Recomendaciones ALAT para el uso de vacunas respiratorias. Guía de práctica clínica basada en evidencias / ALAT Recommendations for the Use of Respiratory VaccinesEvidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline

Introducción: Las infecciones respiratorias son las enfermedades respiratorias con mayor mortalidad en el mundo. Las causadas por Streptococcus pneumoniae, virus de influenza, Bordetella pertussis, SARS-CoV-2 y el Virus Sincitial Respiratorio, cuentan hoy día con vacunas seguras y efectivas. Este documento representa una guía de práctica clínica (GPC) de la Asociación Latinoamericana de Tórax (ALAT), elaborada por iniciativa de los departamentos de enfermedades infecciosas y pediatría, con el objetivo de establecer recomendaciones sobre vacunas respiratorias, utilizando la evidencia disponible. Método: Se estableció un grupo de desarrollo de las guías conformado por cinco médicos responsables globales del proyecto, se crearon cinco subgrupos de trabajo, uno por cada vacuna, con expertos neumólogos de adulto, pediatras e infectólogos invitados, que generaron preguntas clínicas. Se trabajó con un grupo de expertos metodólogos que transformaron preguntas clínicas en preguntas PICO, seleccionándose nueve preguntas por método DELPHI. Luego, se utilizó el sistema GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) para evaluar la evidencia disponible. Resultados: Se obtuvieron recomendaciones para población adulta y pediátrica de las vacunas de neumococo, influenza, tos ferina, COVID-19 y Virus Respiratorio Sincitial basadas en preguntas PICO. También se agregaron recomendaciones basadas en preguntas narrativas relacionadas al uso de vacunas respiratorias en población con enfermedades respiratorias crónicas como asma, EPOC y fibrosis pulmonar.

Introduction: Respiratory infections are the leading cause of respiratory disease-related mortality worldwide. Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, influenza virus, Bordetella pertussis, SARS-CoV-2 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) now have safe and effective vaccines available.This document represents a Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) by the Latin American Thoracic Association (ALAT), developed through the initiative of the departments of in-fectious diseases and pediatrics, with the goal of establishing recommendations on respiratory vaccines using the available evidence. Method: A guideline development group was established, composed of five lead physicians responsible for the overall project. Five working subgroups were created, one for each vaccine, involving invited experts in adult pulmonology, pediatrics, and infectious diseases, who formulated clinical questions. A group of expert methodologists then transformed these clinical questions into PICO questions, with nine questions selected using the DELPHI method. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system was then used to assess the available evidence. Results: Recommendations were obtained for the adult and pediatric populations for pneumococcal, influenza, pertussis, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus vaccines based on PICO questions. Additionally, recommendations based on narrative questions related to the use of respiratory vaccines in populations with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis were included.

Niños hospitalizados con influenza en un hospital pediátrico de Argentina durante 2019-2022: ¿qué ha cambiado luego de la pandemia por COVID-19? / Children with influenza admitted at a children's hospital in Argentina in the 2019­2022 period: What has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic?

Introducción. Durante 2020 y 2021, la circulación de los virus influenza se mantuvo por debajo de lo esperado en todo el mundo. En Argentina, en el año 2022 observamos una circulación ininterrumpida de influenza todo el año. Nuestros objetivos fueron describir los patrones de circulación y las características clínicas de niños internados con influenza. Población y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo, analítico, observacional. Se incluyeron todos los niños internados en un centro pediátrico con detección del virus influenza durante los años 2019-2022. Resultados. Se internaron 138 pacientes en 4 años; en 2019 se observó una tasa del 4,5/1000 egresos hospitalarios mientras que en 2022, fue del 15,1/1000. En 2020 y 2021 no hubo casos. En el 2019 la mayoría de los casos ocurrieron en invierno, la causa de la internación fue la infección respiratoria aguda baja (IRAB) en el 79 % y se detectó influenza A en el 92 % de los casos. En el 2022, la mayoría de los casos ocurrieron en primavera, el 62 % presentó IRAB y en el 56 % se detectó influenza A. Ambos períodos tuvieron similares frecuencias de vacunación y de comorbilidades. Conclusiones. En el 2022 se registraron más internaciones por influenza, lo que podría corresponder a que se realizaron métodos diagnósticos moleculares, que son más sensibles, y se observó un cambio en la estacionalidad con más casos en primavera. En 2019 predominó influenza A en infecciones del tracto respiratorio inferior, mientras que en el 2022 influenza A y B fueron similares, y hubo más formas extrapulmonares.

