ratios were 0.126-0.464 and 0.128-0.445 for both animals, respectively. The use of guinea pigs as an animal model for the evaluation of equine influenza vaccines could be recommended instead of foals.

La gripe equina es una enfermedad viral muy contagiosa, especialmente entre los caballos jóvenes de 1 a 5 años de edad. La vacunación se considera la mejor forma de controlar la propagación y los brotes de la enfermedad. Aunque los potros son el principal animal utilizado para la evaluación de vacunas contra la gripe equina, en el presente trabajo se eligieron cobayos como modelo alternativo, ya que tienen un título insignificante de anticuerpos contra el virus de la gripe equina y son más baratos y fáciles de manejar que los potros. Se evaluaron cinco lotes de vacunas contra la gripe equina en dos modelos animales, potros y cobayos, mediante la inyección de dos dosis/animal con 4 semanas de intervalo utilizando 2 mL/animal/dosis y la evaluación de las respuestas inmunitarias mediante la prueba de inhibición de la hemaglutinación y el ensayo inmunoenzimático. En la 7ª semana posvacunación, los títulos de anticuerpos contra la gripe equina alcanzaron valores máximos de 9-10,2 y 8,7-10 unidades de inhibición de la hemaglutinación para potros y cobayos, respectivamente; las relaciones muestras/negativos fueron de 0,126-0,464 y 0,128-0,445 para ambos animales, respectivamente. Podría recomendarse el uso de cobayos como modelo animal para la evaluación de vacunas contra la gripe equina, en lugar de potros.

Construction and expression of circular RNA in vitro / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To construct encoding RNA that can be cyclized in vitro by using the permuted intron exon(PIE)strategy in the maturation process of eukaryotic mRNA,and transfect it into HEK-293T cells for expression.Methods The sequences of 5'and 3'cyclic arms with groupⅠcatalytic intron,the internal ribosome entry sites(IRES)of Coxsackievirus B3(CVB3)and the target gene were selected to construct the template plasmid. Linearization plasmid template obtained by PCR was used to synthesize linear RNA through in vitro transcription(IVT),which then started in vitro cyclization(IVC)by the addition of cyclization reagents to obtain circular RNA(circRNA). RNA cyclization was confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis and ribonuclease R(RNase R)digestion. HEK-293T cells were transfected with circRNAs respectively carrying enhanced green fluorescent protein(EGFP),firefly luciferase(Fluc),and influenza virus hemagglutinin(HA)IVR-180 genes,to verify their expression with in vitro.Results With RNA cyclization,the main band of agarose gel electrophoresis became smaller and small fragments appeared. After RNase R digestion,only some circRNA bands remained.HEK-293T cells transfected with EGFP-circRNA showed significant green fluorescence under the fluorescence microscope.The Fluc expression values of HEK-293T cells transfected with Fluc-circRNA were on average 20 times higher than non cyclized RNA,and the relative light unit(RLU)scaled up with the increase of Fluc-circRNA transfection dose. Western blot analysis showed that HA protein was successfully expressed in HEK-293T cells transfected with HA-circRNA.Conclusion In this study,linear RNA was successfully cyclized in vitro and different proteins were expressed,which lays a foundation of the research of new influenza vaccines and mRNA vaccines.

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.

Recent advances in small-molecule inhibitors targeting influenza virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase / 药学学报

Influenza virus causes serious threat to human life and health. Due to the inherent high variability of influenza virus, clinically resistant mutant strains of currently approved anti-influenza virus drugs have emerged. Therefore, it is urgent to develop antiviral drugs with new targets or mechanisms of action. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is directly responsible for viral RNA transcription and replication, and plays key roles in the viral life cycle, which is considered an important target of anti-influenza drug design. From the point of view of medicinal chemistry, this review summarizes current advances in diverse small-molecule inhibitors targeting influenza virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, hoping to provide valuable reference for development of novel antiviral drugs.

