Episode of Hepatitis C viral infection in the people of Swat, Pakistan / Episódio de infecção viral por Hepatite C no povo de Swat, Paquistão

Infectious agents cause serious diseases in humans worldwide and are responsible for the high rate of morbidity and mortality. The prevalence and epidemiology of infectious disease (HCV) in the hospital visited patients referred by the physicians through the initial findings and their associated risk factors were studied in Swat. The data of 174 infected patients were collected during the period of 2015 to 2017 from two clinical laboratories of Tehsil Matta Swat. Inform consent form was taken before blood collection. After taking informed consent blood samples were collected and ICT test was performed and then ICT positive cases were conform through PCR. A total of 174 ICT positive samples [106 male and 68 females] were included in this study. Age was considered from 10 to 72 years. Of the 174 ICT strip positive, 99 [63 males, 36 females] were confirmed through PCR. The prevalence rate was recorded 56.89%. I.V/I.M injection was recorded in 100% of the individuals. Visits to the barber shop was reported in (58%) of the individuals, married individuals were (81.0), surgical operation was reported in (44.8%), sharing toothbrush was observed in (29.9%), piercing was reported in (39.7%), family history was reported in (26.4%), dental treatment was observed in (21.8%), jaundice were (13.2%) and tattooing was (1.7%). Blood transfusion, surgical operations, Jaundice, family history and dental treatment were found significant risk factors for acquiring HCV infection. It was concluded that proper implementation of precautionary measures should be needed to control the spread of HCV in far near future.

Agentes infecciosos causam doenças graves em humanos em todo o mundo, e são responsáveis pelo alto índice de morbimortalidade. A prevalência e a epidemiologia das doenças infecciosas no hospital que atendeu pacientes encaminhados pelos médicos por meio dos achados iniciais e seus fatores de risco associados foram estudadas em Peshawar. Os dados de 174 pacientes infectados foram coletados durante o período de 2015 a 2017 oriundos de dois laboratórios clínicos de Tehsil Matta Swat. O formulário de consentimento informado foi obtido antes da coleta de sangue. Após a obtenção do consentimento informado, foram coletadas amostras de sangue e foi realizado o teste ICT e, em seguida, os casos ICT positivos foram confirmados por PCR. Um total de 174 amostras ICT positivas [106 homens e 68 mulheres] foi incluído neste estudo. A idade considerada foi de 10 a 72 anos. Das 174 tiras de ICT positivas, 99 casos [63 homens, 36 mulheres] foram confirmados por PCR. A taxa de prevalência foi de 56,89%. A injeção IV / IM foi registrada em 100% dos indivíduos. A visita à barbearia foi relatada em (58%) dos indivíduos, os números de casados foram (81,0%), e a operação cirúrgica foi relatada em (44,8%), o compartilhamento de escova de dente foi observado em (29,9%), o piercing foi relatado em (39,7%), antecedentes familiares foram relatados em (26,4%), tratamento odontológico em (21,8%), icterícia (13,2%) e tatuagem em (1,7%). Transfusão de sangue, operações cirúrgicas, icterícia, histórico familiar e tratamento odontológico foram fatores de risco significativos para adquirir infecção por Vírus da Hepatite C (VHC). Concluiu-se que a implementação adequada de medidas de precaução deve ser necessária para controlar a propagação do VHC em um futuro próximo.

Prevalence of HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and C in pregnant women at a maternity hospital in Salvador / Prevalência de HIV, Sífilis, Hepatites B e C em gestantes de uma maternidade de Salvador

Abstract Objectives: to calculate the prevalence and rate per 1,000 live births of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in pregnant women at a public maternity hospital in Salvador. Methods: this descriptive, cross-sectional study retrospectively collected data from compulsory notifications and medical records of pregnant women with STI seen at a maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil between 2014 and 2017 (n = 520). Prevalence and rate per 1,000 live births were estimated for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and syphilis. Associations between STI and other clinical and sociodemographic variables were investigated. Results: most pregnant women were born and resided in Salvador, presented a mean age of 26.4 years, self-reported mixed-race and had unplanned pregnancies. Prevalence and rates per 1,000 live births were, respectively: 0.26% and 3.39 for hepatitis B, 0.06% and 0.79 for hepatitis C, 0.47% and 6.23 for HIV, and 2.46% and 32.2 for syphilis. Conclusion: higher prevalence and rates of infection per 1,000 live births were seen at the maternity hospital in northeastern Brazil compared to official data provided by the Brazilian government, notably with regard to HIV and syphilis. The appropriate epidemiological notification of STI, especially in pregnant women, enables the elaboration of effective preventive strategies incorporating specific sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Resumo Objetivos: calcular a prevalência e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) em gestantes de uma maternidade pública de Salvador. Métodos: estudo transversal, descritivo, com dados coletados retrospectivamente a partir das fichas de notificação dos agravos e dos prontuários de todas as gestantes com IST atendidas na maternidade, entre os anos de 2014 e 2017 (n=520). Foram calculadas as prevalências e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos de hepatite B, hepatite C, HIV e sífilis para a população de gestantes da maternidade. Associações entre as IST e demais variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas também foram investigadas. Resultados: a maioria das gestantes era natural e residente de Salvador, pardas, com idade média de 26,4 anos e que não planejaram a gravidez. As prevalências e as taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos foram respectivamente: 0,26% e 3,39 para hepatite B, 0,06% e 0,79 para hepatite C, 0,47% e 6,23 para HIV e 2,46% e 32,2 para sífilis. Conclusão: a maternidade apresenta prevalências e taxas por 1000 nascidos vivos superiores aos dados oficiais do governo brasileiro, especialmente para HIV e sífilis. A correta notificação epidemiológica desses agravos, especialmente em gestantes, permite o desenvolvimento de estratégias preventivas mais eficientes e com enfoque nas características sociodemográficas e clínicas das pacientes.