Introduction. During 2020 and 2021, the circulation of influenza virus remained below expectations worldwide. In Argentina, in 2022, we observed an uninterrupted circulation of influenza all year round. Our objectives were to describe the circulation patterns and clinical characteristics of hospitalized children with influenza. Population and methods. Retrospective, analytical, observational study. All children with influenza virus admitted to a children's hospital during the 2019­2022 period were included. Results. A total of 138 patients were admitted over 4 years; in 2019, the rate of hospital discharges was 4.5/1000, compared to 15.1/1000 in 2022. No cases were recorded in 2020 and 2021. In 2019, most cases were observed in the winter; in 79%, the cause was acute lower respiratory tract infection (ALRTI); influenza A was detected in 92%. In 2022, most cases occurred in the spring; 62% developed ALRTI; and influenza A was detected in 56%. Similar rates of vaccination and comorbidities were observed in both periods. Conclusions. In 2022, more hospitalizations due to influenza were recorded, which may have correlated with the use of more sensitive molecular diagnostic testing and a change in seasonality, with more cases observed in the spring. In 2019, influenza A predominated in lower respiratory tract infections, while in 2022, cases of influenza A and B were similar, with more extra-pulmonary forms.

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.

Vacunas durante el embarazo

La respuesta a las vacunas durante el embarazo puede ser variable, sin embargo, no tenemos evidencia de un descenso en la efectividad de estas. Además, el efecto protector de las vacunas durante el embarazo ha sido documentado desde hace más de un siglo. Las embarazadas son vulnerables a las infecciones por el virus de la gripe, presentando mayores tasas de morbilidad y mortalidad. Es recomendada la vacunación antigripal con vacuna inactivada no ayudada, preferentemente tetravalente, a todas las embarazadas en cualquier trimestre de gestación. La infección por Bordetella Pertussis y especialmente en los menores de 3 meses es de gran riesgo. La vacunación durante el embarazo tiene como objetivos la protección del neonato durante los primeros meses de vida, mediante la transferencia pasiva de anticuerpos y evitar que la mujer adquiera la tosferina y contagie al neonato. El embarazo es un factor de riesgo para una mayor gravedad de la infección por SARS-CoV-2, por lo tanto, las embarazadas constituyen un grupo prioritario para la vacunación. La vacuna se debe ofrecer a las embarazadas igual que al resto de la población, ya que los beneficios de su administración muy probablemente superen los riesgos de padecer la infección. Es especialmente importante ofrecerla a las gestantes con comorbilidades. Toda mujer embarazada debe ser asesorada sobre la importancia y beneficios de la vacunación en ellas y sus hijos. Hoy día están indicadas las vacunas contra influenza, la vacuna TDaP y la vacuna contra COVID-19. (provisto por Infomedic International)

The response to vaccines during pregnancy can be variable, however, we have no evidence of a decrease in their effectiveness. Furthermore, the protective effect of vaccines during pregnancy has been documented for more than a century. Pregnant women are vulnerable to influenza virus infections, presenting higher morbidity and mortality rates. Influenza vaccination with a non-adjuvanted inactivated vaccine, preferably quadrivalent, is recommended for all pregnant women in any trimester of pregnancy. Infection by Bordetella Pertussis, especially in children under 3 months of age, is of great risk. Vaccination during pregnancy aims to protect the newborn during the first months of life, through the passive transfer of antibodies and to prevent the woman from acquiring whooping cough and infecting the newborn. Pregnancy is a risk factor for greater severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection, therefore, pregnant women constitute a priority group for vaccination. The vaccine should be offered to pregnant women just as it is to the rest of the population, since the benefits of its administration most likely outweigh the risks of suffering from the infection. It is especially important to offer it to pregnant women with comorbidities. Every pregnant woman should be advised about the importance and benefits of vaccination for herself and her children. Today influenza vaccines, the TDaP vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine are indicated. (provided by Infomedic International)

A Randomized Open Label Parallel Clinical Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Clevira Tablets against Influenza Viruses

