Complications following COVID-19 infection or vaccination in Libyan International Medical University students and their Families

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel strain of coronavirus belonging to the genus Beta coronavirus named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a major pandemic worldwide. This contagious virus had spread in many different forms, and patients have demonstrated a wide range of symptoms, ranging from moderate to severe illness. This study aims to highlight the important associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination, and possible complications at the Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi. This crosssectional survey was conducted among students and their families at Libyan International Medical University in Benghazi, Libya. Among the 100 participants, 72% were between the ages of 18 and 39. Up to (59%) of participants were men. As for the infection with COVID-19, 77% of participants were infected. Most of the participants had no chronic diseases (69%); however, the most common chronic disease was diabetes mellitus (13%). 82% of participants were vaccinated; the most common types of vaccines administered were Sinopharm and Sputnik V (24%). Following vaccination, 71% of participants had no COVID-19 infection, while 29% did get the infection. Regarding this study, after COVID-19 infection, 66% of participants had no complications; however, 17% had pulmonary complications, which was the most common complication among the participants. As for the complications following the vaccination, 81% of participants had none, while there were pulmonary and neurological complications in 7­6%. The results of the study showed that the most frequent complications noticed among the participants following the COVID-19 infection and vaccination were pulmonary and neurological complications.

Daño miocárdico en la COVID-19 / Myocardial Damage in COVID-19

Introducción: La enfermedad por coronavirus ha causado daño miocárdico, razón que ha impactado en las ciencias médicas por lo que ha sido motivo de investigación. Objetivo: Mostrar a través de resultados de recientes investigaciones, los mecanismos mediante los cuales el virus SARS-CoV-2 produce daño miocárdico en los pacientes afectados por la COVID-19, y su influencia en el pronóstico a corto y largo plazo. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de la literatura médica actualizada sobre el tema publicada en idioma inglés y español, indexado en varias bases de datos en el período comprendido de mayo de 2019 a mayo de 2022. De un total de 198 artículos en la revisión, cumplieron con los criterios de selección 78 artículos. Se excluyeron los que no contenían información precisa en cuanto al daño miocárdico provocado por el SARS-CoV-2. Resultados: Se han descrito varios mecanismos que pueden ser los desencadenantes entre los que se destacan: daño directo por angiotensina II, lesión inducida por hipoxia, daño microvascular miocárdico y síndrome de respuesta inflamatoria sistémica. Conclusiones: Los diferentes mecanismos por los cuales el virus SARS-CoV-2 produce daño miocárdico, hacen que los pacientes con la COVID-19 tengan más probabilidades de sufrir una lesión miocárdica. Las manifestaciones clínicas en pacientes con la COVID-19 como miocarditis, insuficiencia cardíaca, arritmias cardíacas, síndrome coronario agudo y derrame pericárdico, son más comunes en pacientes con antecedentes de enfermedad cardiovascular que desfavorecen su pronóstico(AU)

Introduction: Coronavirus disease has caused myocardial damage. This reality has impacted medical sciences and it has been the subject of research. Objective: To show, through the results of recent research, the mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 virus produces myocardial damage in patients affected by COVID-19, and its influence on short- and long-term prognosis. Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out of the updated medical literature on the topic published in English and Spanish, indexed in several databases from May 2019 to May 2022. One hundred ninety-eight articles were included in the review, only 78 met the selection criteria. Those that did not contain precise information regarding myocardial damage caused by SARS-CoV-2 were excluded. Results: Several mechanisms have been described as probable triggers, standing out direct damage by angiotensin II, hypoxia-induced injury, myocardial microvascular damage and systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Conclusions: The different mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 virus produces myocardial damage make COVID-19 patients more likely to suffer myocardial injury. Clinical manifestations in COVID-19 patients such as myocarditis, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, acute coronary syndrome and pericardial effusion are more common in patients with history of cardiovascular disease, which do not favors their prognosis(AU)

Clinical risk factors for predicting anti-Sars-Cov-2 antibody immunoreactivity duration after mild COVID-19 infection / Fatores de risco clínicos para predizer a duração da imunoresatividade do anticorpo anti-Sars-Cov-2 após infecção leve por COVID-19

Introduction: coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a complex multisystem disorder. It is not yet well known whether symptoms in the acute phase correlate with the duration of the immune response and the persistence of chronic symptoms.Objective: this study aimed to assess and monitor the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 and correlate them with the production of neutralizing antibodies.Methods: a cohort of 69 health workers at the University Hospital of the Federal University of Espírito Santo (HUCAM-UFES/EBSERH) diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed via RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription­Polymerase Chain Reaction) were evaluated from the onset of symptoms up to six months. SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM assays were used to detect the presence of IgG and IgM against the nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 in serum samples. IgG and IgM antibody serology, pulmonary function via spirometry, and the clinical evolution of patients were performed at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 180 days after the onset of COVID-19 symptoms.Results: sixty-nine health workers (age, 40 ± 10 years; 74% women) were evaluated for six months. All subjects showed mild to moderate COVID-19. The mean number of symptoms was 5.1 (± 2.3). The most common initial symptoms were muscle pain (77%), headache (75%), anosmia (70%), ageusia (64%), runny nose (59%), fever (52%), and coughing (52%). After 30 days, the patients had anosmia (18%), asthenia (18%), adynamia (14%), muscle pain (7%), and ageusia (7%). Regarding lung function, 9.25% presented with an obstructive pattern, and all recovered after six months. Of all analyzed participants, 18/69 (26%) did not have any reactive IgG or IgM values in any of the assessments. The IgG serology curve showed a peak, whereas IgM had the highest mean value on the 15th day. There was a progressive decrease and levels similar to those at baseline after 90 days, and 15/53 (28%) remained with reactive IgG after six months. Sore throat and shortness of breath were found to be independent risk factors, and patients with these symptoms were 5.9 times more likely to have reactive IgG on the 180th day. Patients with diarrhea were four times more likely to have reactive IgM.Conclusion: our findings showed that 26% of patients did not produce a humoral response post-mild COVID-19. Their antibody titers dropped significantly after 90 days, and only 28% maintained reactive IgG antibodies after six months. Sore throat and shortness of breath are predictors of a longer duration of the humoral immune response.