Hepatitis C: ¿un virus que podríamos erradicar? / Hepatitis C: Could we eradicate this virus?

La infección crónica con el virus C de la hepatitis constituye un problema de salud a nivel mundial, tanto en niños como en adultos. Su eliminación espontánea puede ocurrir durante la infancia temprana, y luego es infrecuente. Aunque la mayoría de los casos son asintomáticos en la infancia y adolescencia, al llegar a la edad adulta, los pacientes pueden evolucionar a la cirrosis y presentar complicaciones, que incluyen el carcinoma hepatocelular. Un tratamiento eficaz debe tener como meta la eliminación del virus, lo que significaría la curación de la enfermedad. Recientemente, el advenimiento de varios agentes antivirales de acción directa ha posibilitado una alta resolución de la infección, del 97-100 % de los casos. Para lograr este objetivo costo-efectivo, es fundamental la concientización de los pediatras en la detección de los pacientes infectados y su derivación al especialista hepatólogo pediatra para la implementación del tratamiento adecuado.

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection is a health problem worldwide, both in children and adults. Its spontaneous resolution may occur during early childhood, and then it becomes uncommon. Although most cases are asymptomatic during childhood and adolescence, as adults, patients may progress to cirrhosis and develop complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma. The goal of an effective treatment should be virus elimination, i.e., disease cure. Recently, the emergence of several direct-acting antivirals has enabled a high rate of infection resolution in 97-100 % of cases. To achieve this cost-effective objective, it is critical to raise awareness among pediatricians so that they can detect infected patients and refer them to a pediatric liver specialist for an adequate management.

Epidemiologia das hepatites virais por classificação etiológica / Epidemiology of viral hepatitis by etiological classification

OBJETIVO: Descrever e analisar a epidemiologia das hepatites virais. MÉTODOS: Estudo epidemiológico descritivo realizado por meio da análise de dados obtidos do banco de dados da plataforma do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde relativos ao Estado de Minas Gerais, com as variáveis número de casos, hepatite viral CID 10 (B15 a B19), faixa etária, forma de transmissão, sexo e etnia no período de 2010 a 2017. RESULTADOS: Somaram-se 14.308 casos de hepatite A, B e C entre 2010 e 2017 em Minas Gerais. A hepatite C foi a mais prevalente com 50%, seguido da hepatite B com 39% e da hepatite A com 11%. O sexo masculino (70,2%) contrastou com o feminino (50,8%) no panorama geral. Quanto à etnia, foram obtidos 38% na parda e 37,5% na branca, em contraste com 0,4% na indígena. A faixa etária mais acometida foi de 40 a 59 anos com 54% dos casos. Surpreendeu a manutenção do número de casos registrados de vírus C transmitidos via transfusão sanguínea, provavelmente antes do reconhecimento do vírus, nos anos 1990 (1.002 casos), além da existência de casos de vírus A transmitidos via sexual (30 casos). CONCLUSÃO: Em Minas Gerais, a epidemiologia das hepatites virais seguiu a tendência global em faixa etária e número de casos. Todavia tornase imprescindível considerar novas abordagens de prevenção e controle com foco em educação sexual em saúde independente, principalmente nas faixas etárias jovens e avançadas. (AU)

OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the epidemiology of viral hepatitis. METHODS: This is a descriptive epidemiological study based on the analysis of data from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System in the state of Minas Gerais, with the following variables: viral hepatitis ICD 10 (B15-B19), age range, way of transmission, gender, and ethnicity, from 2010 to 2017. RESULTS: There were 14,308 cases of hepatitis A, B, and C from 2010 to 2017 in the state of Minas Gerais. Hepatitis C vírus was the most prevalent with 50%, followed by hepatitis B virus with 39%, and hepatitis A virus with 11%. The male gender (70.2%) contrasted with the female (50.8%) in the general panorama. As for ethnicity, 38% were in the brown people, and 37.5% in the white people, compared to 0,4% in the indigenous people. The most affected age group was 40-59 years, with 54% of the cases. Surprisingly, the number of registered cases of C virus transmitted by blood transfusion was steady, probably before the virus was recognized in the 1990s (1002 cases), and there were cases of virus A transmitted via sexual intercourse (30 cases). CONCLUSION: In Minas Gerais, the epidemiology of viral hepatitis follows the global trend in terms of age range and number of cases; however, it is imperative to consider new approaches in prevention and control, focusing on sexually independent health education, mainly in the young and advanced age groups. (AU)

Caracterización del paciente con Hepatitis C bajo control en el Sistema Público de Salud, Chile. Año 2016 -2017- / Characterization of hepatitis C patients under treatment in the Public Health System, Chile-2016