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of Clevira tablets in Human adult patients, with Influenza A&B and Vital flu. Methods: This study was an open label, balanced, randomized, multi-dose, two-treatment, parallel, and comparative Phase III clinical trial to determine the safety and efficacy of Clevira Tablets. Twenty patients were enrolled and received Clevira Tablet along with Standard Treatment for Influenza A&B and other respiratory viral infections. Enrollment was based on the diagnosis of hematology, biochemistry, serology, RT-PCR, and chest X-ray and inclusion, and none of the exclusion criteria and included in the study. Results: All the patients demonstrated safety measures with respect to blood pressure and pulse rate. Furthermore, statistically significant (P < 0.0001) improvement showed in temperature from baseline (102.03 ± 0.64) and at the end of the study period (98.14 ± 0.70). Conclusion: The study demonstrated an expedited clinical cure with normal vital signs and hematological results which validated that Clevira is safe and efficacious in patients with Influenza A&B and Viral flu. The data further entrusted that Clevira can be used in infected patients with Influeza A&B and Viral Flu, and relieve the signs and symptoms, with a rapid recovery, without any adverse side effects.

Actualización de las recomendaciones de vacunación en adultos con enfermedades respiratorias. Documento de la Asociación Argentina de Medicina Respiratoria para los neumonólogos, 2023 / Recommendations in Adults with Respiratory Diseases. Document from the Argentinian Association of Respiratory Medicine for Pulmonologists, 2023

RESUMEN Los adultos fumadores, con comorbilidades, y los ancianos tienen mayor riesgo de contraer infecciones pulmonares y de tener peor evolución. La neumonía adquirida en la comunidad debida a virus, neumococo, además de otras bacterias y microorga nismos "atípicos" afecta tanto a adultos sanos como enfermos. La vacuna antigripal se diseña el verano anterior orientada a las cepas esperadas para la temporada siguiente. Su eficacia depende fundamentalmente de la variante viral que finalmente sea la responsable del brote. La vacuna anti-neumocócica polisacárida existe desde 1983 y será inexorablemente reemplazada por vacunas conjugadas de mayor eficacia, que previenen la infección por los serotipos presentes en la vacuna. La inmunización contra SARS-CoV-2 aceleró la reducción del contagio y la gravedad de COVID-19 notablemente. La vacuna acelular para Bordetella pertussis no está en el calendario de adultos, aun cuando vacunarlos fortalece el control del contagio infantil. La vacunas doble bacteriana (difteria y tétanos), y triple (doble + pertusis), y contra sarampión, varicela, rubeola, HPV, Haemophylus influenzae, meningococo, herpes zóster, fiebre hemorrágica argentina y fiebre amarilla están disponibles, pero son de uso limitado. Nuevas vacunas, como la recientemente aprobada por los CDC contra el virus sincicial respiratorio, pronto estarán disponibles.

ABSTRACT Adult smokers, subjects with comorbidities, and the elderly are at higher risk of pulmo nary infections and worse outcomes. Community-acquired pneumonia due to viruses, pneumococcus, other bacteria, and "atypical" microorganisms affects healthy and sick adults. The flu vaccine is designed the previous summer for the strains expected for the following season. Its effectiveness depends fundamentally on the viral variant ultimately responsible for the outbreak. The anti-pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine has been available since 1983 and it is expected to be replaced by conjugate vaccines which are more effective in preventing infection due to serotypes present in the vaccine. Immuniza tion against SARS-CoV-2 diminished contagion and severity of COVID-19 remarkably. The acellular vaccine for Bordetella pertussis is not on the schedule for all adults, even when vaccinating them strengthens the control of contagion in children. Double bacterial (diphtheria and tetanus), triple (double + pertussis), measles, varicella, rubella, HPV, Haemophilus influenzae, meningococcal, herpes zoster, Argentine hemorrhagic fever, and yellow fever vaccines are available, but their use is limited. New vaccines such as the one recently approved by the CDC against respiratory syncytial virus will soon be available.

