Mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 durante la primera ola en una institución de tercer nivel de Neuquén / Mortality in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19 during the First Wave in a Tertiary Care Institution in Neuquén

Introducción: En diciembre de 2019, se detectó un brote de enfermedad por un nuevo coronavirus que evolucionó en pandemia con severa morbilidad respiratoria y mortali- dad. Los sistemas sanitarios debieron enfrentar una cantidad inesperada de pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria. En Argentina, las medidas de cuarentena y control sani - tario retrasaron el primer pico de la pandemia y ofrecieron tiempo para preparar el sis- tema de salud con infraestructura, personal y protocolos basados en la mejor evidencia disponible en el momento. En una institución de tercer nivel de Neuquén, Argentina, se desarrolló un protocolo de atención para enfrentar la pandemia adaptado con la evo- lución de la mejor evidencia y evaluaciones periódicas de la mortalidad hospitalaria. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte observacional para evaluar la evolución de pacientes con COVID-19 con los protocolos asistenciales por la mortalidad hospitalaria global y al día 28 en la Clínica Pasteur de Neuquén en 2020. Resultados: Este informe describe los 501 pacientes diagnosticados hasta el 31 de di- ciembre de 2020. La mortalidad general fue del 16,6% (83/501) y del 12,2% (61/501) al día 28 de admisión. En los 139 (27,7%) pacientes con ventilación mecánica, la mortali- dad general y a los 28 días fue de 37,4% (52/139) y 28,1% (38/139) fallecieron, respec- tivamente. Los factores de riesgo identificados fueron edad, comorbilidades y altos re- querimientos de oxígeno al ingreso. Conclusión: La mortalidad observada en los pacientes hospitalizados en nuestra insti- tución en la primera ola de la pandemia COVID-19 fue similar a los informes internacio- nales y menor que la publicada en Argentina para el mismo período.

Introduction: In December 2019, an outbreak of disease due to a new coronavirus was detected that evolved into a pandemic with severe respiratory morbidity and mortality. Health systems had to face an unexpected number of patients with respiratory failure. In Argentina, quarantine and health control measures delayed the first peak of the pan - demic and offered time to prepare the health system with infrastructure, personnel and protocols based on the best evidence available at the time. In a third level institution of Neuquén, Argentina, a care protocol was developed to confront the pandemic adapted by evolving best evidence and periodic evaluations of hospital mortality. Methods: Observational cohort study to evaluate the evolution of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 with care protocols in terms of overall hospital mortality and at day 28 at the Pasteur Clinic in Neuquén in 2020. Results: This report describes the 501 patients diagnosed until December 31, 2020. Mortality was 16.6% (83/501) and 12.2% (61/501) on day 28 of admission. Among the 139 (27.7%) patients with mechanical ventilation, overall mortality and at 28 days it was 37.4% (52/139) and 28.1% (38/139), respectively. The risk factors identified were age, comorbidities and high oxygen requirements on admission. Conclusion: The mortality observed in patients hospitalized in our institution during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic was similar to international reports and lower than other publications in Argentina for the same period.

Patrón de neumonía organizativa en TC de tórax: prevalencia y asociación con resultados clínicos en una cohorte de pacientes con COVID-19 grave/crítico / Organizing Pneumonia Pattern on Chest CT: Prevalence and Association with Clinical Outcomes in a Cohort of Patients with Severe/Critical COVID-19

Introducción: La neumonía por COVID-19 puede presentarse con dos patrones radio-lógicos: daño alveolar difuso o neumonía organizativa. Estos patrones tienen diferente evolución y pronóstico en pacientes sin infección por COVID-19. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la prevalencia del patrón radiológico de neumonía organizativa y su asociación con los desenlaces clínicos.Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo que incluyó a pacientes adultos hospitalizados por COVID-19 grave/crítica a los que se les realizó una tomografía computarizada de tórax en los 21 días posteriores al diagnóstico. Los patrones radiológicos fueron revisados y clasificados por dos radiólogos expertos. Resultados: De los 80 pacientes incluidos, el 89% (n=71) presentaron un patrón compatible con neumonía organizativa. Los principales hallazgos radiológicos fueron la distribución multilobar (98,7%) y bilateral (97,6%) con opacidades en vidrio esmerilado (97,6%). El 44% (n=33) de los sujetos requirió ingreso en cuidados intensivos, de los cuales el 24% (n=19) recibió ventilación mecánica. La presencia de neumonía organizativa se asoció de forma independiente con una disminución de las probabilidades de ventilación mecánica o muerte (Odds ratio 0,14; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 0,02 - 0,96; valor de p 0,045) en un modelo multivariado que incluía la edad, el sexo, el IMC y la afectación pulmonar en la TC.Conclusiones: Un patrón radiológico de neumonía organizativa es altamente prevalen-te en pacientes con COVID-19 grave/crítico y se asocia con mejores resultados clínico

Introduction: COVID-19 pneumonia can present with two distinct radiologic patterns: diffuse alveolar damage or organizing pneumonia. These patterns have been linked to different outcomes in non-COVID-19 settings. We sought to assess the prevalence of organizing pneumonia radiologic pattern and its association with clinical outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study including adult patients hospita- lized for severe/critical COVID-19 who underwent chest computed tomography within 21 days of diagnosis. Radiologic patterns were reviewed and classified by two expert radiologists. Results: Among 80 patients included, 89% (n=71) presented a pattern consistent with organizing pneumonia. The main radiologic findings were multilobar (98.7%) and bilateral (97.6%) distribution with ground glass opacities (97.6%). Intensive care admission was required for 44% (n=33) of subjects, of which 24% (n=19) received mechanical ventilation. The presence of organizing pneumonia was independently associated with a decreased odds of mechanical ventilation or death (Odds ratio 0.14; 95% confidence interval 0.02 - 0.96; p value 0.045) in a multivariate model including age, gender, BMI and lung involvement on CT. Conclusion: A radiologic pattern of organizing pneumonia is highly prevalent in patients with severe/critical COVID-19 and is associated with improved clinical outcomes.