At the 67° World Health Assembly (WHA67.6), member states are encouraged to undertake measures to ensure and strengthen surveillance, prevention, access to treatment and control of viral hepatitis in all countries. In this context- and although in Chile hepatitis C is considered a low endemic pathology- efforts have been made to improve the lives of people infected by this virus. In the process of inclusion of new direct-action therapies such as Explicit Guarantees in Health (GES), it was necessary to know the real demand, as well as some important variables for decision-making. Methodology: In 2016, the Ministry of Health requested to the centers of hepatitis C of the public health system of the country, to report in Excel spreadsheets the list of patients under control, including variables of clinical-epidemiological interest. Sensitive data from these cases guaranteed throughout the process. Descriptive analysis of the profile of the patient, genotype, comorbidities, as well as liver transplantation, the result of previous treatment and candidates for new therapies according to prioritization criteria, established in GES regulation. In the results the characterization of the patients is described: the age is concentrated between 45 and 69 years old, without greater difference by sex, the most common genotype is 1 with 60% and 18% for genotype 3, 35% has cirrhosis, 21% has esophageal varicose veins, 6% HCV/HIV co-infection, 0.8% HCV/HBV co-infection, 7% with hemophilia.

En la 67ª Asamblea Mundial de la Salud (WHA67.6) se recomienda a los estados miembros emprender medidas para garantizar y fortalecer la vigilancia, prevención, acceso al tratamiento y control de las hepatitis virales en todos los países. En este contexto, y pese a que en Chile se considera la hepatitis C como una patología de baja endemia, se han realizado esfuerzos para mejorar la vida de las personas infectadas por este virus. En el proceso de inclusión de las nuevas terapias de acción directa como garantías explícitas en Salud (GES), se requirió conocer la demanda real, así como algunas variables importantes para la toma de decisiones. Metodología: El año 2016 desde el Ministerio de Salud se solicitó a los centros tratantes de hepatitis C del sistema público de salud del país, informar el listado de pacientes bajo control, incluyendo variables de interés clínico epidemiológico requeridas en planillas Excel. Se garantizó en todo el proceso los datos sensibles de estos casos. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo del perfil del paciente, genotipo, comorbilidades, así como trasplante hepático, resultado de tratamiento anterior y candidatos a nuevas terapias según criterios de priorización, establecidos en la norma GES. En los resultados se describe la caracterización de los pacientes: la edad se concentra entre los 45 y 69 años, sin mayor diferencia por sexo, el genotipo más común es el 1 con 60% y 18% para el genotipo 3, 35% presenta cirrosis, 21% presenta várices esofágicas, 6% coinfección VHC/VIH, 0,8% coinfección VHC/VHB, 7% con hemofilia.

Asociación del antecedente transfusional antes de 1994 con hepatitis vírica tipo C en mujeres / Linking hepatitis C virus infection to pre-1994 blood transfusions in female patients

INTRODUCCIÓN La mayor parte de las transfusiones se llevan a cabo en mujeres. La introducción en los bancos de sangre de las técnicas serológicas disminuyó la incidencia de infección por virus de hepatitis C después de una transfusión. En México, las pacientes que se transfundieron antes de 1994 están en riesgo de presentar una infección por virus de hepatitis C. El objetivo de este estudio fue medir la asociación entre el antecedente transfusional antes de 1994 e infección por virus de hepatitis C en mujeres atendidas en la zona metropolitana de Guadalajara, México. MÉTODOS Estudio observacional, analítico, de casos y controles, en el que se incluyeron mujeres sanas y mujeres con infección por hepatitis vírica tipo C, en las cuales se determinó el antecedente transfusional antes y después de 1994. El grupo de casos lo conforman 150 mujeres con diagnóstico serológico y confirmatorio de hepatitis C, en tanto el grupo control son 150 mujeres sanas con serología negativa. RESULTADOS Se encontró un odds ratio de 9,07 (intervalo de confianza 95% 5,37 ­ 15,3; p<0,001), una proporción de casos expuestos de 0,72, de controles expuestos de 0,22, una fracción atribuible poblacional de 0,64 (intervalo de confianza 0,53 ­ 0,73) y una fracción atribuible en expuestos de 0,88 (intervalo de confianza 0,81 ­ 0,93). CONCLUSIONES En las mujeres, el haber tenido una transfusión antes de 1994 en la zona metropolitana de Guadalajara, representa un riesgo 9,07 veces mayor de infección por virus de la hepatitis C que no tener antecedente transfusional en esa fecha.

INTRODUCTION Most blood transfusions occur in female patients. The introduction of serologic screening practices by blood banks reduced the transfusion-related rate of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). In Mexico patients with pre-1994 transfusion history are at high risk of being detected with HCV infection. We aimed at establishing an interrelationship between two variables: pre-1994 transfusion history and rate of infection in women treated in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area hospitals, in Mexico. METHODS Analytical observational case-control study which included both non-infected women and patients diagnosed with hepatitis C virus infection, in whom the pre-1994 transfusion history was determined. The cases were 150 women with confirmed hepatitis C virus serologic diagnosis. The controls were 150 women whose hepatitis C virus-detection serologic tests had yielded negative results. RESULTS An odds ratio of 9.07 (95% CI: 5.37 ­ 15.3; p< 0.001) was found where the rate of infection for the case group was 0.72 while the control group had a ratio of 0.22; population attributable risk (PAR) was 0.64 (95% CI: 0.53 ­ 0.73), while etiologic fraction was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.81 ­ 0.93). CONCLUSIONS Among women, having been exposed to pre-1994 blood transfusion means a risk 9.07 times higher than not being exposed to blood transfusion in the same time frame.