Comparison of CT Features of Omicron and Influenza A-H1N1-Associated Viral Pneumonia:Initial Onset and Follow-Up / 中国医学影像学杂志

Purpose To compare the CT imaging features of the novel coronavirus Omicron variant and influenza A-H1N1-associated viral pneumonia,and to investigate the factors associated with the uptake process of the two pneumonias.Materials and Methods A total of 43 patients with Omicron virus pneumonia(Omicron group)and 30 patients with influenza A(H1N1)virus pneumonia[influenza A(H1N1)group]in Civil Aviation General Hospital from December 2022 to March 2023 were retrospectively collected.The clinical data of the two groups were compared,including age,gender,symptoms(fever or not),duration of symptoms and incidence of complications.White blood cells,monocytes,lymphocytes,neutrophils,C-reactive protein,etc.]and initial and follow-up CT imaging features[lesion density,distribution,signs and qualitative CT severity score(CTSS)].Results The mean age of patients in Omicron group was higher versus that in H1N1 group[(68.61±15.94)years vs.(51.20±16.39)years,P<0.000 1],and the fever rate in Omicron group(58.1%vs.86.7%,P=0.009)and monocyte count[(0.40±0.16)vs.(0.58±0.19),P<0.000 1]were lower than those in the influenza A(H1N1)group.Chest CT showed that the lesions of patients in the Omicron group were mainly distributed under the pleura,and the lesions of patients in the influenza A(H1N1)group were mainly distributed under the pleura and along the bronchovascular bundle(χ2=8.592,P=0.035).Patients in the Omicron group were more likely to have interlobular septal thickening(χ2=11.753,P=0.001),paving pattern(χ2=16.216,P<0.000 1),air bronchogram(χ2=16.216,P<0.000 1),pleural effusion(P=0.039)and pleural thickening(χ2=4.067,P=0.044)than patients in the influenza A(H1N1)group,while patients in the influenza A(H1N1)group were more likely to have nodules than those in the omicron group(χ2=6.971,P=0.008).The CTSS scores of patients in the omicron group were higher than those in the influenza A(H1N1)group at the initial diagnosis(Z=413,P=0.009)and follow-up(Z=107,P=0.027).The correlation between the change of follow-up CTSS and the initial CTSS in the Omicron group was the strongest(r=0.689,P<0.000 1).There was the strongest correlation between the change of follow-up CTSS and the duration of symptoms in influenza A(H1N1)group(r=0.954,P<0.000 1).Conclusion Patients in the Omicron group have a higher range of initial and follow-up lesions than those in influenza A(H1N1)group,and the degree of pneumonia absorption in the omicron group may be related to the initial CTSS,whereas in the influenza A(H1N1)group it may be related to the duration of symptoms.

Analysis of drug resistance gene variation of influenza A（H1N1） pdm09 virus in Huzhou City，Zhejiang Province / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo investigate the mutation and genetic evolution of drug resistance gene of A（H1N1） pdm09 influenza pandemic strain in 2023 in Huzhou City， Zhejiang Province. MethodsRespiratory tract specimens from 2 influenza monitoring hospitals were collected forA（H1N1） pdm09 influenza virus nucleic acid detection. Positive specimens were inoculated with MDCK cells for influenza virus isolation and sequencing. DNA Star 7.1 software and Mega 4.0 software were used to analyze the neuraminidase （NA） enzyme active site and the amino acid sites related to drug resistance in M2 protein. ResultsNucleotide homology and amino acid homology of NA between the isolated and the vaccine strains were 98.87%‒99.22% and 98.94%‒99.36%， respectively. The nucleotide homology range of M gene was 99.07% to 99.85%， and the amino acid homology range was 99.02%‒99.94%. The isolates and vaccine strains belong to the evolutionary clades of 6B.1A.5a.2a. The amino acids at the key sites of the enzyme activity center of NA were still highly conserved， and the 9 key amino acid sites related to NA inhibitor resistance did not change， but some mutations occurred at the non-enzyme active sites in some popular strains. The 5 amino acid sites related to drug resistance of M2 protein were not replaced， but the 31st amino acid sites changed from serine to asparagine. ConclusionThe A（H1N1） pdm09 pandemic strain in Huzhou in 2023 has high homology with the 2023‒2024 vaccine strain recommended by WHO. All endemic strains are resistant to amantadines.