Factores pronósticos de mortalidad a 30 días en neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 / Prognostic Factors for 30-day Mortality in SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia

Introducción: SARS-CoV-2 ha causado millones de muertes a nivel global desde su primer caso reportado en China. En Guatemala existen pocos estudios que describan los factores pronósticos. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar los factores asociados de mortalidad a 30 días en pacientes con neumonía (Nm) por SARS-CoV-2 y construir un modelo predictor. Material y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo en 144 sujetos en el Hospital Roosevelt de marzo a diciembre 2020 con criterios de Nm por SARS-CoV-2. Se revisó el expediente médico para datos clínicos y de laboratorio desde ingreso hasta alta hospitalaria o muerte. Resultados: Se evaluaron 105 hombres y 39 mujeres con media de edad 53 años. El 47% tenía comorbilidades como diabetes mellitus 2 e hipertensión arterial sistémica. Promedio de días de hospitalización: 13. Cuadros leves a moderados de Síndrome de Distrés Respiratorio Agudo (SDRA): 92%. Se indicó ventilación mecánica invasiva (VMI) a 46 pacientes. La mortalidad general fue 35%. Factores asociados a mortalidad a 30 días: edad ≥50 años, inicio de síntomas ≥7 días, SDRA severo, radio NL >4,4, recibir VMI, alteración en LDH y procalcitonina. Nuestro modelo mostró que los mejores predictores de mortalidad eran alteración en procalcitonina (OR: 4,45), recibir VMI (OR: 112) y días de estancia hospitalaria (OR: 1,12) con precisión de 91,5% y área bajo la curva de 94,4%. Conclusiones: Los factores pronósticos de mortalidad en pacientes guatemaltecos con Nm por SARS-CoV-2 son múltiples e incluyen rasgos demográficos, clínicos y serológicos; identificarlos y contar con un modelo pronóstico ayudará a brindar atención médica de precisión.

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 has caused millions of deaths globally since its first case was reported in China. In Guatemala, few studies describe prognostic factors. Our objective was to determine the factors associated with 30 day mortality in patients with Pneumonia (Nm) due to SARS-CoV-2 and to build a predictor model. Material and Methods: Retrospective study in 144 subjects at Roosevelt Hospital from March to December 2020 with Nm criteria for SARS-CoV-2. The medical record was rviewed, obtaining clinical and laboratory data from admission to hospital discharge or death. Results: 105 men and 39 women with an average age of 53 years were evaluated. 47% had comorbidities, with type 2 diabetes mellitus and systemic arterial hypertension being common. The average number of days of hospitalization was 13. 92% had mild to moderate acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Invasive mechanical ventila-tion (IMV) was indicated for 46 patients. Overall mortality was 35%. The factors asso-ciated with 30-day mortality were age ≥50 years, the onset of symptoms ≥7 days, severe ARDS, N/L ratio >4.4, receiving IMV, alterations in LDH, and procalcitonin. Our model showed that the best predictors of mortality were altered procalcitonin (OR: 4.45), receiving IMV (OR: 112), and days of hospital stay (OR: 1.12) with precision of 91.5% and area under the curve of 94.4%. Conclusions: The prognostic factors of mortality in Guatemalan patients with Nm due to SARS-CoV-2 are multiple and include demographic, clinical and serological features; identifying them and having a prognostic model will help provide precision medical care.

Impacto de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 en el índice de masa corporal de niños asistidos en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires / Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the body mass index of children seen in the City of Buenos Aires

Introducción. El sobrepeso y la obesidad infantil constituyen un problema de salud pública. El inicio de la pandemia por COVID-19 pudo haber favorecido esta patología. El puntaje Z del índice de masa corporal (Z-IMC) es un indicador aceptado para su diagnóstico y seguimiento. Objetivo. Evaluar si la prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad, y el Z-IMC en niños de 2 a 5 años aumentó durante la pandemia. Población y métodos. Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Se incluyeron pacientes asistidos en efectores públicos de salud del Gobierno de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (GCABA), de 2 a 5 años de edad, con registro de peso y talla en dos consultas, antes y después de haber comenzado el aislamiento social preventivo y obligatorio (ASPO). Se registró estado nutricional (Z-IMC) y variación del Z-IMC entre ambas consultas. Resultados. Se evaluaron 3866 sujetos, edad promedio 3,4 ± 0,8 años; el 48,1 % fueron mujeres. El intervalo promedio entre consultas fue 14,3 ± 2,5 meses. La prevalencia de sobrepeso/obesidad aumentó del 12,6 % (IC95% 11,6-13,6) al 20,9 % (IC95% 19,6-22-2); p <0,001, al igual que el Z-IMC (0,4 ± 1,1 vs. 0,8 ± 1,3; p <0,001). Conclusión. La prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad, y el Z-IMC en niños de 2 a 5 años aumentó significativamente durante la pandemia.

Introduction. Childhood overweight and obesity are a public health problem. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to this condition. The body mass index (BMI) Z-score has been accepted as an indicator for overweight and obesity diagnosis and follow-up. Objective. To assess whether the prevalence of overweight and obesity and the BMI Z-score in children aged 2 to 5 years increased during the pandemic. Population and methods. Retrospective, cohort study. Patients included were those seen at public health care facilities in the City of Buenos Aires (CABA), who were aged 2 to 5 years, had weight and height values recorded at 2 different visits, before and after the establishment of the preventive and mandatory social isolation policy. Patients' nutritional status (BMI Z-score) and the variation in this indicator between both visits were recorded. Results. A total of 3866 subjects were assessed; their average age was 3.4 ± 0.8 years; 48.1% were girls. The average interval between both visits was 14.3 ± 2.5 months. The prevalence of overweight/ obesity increased from 12.6% (95% CI: 11.6­13.6) to 20.9% (95% CI: 19.6­22.2), p < 0.001, and so did the BMI Z-score (0.4 ± 1.1 versus 0.8 ± 1.3, p < 0.001). Conclusion. The prevalence of overweight and obesity and the BMI Z-score in children aged 2 to 5 years increased significantly during the pandemic.