Introdução: a doença causada pelo coronavírus (COVID-19) é complexa e multissistêmica. Ainda não se sabe se os sintomas da fase aguda estão correlacionados com a duração da resposta imune e com a persistência dos sintomas crônicos.Objetivo: o presente estudo visa acessar e monitorar os sintomas clínicos do COVID-19, correlacionando-os com a produção de anticorpos neutralizantes.Método: uma coorte de 69 profissionais da saúde da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (HUCAM-UFES/EBSERH) diagnosticados com infecção por SARS-CoV-2 confirmada via RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction) foram avaliados do início dos sintomas até seis meses depois. Exames laboratoriais de IgG e IgM foram utilizados para detectar a presença de IgG e IgM contra a proteína do nucleocapsídeo do vírus SARS-CoV-2 nas amostras de plasma sanguíneo. Sorologia de anticorpos IgG e IgM, função pulmonar via espirometria e avaliação clínica dos pacientes foram realizadas nos dias 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 e 180 após o início dos sintomas da doença.Resultados: sessenta e nove profissionais da saúde (idade, 40 ± 10 anos; 74% mulheres) foram avaliados por seis meses. Todos apresentaram a forma leve a moderada do COVID-19. O número médio de sintomas foi 5.1 (± 2.3). O sintoma inicial mais comum foi dor muscular (77%), cefaleia (75%), anosmia (70%), ageusia (64%), coriza (59%), febre (52%), e tosse (52%). Após 30 dias, os pacientes mantiveram anosmia (18%), astenia (18%), adinamia (14%), dor muscular (7%), e ageusia (7%). Em relação à função pulmonar, 9.25% apresentaram padrão obstrutivo e todos recuperaram ao final dos seis meses. Dentre todos os participantes analisados, 18/69 (26%) não obtiveram nenhum valor de IgG e IgM considerados reagentes nos exames realizados. A curva sorológica de IgG mostrou um pico enquanto a de IgM apresentou seu maior valor médio no 15º dia. Houve um declínio progressivo e níveis similares aos basais aos 90. 15/53 (28%) permaneceram com IgG reagente após seis meses. Dor de garganta e dispneia foram considerados fatores de risco independentes, e os pacientes com esses sintomas tiveram 5,9 vezes mais chances de apresentar IgG reativa no 180º dia. Pacientes com diarreia tiveram quatro vezes mais chances de apresentar IgM reagente.Conclusão: nossos achados mostraram que 26% dos pacientes não produziram uma resposta humoral pós-COVID-19 leve. Seus títulos de anticorpos caíram significativamente após 90 dias e apenas 28% mantiveram anticorpos IgG reativos após seis meses. Dor de garganta e dispneia foram preditores de maior duração da resposta imune humoral

Analysis of incidence, mortality and lethality by COVID-19 in the States of Pará and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: epidemiological aspects of evolution 2020-2022

Introduction: COVID-19 unfolded differently in Pará and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, owing to distinct socioeconomic contexts. From 2020 to 2022, both states implemented diverse measures against the virus SARS-CoV-2, including vaccination and variant monitoring, tailored to their specific challenges. Understanding regional impacts on COVID-19 indicators is crucial for designing effective control strategies. Objective: to analyze the incidence, mortality, and lethality of COVID-19 in Pará and Rio Grande do Sul and the trends of these indicators from 2020 to 2022. Methods: ecological study with time series from public and official data available in the Health Secretariat of Pará and Rio Grande do Sul, including all cases and deaths by COVID-19 from February 2020 to December 2022. Lethality, mortality, and incidence rates were calculated. Prais-Winsten regression analysis was used, and trends were classified as stationary, increasing, or decreasing. Significant differences were considered when the p-value is <0.05. Results: when examining the lethality rates between the states of Para and Rio Grande do Sul, an observable trend emerged during the analyzed period. It became evident that the total lethality rate consistently remained higher in Para. Noteworthy peaks in lethality were mainly observed during the months of April 2020, May 2020, and March 2021. The incidence rates showed increasing trends during 2020, both in Pará with a daily percentage change (DPC) of 1.69% (p <0.05) and in Rio Grande do Sul with a DPC of 1.70% (p<0.05). In 2021, the incidence was decreasing (p <0.05) in both states, with a DPC of 0.60% in Pará and 0.64% in Rio Grande do Sul and continued this trend in Pará in 2022 (DPC of -0.50% p <0.05), becoming stationary in Rio Grande do Sul, with a non-significant p-value (p> 0.05).Conclusion: the positive impact of the vaccination program is reflected in the evolution of the pandemic. During the study period Rio Grande do Sul and Para exhibited a stationary incidence trend, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring of cases and morbidity across various age and demographic groups.

A Covid-19 e as citocinas: uma revisão de literatura / Covid-19 and cytokines: a literature review / Covid-19 y citocinas: una revisión de la literatura

A COVID-19 surgiu em dezembro de 2019 na China, o contágio se espalhou rapidamente pelo mundo e já em março de 2020 a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) declarou o surto como pandemia. A infecção causada por SARS-COV-2 mostrou-se com sintomatologia variada. Enquanto alguns infectados não tinham sintomas, outros apresentavam sinais que variam dos semelhantes a uma gripe, até uma possível evolução para síndrome do desconforto respiratório. Evidências indicam que, durante o curso da COVID-19 a rápida progressão e mortalidade pode ter sido associada à mecanismo hiperinflamatórios, com descontrole regulatório da produção de citocinas pró- inflamatórias, tanto em nível local, quanto sistêmico. Sendo assim, neste artigo revisamos a literatura sobre a COVID-19, seus aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos, bem como a o papel das citocinas no contexto da infecção por SARS-CoV-2, já que a busca pelo entendimento dos mecanismos imunológicos que envolvem a COVID-19 e outras doenças de caráter inflamatório é de suma importância para o tratamento e o manejo de tais enfermidades.