Evaluation of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome surveillance caused by respiratory viruses in a pediatric unit, 2013 to 2019 / Avaliação da vigilância da Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave causada por vírus respiratórios em uma unidade pediátrica, 2013 a 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate severe acute respiratory syndrome surveillance in a pediatric unit. Methods: Descriptive study of reported severe acute respiratory syndrome cases with the detection of respiratory viruses in the nasopharyngeal sample of patients hospitalized between 2013 and 2019, in a reference hospital in the Federal District, Brazil. Results: A total of 269 children had one or more viruses detected, resulting in 280 viruses, of which 152 (54%) were respiratory syncytial virus. The detection of respiratory syncytial virus was higher during the autumn-winter period. Children´s median age was 6.9 months, 156 (58%) were male, 104 (39%) had comorbidity, 197 (73%) required mechanical ventilation, 241 (90%) received antibiotics, and 146 (54%) oseltamivir. There were 19 (7%) deaths. The median time from symptom onset to sample collection was 5 days and the median time from sample collection to final results was 6 days. Conclusions: The system needs to reduce the time to deliver results so that inappropriate use of antibiotics and antivirals can be avoided. Moreover, the burden of viral pneumonia was relevant and the system must be flexible enough to include emerging viruses in order to be useful in responding to public health emergencies caused by respiratory viruses.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a vigilância da síndrome respiratória aguda grave em uma unidade pediátrica. Métodos: Estudo descritivo dos casos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave, notificados e com a detecção de vírus respiratório em amostra de nasofaringe de pacientes internados entre 2013 e 2019, em um hospital de referência do Distrito Federal. Resultados: Um total de 269 crianças tiveram algum vírus detectado, resultando em 280 vírus, sendo 152 (54%) vírus sincicial respiratório. A detecção do vírus sincicial respiratório foi maior durante o período de outono-inverno. A mediana da idade das crianças foi de 6,9 meses, 156 (58%) eram do sexo masculino, 104 (39%) tinham comorbidade, 197 (73%) necessitaram de ventilação mecânica, 241 (90%) receberam antibióticos e 146 (54%) oseltamivir. Ocorreram 19 (7%) óbitos. A mediana do tempo desde o início dos sintomas até a coleta da amostra foi de 5 dias, e do tempo da coleta até o resultado foi de 6 dias. Conclusões: O sistema necessita reduzir o tempo do resultado final para que seja possível evitar o uso inadequado de antibióticos e antivirais. Ademais, o impacto das pneumonias virais foi relevante e o sistema deve ser flexível suficiente para incluir vírus emergentes, para ser útil na resposta às emergências de saúde pública causada por vírus respiratórios.

Miositis aguda asociada a infección por virus influenza. Serie de casos en un hospital pediátrico

La miositis aguda benigna asociada a influenza es una complicación esporádica. En Argentina, en el año 2022, hubo un aumento temprano de la circulación de influenza y del número total de las notificaciones, con la aparición de miositis secundarias. Serie clínica retrospectiva de nueve pacientes pediátricos que consultaron por dolor e impotencia funcional de extremidades inferiores, y enzimas musculares elevadas, en el hospital Pedro de Elizalde de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, entre agosto y octubre del 2022. En todos se detectó infección por virus influenza y se recuperaron sin secuelas. La miositis aguda benigna es una entidad infrecuente en la infancia, cuyo diagnóstico es predominantemente clínico y de recuperación ad integrum. Debe ser sospechada en pacientes con clínica compatible en contexto de alta circulación viral. La vigilancia epidemiológica aporta herramientas para identificar los virus circulantes y sus posibles complicaciones.

Benign acute myositis associated with influenza is a sporadic complication. In Argentina, in 2022, there was an early increase in influenza circulation and the total number of notifications, with the appearance of secondary myositis. Retrospective clinical series of nine pediatric patients who consulted for pain and functional impotence of the lower extremities, and elevated muscle enzymes, at the Pedro de Elizalde hospital in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, between August and October 2022. In all of them, infection by influenza virus and recovered without sequelae. Benign acute myositis is a rare entity in childhood, whose diagnosis is predominantly clinical and recovery ad integrum. It should be suspected in patients with compatible symptoms in a context of high viral circulation. Epidemiological surveillance provides tools to identify circulating viruses and their possible complications.

Lineamientos técnicos para el manejo hospitalario de meningitis bacteriana aguda causada por Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae tipo b y Streptococcus agalactiae / Technical guidelines for hospital management of acute bacterial meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae type b and Streptococcus agalactiae

En este contexto la Oficina de Enfermedades Infecciosas del Ministerio de Salud, retoma el compromiso, considerando oportuno modificar lo dispuesto en los "Lineamientos técnicos sobre el manejo de pacientes con enfermedad meningocócica" elaborados en el año 2018, ampliando su ámbito hacia los 4 grupos de bacterias mencionadas, siendo esta una herramienta de apoyo clínico que permita al personal de salud encargado de la atención de estos pacientes, establecer medidas efectivas de manejo, control y prevención a nivel hospitalario, los cuales se vinculan al cumplimiento del pilar 2 y complementa las acciones de los pilares 1, 3, 4 y 5 como parte de la estrategia nacional integral dentro del contexto de la hoja de ruta global "Derrotando a la meningitis al 2030"

In this context, the Office of Infectious Diseases of the Ministry of Health takes up the commitment, considering appropriate to modify the provisions of the "Technical guidelines on the management of patients with meningococcal disease" elaborated in 2018, extending its scope to the 4 groups of bacteria mentioned, this being a clinical support tool that allows health personnel in charge of the care of these patients to establish effective management, control and prevention measures at hospital level, which are linked to pillar 2 compliance and complements pillar 1, pillar 3, pillar 4 and pillar 5 actions as part of the comprehensive national strategy within the context of the global roadmap "Defeating meningitis by 2030"