Respuesta inmunitaria al SARS-CoV-2 previa a la vacunación en personal de salud de Alto Paraná, Paraguay, un estudio seroepidemiológico / Immune response to SARS-CoV-2 prior to vaccination among healthcare workers from Alto Paraná, Paraguay, a seroepidemiological study

INTRODUCCIÓN: La comprensión del comportamiento de la respuesta humoral en COVID-19 continúa siendo un desafío para la producción de vacunas que proporcionen inmunidad más duradera. OBJETIVO: Describir la respuesta humoral natural inducida por SARS- CoV-2 en personal de salud con base en el perfil epidemiológico y clínico. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal en personal de salud de hospitales públicos de referencia del Departamento de Alto Paraná, Paraguay. Se incluyeron 962 participantes, mediante muestreo no probabilístico de tipo consecutivo, aplicación de cuestionario y toma de muestras sanguíneas. Se buscaron anticuerpos por ensayo inmunocromatográfico para detección de IgM e IgG contra SARS- CoV-2 y por el método ELISA de captura de IgG específicos contra la proteína spike (SARS-CoV-2) y se evaluaron factores asociados a la seropositividad. RESULTADOS: La seroprevalencia global fue 36,5% (IC 95%: 33,4 - 39,5); 59,3% (n: 571) de los encuestados refirió haber tenido síntomas compatibles al COVID-19 entre el inicio de la pandemia y la fecha de toma de muestra, de estos 44% (n: 251) resultó seropositivo; 10,4% (n: 100) manifestó no haber tenido síntomas en el periodo estudiado, pero tuvo un resultado positivo. Los factores asociados a la seropositividad fueron: presencia de síntomas (p 90 días). CONCLUSIONES: Las características clínicas fueron mayormente asociadas con la seropositividad y la seropreva- lencia en los sintomáticos varió de acuerdo con el tiempo transcurrido desde el inicio de los síntomas y la serología.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the behavior of humoral response in COVID-19 continues to be a challenge to produce vaccines that provide long-lasting immunity. AIM: To describe the natural humoral response induced by SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers based on epidemiological and clinical profiles. METHODS: Cross-sectional study in healthcare workers from public hospitals in the Department of Alto Paraná, Paraguay, 962 participants were recruited through consecutive sampling, using a questionnaire and blood sampling. Antibodies were determined by immunochromatography assay for detection of IgM and IgG and by SARS-CoV-2 IgG anti-spike capture ELISA method and factors associated with seropositivity were evaluated. RESULTS: The overall seropositivity was 36.5% (95% CI: 33.4 - 39.5); 59.3% (n: 571) of respondents reported symptoms compatible with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic and the date of blood draw, 44% (n: 251) of them tested positive; 10.4% (n: 100) who reported no history of symptoms tested positive. The factors associated with seropositivity were the presence of symptoms (p 90 days). CONCLUSIONS: Clinical characteristics were mostly associated with seropositivity and sero prevalence in symptomatic participants varied according to the time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to serology.

Impacto de la edad, las comorbilidades y las complicaciones en pacientes con COVID-19 con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda en la ventilación mecánica invasiva. Estudio multicéntrico observacional / Impact of Age, Comorbidities and Complications in COVID-19 Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome on Invasive Mechanical Ventilation. An Observational Multicenter Study

Objetivos: Millones de pacientes con COVID-19 fueron internados en terapia intensiva en el mundo, la mitad desarrollaron síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA) y recibieron ventilación mecánica invasiva (VMI), con una mortalidad del 50%. Analiza-mos cómo edad, comorbilidades y complicaciones, en pacientes con COVID-19 y SDRA que recibieron VMI, se asociaron con el riesgo de morir durante su hospitalización.Métodos: Estudio de cohorte observacional, retrospectivo y multicéntrico realizado en 5 hospitales (tres privados y dos públicos universitarios) de Argentina y Chile, durante el segundo semestre de 2020.Se incluyeron pacientes >18 años con infección por SARS-CoV-2 confirmada RT-PCR, que desarrollaron SDRA y fueron asistidos con VMI durante >48 horas, durante el se-gundo semestre de 2020. Se analizaron los antecedentes, las comorbilidades más fre-cuentes (obesidad, diabetes e hipertensión), y las complicaciones shock, insuficiencia renal aguda (IRA) y neumonía asociada a la ventilación mecánica (NAV), por un lado, y las alteraciones de parámetros clínicos y de laboratorio registrados.Resultados: El 69% era varón. La incidencia de comorbilidades difirió para los diferentes grupos de edad. La mortalidad aumentó significativamente con la edad (p<0,00001). Las comorbilidades, hipertensión y diabetes, y las complicaciones de IRA y shock se asociaron significativamente con la mortalidad. En el análisis multivariado, sólo la edad mayor de 60 años, la IRA y el shock permanecieron asociados con la mortalidad. Conclusiones: El SDRA en COVID-19 es más común entre los mayores. Solo la edad >60 años, el shock y la IRA se asociaron a la mortalidad en el análisis multivariado.

Objectives: Millions of patients with COVID-19 were admitted to intensive care world-wide, half developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and received invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), with a mortality of 50%. We analyzed how age, comor-bidities and complications in patients with COVID-19 and ARDS who received IMV were associated with the risk of dying during their hospitalization.Methods: Observational, retrospective and multicenter cohort study carried out in 5 hospitals (three private and two public university hospitals) in Argentina and Chile, during the second half of 2020.Patients >18 years of age with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by RT-PCR, who devel-oped ARDS and were assisted with IMV for >48 hours, during the second half of 2020, were included. History, the most frequent comorbidities (obesity, diabetes and hyper-tension) and the complications of shock, acute renal failure (AKI) and pneumonia as-sociated with mechanical ventilation (VAP), on the one hand, and the alterations of re-corded clinical and laboratory parameters, were analyzed.Results: 69% were men. The incidence of comorbidities differed for different age groups. Mortality increased significantly with age (p<0.00001). Comorbidities, hyper-tension and diabetes, and complications of ARF and shock were significantly associat-ed with mortality. In the multivariate analysis, only age over 60 years, ARF and shock remained associated with mortality.Conclusions: ARDS in COVID-19 is more common among the elderly. Only age >60 years, shock and ARF were associated with mortality in the multivariate analysis