COVID-19 emerged in December 2019 in China, the contagion spread rapidly around the world, and already in March 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a pandemic. The infection caused by SARS-COV-2 was shown to have varied symptomatology. While some infected people had no symptoms, others showed signs ranging from flu-like to a possible evolution to respiratory distress syndrome. Evidence indicates that during the course of COVID-19 the rapid progression and mortality may have been associated with hyperinflammatory mechanisms, with regulatory uncontrolled production of pro-inflammatory cytokines at both local and systemic levels. Therefore, in this article we review the literature on COVID-19, its epidemiological and clinical aspects, as well as the role of cytokines in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection, since the search for understanding the immunological mechanisms surrounding COVID-19 and other inflammatory diseases is of paramount importance for the treatment and management of such diseases.

El COVID-19 surgió en diciembre de 2019 en China, el contagio se extendió rápidamente por todo el mundo y ya en marzo de 2020 la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) declaró el brote como pandemia. Se demostró que la infección causada por el SARS-COV-2 presentaba una sintomatología variada. Mientras que algunos infectados no presentaban síntomas, otros mostraban signos que iban desde similares a los de la gripe hasta una posible evolución a síndrome de dificultad respiratoria. Las pruebas indican que durante el curso del COVID-19 la rápida progresión y la mortalidad pueden haber estado asociadas a mecanismos hiperinflamatorios, con una producción descontrolada reguladora de citocinas proinflamatorias tanto a nivel local como sistémico. Por lo tanto, en este artículo revisamos la literatura sobre la COVID-19, sus aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos, así como el papel de las citocinas en el contexto de la infección por SARS-CoV-2, ya que la búsqueda de la comprensión de los mecanismos inmunológicos que rodean la COVID-19 y otras enfermedades inflamatorias es de suma importancia para el tratamiento y la gestión de dichas enfermedades.

Progress in the research of COVID-19 effects on Alzheimer's disease / 中国热带医学

@#Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). More than one-third of patients with COVID-19 experience neurological symptoms, including confusion, headaches, and decreased/disordered taste. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most common type of dementia. Alzheimer's disease patients are at high risk and susceptible to infection with COVID-19, which may cause severe illness and even death. There appears to be an interaction between AD and COVID-19, and on the one hand, patients with COVID-19 seem to be more likely to develop AD. AD patients, on the other hand, may be more susceptible to severe COVID-19. Therefore, understanding the common link between COVID-19 and AD may help to develop treatment strategies. Risk factors common to AD and COVID-19 are aging, ApoE ε4 allele, β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), neuroinflammation, oxidative stress. Here, this article focuses on the relationship between COVID-19 and AD, explores common risk factors and potential pathogenesis, and provides help for early prevention, treatment and recovery.

Vitamina d e covid-19: uma revisão sistemática / Vitamin d and covid-19: a systematic review / Vitamina d y covid-19: una revisión sistemática

A vitamina D está envolvida em diversos processos fisiológicos dentre homeostase óssea e o sistema imunológico. Pesquisas recentes têm discutido os múltiplos efeitos da vitamina D também como anti-inflamatória e antiviral em várias doenças infecciosas, como a COVID-19. A busca por recursos terapêuticos adjacentes capazes de prevenir e/ou tratar a COVID-19 tem estimulado estudos acerca do papel da vitamina D na infecção por SARS-CoV-2. Neste presente trabalho, os papéis imunomoduladores, antivirais e anti-inflamatórios da vitamina D requerem uma investigação completa, particularmente na perspectiva da COVID-19. Objetivo: Esta revisão tem por objetivo selecionar e sintetizar as evidências atuais da literatura sobre a suplementação da vitamina D em pacientes diagnosticados com COVID-19. Metodologia: Este trabalho foi conduzido de acordo com as diretrizes do protocolo PRISMA. No total 21 artigos selecionados atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão estabelecidos. Para esta revisão, pesquisamos os bancos de dados PubMed, Embase e BVS (Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde). Estudamos vários estudos observacionais e ensaios clínicos randomizados avaliando o papel da vitamina D na COVID-19 e outras infecções virais contagiosas. Também revisamos as evidências circunstanciais e anedóticas que conectam a vitamina D a COVID-19 que surgiram recentemente. Resultados: A maioria dos estudos mostram associação entre baixos níveis séricos de vitamina D e o aumento da gravidade e da mortalidade da COVID-19. Apenas 4 estudos não demonstraram haver associação entre os níveis basais de calcidiol e o desfecho da COVID-19. Conclusão: Embora as evidências disponíveis até o momento apontem possível efeito protetor da vitamina D nas internações em UTI relacionadas a doença causada por Sars CoV-2, ainda são necessários estudos clínicos controlados bem desenhados para validar a dose e a eficácia da suplementação de vitamina D na COVID-19 e em outras infecções virais.