Encuesta sobre conocimientos y aceptación de vacunas entre personas con diabetes y su entorno CERCANO / A survey on vaccines knowledge and acceptance among individuals with diabetes and their close contacts

Resumen Introducción: La Asociación para el Cuidado de la Diabetes en Argentina - CUI.D.AR, realizó una encuesta online, diseñada para recabar conocimientos y apre ciaciones de las personas con diabetes mellitus y su entorno cercano sobre el virus Influenza y los riesgos potenciales asociados con la infección, y explorar el nivel de confianza en las vacunas en general y en la vacuna antigripal en particular. Métodos: Entre el 30 de septiembre y el 15 de noviem bre de 2021, un total de 1425 participantes completaron el cuestionario de forma anónima y voluntaria. La población que respondió la encuesta incluyó personas con distinto tipo de diabetes (n = 822), familiares, cuidadores y/o con tactos cercanos (n = 603), principalmente residentes en diferentes áreas geográficas del país y de diversas edades. Resultados: El 85% de los participantes, en conjunto, consideraba que el virus Influenza y la gripe son un ries go para la salud de las personas con diabetes. El 72% de los participantes refirió que la persona con diabetes se había aplicado la vacuna anualmente, incluso durante la pandemia de COVID-19. El nivel expresado de confianza en las vacunas fue elevado. Los participantes asigna ron un rol importante a los profesionales de la salud en la indicación de la vacuna antigripal y expresaron la necesidad de mayor información en los medios de comunicación sobre las vacunas. Discusión: La presente encuesta aporta datos obte nidos en el contexto de la vida real que podrían contri buir a optimizar la inmunización de las personas con diabetes.

Abstract Introduction: The Asociación para el Cuidado de la Diabetes en Argentina - CUI.D.AR, carried out an online survey specifically designed to collect the knowledge and perceptions people who suffered from diabetes mellitus and their close contacts had on the Influenza virus and the potential risks associated with the infection. The survey also explored the confidence level in vaccines in general and in anti-influenza vaccines in particular. Methods: Between September 30th and November 15th 2021, 1425 participants anonymously and volun tarily completed the questionnaire. The survey respon dents included people with different types of diabetes (n=822), their relatives, carers and close contacts (n=603). They were of diverse ages, most of whom lived in diffe rent geographical areas of the country. Results: Overall, 85% of the participants considered that the Influenza virus and the disease represent a risk for people with diabetes. Seventy-two percent of the participants expressed that the person with diabetes had received their annual immunization, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The referred level of confiden ce in vaccines was high. The participants assigned an important role to health professionals in vaccines pres cription and expressed the need for more information about vaccines in the media. Discussion: The present survey contributes real-world data that could help optimize diabetic people's immunization.

Conocimiento, actitudes y prácticas de mujeres gestantes respecto a la vacunación

Introducción: La vacunación durante el embarazo ha demostrado ser una medida segura y efectiva que protege a la mujer gestante y al feto contra enfermedades inmunoprevenibles. Objetivo: Determinar los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de mujeres gestantes respecto a la vacunación en el marco de la pandemia por el virus SARS-CoV-2. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio observacional de corte transversal realizado en Instituciones Prestadoras de Servicios de Salud Públicas de los 19 municipios de Casanare, Colombia, entre enero y marzo de 2022. Los datos se recolectaron mediante un instrumento de medición documentado que incluyó 22 ítems agrupados en cuatro secciones: datos sociodemográficos, conocimiento, actitudes y prácticas sobre vacunación. Resultados: La media de puntuación de conocimientos fue 5,9 (DE 1,9) de un máximo de 10. El 93,7% cree que la vacunación es realmente necesaria durante el embarazo. Los factores asociados al nivel adecuado de conocimiento incluyeron el grupo de edad entre 26-30 años (OR: 2,27; IC 95%: 1,21-4,25; p = 0,011), estar en el tercer trimestre de embarazo (OR: 2,37; IC 95%: 1,12-5,01; p = 0,024) y contar con un nivel educativo básico, medio o superior (OR: 10,45; IC 95%: 2,37-46,03; p = 0,002). Conclusión: Es esencial fortalecer las estrategias de información, educación y comunicación, para promover la vacunación segura durante el embarazo.

Background: Vaccination during pregnancy has proven to be a safe and effective measure that protects pregnant woman and the fetus against immuno-preventable diseases. Aim: To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women regarding vaccination in the context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at public health care institutions in the 19 municipalities of Casanare, Colombia, from January to March 2022. Data were collected using a documented measurement instrument that included 22 items grouped into four sections: sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitudes and practices about vaccination. Results: The mean knowledge score was 5.9 (SD: 1.9) of a maximun of 10; 93.7% believed that vaccination was really necessary during pregnancy. Factors associated with adequate level of knowledge included age group 26-30 years (OR: 2.27; 95% CI: 1.21-4.25; p = 0.011), being in the third trimester of pregnancy (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 1.12-5.01; p = 0.024) and having basic, intermediate or higher education (OR: 10.45; 95% CI: 2.37-46.03; p = 0.002). Conclusions: It is essential to strengthen information, education and communication strategies to promote safe vaccination during pregnancy.