Willingness to receive influenza vaccines among medical staff in China:a meta-analysis / 预防医学

Objective@#To systematically evaluate the willingness to receive influenza vaccines among Chinese medical staff, so as to provide the evidence for developing the influenza vaccination strategy and improving the coverage of influenza vaccination among medical staff.@*Methods@#Publications pertaining to the willingness to receive influenza vaccines among Chinese medical staff were retrieved from international and national databases from January 1, 2010 to October 1, 2023, including CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Web of Science and Embase. A meta-analysis was performed using the software Stata 17.0, sensitivity analysis was performed using the leave-one-out method, and the publication bias was evaluated using Funnel plot.@*Results@#Totally 674 publications were retrieved, and 17 case-control studies were finally enrolled, with 23 697 participants. Meta-analysis showed that the rate of willingness to receive influenza vaccines among medical staff in China was 52.8% (95%CI: 41.3%-64.4%). The rates of willingness to receive influenza vaccines were 40.2% (95%CI: 28.5%-51.8%) in 2019 and before and 67.2% (95%CI: 56.5%-77.9%) in 2020 and beyond; 54.6% (95%CI: 44.2%-65.0%) in men and 56.8% (95%CI: 49.3%-64.4%) in women; 53.6% (95%CI: 40.9%-66.2%) in doctors, 53.9% (95%CI: 41.0%-66.8%) in nurses, 62.8% (95%CI: 46.2%-79.3%) in technicians and 53.1% (95%CI: 36.1%-70.0%) in administrative and logistical staff; 77.4% (95%CI: 63.7%-91.2%) and 43.3% (95%CI: 30.5%-56.1%) in staff with and without a history of influenza vaccination; 49.8% (95%CI: 27.3%-72.3%) and 58.3% (95%CI: 43.9%-72.6%) in studies with a sample size of <1 000 and ≥1 000, and these differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Sensitivity analysis showed robustness of results, and Funnel plot showed publication bias.@*Conclusion@#The rates of willingness to receive influenza vaccines among medical staff in China ranged from 41.3% to 64.4%, and were lower in studies in 2019 and before, in men, in administrative and logistical staff and in staff without a history of influenza vaccination.

Epidemiological investigation of an outbreak of P1-Ⅱ Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in a school / 预防医学

Abstract@#On October 13 2023, the Beijing Economic and Technological Development Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention recAAAAAeived a report from a school indicating an outbreak of fever among students in Class 2, Grade 4. An on-site epidemiological investigation was immediately conducted. A total of 14 cases were reported, all of whom were students, with an attack rate of 34.15%. The onset of illness was concentrated between October 6 and 15, with the main clinical symptoms being fever, cough and fatigue. There were no cases of hospitalization, severe illness or death. Seven cases tested positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae P1-Ⅱ. Based on the on-site investigation and laboratory test results, it was an outbreak of influenza-like illness caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. The likely cause of the spread was cases infecting other classmates through respiratory droplets while attending class. The outbreak occurred only in one class and did not spread to neighboring classes. Schools should actively carry out health education to raise awareness among parents for reporting infectious diseases, and strengthen morning and afternoon screenings to improve the sensitivity of identification.

Joinpoint regression analysis on the epidemiological trend of influenza in Nantong city, Jiangsu province in 2010 - 2022 / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of influenza in Nantong city, explore its changing trend, and provide evidence for effective prevention and control measures. Methods The incidence data of influenza in Nantong city from 2010 to 2022 were collected and analyzed by descriptive statistical software. Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the trend of influenza incidence. Results The annual reported incidence of influenza in Nantong city showed an exponential upward trend from 2010 to 2022 (APC=25.25, P=0.002). The annual reported incidence rate of males was higher than that of females, and the incidence trend of both showed an exponential upward trend(Male: APC=24.40, P=0.002; Female: APC=26.11, P=0.002). The seasonal index showed a unimodal distribution, with a peak from December to February of the next year, and the highest value was 2.78 in January. The average annual reported incidence in each age group showed a rapid upward trend from 0 to 7 years old (β1=16.13, P1=-44.50, P=0.037), and a low slow downward trend from 10 to 45 years old (β1=-0.20, P=0.001), and lower tailing was observed in 45-85 years group (β1=0.04, P=0.162). Conclusion The overall incidence rate of influenza in Nantong City is on the rise. Children under 7 years old are the key protected population. We should control the key season, do a good job of publicity and education, encourage vaccination,and at the same time do a good job in pathogen monitoring, timely pay attention to the situation of epidemic strains, and scientific prevention and control.