Vitamin D is involved in several physiological processes including bone homeostasis and the immune system. Recent research has discussed the multiple effects of vitamin D also as anti-inflammatory and antiviral in various infectious diseases such as COVID-19. The search for adjacent therapeutic resources capable of preventing and/or treating COVID-19 has stimulated studies about the role of vitamin D in SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this work, the immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory roles of vitamin D require thorough investigation, particularly from the perspective of COVID-19. Objective: This review aims to select and synthesize current literature evidence on vitamin D supplementation in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Methodology: This work was conducted according to the guidelines of the PRISMA protocol. A total of 21 articles selected met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. For this review, we searched the PubMed, Embase and VHL (Virtual Health Library) databases. We studied several observational studies and randomized clinical trials evaluating the role of vitamin D in COVID-19 and other contagious viral infections. We also reviewed the circumstantial and anecdotal evidence connecting vitamin D to COVID-19 that has recently emerged. Results: Most studies show association between low serum vitamin D levels and increased COVID-19 severity and mortality. Only 4 studies showed no association between baseline calcidiol levels and COVID-19 outcome. Conclusion: Although the evidence available so far points to a possible protective effect of vitamin D in ICUs related to Sars CoV-2 disease, well-designed controlled clinical studies are still needed to validate the dose and efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 and other viral infections.

La vitamina D participa en varios procesos fisiológicos entre la homeostasis ósea y el sistema inmunitario. En investigaciones recientes se han examinado también los múltiples efectos de la vitamina D como agente antiinflamatorio y antirviral en diversas enfermedades infecciosas, como la COVID-19. La búsqueda de recursos terapéuticos adyacentes capaces de prevenir y/o tratar el COVID-19 ha estimulado estudios sobre el papel de la vitamina D en la infección por el SARS-CoV-2. En este trabajo, los roles inmunomoduladores, antivirales y antiinflamatorios de la vitamina D requieren una investigación completa, particularmente desde la perspectiva de la COVID-19. Objetivo: Esta revisión tiene por objeto seleccionar y resumir las pruebas actuales de la bibliografía sobre la suplementación con vitamina D en pacientes diagnosticados con COVID-19. Metodología: Este trabajo se ha realizado de conformidad con las directrices del protocolo PRISMA. En total, 21 artículos seleccionados cumplían los criterios de inclusión y exclusión establecidos. Para esta revisión, revisamos las bases de datos PubMed, Embase y Virtual Health Library (BVS). Se estudiaron diversos estudios observacionales y ensayos clínicos aleatorios en los que se evaluó el papel de la vitamina D en el COVID- 19 y otras infecciones víricas contagiosas. También revisamos la evidencia circunstancial y anecdótica que conecta la vitamina D con la COVID-19 que ha surgido recientemente. Resultados: La mayoría de los estudios muestran asociación entre niveles bajos de vitamina D sérica y aumento de la severidad y mortalidad de COVID-19. Sólo 4 estudios no demostraron una combinación de los niveles basales de calcilo y los resultados de COVID-19. Conclusión: Aunque la evidencia disponible hasta el momento indica un posible efecto protector de la vitamina D en las internaciones de la UIT relacionadas con la enfermedad de Sars CoV-2, todavía se requieren estudios clínicos controlados y bien diseñados para validar la dosis y eficacia de los suplementos de vitamina D en COVID- 19 y otras infecciones virales.

Molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection in three geo-political zones of Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: sequel to the emergence of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its subsequent spread to all continents of the world, humans have continued to experience severe devastation to their health and economies. To control the spread of this virus, it is important to detect the infection in recently infected and asymptomatic individuals who are capable of infecting others. This study was designed to detect ongoing SARS-CoV-2 Infection among asymptomatic individuals in open markets across three geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Methods: nasal and oropharyngeal swab samples were collected from 2,158 study participants between December 20th, 2020 and March 20th, 2021 from large open markets across three geo-political zones (Southwest, Northwest and Southeast) of Nigeria. Virus RNA was extracted from these swab samples and real time RT-PCR was carried out for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 specific genes. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: a total of 163 (7.6%) of the 2,158 participants enrolled for the study tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR. The rate of infection was significantly higher in the North-western states of the country when compared to the western and Eastern regions (P=0.000). Similarly, the rate of infection was higher among buyers than sellers (P=0.000) and among males when compared with females, though the difference was not significant (p=0.31). Conclusion: this study shows that there is a continuous spread of SARS-CoV-2, especially among active, asymptomatic individuals across many states in the country. There is therefore need to continuously educate citizens on the need to adhere to both the non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical preventive measures to protect themselves and ultimately curb the spread of the virus.

Test positivity and clinical presentation of COVID-19 in Mozambican infants hospitalized during the second wave of the pandemic in 2021

Introduction: during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mozambique, there was a surge in pediatric hospitalizations at a time when there was relatively little evidence, but significant concern about clinical outcomes in African children, particularly in higher-risk infants requiring, and health system capacity to respond. Methods: a retrospective cohort study was conducted for patients 1-12 months of age admitted to the Breastfeeding ward at Hospital Central de Maputo from January-February 2021. All had routine SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing performed. For patients with positive results, hospital charts were retrospectively reviewed. Descriptive analyses were performed. Results: of 209 patients that had SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing performed, 102 (48.8%) received results, of which 37 (36.3%) were positive. Positive results were received prior to discharge for 14 patients (37.8%). Median duration of hospitalization was 3 days. There were two deaths in COVID-positive patients (5.4%), both with complex comorbidities. For the 35 COVID-19 positive patients whose charts were located, the principal admission diagnosis was respiratory for 22 (62.9%), and 14 (40.0%) had oxygen saturation <94% at admission. The white blood cell count was >12.0 x 103cells/mL in 10 patients (28.6%) and the most common abnormal finding on chest radiograph was peribronchial thickening (38.5% of patients with results). Oxygen therapy was needed for 20 patients (57.1%). Conclusion: the majority of infants with COVID-19 had a mild, short-duration respiratory illness that did not exceed ward capacity for care, including oxygen treatment. Laboratory capacity for PCR testing was overwhelmed, delaying the return of results and complicating inpatient infection control measures.