Descripción de las intervenciones broncoscópicas en estenosis traqueales posterior a infección por COVID-19 / Description of Bronchoscopic Interventions in Post-COVID Tracheal Stenosis

Introducción: La infección por SARS-CoV-2 puede presentar síndrome de distrés res-piratorio agudo con requerimiento de ventilación mecánica prolongada y retraso en la realización de traqueostomía. Esto trae como consecuencia un incremento en casos de estenosis traqueal y la necesidad de métodos menos invasivos para su abordaje. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, desde marzo 2020 hasta diciem-bre 2021 en el Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, en adultos con estenosis traqueal postintubación asociado SARS-CoV-2. Se realizó análisis univariado entre los grupos con infección o no por SARS-CoV-2 como control, y reintervención, grado de estenosis, uso de inyección intramucosa con dexametasona intratraqueal o múltiples estenosis como desenlaces de importancia. Se usó test exacto de Fisher, t Student y Man-Whitney según la naturaleza de variables. Se consideró p estadísticamente significativo menor a 0.05.Resultados: Se identificaron 26 pacientes, 20 tenían COVID-19 y 6 no. Se encontraron diferencias en edad (p=0,002), epilepsia (p=0,007) y estenosis múltiple (p= 0,04). En 85% de los casos se utilizó láser blue más dilatación con balón pulmonar, en 35% inyección intramucosa con dexametasona intratraqueal y reintervención en 35%, sin diferencias significativas entre grupos. Conclusiones: Se observó un incremento tres veces mayor de pacientes con estenosis múltiple en el grupo de infección por COVID-19, así mismo se encontró que el método más utilizado en este grupo para la recanalización fue el uso de láser blue más dilatación con balón pulmonar y la innovación en el uso de inyección intramucosa.

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome with a prolonged need for mechanical ventilation and delayed tracheostomy, resulting in an increase in cases of tracheal stenosis and the necessity for less invasive approaches.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to December 2021 at the Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, focusing on adults with post-intubation tracheal stenosis associated with SARS-CoV-2. Univariate analysis was performed between groups with or without SARS-CoV-2 infection as a control, considering reintervention, degree of stenosis, use of intratracheal steroids, or multiple stenoses as important outcomes. Fisher's exact test, Student's t-test, and Mann-Whit-ney test were employed based on the nature of variables. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: A total of 26 patients were included, with 20 having COVID-19 and 6 without. Significant differences were found in age (p=0.002), epilepsy (p=0.007), and multiple stenosis (p=0.04). In 85% of cases, laser blue plus balloon pulmonary dilation was used, intratracheal dexamethasone in 35%, and reintervention in 35%, with no significant differences between groups.Conclusions: A threefold increase in subglottic stenosis was observed during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with more instances of multiple stenosis and predominantly the use of laser blue plus balloon pulmonary dilation as a successful recanalization technique. There was a higher use of intratracheal dexamethasone in this group compared to oth-er pathologies causing tracheal stenosis.

Exceso de mortalidad durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador. Análisis espacio temporal del exceso de mortalidad durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador / Excess Mortality during the COVID- 19 Pandemic in Ecuador. Spatiotemporal Analysis of Excess Mortality During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Ecuador

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 causó una elevada mortalidad en el mundo y en el Ecuador. Esta investigación se propuso analizar el exceso de mortalidad debido a la pandemia de COVID-19 en Ecuador. Método: Estudio observacional, longitudinal, cuantitativo y descriptivo. Clasificado como estudio ecológico en el campo de la epidemiología. Este estudio se centra en la medición del exceso de mortalidad durante los años 2020, 2021 y 2022, tomando como período base el promedio de defunciones ocurridas en el intervalo de 2015 a 2019. Resultados: Ecuador, en el período de enero 2020 a octubre 2022, acumuló un exceso total de muertes de 98.915. En el año 2020, el exceso de mortalidad fue mayor a 46.374, siendo el mes de abril el valor más alto de 15.484. En el año 2021, el exceso de muertes fue de 35.859, siendo abril el mes con mayor exceso de 7.330. Y el año 2022 el exceso de mortalidad fue de 16.682, el mes con mayor exceso fue enero con 4.204. Conclusión: Se evidenció un subregistro de defunciones, así como variaciones temporales y geográficas en el exceso de mortalidad. La provincia con mayor número de fallecidos y exceso de mortalidad fue Guayas seguida de Pichincha. Los resultados proporcionan un análisis del panorama durante la emergencia sanitaria, destacando la importancia de evaluar la capacidad de respuesta de los sistemas de salud en momentos de crisis y la necesidad imperativa de implementar medidas correctivas para el futuro.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant mortality in the world and in Ecuador. This research aimed to analyze the excess mortality due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador. Method: An observational, longitudinal, quantitative and descriptive study, classified as an ecological study in the field of epidemiology. This study focuses on measuring excess mortality during the years 2020, 2021 and 2022, using the average number of deaths that occurred in the period from 2015 to 2019 as the baseline. Results: From January 2020 to October 2022, Ecuador accumulated a total excess of deaths of 98,915. In 2020, the excess mortality was higher at 46,374, with the highest value occurring in April at 15,484. In 2021, the excess deaths amounted to 35,859, with April having the highest excess of 7,330. In 2022, the excess mortality was 16,682, with January recording the highest excess at 4,204. Conclusion: Evidence of underreporting of deaths, as well as temporal and geographi-cal variations in excess mortality, was observed. The province with the highest number of deaths and excess mortality was Guayas, followed by Pichincha. The results provide an analysis of the situation during the health emergency, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the healthcare system's capacity to respond during times of crisis and the imperative need to implement corrective measures for the future.