Influence of health education on influenza and pneumonia vaccination rates in people with hypertension and diabetes / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To evaluate the influence of health education on influenza and pneumonia vaccination in hypertensive and diabetic population. Methods Multi-stage random sampling method was used to select subjects, carry out health education and follow-up, and compare the cognition and vaccination status of diseases and vaccines before and after intervention by themselves. Results Among the 2.45% of subjects were vaccinated with influenza vaccine at the last follow-up after intervention, compared with 0.74% before intervention (P < 0.05), 9.81% of subjects were vaccinated with pneumonia vaccine, compared with 0.49% before intervention (P < 0.05). At the last follow-up after intervention, 2.45% of subjects had received influenza vaccine and 9.81% of subjects had received pneumonia vaccine, with high vaccination rates before intervention (P < 0.05). In 3 follow-up visits after intervention, 32.37%, 41.00% and 38.11% of hypertension and diabetes patients were more likely to suffer from pneumonia, which were higher than 30.36% (P < 0.05). 37.22%, 44.92% and 41.39% thought pneumonia would aggravate hypertension and diabetes, respectively, which were higher than 35.80% (P < 0.05). 40.02%, 52.62% and 50.02% thought vaccination was necessary, respectively, higher than 40.07% before intervention (P < 0.05). Conclusion People with hypertension and diabetes have low cognition, vaccination willingness and vaccination rate of influenza and pneumonia vaccine. Targeted health education interventions can improve the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of vaccination and improve the vaccination rate of the population.

Epidemiological characteristics of influenza in Yuhang District / 预防医学

Objective@#To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of influenza in Yuhang District, Hangzhou City from 2019 to 2023, so as to provide the reference for formulating influenza prevention and control measures.@*Methods@#Influenza case data with current address in Yuhang District was collected through the Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Information System from 2019 to 2023. Influenza-like illness data was collected through the Hangzhou Epidemiological Investigation System. Time distribution, population distribution and pathogen detection of influenza-like illness were descriptively analyzed.@*Results@#There were 118 319 influenza cases reported in Yuhang District from 2019 to 2023, with an average annual reported incidence rate of 2 316.80/105. The highest incidence rate was seen in 2023, with a reported incidence rate of 5 736.82/105. The peak incidence of influenza occurred from November to March of the following year, presenting the winter and spring epidemic. The cases were mainly distributed in the age groups of 7 to 14 years and 25 to 59 years, with 31 310 and 34 470 cases, accounting for 26.46% and 29.13%, respectively. Influenza cases were reported in all 12 towns (streets) in Yuhang District, with the top two being Wuchang Street and Liangzhu Street, with the average annual incidence rates of 17 346.08/105 and 14 945.80/105, respectively. From 2019 to 2023, there were 103 868 cases of influenza-like illness, and 1 482 throat swab samples were collected. Among them, 260 positive samples of influenza virus were detected, with a positive rate of 17.54%. The peak detection period for positive specimens was from November to March of the following year, with 222 influenza virus positive specimens detected. The influenza virus types included H1N1, H3N2, and Victoria B, accounting for 25.77%, 38.85% and 35.38%, respectively.@*Conclusions@#The peak of influenza outbreak in Yuhang District from 2019 to 2023 was in winter and spring, with children and adolescents being the main affected objectives. H1N1, H3N2 and Victoria B were alternately prevalent. Prevention and control measures such as influenza vaccination should be strengthened.

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.

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.

Recomendaciones actualizadas para la vacunación de adultos con enfermedades respiratorias Asociación Argentina de Medicina Respiratoria, 2023 / Updated recommendations for vaccination in adults with respiratory diseases Argentine Association of Respiratory Medicine, 2023