Exploring key-stakeholder perceptions on non-communicable disease care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya

Introduction: over one third of total Disability-Adjusted-Life-Years lost in Kenya are due to non-communicable diseases (NCD). In response, the Government declared significant commitment towards improving NCD care. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the burden on the already overstretched health systems in Kenya. The aims of this study are to assess whether health care providers perceived NCD care to be optimal during the pandemic and explore how to improve responses to future emergencies. Methods: this cross-sectional online survey included healthcare personnel with non-clinical roles (public health workers and policy-makers) and those delivering health care (doctors and nurses). Respondents were recruited between May and September 2021 by random sampling, completed by snowball sampling. Results: among 236 participants (42% in clinical, 58% in non-clinical roles) there was an overall consensus between respondents on NCD care being disrupted and compromised during the pandemic in Kenya. Detracted supplies, funding, and technical resources affected the continuity of NCDs response, despite government efforts. Respondents agreed that the enhanced personnel capacity and competencies to manage COVID-19 patients were positive, but noted a lack of guidance for redirecting care for chronic diseases, and advocated for digital innovation as a solution. Conclusion: this paper explores the perceptions of key stakeholders involved in the management of NCDs in Kenya to improve planning for future emergency responses. Gaps were identified in health system response and preparedness capacity during the pandemic including the perceived need to strengthen NCD services, with solutions offered to guide resilience efforts to protect the health system from disruption.

Comparative efficacy and safety of anti-infective drugs for patients with mild to severe COVID-19: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Different anti-infecthe drugs have been proposedfor the treatment ofpatients with COVID-19. We carried out a network meta-analysis to assess their relath'e efficacy and safety. Methods: We searched relevant databases for all randomized controlled trials that reported the efficacy and or safety ofany anti-infective drugs published up to April 30, 2022 for different outcomes. We did both painvise and network meta-analysis with 95% confidence intervals using afixed-effect model. We assessed studies for quality of evidence using an extension of the standard Grading ofRecommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach considering P

Long COVID: An approach to clinical assessment and management in primary care

Long COVID is an emerging public health threat, following swiftly behind the surges of acute infection over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that there are already approximately 100 million people suffering from Long COVID globally, 0.5 million of whom are South African, and for whom our incomplete understanding of the condition has forestalled appropriate diagnosis and clinical care. There are several leading postulates for the complex, multi-mechanistic pathogenesis of Long COVID. Patients with Long COVID may present with a diversity of clinical phenotypes, often with significant overlap, which may exhibit temporal heterogeneity and evolution. Post-acute care follow-up, targeted screening, diagnosis, a broad initial assessment and more directed subsequent assessments are necessary at the primary care level. Symptomatic treatment, self-management and rehabilitation are the mainstays of clinical care for Long COVID. However, evidence-based pharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of Long COVID are beginning to emerge. This article presents a rational approach for assessing and managing patients with Long COVID in the primary care setting.

Alteraciones Provocadas por el SARS-CoV-2 durante el 2020: Una Mirada a sus Secuelas. Revisión Narrativa / Alterations Caused by SARS-CoV-2 during 2020: A Look at its Aftermath. Narrative Review

Introducción. El 11 de marzo del 2020, la OMS declaró a la COVID-19 como pandemia. Hoy se han establecido diversas secuelas posteriores a la fase aguda por infección por SARS-CoV-2, y diversos autores han mostrado que esta enfermedad persiste en un gran número de personas luego de la fase aguda. Objetivo. Identificar y describir las características previas de pacientes que presentan secuelas post infección por COVID-19. Métodos. Se realizaron 2 búsquedas bibliográficas en diferentes bases de datos, donde se seleccionaron 15 artículos en total según criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se hizo un análisis cualitativo de las referencias y fueron separadas según tipo de secuela reportada. Resultados. Dentro de las características demográficas de las personas que presentaron secuelas post infección por COVID-19 se encuentran la edad, sexo, comorbilidades preexistentes y, en algunos casos, el IMC. Dentro de las características clínicas se incluye la sintomatología presente en fase aguda, estado de gravedad, tiempo de estadio hospitalario, y resultados de exámenes imagenológicos y de laboratorio. Cada secuela fue especificada según el tipo asociado a alteración cardiovascular, músculo-esquelética, respiratoria y neurológica. Conclusión. La mayoría de los pacientes con secuelas tienen una edad media de 50 años, siendo las mujeres las que presentaron una mayor prevalencia. Los antecedentes de HTA y DM se encontraron en las cinco áreas analizadas, mientras que las enfermedades cardiovasculares y el EPOC sólo se encontraron en algunas secuelas. Los síntomas predominantes en la fase aguda de la enfermedad varían entre el grupo de secuelas neurológicas en comparación con los demás grupos.

Background. On March 11, 2020, WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Today, several post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been established, but several authors have shown that this disease persists in many people after the acute phase. Objective. Identify and describe the previous characteristics of patients who present sequelae after infection with COVID-19. Methods. 2 bibliographic searches were performed in different databases, where a total of 15 articles were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. A qualitative analysis of the references was made and they were separated according to the type of sequelae reported. Results. Among the demographic characteristics of the persons who presented sequelae after infection with COVID-19 were age, sex, pre-existing comorbidities, and in some cases BMI. The clinical characteristics include the symptoms present in the acute phase, state of severity, length of hospital stay, and results of imaging and laboratory tests. Each of them is specified according to the type of sequelae associated with cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, respiratory and neurological. Conclusion. The majority of patients with sequelae had a mean age of 50 years, with women presenting a higher prevalence. A history of hypertension and DM were found in all five areas analyzed, while cardiovascular disease and COPD were only found in some sequelae. The predominant symptoms in the acute phase of the disease varied among the neurological sequelae group compared to the other groups.