Influenza aviar H5N1. ¿Debemos preocuparnos?

Desde la segunda mitad de 2022 se ha reportado un aumento de casos de influenza en aves migratorias en Latinoamérica. Los virus influenza A y B son los principales agentes asociados a influenza estacional epidémica en humanos. Los virus influenza A circulan no solo en humanos sino también en animales, incluyendo aves migratorias. El intercambio de segmentos de ARN genómico entre dos virus del mismo tipo aumenta la diversidad de los subtipos circulantes e incluso puede facilitar la generación de progenie viral potencialmente pandémica. La naturaleza zoonótica del virus influenza A puede generar infecciones en humanos con virus de origen animal. El virus influenza A de origen aviar ha ocasionado transmisiones en humanos, incluyendo casos graves y muertes, siendo la influenza A H5N1 la más destacada. Es importante tomar medidas de prevención y control en caso de aumento de casos de influenza en aves migratorias para prevenir posibles pandemias en Chile y el mundo.

Since the second half of 2022, an increase in influenza cases in migratory birds has been reported in Latin America. Influenza A and B viruses are the main agents associated with seasonal epidemic influenza in humans. Influenza A viruses circulate not only in humans but also in animals, including migratory birds. The exchange of genomic RNA segments among two viruses increases the diversity of circulating subtypes and may even facilitate the generation of potentially pandemic viral progeny. The zoonotic nature of influenza A virus can generate infections in humans with animal-origin viruses. Avian-origin influenza A virus has caused transmissions in humans, including severe cases and deaths, with influenza A H5N1 being the most prominent. It is important to take preventive and control measures in case of an increase in influenza cases in migratory birds to prevent possible pandemics in Chile and the world.

Modelado matemático del efecto de las medidas de cuidado por COVID-19 sobre otras enfermedades respiratorias / Mathematical modelling of the impact of COVID-19 care measures on other respiratory diseases

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN Los modelos matemáticos de la transmisión de enfermedades infecciosas permiten estudiar distintos mecanismos que afectan su comportamiento temporal. Este trabajo analizó el efecto sobre la dinámica de la influenza y el virus sincitial respiratorio (VSR) de la disminución de la transmisibilidad debida a las medidas de cuidado adoptadas para reducir la circulación de COVID-19. MÉTODOS Se empleó un modelo determinista tipo SIRS (susceptible-infectado-recuperado-susceptible) con modulación estacional para representar la influenza y el VSR, en ambos casos con inmunidad de corta duración y ciclo anual. Los cambios en la transmisibilidad de la enfermedad se modelaron reduciéndola durante dos años y planteando distintos escenarios. RESULTADOS En el modelo planteado, la reducción en la transmisibilidad genera cambios que se sostienen en los años siguientes: eventos epidémicos muy pronunciados con alargamiento del intervalo interbrote. Este efecto resulta dominante respecto del comportamiento estacional. El escenario de una reducción inicial de la transmisibilidad del 40% resulta compatible con el comportamiento de influenza y VSR reportados actualmente para Argentina. DISCUSIÓN El modelo general propuesto, en condiciones de disminución transitoria en la transmisibilidad, exhibe una epidemiología compatible con la observada recientemente en Argentina para ambas enfermedades e ilustra el modelado como herramienta útil en la comprensión de efectos no intuitivos.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION Mathematical models of infectious diseases transmission allow to study different mechanisms which affect their temporal behavior. This work analyzed the impact of the decrease in transmissibility, as a result of measures of personal care adopted to reduce circulation of COVID-19, on the dynamics of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). METHODS A deterministic SIRS (susceptible-infected-recovered-susceptible) model with seasonal modulation was used to represent two diseases with short-term immunity and annual cycle: influenza and RSV. Changes in disease transmissibility were modeled by reducing it for two years and analyzing different scenarios. RESULTS In the proposed model, transmissibility reduction brings changes which sustain in the following years: very pronounced epidemic events with lengthening of the inter-outbreak interval. This effect prevails over the seasonal behavior. The scenario of 40% initial reduction in transmissibility is compatible with the behavior of influenza and RSV currently reported in Argentina. DISCUSSION The general model proposed here, under conditions of temporary reduced transmissibility, shows an epidemiology compatible with recently reported data of influenza and RSV in Argentina. This result illustrates modeling as a useful tool to understand non-intuitive effects.