Resumen Los adultos fumadores con comorbilidades, y los ancianos, corren mayor riesgo de contraer infecciones y sus complicaciones. Las infecciones respiratorias comu nitarias por virus, neumococo y otras bacterias afectan tanto a adultos sanos como enfermos. Existen vacunas que el neumonólogo debe conocer y prescribir. Las ce pas blanco de la vacuna contra influenza son definidas por la OMS para el hemisferio sur considerando a las implicadas en la temporada precedente de influenza en el hemisferio norte. Su efectividad depende de la virulencia, la concordancia entre las cepas circulantes y las vacunales y la cobertura de la población. La vacuna anti-neumocócica polisacárida disponible desde 1983 está siendo reemplazada por vacunas conjugadas más eficaces para prevenir infecciones relacionadas a sero tipos presentes en las mismas. La inmunización contra SARS-CoV-2 redujo el contagio, la gravedad y la letalidad de COVID-19. La vacuna acelular contra Bordetella pertussis para adultos está presente para situaciones puntuales en el calendario para adultos, vacunarlos fortalece el control del contagio infantil. Las vacunas doble bacte riana (difteria + tétanos), y triple (doble + pertussis), y contra sarampión, varicela, rubeola, virus del papiloma humano, Haemophylus influenzae, meningococo, herpes zóster, fiebre hemorrágica argentina y fiebre amarilla, son de uso más limitado. Pronto contaremos con nuevas vacunas, como la recientemente aprobada por la FDA contra el virus sincicial respiratorio. Revisamos a través de un consenso de expertos en infecciones respiratorias las nuevas evidencias acerca de la inmunización de adultos que consultan al neumonólogo, y actualizamos así las recomendaciones sobre vacunación realizadas ocho años atrás.

Abstract Adult smokers, those with comorbidities, and the elderly, are at greater risk of contracting infections and their complications. Community acquired respiratory infections due to viruses, pneumococcus and other bac teria, affect both healthy and sick adults. There are vac cines that the pulmonologist must know and prescribe. The target strains of the influenza vaccine are defined by the WHO for the Southern hemisphere considering those involved in the previous influenza season in the Northern hemisphere. Its effectiveness depends on virulence, concordance between circulating and vaccine strains, and population coverage. The anti-pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine available since 1983 is being replaced by more effective conjugate vaccines to pre vent infections related to serotypes present in them. Immunization against SARS-CoV-2 reduced the conta gion, severity, and lethality of COVID-19. The acellular vaccine against Bordetella pertussis for adults is present for specific situations in the adult calendar; vaccinating them strengthens the control of childhood contagion. The double (diphtheria + tetanus), and triple (double + pertussis) bacterial vaccines, and the vaccines against measles, chickenpox, rubella, human papillomavirus, Haemophilus influenzae, meningococcus, herpes zoster, Argentine hemorrhagic fever and yellow fever, are of a more limited use. Soon we will have new vaccines such as the one recently approved by the FDA against respi ratory syncytial virus. Through a consensus of experts in respiratory infections, we review the new evidence regarding the immunization of adults who consult a pulmonologist, and thus update the recommendations on vaccination made eight years ago.

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(AU)

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(AU)

Os efeitos econômicos da pandemia de gripe espanhola de 1918: uma análise empírica da mortalidade sobre a economia de São Paulo / Economic effects of the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic: an empirical analysis of mortality on the economy of the state of São Paulo / Los efectos económicos de la pandemia de gripe de 1918:un análisis empírico de la mortalidad en la economía del estado de São Paulo

Resumo O objetivo do artigo é identificar os efeitos econômicos da pandemia de gripe espanhola que atingiu São Paulo no final de 1918, analisando fontes primárias originais. A contribuição para a historiografia econômica é o entendimento dos impactos de curto prazo para a economia paulista dessa pandemia, geralmente preteridos pela literatura econômica devido aos efeitos da Primeira Guerra Mundial. Os resultados indicam que vários setores da economia de São Paulo foram afetados no lado da oferta e da demanda em função do aumento de mortalidade em decorrência da pandemia, principalmente no último trimestre de 1918. As implicações foram visíveis no investimento privado, com a queda do registro de empresas e empréstimos bancários, na diminuição física e de valor da produção industrial de produtos não essenciais e no aumento dos essenciais em um contexto de crise de saúde pública. No entanto, a recuperação também foi rápida, o que explica, em parte, a pouca atenção dada pela historiografia econômica para identificar os efeitos da gripe espanhola sobre a economia.

Abstract The aim of the paper is to identify the economic effects of the influenza pandemic that hit São Paulo in 1918, analyzing original primary sources. The contribution to economic historiography is the understanding of the short-term effects on the economy of São Paulo of the great pandemic of 1918, generally ignored by the economic literature over the effects of WWI. The results indicate that several sectors of São Paulo's economy were affected in supply and demand by the effects of the increase in mortality, mainly in the last quarter of 1918. The effects were visible in private investment, with the drop in business registration, bank loans, the physical and value decrease in the industrial production of non-essential products and the increase of essential products in a context of public health crisis. However, the recovery was also quick, which explains, in part, why economic historiography pays little attention to identify the effects of the influenza on the economy.