Incidence et risque résiduel de transmission des virus de l'hépatite B et C par transfusion sanguine à Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso) : Étude de cohorte

l'objectif de notre étude était d'évaluer l'incidence et le risque de transmission des virus des hépatites B et C par transfusion. nous avons conduit une étude de cohorte rétrospective de janvier 2009 à décembre 2014 portant sur les dons de 12 969 donneurs bénévoles et réguliers de sang au Centre Régional de Transfusion Sanguine de Bobo-dioulasso. le diagnostic de l'infection par le VhC ou le VhB était obtenu par technique eliSa devant la présence dans le sérum des anticorps anti-VhC pour le VhC ou de l'antigène hBs pour ce qui est du VhB. le taux d'incidence du VhB était de 2,16 pour 100 donneurs-années et celui du VhC était de 2,59 pour 100 donneurs-années. le risque de transmission du VhB était estimé à 1 pour 302 dons et celui du VhC à 1 pour 213 dons. un renforcement de la sélection des donneurs de sang s'avère indispensable devant un risque élevé de transmission des virus de l'hépatite B et/ou C par don de sang provenant des donneurs bénévoles réguliers

Factores de riesgo para la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C en la Costa Caribe colombiana: un estudio de casos y controles / Risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection in the Colombian Caribbean coast: A case-control study

Resumen Introducción. Se estima que, aproximadamente, 6,8 a 8,9 millones de personas están infectadas por el virus de la hepatitis C en Latinoamérica, de las cuales menos del 1 % llega a recibir tratamiento antiviral. En los estudios llevados a cabo hasta ahora en Colombia, se ha propuesto determinar la prevalencia de la enfermedad en algunos grupos de riesgo, y no se ha hecho el análisis de otros factores potencialmente implicados en el contagio. Objetivos. Determinar los factores de riesgo tradicionalmente analizados y otros no estudiados antes para la hepatitis C crónica en la Costa Caribe colombiana. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio de casos y controles (1:3) emparejados por empresa promotora de salud y edad (± 10 años), en el primer nivel de atención de hepatología y gastroenterología. A todos los pacientes positivos en la prueba ELISA se les hizo una prueba confirmatoria de carga viral. En el análisis de regresión logística multivariable se determinaron los factores predictores independientes de infección. Resultados. La transfusión sanguínea (odds ratio, OR=159,2; IC95% 35,4-715; p<0,001) y el antecedente de hospitalización antes de 1994 (OR=4,7; IC95% 1,3-17,1; p=0,018) se determinaron como los dos únicos factores independientes predictores de infección. Conclusión. Es necesario comprobar la reproducibilidad de estos resultados y hacer estudios de costo-efectividad antes de recomendar su utilización en el diseño de nuevas estrategias de cribado.

Abstract Introduction: An estimated 6.8-8.9 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus in Latin America, of which less than 1% receives antiviral treatment. Studies so far in Colombia have attempted to determine the prevalence of the disease in some risk groups, thus preventing the identification of other factors potentially involved in the spread of the infection. Objectives: To identify traditional and non-traditional risk factors for chronic hepatitis C in the Colombian Caribbean coast. Materials and methods: This was a case-control study (1:3) matched by health care provider and age (± 10 years) conducted at the primary care level of gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient services. All patients with a positive ELISA underwent a confirmatory viral load test. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the independent predictors of infection. Results: Blood transfusion (OR=159.2; 95% CI: 35.4-715; p<0.001) and history of hospitalization before 1994 (OR=4.7; 95% CI: 1.3-17.1; p=0.018) were identified as the only two independent predictors of infection. Conclusion: It is necessary to check the reproducibility of these results and to conduct cost-effectiveness studies before recommending their use in the design of new screening strategies.

Conhecimento e adesão às precauções padrão: estudantes diante dos riscos biológicos no Brasil e na Colômbia / Knowledge of and compliance with universal precautions: students dealing with biological risk in Brazil and Colombia / Conocimiento y adhesión a las precauciones universales: estudiantes frente a los virus, en Brasil y en Colombia

Objetivo Avaliar as escalas de adesão às precauções padrão (PPs) e conhecimento sobre meios de transmissão entre estudantes da saúde no Brasil e na Colômbia. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo piloto para validar o questionário que iniciou estudo de coorte. Selecionamos intencionalmente 26 estudantes na Colômbia e 25 no Brasil, comparáveis em número e características sociodemográficas, que cursavam profissões da saúde (medicina, enfermagem e odontologia). Utilizamos o programa SPSS versão 18.0 para criar o banco de dados e a análise estatística. Resultados : Avaliamos 51 estudantes, com média ± Desvio Padrão de idade de 21,78 ± 2,33, dos quais 84,3 % eram mulheres, 66,7 % de cor de pele branca, , 47,1 % de medicina, e 70,6 % do 70 semestre. Responderam sobre hábitos sexuais afirmando que 45,1 % tiveram no último ano só um parceiro, 23,5 % não usaram proteção, e dos que se protegeram, 45,1 % utilizaram o preservativo. A média de con0hecimento foi 10,88 (±0,952) pontos, para valor esperado de 9 pontos; com Alpha de Cronbach's (α) de 0,823. A média de adesão às precauções padrão (PPs) foi 33,69 (±3,36) pontos, para 30,75 esperados. O α foi de 0,741. Encontramos diferença significativa no conhecimento (p<0,007) entre os dois países, e na adesão as PPs segundo o curso (p<0,001). Conclusões O conhecimento sobre meios de transmissão foi bom. A adesão às precauções padrão em geral foi aceitável, mas foi baixa para algumas precauções avaliadas como o uso de óculos, máscara e o descarte de perfurocortantes. Estudantes de odontologia tiveram melhor adesão.(AU)