Efecto de la vacunación contra la influenza en pacientes con enfermedad cardiovascular: un metaanálisis actualizado de ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorizados / Effect of Influenza Vaccination in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: An Updated Meta- Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

RESUMEN Introducción : La influenza es una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad en pacientes con enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV). El objetivo de esta revisión sistemática actualizada y metaanálisis fue evaluar los efectos de la vacunación contra la influenza (VI) sobre la mortalidad y morbilidad en pacientes adultos con ECV. Métodos : Se realizó una revisión sistemática y un metaanálisis (PubMed, Cochrane Library, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, y búsqueda manual en presentaciones en congresos de la especialidad), de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados publicados hasta abril de 2022 que investigaron si la VI reduce la mortalidad por todas las causas en pacientes adultos con ECV, incluyendo insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) y enfermedad de las arterias coronarias (EAC), en comparación con pacientes que no fueron vacunados. Resultados : Se analizaron un total de seis ensayos clínicos, que incluyeron 9316 pacientes. Cinco ensayos incluyeron pacientes con EAC, y uno con IC. El seguimiento medio fue de 16 ± 9,7 meses. La VI se asoció con una reducción de la mortalidad en comparación con el control, cociente de riesgos (RR) 0,67, intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC95%) 0,47-0,95; p = 0,03; I2 = 53%; y con una reducción de la mortalidad cardiovascular en comparación con el control, RR 0,64, IC95% 0,44-0,94; p = 0,02; I2 = 54%. El uso de la VI se asoció con una reducción no estadísticamente significativa de infarto de miocardio en comparación con el control, RR 0,82, IC95% 0,60-1,12; p = 0,57; I2 = 0%. Conclusión : En este metaanálisis de seis ensayos controlados aleatorizados, la VI se asoció con una reducción del riesgo relativo del 33% y del 36% de la mortalidad por todas las causas y cardiovascular, respectivamente, en pacientes con ECV. Intentamos promover un consenso con respecto a los beneficios persistentes de la vacuna contra la influenza en pacientes con ECV, incluyendo dos nuevos ensayos clínicos en EAC e IC, donde se confirma la asociación de la vacunación con la reducción de riesgo en sujetos con ECV.

ABSTRACT Background : Influenza is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this updated systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of influenza vaccination (IV) on morbidity and morbidity in adult patients with CVD. Methods : We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis (PubMed, Cochrane Library, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and manual search of conference presentations) of randomized clinical trials published up to April 2022 analyzing whether IV reduced all-cause mortality in adult patients with CVD, including heart failure (HF) and coronary artery disease (CAD), compared with patients who were not vaccinated. Results : A total of six clinical trials comprising 9316 patients were analyzed. Five trials included CAD patients, and one trial included HF patients. Mean follow-up was 16 ± 9.7 months. Influenza vaccine was associated with a reduction of mortality compared to controls: relative risk (RR) 0.67 (95% CI, 0.47-0.95), p = 0.03; I2 = 53%, and with reduction of cardiovascular mortality compared to controls: RR 0.64 (95% CI, 0.44-0.94), p = 0.02; I2 = 54%. There was a non-statistically significant reduction in myocardial infarction compared to control: RR 0.82 (95% CI, 0.60-1.12), p = 0.57; I2 = 0%. Conclusion : In this meta-analysis of six randomized controlled clinical trials, IV was associated with a 33% and 36% relative risk reduction of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality, respectively, in patients with CVD. We sought to promote consensus about the persistent benefits of influenza vaccination in patients with CVD by including two new clinical trials in CAD and HF, confirming the association of vaccination with risk reduction in subjects with CVD.

Directrices en torno a las epidemias en México. Perspectiva histórica / Guidelines on epidemics in Mexico. Historical perspective

Resumen Se ofrece una perspectiva de las epidemias y pandemias en México en tres periodos: fines del siglo XVIII y siglos XX y XXI, con el fin de analizar cómo las autoridades sanitarias y gubernamentales abordaron estos problemas, así como los desafíos que han representado. Se consultaron fuentes históricas documentales y, en los casos actuales, la participación en ellos. Se combinó metodología epidemiológica e histórica social. La presencia de las epidemias en México es una constante, lo cual evidencia la necesidad de actualizar el sistema de vigilancia epidemiológica, de estar preparados para enfrentar una epidemia y de elaborar un plan de contingencia.

Abstract A perspective of epidemics and pandemics in Mexico is offered, focusing on three time periods, namely, end of the 18th century, the 20th century, and the 21st century, in order to analyze how they were approached by health and government authorities, as well as the challenges they have represented. Historical documentary sources were consulted and, in current cases, participation in them was analyzed. Epidemiological and social historical methodologies were combined. The presence of epidemics in Mexico is a constant on its evolution, which highlights the need for the epidemiological surveillance system to be updated, the importance of being prepared to face an epidemic and to develop a contingency plan.