Resumen El objetivo del artículo es identificar los efectos económicos de la pandemia de gripe en São Paulo a finales de 1918, analizando fuentes primarias originales. La contribución a la historiografía económica es la comprensión de los efectos de corto plazo sobre la economía paulista de la gran pandemia de finales de 1918, en general ignorados por la literatura económica debido a los efectos de la Primera Guerra Mundial. Los resultados indican que varios sectores de la economía paulista se vieron afectados, por el lado de la oferta y la demanda, por los efectos del aumento de la mortalidad debido a la pandemia, principalmente en el último trimestre de 1918. Los efectos fueron visibles en la inversión privada, con la caída en el registro de empresas, los préstamos bancarios, la disminución física y de valor de la producción industrial de productos no esenciales y el aumento de productos esenciales en un contexto de crisis de salud pública. Sin embargo, la recuperación también fue rápida, lo que explica en parte la poca atención prestada por historiografía económica para identificar los efectos de la gripe española en la economía.

Cost-consequence analysis of a combined COVID-19/influenza rapid diagnostic test in the Brazilian private healthcare setting

Abstract Combination COVID-19/influenza rapid tests provide a way to quickly and accurately differentiate between the two infections. The goal of this economic evaluation was to assess the cost and health benefits of a combination COVID-19/influenza Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) vs. current standard-of-care in the Brazilian private healthcare setting. A dual decision tree model was developed to estimate the impact of rapid differentiation of COVID-19 and influenza in a hypothetical cohort of 1,000 adults with influenza-like illness in an ambulatory healthcare setting. The model compared the use of a combination COVID-19/influenza RDT to Brazil standard diagnostic practice of a COVID-19 RDT and presumptive influenza diagnosis. Different levels of influenza prevalence were modeled with co-infection estimated as a function of the COVID-19 prevalence. Outcomes included accuracy of diagnosis, antiviral prescriptions and healthcare resource use (hospital bed days and ICU occupancy). Depending on influenza prevalence, considering 1,000 patients with influenza-like illness, a combination RDT compared to standard practice was estimated to result in between 88 and 149 fewer missed diagnoses of influenza (including co-infection), 161 to 185 fewer cases of over-diagnosis of influenza; a 24 to 34% reduction in hospital bed days and a 16 to 26% reduction in ICU days. In the base case scenario (20% influenza, 5% COVID-19), the combination RDT was estimated to result in cohort cost savings of $99. Based upon a de novo economic model, this analysis indicates that use of a combination RDT could positively impact influenza antiviral prescriptions and lower healthcare resource use.

Intranasal immunization with single-dose vaccine based on recombinant influenza virus H1N1 expressing the extracellular domain of respiratory syncytial virus G protein induces robust immunity and protection in mice / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

Objective:To construct a novel respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine based on a recombinant influenza virus vector and evaluate its immune protective effects in mice.Methods:A recombinant H1N1 influenza A virus (IAV) expressing the extracellular domain (Gecto) of RSV A2 G protein was constructed and rescued, named as PR8NAGecto/WSN. After in vitro verification of the Gecto expression and PR8NAGecto/WSN growth kinetics, a single dose of PR8NAGecto/WSN was used to immunize BALB/c mice through intranasal administration to evaluate the efficacy of PR8NAGecto/WSN by assessing humoral (IgG, neutralizing antibody), mucosal (IgA) and cellular immunity (IFN-γ ELISPOT). Four weeks after immunization, the mice were challenged with RSV A2 or RSV B9320 to evaluate the protective effects of PR8NAGecto/WSN by analyzing mouse body weight changes, lung tissue virus titers and pathological changes. Results:A single-dose intranasal immunization with PR8NAGecto/WSN induced robust humoral, mucosal and cellular immunity in mice. Moreover, the mice in the immunized group had lower lung virus loads and mild lung pathological damages following the challenge with RSV A or RSV B subtype as compared with the control group.Conclusions:A single-dose intranasal immunization with PR8NAGecto/WSN induces robust immunity and provide protection against RSV A and B challenges in mice. This study provides new ideas and reference for the development of novel mucosal vaccines against RSV.