Reavaliação do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir para o tratamento de pacientes com COVID-19 não hospitalizados e com alto risco de doença grave / Revalidation of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 who are not hospitalized and with a high risk of serious illness

INTRODUÇÃO: Pacientes com fatores de risco como idade avançada, imunodepressão, obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares têm risco aumentado de internação, intubação e morte. De acordo com dados brasileiros, o risco de morte por covid-19 aumenta com o número de fatores de risco que o paciente apresenta, sendo igual a 17% em pacientes com 2 fatores de risco e 76% na presença de 8 fatores de risco. Além disso, mesmo aqueles pacientes que sobrevivem a uma internação em terapia intensiva frequentemente enfrentam sequelas e representam alto custo para o sistema público. O medicamento nirmatrelvir associado ao ritonavir têm o objetivo de prevenir internações, complicações e morte. Ele é indicado para pacientes com Covid-19 leve a moderada, não hospitalizados, até 5 dias do início dos sintomas. Apesar dos avanços da vacinação no Brasil, evidências sobre a falha vacinal em idosos e imunodeprimidos destacam a importância da disponibilidade de alternativas terapêuticas para essas populações. O presente relatório teve por objetivo avaliar evidências sobre a efetividade do tratamento em pacientes vacinados com alto risco de agravamento da doença. PERGUNTA: O medicamento nirmatrelvir/ritonavir é eficaz, seguro e custo-efetivo para pacientes com covid19 leve a moderada não hospitalizados vacinados que apresentam alto risco de agravamento da doença? EVIDÊNCIAS CLÍNICAS: Resultados obtidos a partir de estudos observacionais de mundo real confirmaram os resultados do ensaio clínico do medicamento nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, demonstrando que o tratamento de pacientes de grupos de risco é capaz de reduzir o risco de desfechos desfavoráveis como internação e óbito entre cerca de 50% e 70%, inclusive entre pacientes previamente vacinados. ANÁLISE DE IMPACTO ORÇAMENTÁRIO: A análise de impacto orçamentário do relatório de recomendação do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir foi atualizada considerando-se o cenário atual da pandemia no Brasil. De acordo com a nova análise, o uso do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir por pacientes com idade ≥ 65 anos e imunossuprimidos com idade ≥ 18 anos, resultaria em uma economia de recursos de R$ 408.957.111,38 em 5 anos. Ressalta-se, no entanto, que devido à dinâmica de difícil previsão da pandemia, este montante está sujeito à incerteza. Considerando-se a análise realizada anteriormente no relatório de recomendação, pode-se concluir que o montante economizado se reduz proporcionalmente à redução do número de casos da doença na população alvo. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: De acordo com as evidências atualmente disponíveis, o uso do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir é efetivo e seguro para pacientes com covid-19 leve a moderada não hospitalizados vacinados que apresentam alto risco de agravamento da doença. O impacto orçamentário está sujeito a incertezas já que o número de casos da doença no horizonte temporal da análise é de difícil previsão. RECOMENDAÇÃO PRELIMINAR DA CONITEC: Diante do exposto, os membros do Comitê de Medicamentos da Conitec, em sua 16ª Reunião Extraordinária, realizada no dia 1º de novembro de 2023, deliberaram que a matéria fosse disponibilizada em Consulta Pública com recomendação preliminar favorável à incorporação no SUS do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir para o tratamento de pacientes com Covid-19 não hospitalizados com idade a partir de 65 anos ou pacientes imunossuprimidos a partir de 18 anos de idade. Os membros do Comitê concordaram na manutenção da indicação de uso, não havendo ampliação do público-alvo, justificada pela restrição orçamentária, considerando que há incremento de custo da aquisição da tecnologia, ainda que haja economia de recursos ao serem evitadas internações e óbitos. CONSULTA PÚBLICA: Das nove contribuições recebidas, cinco contribuições foram de cunho técnico-científico e quatro contribuições de experiência ou opinião. Todas as contribuições concordaram com a recomendação preliminar da Conitec de incorporar o nirmatrelvir/ritonavir. Duas contribuições técnico-científicassugeriram ampliação da população elegível ao tratamento com o medicamento com a inclusão de indicação para pacientes com taxa de filtração glomerular menor que 30 ml/min/1,73m2 e de pacientes adultos com asma grave independentemente da faixa etária. Uma contribuição técnico-científica enviada pela empresa fabricante do medicamento expressou sua concordância com e solicitou a inclusão de informaçõea adicionais no relatório. As contribuições de experiência ou opinião ressaltaram a eficácia e segurança do medicamento para a população alvo. RECOMEDAÇÃO FINAL DA CONITEC: Diante do exposto, os membros do Comitê de Medicamentos, presentes na 126ª Reunião Ordinária da Conitec, realizada no dia 01 de fevereiro de 2024, deliberaram, por unanimidade, após reavaliação, manter a incorporação do nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, no SUS, para o tratamento da Covid-19 nos seguintes grupos de pacientes com sintomas leves a moderados, que não requerem oxigênio suplementar, independentemente do status vacinal: a) imunocomprometidos com idade ≥ 18 anos; b) com idade ≥ 65 anos. Foi assinado o registro de deliberação nº 874/2024. DECISÃO: manter a incorporação, no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS, de nirmatrelvir/ritonavir para o tratamento da Covid-19 para pacientes com sintomas leves a moderados, que não requerem oxigênio suplementar, independentemente do status vacinal e com idade igual ou superior a 65 anos ou imunocomprometidos com idade igual ou superior a 18 anos, publicada no Diário Oficial da União nº 46, seção 1, página 54, em 07 de março de 2024.

Famotidina en el tratamiento de pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19. Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis / Famotidine in the treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Systematic review and meta-analysis