Tudo pela hora da morte! História, epidemias e desigualdades / Everything for an arm and a leg! History, epidemics, and inequalities

Resumo Assentado na interlocução entre os campos da História e da Saúde Coletiva e provocado pela historicidade do tempo presente, este artigo propõe avanços epistêmicos na discussão sobre o término das epidemias. Para tanto, se vale de operação historiográfica em vasto corpo documental, para apontar os impactos decorrentes da Gripe Espanhola de 1918 em Botucatu, cidade do interior paulista, na perspectiva do aprofundamento das desigualdades presentes nesta localidade nas décadas subsequentes à epidemia. Conclui apontando que, para além dos efeitos imediatos provocados pelo fenômeno epidêmico, ao arrefecer na dimensão biológica, a epidemia de Gripe Espanhola seguiu seu curso, alterando condicionantes sociais e culturais, bem como incidindo sobre estruturas sócio-históricas e em nossa corporeidade, tornando-se acontecimento histórico de longa duração. Desta forma, pode-se depreender que a compreensão das forças históricas que operam nos avanços e recuos em Saúde Coletiva podem alavancar enfrentamentos concretos às iniquidades, junto à retomada de um projeto civilizatório de transformação social no país, assentado na democracia, na justiça social e na defesa radical da vida.

Abstract Based on the dialogue between the fields of History and Public Health and provoked by the historicity of the present time, this article proposes epistemic advances in the discussion about the end of epidemics. To that end, it uses a historiographical operation in a vast body of documents, to point out the impacts resulting from the Spanish Flu of 1918 in Botucatu, a city in the interior of São Paulo, from the perspective of the deepening of inequalities in this locality in the decades following the epidemic. It concludes by pointing out that, in addition to the immediate effects caused by the epidemic phenomenon, when the Spanish Flu epidemic cooled down in the biological dimension, it followed its course, altering social and cultural conditions and affecting socio-historical structures and our corporeality, becoming a long-term historical event. Thus, we can infer that understanding the historical forces that operate in the advances and setbacks in Public Health can leverage concrete confrontations with inequities, along with the resumption of a civilizing project of social transformation in the country, based on democracy, social justice, and the radical defense of life.

Safety and immunogenicity of influenza A(H3N2) component vaccine in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract Introduction Seasonal influenza A (H3N2) virus is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the last 50 years in population that is greater than the impact of H1N1. Data assessing immunogenicity and safety of this virus component in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is lacking in the literature. Objective To evaluate short-term immunogenicity and safety of influenza A/Singapore (H3N2) vaccine in JSLE. Methods 24 consecutive JSLE patients and 29 healthy controls (HC) were vaccinated with influenza A/Singapore/ INFIMH-16-0019/2016(H3N2)-like virus. Influenza A (H3N2) seroprotection (SP), seroconversion (SC), geometric mean titers (GMT), factor increase in GMT (FI-GMT) titers were assessed before and 4 weeks post-vaccination. Disease activity, therapies and adverse events (AE) were also evaluated. Results JSLE patients and controls were comparable in current age [14.5 (10.1-18.3) vs. 14 (9-18.4) years, p = 0.448] and female sex [21 (87.5%) vs. 19 (65.5%), p = 0.108]. Before vaccination, JSLE and HC had comparable SP rates [22 (91.7%) vs. 25 (86.2%), p = 0.678] and GMT titers [102.3 (95% CI 75.0-139.4) vs. 109.6 (95% CI 68.2-176.2), p = 0.231]. At D30, JSLE and HC had similar immune response, since no differences were observed in SP [24 (100%) vs. 28 (96.6%), p = 1.000)], SC [4 (16.7%) vs. 9 (31.0%), p = 0.338), GMT [162.3 (132.9-198.3) vs. 208.1 (150.5-287.8), p = 0.143] and factor increase in GMT [1.6 (1.2-2.1) vs. 1.9 (1.4-2.5), p = 0.574]. SLEDAI-2K scores [2 (0-17) vs. 2 (0-17), p = 0.765] and therapies remained stable throughout the study. Further analysis of possible factors influencing vaccine immune response among JSLE patients demonstrated similar GMT between patients with SLEDAI < 4 compared to SLEDAI ≥ 4 ( p = 0.713), as well as between patients with and without current use of prednisone ( p = 0.420), azathioprine ( p = 1.0), mycophenolate mofetil ( p = 0.185), and methotrexate ( p = 0.095). No serious AE were reported in both groups and most of them were asymptomatic (58.3% vs. 44.8%, p = 0.958). Local and systemic AE were alike in both groups ( p > 0.05). Conclusion This is the first study that identified adequate immune protection against H3N2-influenza strain with additional vaccine-induced increment of immune response and an adequate safety profile in JSLE. ( www.clinicaltrials.gov , NCT03540823).