The impact of transient and persistent acute kidney injury in hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients / O impacto da lesão renal aguda transitória e persistente na mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com COVID-19

Abstract Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been described in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and is considered a marker of disease severity and a negative prognostic factor for survival. In this study, the authors aimed to study the impact of transient and persistent acute kidney injury (pAKI) on in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in the Department of Medicine of the Centro Hospitalar Universitario Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal, between March 2020 and August 2020. A multivariate analysis was performed to predict AKI development and in-hospital mortality. Results: Of 544 patients with COVID-19, 330 developed AKI: 166 persistent AKI (pAKI), 164 with transient AKI. AKI patients were older, had more previous comorbidities, had higher need to be medicated with RAAS inhibitors, had higher baseline serum creatine (SCr) (1.60 mg/dL vs 0.87 mg/dL), higher NL ratio, and more severe acidemia on hospital admission, and more frequently required admission in intensive care unit, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor use. Patients with persistent AKI had higher SCr level (1.71 mg/dL vs 1.25 mg/dL) on hospital admission. In-hospital mortality was 14.0% and it was higher in AKI patients (18.5% vs 7.0%). CKD and serum ferritin were independent predictors of AKI. AKI did not predict mortality, but pAKI was an independent predictor of mortality, as was age and lactate level. Conclusion: pAKI was independently associated with in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients but its impact on long-term follow-up remains to be determined.

Resumo Introdução: A lesão renal aguda (LRA) foi descrita em pacientes com doença do Coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19) e é considerada um marcador de gravidade da doença e fator prognóstico negativo para sobrevivência. Neste estudo, os autores visaram estudar o impacto da lesão renal aguda transitória e persistente (LRAp) na mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo de pacientes internados com COVID-19 no Departamento de Medicina do Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal, entre Março-Agosto de 2020. Realizou-se análise multivariada para prever desenvolvimento de LRA e mortalidade hospitalar. Resultados: De 544 pacientes com COVID-19, 330 desenvolveram LRA: 166 LRA persistente (LRAp), 164, LRA transitória. Pacientes com LRA eram mais velhos, apresentaram mais comorbidades prévias, maior necessidade de serem medicados com inibidores do SRAA, apresentaram creatina sérica basal mais elevada (CrS) (1,60 mg/dL vs 0,87 mg/dL), maior razão NL, e acidemia mais grave na admissão hospitalar, e necessitaram mais frequentemente de internação na UTI, ventilação mecânica, e uso de vasopressores. Pacientes com LRA persistente apresentaram maior nível de CrS (1,71 mg/dL vs 1,25 mg/dL) na admissão hospitalar. A mortalidade hospitalar foi de 14,0% e foi maior em pacientes com LRA (18,5% vs 7,0%). A DRC e ferritina sérica foram preditores independentes de LRA. A LRA não previu mortalidade, mas a LRAp foi um preditor independente de mortalidade, assim como idade e nível de lactato. Conclusão: A LRAp foi associada independentemente à mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com COVID-19, mas seu impacto no acompanhamento de longo prazo ainda precisa ser determinado.

Complicações cutâneas da hospitalização por COVID-19 relacionadas à pronação / skin complications of hospitalization for COVID-19 related to pronation

Contexto: A pandemia da doença do coronavírus (COVID-19) revelou uma miríade de manifestações sistêmicas e cutâneas possivelmente relacionadas à infecção por síndrome respiratória aguda grave ocasionada pelo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2). O comprometimento pulmonar é a causa mais frequente de hospitalização e a progressão para síndrome respiratória aguda grave geralmente requer tratamento com ventilação mecânica na posição pronada. Períodos prolongados e repetidos de pronação aumentam o risco de complicações, incluindo úlcera de pressão, cegueira e neuropatia periférica. Descrição do caso: Relatamos três casos de complicações cutâneas relacionadas à ventilação em pronação avaliadas durante interconsultas no maior hospital terciário universitário da América Latina, e salientamos potenciais causas e medidas de prevenção. Discussão: Complicações da ventilação em pronação para tratamento da COVID-19 são provavelmente resultantes da interação entre múltiplos fatores, dentre os quais as condições clínicas do paciente, períodos prolongados na posição pronada e limitações para mudanças de decúbito. Conclusões: Medidas de prevenção para complicações da pronação e diagnóstico precoce são fundamentais para evitar aumento da morbidade e sequelas graves e irreversíveis associadas à COVID-19.

Uso previo de antagonistas de la angiotensina II en pacientes hipertensos hospitalizados y mortalidad por COVID-19

Introducción: Actualmente existe un gran interés en establecer la relación entre la severidad de la infección por SARS-COV-2 en pacientes hipertensos usuarios de antagonistas de la angiotensina II (ARAII). Objetivo: Estudiar la relación entre el uso previo de antagonistas de la ARA II en pacientes hipertensos y la mortalidad por COVID-19. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo en un hospital de referencia en Lima, Perú, en pacientes hipertensos hospitalizados en marzo del 2021 por COVID-19 severo. Resultados: Ingresaron al estudio 101 pacientes, con una media de edad de 70.1 + 12.0 y sexo masculino 48%. Los usuarios de ARAII fueron 45 (45.6%) y no los tomaban 56 (54.4%). El Índice de comorbilidad de Charlson fue mayor en el grupo ARAII (3.6 + 1.56 vs 3.04 + 1.24) (p<0.05). La mortalidad total y por sexo (varones vs mujeres), entre los que usaban ARAII o no, fueron 57.8% vs 62% (p = 0.633) y 36.36% vs 63.64 % (p<0.05), respectivamente. La media de la concentración de deshidrogenasa láctica fue menor en los que tomaban ARAII comparado con los no usuarios, 394.18 + 152.3 vs 503.5 + 252.7 (p<0.05); no se observó diferencia significativa en el recuento de leucocitos, niveles séricos de Proteína C Reactiva, Ferritina, dímero D y fibrinógeno. Conclusión: Entre los pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19 con hipertensión, el uso previo de ARAII no se asoció con riesgo de mortalidad.