Introducción: El síndrome respiratorio agudo severo coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), de alta morbimortalidad, carece a la fecha de preparar esta revisión, de una terapia específica altamente eficaz. Famotidina se ha postulado como una opción terapéutica viable, basado en trabajos de cohorte retrospectiva y modelos computacionales guiados por inteligencia artificial. Objetivo: Recopilar la mejor evidencia científica disponible para determinar la efectividad y eficacia de famotidina en el tratamiento de pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19, para reducir el riesgo de progresión de la enfermedad, intubación, muerte y tiempo de estancia hospitalaria. Material y Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda en PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science y Cochrane Central, de artículos originales que reporten las variables de interés asociadas al uso de famotidina en pacientes hospitalizados con COVID- 19. Los investigadores independientemente evaluaron y seleccionaron los estudios, se extrajeron los datos expuestos para las asociaciones de interés y se procesaron con el software Revman 5.3. Resultados: En la búsqueda se obtuvo un total de 126 artículos potenciales para la revisión, de los cuales 14 fueron seleccionados para el análisis. En el metaanálisis se incluyeron un total de 47.044 pacientes, de los cuales 6.647 fueron los usuarios de famotidina. El riesgo de intubación se vio reducido en el grupo no expuesto a famotidina, aunque sin significancia estadística, (RR 1,43 IC95% 0,42-4,83), en cuanto a la mortalidad no se evidenció reducción significativa en el grupo de famotidina (RR 0,95 IC 95% 0,70-1,29). Se observó reducción en el tiempo de estancia hospitalaria (DM -1,60 -2,89, -0,31) y finalmente se mostró que no hay presencia de asociación entre el uso de famotidina y el desenlace compuesto de reducción del riesgo de ingreso a UCI, intubación y muerte (RR 1,03 IC 95% 0,46-2,34). Conclusión: Famotidina no presenta efectividad ni eficacia en la reducción de riesgo de intubación o ingreso a UCI ni de mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19. La eficacia en la reducción de la estancia hospitalaria no es consistente y se necesitan más ensayos clínicos con buena calidad metodológica para definirla.

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), with high morbidity and mortality, lacks, at the time of preparing this review, a highly effective specific therapy. Famotidine has been postulated as a viable therapeutic option, based on retrospective cohort investigations and computational models guided by artificial intelligence. Aim: The objective of this study was to compile the best scientific evidence available to determine the effectiveness and efficacy of famotidine in the treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19, to reduce the risk of disease progression, intubation, death, and time to hospital stay. Methods: A search was carried out in PubMed, EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Central Cochrane, for original articles that report the variables of interest associated with the use of famotidine in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The investigators independently evaluated and selected the studies, the exposed data for the associations of interest were extracted and processed with Revman 5.3 software. Results: The search yielded a total of 126 potential articles for the review, of which 14 were selected for analysis. A total of 47,044 patients were included in the meta-analysis of which 6,647 were famotidine users. The risk of intubation was reduced in the group not exposed to famotidine, although without statistical significance (RR 1.43 IC95% 0.42 - 4.83), regarding mortality there was no significant reduction in the famotidine group (RR 0.95 IC 95 % 0.70-1.29). A reduction in the length of hospital stay was observed (MD -1.60 -2.89, -0.31) and finally it was shown that there is no association between the use of famotidine and the composite outcome of reduced risk of ICU admission, intubation and death. (RR 1.03 95% CI 0.46-2.34). Conclusion: Famotidine does not show effectiveness or efficacy in reducing the risk of intubation or ICU admission or mortality in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. The efficacy in reducing hospital stay is not consistent and more clinical trials with good methodological quality are needed to define it.

Produção de anticorpos e citocinas em resposta ao SARS-CoV-2: comparação entre imunidade vacinal e híbrida / Antibody and cytokine production in response to SARS-CoV-2: vaccine versus hybrid immunity comparison

A resposta imunológica pelo SARS-CoV-2 após protocolos vacinais e infecção natural é pouco compreendida. Comparando indivíduos vacinados com esquema heterólogo que receberam um reforço vacinal (imunidade vacinal) com aqueles que apresentaram episódio leve de COVID-19 (imunidade híbrida) no mesmo período, verificamos níveis semelhantes de anticorpos contra SARS-CoV-2. Em culturas de células mononucleares, o estímulo com o antígeno viral induziu produção de citocinas pró-inflamatórias nos dois grupos, entretanto, os níveis de IL-17 foram menores em indivíduos com imunidade vacinal. Nossos resultados sugerem que o reforço vacinal teve efeitos semelhantes à infecção natural pelo SARS-CoV-2 na resposta imunológica de indivíduos previamente vacinados. (AU)

The immune response generated by SARS-CoV-2 vaccination protocols and natural infection remains incompletely understood. We compared individuals who received a heterologous vaccination scheme with a booster shot (vaccine immunity) to those who experienced a mild COVID-19 episode (hybrid immunity) during the same timeframe. Our findings revealed similar levels of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in both groups. Stimulation by viral antigen in mononuclear cell cultures induced pro-inflammatory cytokines in both groups, while individuals with vaccine immunity exhibited lower IL-17. These results suggest that a vaccine booster can induce an immune response in previously vaccinated individuals comparable to that elicited by natural SARS-CoV-2 infection. (AU)

Assessment of patients'knowledge, attitude and practice of cross-infection control in the dental clinic during COVID-19 pandemic

Background:The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a highly contagious disease that causes viral respiratory illness, has changed the lifestyle of humans worldwide. Dental practitioners and patients are at high risk of infection during their routine practice due to their exposure to saliva, blood, and droplet production.Aim:To gain insight into the patient's viewpoint regarding the practice, altitude, and knowledge of COVID-19 and its transmission and cross-infection in dental clinics.Methods:This was cross­sectional analytic survey in dentistry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aself-administered close-ended questionnaire consisting of 32 variables was distributed among the study participants. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The level of significance was p ≤ 0.05. Results:The age of the participants varied from 20 - 58 years, with a mean age of 34.6 ±5. The majority (89.3%) felt COVID-19 was a highly contagious disease, while 50.0% of the respondents believed that the most common route of COVID-19 transmission in dentistry is through aerosols. The majority, 78.6%, recorded good knowledge of infection control following the COVID-19 outbreak. The number of married patients who had good knowledge of cross-infection control was 118, which was statistically significant.Conclusion:From the study, it is evident that the patients possess a good range of knowledge in both preventive and cross-infection protocols to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the same cannot be said about the practice

Risk factors of mortality among COVID-19 patients receiving non-invasive ventilation at Addis Ababa governmental COVID-19 treatment centers