Objective To assess scales of adherence to universal precautions and means of knowledge transmission among healthcare students in Brazil and Colombia. Methods We conducted a pilot study to validate the questionnaire that started a cohort study. Twenty-six students in Colombia and 25 in Brazil were intentionally selected. The participants were comparable in number and sociodemographic characteristics in both countries and studied the health professions (medicine, nursing and dentistry). The program SPSS version 18.0 was used to create the database and to carry out statistical analysis. Results We evaluated a total of 51 students. They had a a mean (SD) age of 21.78 (2.33), 84.3 % were women, 66.7 % had white skin, 47.1 % were medical students, and 70,6 % were in their 4th year. They answered about sexual habits reporting that 45.1 had only one partner% in the last year, 23.5 % did not use protection, and, of those who were protected, 45.1 % used a condom. The mean knowledge was 10.88 (±0.952) points to an expected 9 points; Cronbach's Alpha (α) was 0.823. The mean adherence to universal precautions (UPs) was 33.69 (±3.36) points to an expected 30.75; α was 0.741. We found a significant difference in knowledge levels (p<0.007) between the two countries and in the adherence to PUs by year of study (p<0.001). Conclusions Knowledge about means of transmission was good. Adherence to universal precautions was acceptable, but low in terms of the use of glasses, face masks, and discarding sharp objects. Dentistry students showed the best adherence.(AU)

Objetivo Evaluar escalas de adhesión a las precauciones universales y de conocimiento sobre medios de transmisión entre estudiantes de la salud, en Brasil y Colombia. Métodos Realizamos estudio piloto para validar cuestionario utilizado en el inicio del estudio de cohorte. Seleccionamos intencionalmente 26 estudiantes en Colombia y 25 en Brasil, comparables en número y características socio-demográficas, de profesiones de la salud (medicina, enfermería y odontología). Se utilizó el programa SPSS versión 18.0 para crear el banco de datos y realizar el análisis estadístico. Resultados Evaluamos 51 estudiantes, con media (SD) de edad de 21,78 años (2,33), 84,3 % eran mujeres, 66,7 % de tez blanca, 47,1 % de medicina, y 70,6 % del 70 período. Ellos contestaran sobre sus hábitos sexuales reportando que 45,1 % tuvieron en el último año sólo un compañero, 23,5 % no usaron protección, y de los que se protegieron, 45,1 % utilizaron el preservativo. La media de conocimiento fue 10,88 (±0,952) puntos, para una esperada de 9 puntos; con Alpha de Cronbach's (α) de 0,823. La media de adhesión a las Precauciones Universales (PUs) fue 33,69 (±3,36) puntos, con una expectativa de 30,75; α fue de 0,741. Se encontró diferencia significativa en el conocimiento (p<0,007) entre los dos países, y en la adhesión de las PUs según el curso (p<0,001). Conclusiones El conocimiento sobre medios de transmisión era bueno. La adhesión a las precauciones universales era aceptable, pero baja para el uso de gafas, tapabocas y el descarte de elementos cortantes y perforantes. Estudiantes de odontología tuvieron mejor adhesión.(AU)

PREVALENCE OF THE HEPATITIS C VIRUS AMONG UNIVERSITY EMPLOYEES IN SÃO PAULO, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL: predictive factors and geoprocessing spatial analysis / Prevalência do vírus da hepatite C em funcionários universitários do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil: fatores preditivos e análise espacial por geoprocessamento

Background There are limited studies on the prevalence and risk factors associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Objective Identify the prevalence and risk factors for HCV infection in university employees of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Methods Digital serological tests for anti-HCV have been performed in 3153 volunteers. For the application of digital testing was necessary to withdraw a drop of blood through a needlestick. The positive cases were performed for genotyping and RNA. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test were used, with P-value <0.05 indicating statistical significance. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were also used. Results Prevalence of anti-HCV was 0.7%. The risk factors associated with HCV infection were: age >40 years, blood transfusion, injectable drugs, inhalable drugs (InDU), injectable Gluconergam®, glass syringes, tattoos, hemodialysis and sexual promiscuity. Age (P=0.01, OR 5.6, CI 1.4 to 22.8), InDU (P<0.0001, OR=96.8, CI 24.1 to 388.2), Gluconergam® (P=0.0009, OR=44.4, CI 4.7 to 412.7) and hemodialysis (P=0.0004, OR=90.1, CI 7.5 – 407.1) were independent predictors. Spatial analysis of the prevalence with socioeconomic indices, Gross Domestic Product and Human Development Index by the geoprocessing technique showed no positive correlation. Conclusions The prevalence of HCV infection was 0.7%. The independent risk factors for HCV infection were age, InDU, Gluconergan® and hemodialysis. There was no spatial correlation of HCV prevalence with local economic factors. .