Background: There is caurrently great interest in establishing the relationship between the severity of SARS-COV-2 infection in hypertensive patients who use angiotensin II antagonists (AIIRAs). Objective: To study the relationship between the previous use of angiotensin II antagonists (ARB) in hypertensive patients and mortality from COVID-19. Materials and methods: A retrospective observational study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital in Lima, Peru, in hypertensive patients hospitalized in March 2021 for severe COVID-19. Results: A total of 101 patients entered the study, with a mean age of 70.1 + 12.0 and 48% male. ARB users and non-users were 45 (45.6%) and 56 (54.4%), respectively. The Charlson Comorbidity Index was higher in the ARB group (3.6 + 1.56 vs 3.04 + 1.24) (p<0.05). Total and male vs women mortality, among those using ARBs or not, were 57.8% vs 62% (p = 0.633) and 36.36% vs 63.64% (p <0.05), respectively. Mean lactate dehydrogenase concentration was lower in those taking ARBs compared to non-users, 394.18 + 152.3 vs 503.5 + 252.7 (p<0.05); No significant difference was observed in the leukocyte count and serum levels of C-Reactive Protein, Ferritin, D-dimer and fibrinogen. Conclusion: Among hospitalized COVID-19 patients with hypertension, prior use of ARBSs was not associated with mortality risk.

COVID-19 in the municipalities of Botucatu and Serrana, São Paulo, Brazil, the effects of lethality and mortality / COVID-19 nos municípios de Botucatu e Serrana, São Paulo, Brasil, os efeitos da letalidade e mortalidade

Introduction: In 2019, the proliferation of a virus identified as SARS-CoV-2 emerged in the city of Wuhan, a district in China, quickly spread throughout the world, gaining pandemic status and less than 1 year, its repercussions and magnitude caused scientists, governments and society to adopt severe measures to combat this disease. Objective: To analyze mortality, incidence and mortality from COVID-19 in the municipalities of Botucatu and Serrana, São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: This is an ecological study with a time series design with secondary data. All registered cases and deaths registered by COVID-19 from April 2020 to August 2021 in the municipalities of Botucatu and Serrana, São Paulo, Brazil were considered. The incidence, mortality and lethality rate were used. The monthly and/or weekly percentage variation and their respective 95% confidence intervals were estimated.Results: It identified that 12.88% of the residents of the city of Botucatu were infected with COVID-19 and 8.61% of the population of the municipality of Serrana was infected. There was a stationary trend of mortality and incidence in the period between April 2020 and May 2021 and decreasing in both sexes in the mortality rate in the municipality of Serrana, in the city of Botucatu there was a trend of increasing mortality and incidence in the same period observed. Conclusion: The mass vaccination strategy of citizens in the cities of Botucatu and Serrana present robust data to consider that immunization has a decreasing effect on the number of cases and deaths from COVID-19, which effectively contributes to fighting the pandemic and reduces the contamination and progression of the disease to more severe cases.

Introdução: em 2019, surgiu na cidade de Wuhan, um distrito na região da China a proliferação com a infecção de um vírus identificado como SARS-CoV-2, rapidamente espalhou-se pelo mundo ganhando status de pandemia em menos de 1 ano, suas repercussões e magnitude fizeram que os cientistas, governos e sociedade adotarem medidas severas para o combate a esta enfermidade. Objetivo: analisar a mortalidade, incidência e letalidade por COVID-19 nos municípios de Botucatu e Serrana, São Paulo, Brasil. Método: trata-se de um estudo ecológico com delineamento de série temporal com dados secundários. Foram consideradas todos os casos registrados e óbitos registrados por COVID-19 no período de abril de 2020 a agosto de 2021, nos municípios de Botucatu e Serrana, São Paulo, Brasil. Foi utilizado a taxa de incidência, mortalidade e letalidade. Estimou-se a variação percentual mensal e/ou semanal e seus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança. Resultados: identificou que e 12,88% dos munícipes da cidade de Botucatu foram infectados com COVID-19 e 8,61% da população do município de Serrana foi infectada. Observou-se uma tendência estacionária de mortalidade e incidência no período entre abril 2020 a maio 2021 e decrescente em ambos os sexos na taxa de letalidade no município de Serrana, na cidade de Botucatu houve tendência de mortalidade e incidência crescentes no mesmo período observado. Conclusão: a estratégia de vacinação em massa dos munícipes das cidades de Botucatu e Serrana apresentam dados robustos para considerar que a imunização tem efeito de queda no número de casos e óbitos por COVID-19, o que contribui efetivamente no combate a pandemia e reduz a contaminação e evolução da doença para casos mais graves.