Vacunación antigripal en personal de salud que trabaja con niños en un prestador privado de salud: años 2019 y 2020 / Flu vaccine administered to health care personnel working with children at a private health provider (2019-2020) / Vacina contra influenza administrada a profissionais de saúde que trabalham com crianças numa operadora de saúde privada (2019-2020)

Introducción: la infección por el virus de la gripe genera morbimortalidad. El personal de salud es uno de los grupos prioritarios para ser vacunado. Objetivo: conocer cobertura vacunal contra la gripe del personal de salud que trabaja con niños en CASMU en 2019 y 2020, y las razones por las que se vacunaron o no. Material y método: estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal. Recolección de datos en 2020 a través de un cuestionario anónimo. Se registraron las siguientes variables: edad, lugar de trabajo (urgencias, internación o policlínica), función, riesgo de enfermedad grave, aplicación o no de vacuna en 2019 y en 2020, y motivos de vacunación o de no vacunación. Resultados: completaron la encuesta 204 trabajadores. En 2019, se vacunó el 73 % y, en 2020, el 77,5 % (p >0,05). El personal de salud de urgencias de Montevideo presentó mayor vacunación (en 2019, el 90,7 %; en 2020, el 93 %), seguido por el personal de salud de urgencias de Ciudad de la Costa e internación. Según la ocupación, para los médicos se registró una vacunación mayor al 95 % (2019 y 2020); para las licenciadas y auxiliares de enfermería, el 68,6 % en 2019 y el 75,7 % en 2020; para el personal no clínico, el 33 % en 2019 y el 41 % en 2020. El aumento de vacunados en 2020 no fue significativo en ninguna de las ocupaciones. El 21 % de los encuestados presentaba riesgo de enfermedad grave; el 65 % de estos se vacunó en 2019 y el 74,4 % en 2020. La totalidad de las embarazadas de la muestra se vacunó. Motivos más frecuentes mencionados de vacunación (2019 y 2020): prevención (50,5 %) y ser personal de salud (36 %). El de quienes no se vacunaron fue "Nunca enfermo" (19 %). Quienes no se administraron la vacuna en 2019, pero sí en 2020, mencionaron más frecuentemente la pandemia como motivo. Conclusión: en CASMU, el porcentaje de trabajadores de la salud en contacto con niños que se adhirió a la vacunación antigripal en 2019 y 2020 fue mayor al 70 %. No se registró aumento significativo por la pandemia. Se debe mejorar la cobertura en policlínicas y del personal de salud no médico, en particular del personal de salud con factores de riesgo de enfermedad grave.

Introduction: the influenza virus infection causes morbidity and mortality. Health care personnel (HCP) is one of the priority groups to be vaccinated. Objective: to learn about HCP's vaccination coverage against influenza of those workers working with children at CASMU in 2019 and 2020, and the reasons why they received vaccination or did not. Material and Methods: observational, descriptive, crosssectional study. Data collection in 2020: anon ymous survey. Variables: age, place of work (emer gency, hospital or clinic), function, risk of serious illness, vaccination received (or not received) in 2019 and 2020 and reasons. Results: 204 workers completed the survey; influenza vaccination: 73% in 2019 and 77.5% in 2020 (p>0.05). Montevideo's Emergency Department presented the highest level of vaccination and hospitalization (2019-90.7%; 2020-93%) followed by the Ciudad de la Costa's Emergency Department. By occupational level: doctors: vaccination> 95% (2019 and 2020); graduates and nursing assistants: 2019-68.6%; 2020- 75.7%; administrative, kitchen, cleaning and gate house staff: 2019-33%, 2020-41%. The increase in vaccinated personnel in 2020 was not significant for any of the occupations. 21% of those surveyed had a risk of serious illness; 65% were vaccinated in 2019 and 74.4% in 2020. All the sampled pregnant women were vaccinated. The most frequent reasons mentioned for vaccination (2019 and 2020): "prevention" (50.5%), being PS (36%). Those who were not vaccinated stated that were "never ill" (19%). Those who had not received the vaccine in 2019, but received in 2020, mostly mentioned the "pandemic" as a reason. Conclusion: in CASMU, the percentage of health workers in contact with children who adhered to the flu vaccination in 2019 and 2020 was higher than 70%. There was no significant increase after to the pandemic. Coverage in polyclinics and nonmedical HCP, in particular those HCP with risk factors for serious diseases, should be improved.

Introdução: a infecção pelo vírus influenza gera morbimortalidade. O pessoal de saúde (PS) é um dos grupos prioritários a ser vacinado. Objetivo: conhecer a cobertura vacinal contra influenza do PS que atende crianças no CASMU em 2019 e 2020, e os motivos pelos quais foram vacinados ou não. Material e Métodos: estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal. Coleta de dados em 2020: questionário anônimo. Variáveis: idade, local de trabalho (emergência, internação ou policlínica), função, anos de trabalho, risco de doença grave, aplicação ou não da vacinação em 2019 e 2020 e motivos. Resultados: 204 trabalhadores responderam à pesquisa; vacinação contra influenza: 73% em 2019 e 77,5% em 2020 (p> 0,05). O pronto socorro de Montevidéu apresentou o maior nível de vacinação (2019-90,7%; 2020-93%) seguido pelo pronto socorro de Ciudad de la Costa e internação. Ocupação: médicos: vacinação> 95% (2019 e 2020); graduados e auxiliares de enfermagem: 2019-68,6%; 2020-75,7%; Pessoal administrativo, cozinha, limpeza e porteiros: 2019-33%, 2020-41%. O aumento de vacinados em 2020 não foi significativo em nenhuma das ocupações. 21% dos entrevistados corriam risco de doenças graves; 65% deles foram vacinados em 2019 e 74,4% em 2020. Todas as gestantes da amostra foram vacinadas. Motivos mais citados para a vacinação (2019 e 2020): "prevenção" (50,5%), sendo PS (36%). Aqueles que não foram vacinados disseram que eles "nunca ficavam doentes" (19%). Os que não receberam a vacina em 2019, mas sim em 2020, citaram com mais frequência a "pandemia" como motivo. Conclusão: no CASMU, a percentagem de profissionais de saúde em contato com crianças que aderiram à vacinação contra gripe em 2019 e 2020 foi superior a 70%. Não houve aumento significativo após a pandemia. A cobertura em policlínicas e profissionais de saúde não médicos e, em particular, profissionais de saúde com fatores de risco para doenças graves, deve ser melhorada.