Introduction: during the global COVID-19 pandemic, non-invasive ventilation has become a widely utilized method for treating patients experiencing acute respiratory failure. Noninvasive pressure ventilation is frequently employed as a standard approach for managing acute respiratory failure resulting from COVID-19 pneumonia, as opposed to invasive ventilation methods. However, there is a lack of research on its effectiveness. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the risk of mortality among COVID-19 patients receiving non-invasive ventilation. Methods: a multi-centric retrospective cross sectional study was conducted on the records of 402 patients at the Eka Kotebe COVID-19 Center, St. Peter COVID-19 Care Center, and Millennium COVID-19 Treatment Center. The systematic random selection technique was employed in order to select the study unit, and data was extracted from patient charts using a pretested method and validated before being entered into Epi-data Manager 4.6 versions. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable analyses were performed using binary logistic regression in SPSS 25. In the multivariate logistic regression, a predictor variable was considered to have a significant connection if its p-value was less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence level. Results: four hundred and two patient records were reviewed during the study period and showed the mean patient´s age was 62.6 years, with male predominance. It revealed that 11.7% [CI: 8.7-15.2] of COVID-19 patients who received non-invasive positive pressure ventilation died, as being critical for COVID-19 patients was a main cause of noninvasive initiation. Patients over the age of 60 were more likely to die among those who received noninvasive ventilation for COVID-19 [AOR = 5.4 95% CI 1.32, 23.1]. Conversely, patients without diabetes were less likely to die [AOR = 0.23 95% CI 0.11, 0.48]. Moreover, patients with a tidal volume greater than 500 ml were more likely to pass away [AOR =2.2 95% CI 1.11,4.43], as were those who were on non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for more than 8 days [AOR = 0.24 95% CI.08, 0.81]. Conclusion: the significance of patients who were given non-invasive ventilators ended up dying. Age, diabetes, and high tidal volumes are linked to a higher risk of death. Non-invasive ventilation for over eight days showed a protective effect. Removing factors that caused NIV and ventilated COVID-19 patients' deaths may reduce mortality.

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among pregnant women: a multicentre cross-sectional survey in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Introduction: effective COVID-19 vaccines for the prevention of severe illness have been available for more than one year now. This study was carried out to ascertain vaccine hesitancy and its associations among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in Port Harcourt, a large cosmopolitan town in Nigeria. Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional online survey over 2 months among consenting pregnant women receiving antenatal care in the 3 largest obstetric service centers in Port Harcourt to evaluate COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its associations. Results: the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was 669 (72.2%). Of the respondents, 27 (2.9%) had been infected or had a close family member infected with SARS-CoV-2, and 897 (96.8%) of them had heard of the COVID-19 vaccine; however, only 133 (14.4%) had been vaccinated against COVID-19. The safety of the mother in 260 (32.8%) and the safety of the unborn baby in 114 (14.4%) of the respondents were the reasons for vaccine hesitancy. A small proportion of women 7(0.9%) were hesitant on religious grounds. Tertiary education, use of childhood immunization for previous infants delivered, and availability of COVID-19 vaccine in the antenatal clinic at no cost to the women, were statistically significant predictors of vaccine uptake among the respondents. Conclusion: the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women in Port Harcourt was 72.2%. Higher academic achievement and availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in the antenatal clinic were predictors of vaccine uptake, while reasons for hesitancy were mostly due to safety concerns for the mother and unborn baby.

COVID-19 in children aged 0-15 years seen at Amirou Boubacar Diallo National Hospital in Niamey, Niger, 2020-2021

Background: In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic affected all age groups. Although COVID-19 is generally benign in children, a diagnostic problem may arise due to clinical similarities with certain pathologies such as malaria, dengue fever and influenza. The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological profile of COVID 19 in children seen at consultation and to determine the prevalence of influenza, malaria and dengue fever as differential diagnoses. Methodology: We conducted a prospective cohort analytical study from October 1, 2020 to February 28, 2021 in COVID-19 suspected children aged 0 to 15 years admitted to the pediatrics department at the hospital. We used EPI INFO 7.2.4. software for data entry and analysis. Frequencies and proportions were calculated. Results: A total of 570 suspected cases of COVID-19 were enrolled. Of the suspected cases, 53.2% were males and 46.9% were females, with a M/F ratio of 1.13. The median age was 2 years (IQR: 1- 3 years), with age range of 0 to 15 years, and 68,8% in the age range 1 to 5 years. Exposure factors were travel (3.7%), contact with a suspected case of COVID-19 (1.0%), while only 2.6 % (15/570) of suspected cases were confirmed positive for COVID-19. The median age of COVID-19 confirmed children was 2.7 years (IQR 0.33-5). There were more male positive cases, with a M/F ratio of 2. Fever (100%) and cough (53.3%) were the predominant symptoms. The prevalence of malaria, Dengue fever and influenza among suspected COVID-19 cases were 16.8%, 0% and 54.7% respectively, while the respective prevalence in COVID-19 confirmed cases were 66.7%, 0% and 33.3% Conclusion: COVID-19 should be investigated in children presenting with symptoms and signs of malaria, influenza or Dengue fever.

Boletim epidemiológico / Epidemiological bulletin

Abrange diversos tópicos relacionados à vigilância genômica do SARS-CoV-2, destacando a estratégia liderada pela Organização Mundial de Saúde e sua implementação descentralizada no Brasil, bem como o impacto epidemiológico das variantes identificadas. Além disso, comemora-se os 50 anos do Programa Nacional de Imunizações do Brasil, ressaltando sua importância na proteção da saúde da população através da vacinação. O texto também discute perspectivas futuras, incluindo o fortalecimento e expansão da vigilância genômica para outras doenças de interesse epidemiológico local. Na segunda parte, são mencionadas referências científicas relevantes sobre a COVID-19, incluindo artigos de periódicos renomados e estudos sobre a classificação da variante Omicron e suas subvariantes.

Covers various topics related to genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the strategy led by the World Health Organization and its decentralized implementation in Brazil, as well as the epidemiological impact of the identified variants. Additionally, the 50th anniversary of Brazil's National Immunization Program is celebrated, emphasizing its importance in protecting the population's health through vaccination. The text also discusses future perspectives, including strengthening and expanding genomic surveillance for other locally epidemiologically significant diseases. The second part mentions relevant scientific references on COVID-19, including articles from renowned journals and studies on the classification of the Omicron variant and its subvariants.