Evaluación de intervenciones durante la pandemia COVID-19: desarrollo de un modelo basado en subpoblaciones con distintas tasas de contacto / Evaluation of interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic: development of a modelbased on subpopulations with different contact rates

Resumen Si bien se han realizado múltiples intentos de modelar matemáticamente la pande-mia de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), causada por SARS-CoV-2, pocos modeloshan sido pensados como herramientas interactivas accesibles para usuarios de distintos ámbitos.El objetivo de este trabajo fue desarrollar un modelo que tuviera en cuenta la heterogeneidadde las tasas de contacto de la población e implementarlo en una aplicación accesible, que per-mitiera estimar el impacto de posibles intervenciones a partir de información disponible. Sedesarrolló una versión ampliada del modelo susceptible-expuesto-infectado-resistente (SEIR),denominada SEIR-HL, que asume una población dividida en dos subpoblaciones, con tasas decontacto diferentes. Asimismo, se desarrolló una fórmula para calcular el número básico dereproducción (R0) para una población dividida en n subpoblaciones, discriminando las tasas decontacto de cada subpoblación según el tipo o contexto de contacto. Se compararon las pre-dicciones del SEIR-HL con las del SEIR y se demostró que la heterogeneidad en las tasas decontacto puede afectar drásticamente la dinámica de las simulaciones, aun partiendo de lasmismas condiciones iniciales y los mismos parámetros. Se empleó el SEIR-HL para mostrar elefecto sobre la evolución de la pandemia del desplazamiento de individuos desde posiciones dealto contacto hacia posiciones de bajo contacto. Finalmente, a modo de ejemplo, se aplicó elSEIR-HL al análisis de la pandemia de COVID-19 en Argentina; también se desarrolló un ejemplode uso de la fórmula del R0. Tanto el SEIR-HL como una calculadora del R0fueron implementadosinformáticamente y puestos a disposición de la comunidad.

Abstract Although multiple attempts have been made to mathematically model the currentepidemic of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), fewmodels have been conceived as accessible interactive tools for users from various backgrounds.The goal of this study was to develop a model that took into account the heterogeneity incontact rates within the population and to implement it in an accessible application allowingto estimate the impact of possible interventions based on available information. An extendedversion of the Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Resistant (SEIR) model, named SEIR-HL, was deve-loped, assuming a population divided into two subpopulations, with different contact rates.Additionally, a formula for the calculation of the basic reproduction number (R0) for a popula-tion divided into n subpopulations was proposed, where the contact rates for each subpopulationcan be distinguished according to contact type or context. The predictions made by SEIR-HLwere compared to those of SEIR, showing that the heterogeneity in contact rates can drama-tically affect the dynamics of simulations, even when run from the same initial conditions andwith the same parameters. SEIR-HL was used to predict the effect on the epidemic evolution ofthe displacement of individuals from high-contact positions to low-contact positions. Lastly, byway of example, SEIR-HL was applied to the analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Argentinaand an example of the application of the R0formula was also developed. Both the SEIR-HLmodel and an R0calculator were computerized and made available to the community.

Saúde mental de pessoas com diabetes no período da pandemia de COVID-19: revisão integrativa / Mental health of people with diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic period: integrative review

Objetivo: Analisar estudos sobre a saúde mental de pessoas com diabetes no período da pandemia de COVID-19. Método:Revisão integrativa da literatura, com busca e seleção nas bases de dados MEDLINE via PubMed®, CINAHL-Ebsco, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO e Cochrane. Foram incluídos sete estudos primários, disponíveis na íntegra, sem delimitação temporal ou de idioma. Resultados: A pandemia da COVID-19 impactou negativamente na saúde mental de pessoas com diabetes, prevalecendo o desenvolvimento e a intensificação dos sintomas de ansiedade, depressão e estresse. Outros desfechos avaliados evidenciaram associação entre as medidas de isolamento adotadas para controle da infecção, o sofrimento psicológico e a presença de preocupações. Conclusão: Foi evidenciado que a pandemia da COVID-19 afetou substancialmente a saúde mental de indivíduos com diabetes, sendo o distanciamento social, o medo do contágio, os distúrbios do sono e da alimentação e as preocupações com familiares determinantes para maior prevalência de sofrimento mental

Objective: To analyze studies on the mental health of people with diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Method:Integrative literature review with search and selection in the following databases: MEDLINE via PubMed®, CINAHL-Ebsco, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane. Seven primary studies available in full without temporal or language delimitation were included. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the mental health of people with diabetes. The development and intensification of anxiety, depression and stress symptoms prevailed. Other outcomes evaluated showed an association between the isolation measures adopted to control the infection, psychological distress and the presence of concerns.Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic substantially affected the mental health of individuals with diabetes. Social distancing, fear of contagion, sleep and eating disorders and concerns with family members were determinants of a higher prevalence of mental suffering.

Alteraciones hematológicas como consecuencia de COVID-19 y sus vacunas / Hematological changes as a consequence of COVID-19 and its vaccines

El virus SARS-CoV-2 continúa infectando a millones de individuos en el mundo. Aunque los síntomas más frecuentes observados en los pacientes con COVID-19 son fiebre, fatiga y tos, en los casos severos la hipercoagulabilidad y la inflamación son dos condiciones que pueden producir complicaciones y causar daño en órganos, poniendo en riesgo la vida del paciente. Con el fin de clasificar a los pacientes durante el triaje, se han explorado diferentes marcadores hematológicos, incluidos el recuento de plaquetas, linfocitos y eosinófilos, y la relación neutrófilos/ linfocitos, entre otros. Por su parte, para la evaluación de las coagulopatías, se vienen determinando marcadores como el dímero D y el fibrinógeno. En esta revisión se abordan las coagulopatías y los parámetros hematológicos en pacientes con COVID-19, al igual que las anormalidades en la coagulación como la trombocitopenia trombótica inmune inducida por las vacunas contra el SARS-CoV-2

The SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to infect millions of individuals around the world. Although the most frequent symptoms observed in patients with COVID-19 are fever, fatigue and cough, in severe cases hypercoagulability and inflammation are two conditions that can cause complications and organ failure, putting the patient's life at risk. In order to classify patients during triage, different hematological markers have been explored, including platelet, lymphocyte, and eosinophil counts, and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, among others. Furthermore, for the evaluation of coagulopathies, markers such as D-dimer and fibrinogen are being evaluated. This review addresses the coagulopathies and hematological parameters in patients with COVID-19, as well as coagulation abnormalities such as immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia induced by SARS-CoV-2 vaccines