Impact of H5N8 duck and chicken viral isolates on the immunological profile of vaccinated specific pathogen free chickens

Nowadays, there is a global concern about outbreaks caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4 which caused devastating losses in the poultry industry sector. This clade was subdivided into two waves: clade 2.3.4.4A from 2014 to 2015 and clade 2.3.4.4b from 2016 until now. In this literature we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of recently used inactivated commercial avian influenza vaccines against two new Egyptian highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N8 isolates of clade 2.3.4.4b, A/chicken/Egypt/1526v/2020/H5N8 (H5N8-CH) and A/Duck/Egypt/Qalubia321/2021 (H5N8-D). Three-week-old specific pathogen free chickens were vaccinated with eight types of the most recently used inactivated avian influenza vaccines containing homologous and heterologous virus to the circulating H5N8 isolates. All specific pathogen free chicken groups were bled weekly post vaccination for antibody analysis using two H5N8 isolates of chicken and duck origin as antigen in hemagglutination inhibition test. Also, all vaccinated chicken groups were challenged 4 weeks post vaccination against the H5N8 duck isolate with a dose of 109 EID50/0.1 mL per chicken to measure the protection percentage of the commercial vaccines used. The results showed that vaccines with homologous and heterologous virus showed variable degrees of accepted protection percentage ranged from 90percent to 100percent, thus it was concluded that not only the genetic and antigenic match of the vaccine strains with the circulating highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses influences vaccine efficiency; other factors, such as manufacturing procedures, adjuvant, antigen content, vaccine dose and administration factors could affect vaccine efficacy, therefore, further vaccine development studies are needed to improve the percentage of protection and prevention of viral shedding against local highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 viruses in Egypt(AU)

En la actualidad, existe una preocupación mundial por los brotes causados por el virus de la gripe aviar altamente patógena H5N8 clado 2.3.4.4 que causó pérdidas devastadoras en el sector de la industria avícola. Este clado se subdividió en dos oleadas: clado 2.3.4.4A de 2014 a 2015 y clado 2.3.4.4b de 2016 hasta ahora. En el presente trabajo, dos aislamientos egipcios de la gripe aviar altamente patógena H5N8 del clado 2.3.4.4b, A/chicken/Egypt/1526v/2020/H5N8 (H5N8_CH) y A/Duck/Egypt/Qalubia321/2021 (H5N8_D), se utilizaron para evaluar la eficacia de vacunas comerciales inactivadas contra la gripe aviar de reciente utilización. Pollos libres de patógenos específicos de tres semanas de edad fueron vacunados con ocho vacunas inactivadas contra la influenza aviar, de uso reciente, que contenían virus homólogos y heterólogos a los aislamientos circulantes de H5N8. Todos los grupos de pollos libres de patógenos específicos fueron sangrados semanalmente tras la vacunación para el análisis de anticuerpos; dos virus H5N8 aislados de pollo y pato se utilizaron como antígeno en la prueba de inhibición de la hemaglutinación. Además, todos los grupos de pollos vacunados fueron retados 4 semanas después de la vacunación con el virus H5N8 aislado de pato, con una dosis de 109 EID50/0,1 mL por pollo, para medir el porcentaje de protección de las vacunas comerciales utilizadas. Los resultados mostraron que las vacunas con virus homólogos y heterólogos presentaron grados variables de aceptada protección, la que osciló entre el 90 por ciento y el 100 por ciento, por lo que se concluyó que no sólo la coincidencia genética y antigénica de las cepas vacunales con los virus circulantes de la influenza aviar altamente patógena influye en la eficacia de la vacuna; otros factores, como los procedimientos de fabricación, el adyuvante, el contenido en antígenos, la dosis de la vacuna y los factores de administración podrían afectar a la eficacia de la vacuna, por lo que es necesario seguir estudiando el desarrollo de vacunas para mejorar la protección y la prevención de la excreción viral contra los virus H5 de la influenza aviar altamente patógena locales en Egipto(AU)