Aborda varios temas relacionados con la vigilancia genómica del SARS-CoV-2, destacando la estrategia liderada por la Organización Mundial de la Salud y su implementación descentralizada en Brasil, así como el impacto epidemiológico de las variantes identificadas. Además, se celebra el 50 aniversario del Programa Nacional de Inmunizaciones de Brasil, enfatizando su importancia en la protección de la salud de la población a través de la vacunación. El texto también discute perspectivas futuras, incluyendo el fortalecimiento y la expansión de la vigilancia genómica para otras enfermedades de interés epidemiológico local. En la segunda parte, se mencionan referencias científicas relevantes sobre COVID-19, incluyendo artículos de revistas de renombre y estudios sobre la clasificación de la variante Omicron y sus subvariantes.

Encephalopathy in hospitalized patients with Coronavirus disease 2019: A single-center study

Objective@#This study aimed to determine the incidence of encephalopathy among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. @*Methods@#This was a retrospective observational study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Cebu City, Philippines. This study is a complete enumeration of all records of adult patients admitted for COVID-19 detected through polymerase chain reaction from March 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021. The cases were then classified as to the presence or absence of encephalopathy. @*Results@#The study determined that 6 in every 1000 admitted COVID-19 patients developed encephalopathy. The clinico-demographic profile of patients with encephalopathy were mostly elderly with a mean age of 67, males (55.7%), and obese stage I (61.1%). Encephalopathy was more likely to develop in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (80.1%) and coronary artery disease (40.0%). Most patients who did not have encephalopathy however had a history of CVD. Most patients (66.7%) who developed encephalopathy were dyspneic on presentation. Laboratory examination results showed an increase in fasting blood sugar and elevated levels of LDH, CRP, serum ferritin, procalcitonin, and D-dimer. Majority of patients (66.7%) with encephalopathy were intubated. Taking into consideration the stage of infection and the incidence of encephalopathy, most patients (66.6%) were in the hyperinflammatory stage. The number of hospitalization days and severity of illness did not have any association with developing encephalopathy. Dichotomous categorization of outcomes into deceased and discharged showed that clinical outcomes and the development of encephalopathy were significantly associated, with 66.7% of patients with encephalopathy expiring during their course of hospitalization.@*Conclusion@#The incidence of encephalopathy among admitted COVID-19 patients was 6 in every 1000 patients. Encephalopathy was more common in elderly males who were obese with type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. The most common presentation of patients who developed encephalopathy was dyspnea. Collated laboratory results showed an increase in fasting blood sugar and elevated levels of LDH, CRP, serum ferritin, procalcitonin, and D-dimer. Majority of patients with encephalopathy were intubated and were in the hyperinflammatory stage of COVID-19 infection. Dichotomous categorization of outcomes into deceased and discharged showed that clinical outcomes and the development of encephalopathy were significantly associated, with most patients with encephalopathy expiring during their course of hospitalization.

Risk of COVID-19 outcomes among healthcare workers: Findings from the Philippine CORONA retrospective cohort study

Objectives@#While many healthcare workers (HCWs) contracted COVID-19 during the pandemic, more information is needed to fully understand the potential for adverse health effects in this population segment. The aim of the present study is to examine the association between healthcare worker status and neurologic and clinical outcomes in COVID-19 infected inpatients.@*Methods@#Using the nationwide database provided by the retrospective cohort Philippine CORONA study, we extracted relevant data and performed a secondary analysis primarily focusing on the presentation and outcomes of healthcare workers. Propensity score matching in a 3:1 ratio was performed to match HCWs and non-HCWs. We performed multiple logistic and Cox regression analyses to determine the relationship between HCWs and COVID-19 clinical outcomes.@*Results@#We included 3,362 patients infected with COVID-19; of which, 854 were HCWs. Among the HCWs, a total of 31 (3.63%) and 45 (5.27%) had the primary outcomes of in-hospital mortality and respiratory failure, respectively. For both overall and 3:1 propensity-matched cohorts, being an HCW significantly decreased the odds of the following outcomes: severe/critical COVID-19 at nadir; in-hospital mortality; respiratory failure; intensive care unit admission; and hospital stay >14 days.@*Conclusion@#We found that being an HCW is not associated with worse neurologic and clinical outcomes among patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

Clinical analysis of 11 cases multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection in children / 中华儿科杂志

Objective: To explore the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) related to SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data of 11 children with MIS-C, who were admitted to the Department of Pediatrics of Peking University First Hospital from December 2022 to January 2023. Clinical characteristics, treatment, and follow-up of MIS-C were summarized in this study. Results: The 11 cases contained 7 boys and 4 girls, with an age of 4.4 (2.0, 5.5) years on admission. All the patients had fever, with a duration of 7(5, 9) days. Other clinical manifestations included rash in 7 cases, conjunctival hyperemia in 5 cases, red lips and raspberry tongue in 3 cases, lymphadenopathy in 3 cases, and swollen fingers and toes in 2 cases. There were 8 cases of digestive symptoms, 8 cases of respiratory symptoms, and 3 cases of nervous system symptoms. Eight patients had multi-system injuries, and one of them had shock presentation. All 11 patients were infected with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BF.7 variant. The laboratory examination results showed that all cases had elevated inflammatory indicators, abnormal coagulation function and myocardial damage. Six patients had elevated white blood cell counts, 5 cases had liver function abnormalities, 3 cases had kidney function abnormalities, and 8 cases had coronary artery involvement. All 11 patients received anti-infection treatment, of which 3 cases received only 2 g/kg intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), while the remaining 8 cases received a combination of IVIG and 2 mg/(kg·d) methylprednisolone. Among the 8 cases with coronary artery disease, 6 cases received low molecular weight heparin anticoagulation therapy. All patients were followed up in 2 weeks after being discharged, and their inflammatory markers had returned to normal by that time. The 8 cases with coronary artery disease and 3 cases with pneumonia showed significant improvement or back to normal at the 4-week follow-up. All patients had no new complications or comorbidities during follow-up of more than 3 months. Conclusions: MIS-C may present with Kawasaki disease-like symptoms, with or without gastrointestinal, neurological, or respiratory symptoms. Elevated inflammatory markers, abnormal coagulation function, and cardiac injury contribute to the diagnosis of MIS-C. IVIG and methylprednisolone were the primary treatments for MIS-C, and a favorable short-term prognosis was observed during a follow-up period of more than 3 months.