Contexto Existem escassos estudos sobre a prevalência e fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C. Objetivos Identificar a prevalência e os fatores de risco para a infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C em funcionários de uma Universidade do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Métodos Testes sorológicos digitais para anti vírus da hepatite C foram realizados em 3.153 voluntários. Para a aplicação do teste digital foi necessário retirar uma gota de sangue através de uma picada de agulha. Nos casos positivos foram realizados genotipagem e RNA. Os testes Qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher foram utilizados, com valor de P<0,05 sendo considerado como estatisticamente significante. Regressão logística univariada e multivariada também foram aplicadas. Resultados A prevalência de anti vírus da hepatite C foi de 0,7%. Os fatores de risco associados com a infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C foram idade >40 anos, transfusão de sangue, uso de drogas injetáveis, uso de drogas inalatórias, Gluconergam® injetável, uso de seringas de vidro, tatuagens, hemodiálise e promiscuidade sexual. Idade (P=0,01, OR 5,6, IC 1,4-22,8), uso de drogas inalatórias (P<0,0001, OR=96,8, IC 24,1-388,2), Gluconergam® injetável (P=0,0009, OR=44,4, IC 4,7-412,7) e hemodiálise (P=0,0004, OR=90,1, IC 7,5-407,1) foram preditores independentes. A análise espacial da prevalência com índices socioeconômicos, produto interno bruto e índice de desenvolvimento humano, por meio da técnica de geoprocessamento, não mostrou correlação positiva. Conclusões A prevalência da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C foi de 0,7%. Os fatores de risco independentes para a infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C foram idade, uso de drogas inalatórias, Gluconergan® injetável e hemodiálise. Não houve correlação espacial da prevalência de vírus da hepatite C com fatores econômicos locais. .

Hcv infection trrough perforating and cutting mterial among candidates for bloood donation in belém, Brazilian amazon / Infecção pelo HCV através de materiais cortantes e perfurantes entre candidatos à doação de sangue em Belém, Amazônia Brasileira

This study evaluated epidemiological factors for HCV infection associated with sharing perforating and cutting instruments among candidates for blood donation (CBD) in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazilian Amazon. Two definitions of HCV infection cases were used: anti-HCV positivity shown by EIA, and HCV-RNA detection by PCR. Infected and uninfected CBD completed a questionnaire about possible risk factors associated with sharing perforating and cutting instruments. The information was evaluated using simple and multiple logistic regressions. Between May and November 2010, 146 (1.1%) persons with anti-HCV antibodies and 106 (0.8%) with HCV-RNA were detected among 13,772 CBD in Belém. Risk factors associated with HCV infection based on the EIA (model 1) and PCR (model 2) results were: use of needles and syringes sterilized at home; shared use of razors at home, sharing of disposable razors in barbershops, beauty salons etc.; and sharing manicure and pedicure material. The models of HCV infection associated with sharing perforating and cutting instruments should be taken into account by local and regional health authorities and by those of other countries with similar cultural practices, in order to provide useful information to guide political and public strategies to control HCV transmission.

Este estudo avaliou fatores epidemiológicos para infecção pelo HCV associados ao compartilhamento de instrumentos cortantes e perfurantes em candidatos à doação de sangue (CDS) na cidade de Belém, Pará, Amazônia Brasileira. Duas definições de infecção pelo HCV foram utilizadas: positividade por anti-HCV detectada por EIA, e HCV-RNA detectado por PCR. CDS infectados e não-infectados preencheram questionário sobre possíveis fatores de risco associados com o compartilhamento de instrumentos cortantes e perfurantes. As informações foram avaliadas usando regressão logística simples e múltipla. Entre maio e novembro de 2010, 146 (1,1%) indivíduos com anticorpos anti-HCV e 106 (0,8%) com HCV-RNA foram detectadas entre 13.772 CDS em Belém. Os fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo HCV baseado em resultados de EIA (modelo 1) e PCR (modelo 2) foram: uso de agulhas e seringas esterilizadas em casa, uso compartilhado de lâminas em casa, compartilhamento de lâminas em barbearias, salões de beleza, etc., e compartilhamento de material de manicure e pedicure. Os modelos de infecção pelo HCV associados com o compartilhamento de instrumentos cortantes e perfurantes devem ser considerados pelas autoridades de saúde local e regional e de países com práticas culturais semelhantes, a fim de fornecer informações uteis para direcionar estratégias e políticas públicas de controle da transmissão do HCV.

Boletim Epidemiológico Hepatites Virais - 2014 / Epidemiological Bulletin Viral Hepatitis - 2014

A hepatite é uma doença caracterizada pela inflamação das células do fígado que pode ser causada principalmente por vírus, uso de medicamentos, álcool e outras drogas. Pode levar a insuficiência hepática aguda, cirrose e câncer do fígado. O Boletim Epidemiológico foi elaborado a partir das bases de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) e Sistema de Informação de Mortalidade (SIM), no período de 2009 a 2013 da população residente no estado de Goiás. A análise define o padrão epidemiológico da doença, a partir de estudo descritivo e analítico com referência temporal e características pessoais. No período de 2009 a 2013 foram notificados 32.609 casos suspeitos de hepatites virais, deste total 9104 casos foram confirmados, onde 966 confirmados de hepatite A, 7.083 casos confirmados de hepatite B e 890 suspeitos de hepatite C. Em julho de 2013, iniciou - se no estado de Goiás o tratamento da Hepatite C com as novas drogas disponibilizadas pelo Ministério da Saúde (MS). Atualmente, 140 portadores do vírus da hepatite C foram cadastrados no Hospital de Doenças Tropicais (HDT) e 5 no Serviço de Tratamento Especializado (SAE) do Município de Anápolis totalizando 145 usuários para tratamento da terapia tripla.

Hepatitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of liver cells that can be caused mainly by viruses, drug use, alcohol and other drugs. It can lead to acute liver failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer. The Epidemiological Bulletin was prepared from the databases of the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and Mortality Information System (SIM), from 2009 to 2013 of the population living in the state of Goiás. The analysis defines the epidemiological pattern of the disease, based on a descriptive and analytical study with temporal reference and personal characteristics. In the period from 2009 to 2013, 32,609 suspected cases of viral hepatitis were reported, of this total 9104 cases were confirmed, where 966 confirmed hepatitis A, 7,083 confirmed cases of hepatitis B and 890 suspected cases of hepatitis C. In July 2013, the treatment of Hepatitis C with the new drugs made available by the Ministry of Health (MS) began in the state of Goiás. Currently, 140 carriers of hepatitis C virus were registered at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HDT) and 5 in the Specialized Treatment Service (SAE) of the Municipality of Anápolis totaling 145 users for treatment of triple therapy.

Influencia de la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C en la mortalidad de los pacientes en hemodiálisis / Influence of infection by the hepatitis C virus on mortality in hemodialysis patients

Introducción: la hepatitis C se mantiene como un problema de salud en los centros de hemodiálisis. Métodos: se realizó un estudio de cohorte histórico donde se incluyeron 215 pacientes que ingresaron al centro de hemodiálisis del Hospital Militar Dr. Luis Díaz Soto, entre 1995 y 2008. Se tomaron como períodos de exposición los criterios de aislamiento de pacientes con hepatitis C. Resultados: se halló mortalidad general de 30,2 por ciento, la letalidad y la mortalidad por hepatitis C fueron mayores en el período de exposición con 53,8 por ciento y 16,6 por ciento, respectivamente. En el análisis multivariado por regresión de Cox se observó que constituyeron factores de riesgo de morir, en un menor tiempo de observación, la presencia de hepatitis C y recibir tratamiento con hemodiálisis en los períodos de mayor incidencia (p=0,014), independientemente de la carga de comorbilidades. Conclusiones: la infección por el VHC contribuye a aumentar la mortalidad de los pacientes en tratamiento con hemodiálisis, cuando se tiene en cuenta la carga de comorbilidades

Introduction: hepatitis C remains a health problem in hemodialysis centers. Methods: a historical cohort study was conducted. 215 patients who entered Dr. Luis Díaz Soto Military Hospital hemodialysis center from 1995 to 2008 were included. Isolation criteria of patients with hepatitis C were considered as exposure periods. Results: overall mortality was 30.2 percent, lethality and mortality from hepatitis C were higher in the exposure period (53.8 percent and 16.6 percent respectively). In multivariate analysis by Cox regression, the presence of hepatitis C and treatment with hemodialysis were observed to be death risk factors in a shorter time of observation, during periods of increased incidence (p = 0.014), regardless of the burden of comorbidities. Conclusions: HCV infection in patients on hemodialysis contributes to increased mortality even when taking into account the burden of comorbidities

Occult HCV in Egyptian volunteer blood donors

The study aims to investigate the risk of post-transfusion transmission of hepatitis c virus [HCV] in the circumstances of occult HCV when anti-HCV is undetectable by ELISA and HCV-RNA is detected by RT-PCR in the plasma and or in peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs] of donor blood and the recipients are immunocompromised. The study covered 18 chronic renal failure patients [CRF] [12 males [66.7%] their age ranged from 28 to 65 years and 6 females [33.3%] their age ranged from 15 to 55 years] undergoing hemodialysis in Nile Hospital as part of their therapy have to receive blood transfusions [275 blood units] for the first time. Commercial ELISA kits for anti-HCV and nested-RT-PCR [N-RT-PCR] kits were used. Anti-HCV was positive in one serum from the eighteen [5.5%] poly transfused CRF patients at the end of the study while the seventeen sera were negative. This serum was also positive for HCV RNA by N-RT-PCR. Out of the 20 transfused blood units, one blood unit [three components] were tested by blood banking anti-HCV negative by ELISA, were positive for HCV RNA by N-RT-PCR. The collective markers of this blood unit represent an occult HCV. The risk of acquiring post-transfusion HCV infection from an occult HCV blood unit is 5%. Real time PCR showed variation in the viral load of the serum of the infected CRF patient, the plasma of blood unit, the PBMCs of this blood unit whether activated by PHA-M or not

Effects of training course on occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens: a controlled interventional study

One of the serious occupational concerns in health care workers [HCWs] is exposure to blood/body fluids that can transmit blood borne pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B and C viruses. We are reporting the effects of training course and surveillance on the rate of needle stick injuries [NSIs] among HCWs at an educational hospital in Iran. Aims: To evaluate the effects of training course on the rate of NSIs and its reporting. We selected two hospitals [A and B] based on their similarities in wards and facilities then asked the managers of these two hospitals to participate in our study. We established a new occupational health center and conducted a training course at hospital A on 2010 and compared it with control group [hospital B]. The data from 2009 to 2011 was collected, analyzed to compare pre and post intervention rates. During study period nurses sustained the highest number of injuries [hospital A: n=80; 66.1% and hospital B: n=64; 35.4%]. The incidence rate of NSIs in hospital A was 7.16 NSI/100FTE/ YEAR before the intervention which was increased to 12.06 after the intervention. In hospital B this rate was 6.05 during three years. The study revealed remarkable increase in the incidence rate of NSIs after the intervention. This is being achieved by meticulous surveillance, training course and improving awareness.

Blood discard rate and the prevalence of infectious and contagious diseases in blood donors from provincial towns of the state of Parana, Brazil

Background: So that an improvement in the selection of donors can be achieved and the risk to the recipient of transfused blood can be reduced, prospective donors are submitted to clinical and serological screening. Objective: This study investigated the blood discard rate and the rate of infectious and contagious diseases in blood donors from provincial towns of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Methods: This study was an exploratory cross-sectional descriptive investigation with a quantitative approach of donations between January and December 2011. Results: In the study period the Regional Blood center in Maringá, Brazil received 8337 blood donations from people living in the city and neighboring towns. However, 278 (3.33%) donations were discarded during serological screening owing to one or more positive serological markers. A total of 46.4% of the discarded blood units were confirmed positive by serology with anti-HBc being the most common (66.7%), followed by syphilis (22.5%), HBsAg (4.7%), anti-hepatitis C virus (3.1%), human immunodeficiency virus (1.5%) and Chagas' disease (1.5%). The rate of infectious-contagious diseases that can be transmitted by blood transfusions was 1.55% (129/8337) of the donor population with a frequency of 1.03% for anti-HBc and 0.35% for syphilis. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of the anti-HBc marker in prospective blood donors from provincial towns in the state of Paraná, Brazil. .

Avaliação de testes rápidos para o diagnóstico da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite c / Rapid assessment tests for the diagnosis of infection with hepatitis c

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho de testes rápidos para o diagnóstico de anti-HCV em amostras de soro, sangue total e fluido oral em populações com diferentes perfis de endemicidade e comportamento de risco para o HCV. Foram obtidas amostras biológicas de 3 grupos entre fevereiro de 2010 a setembro de 2011: (I) 194 indivíduos atendidos em centros de referência para o diagnóstico das hepatites virais no Rio de Janeiro (IOC/Fiocruz e UFRJ) que forneceram amostras pareadas de soro, sangue total e fluido oral avaliadas pelos testes rápidos WAMA Imuno-Rápido HCV (WAMA Diagnóstica) e Bioeasy HCV Rapid Test (Bioeasy Diagnóstica Ltda) e, 174 amostras de fluido oral avaliadas pelo teste rápido Oraquick HCV (Orasure); (II) indivíduos residentes em áreas remotas [...], onde 430 amostras pareadas de soro, sangue total e fluido oral foram avaliadas pelos testes Wama e Bioeasy e 459 amostras foram avaliadas pelo teste rápido Orasure; (III) indivíduos usuários de crack residentes em duas regiões geográficas do Brasil (Sudeste e Nordeste) e profissionais de beleza residentes na cidade do Rio de Janeiro que forneceram 200 amostras pareadas de soro, sangue total e fluido oral para avaliação nos testes Wama e Bioeasy e 43 amostras de fluido oral para uso no teste rápido Orasure. O anti-HCV foi avaliado em amostras de soro por dois testes imunoenzimáticos [...] e aquelas amostras reagentes foram submetidas ao PCR para detecção do HCV RNA...

The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of rapid tests for the diagnosis of anti-HCV in sera, whole blood and oral fluid samples from populations with different endemicity profiles and risk behavior for HCV. Biological samples were obtained from 3 groups from February 2010 toSeptember 2011: (I) 194 individuals referred to Reference Centers for Viral Hepatitis Diagnosis at Rio de Janeiro (IOC/Fiocruz e UFRJ) who donate paired sera, whole blood and oral fluid samples evaluated by rapid tests WAMA Imuno-Rápido HCV (WAMA Diagnóstica) and Bioeasy HCV Rapid Test (Bioeasy Diagnóstica Ltda) and, 174 oral fluid samples evaluated by rapid test Oraquick HCV (Orasure); (II)individuals residing in remote areas [...], where 430 paired sera, whole blood and oral fluid samples were evaluated by Wama and Bioeasy and 459 samples evaluated by Orasure rapid test; (III) crack users residing in two geographical areas of Brazil (Southeast and Northeast) and beauty professionals residing at Rio de Janeiro city who donated 200 paired sera, whole blood and oral fluid samples for evaluation at Wama and Bioeasytests and 43 oral fluid samples to use in Orasure rapid test. Anti-HCV was evaluated in sera samples by two enzyme immunoassays [...] and those reactive samples were submitted to PCR for HCV RNA detection. [...] Sensitivity and specificity of rapid tests varied respectively from 76.03 percent to 93.84 percent and 93.75percent to 100percent when all anti-HCVreactive individuals by ELISA were included...