[Description of Influenza B in seasonal epidemic in Cantabria during the beginning of the pandemia due to SARS-CoV-2]. / Descripción de la epidemia estacional por Gripe B en Cantabria durante los inicios de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2.

OBJECTIVE: Co-circulation of the two Influenza B lineages hinders forecast of strain to include in trivalent vaccine. Autonomous Communities such as Cantabria continue without supplying tetravalent vaccine. The aim of this study was to analyse epidemiological characteristics of influenza type B in Cantabria (2019-2020 season) as well as to establish the predominant lineage and its relation to the recommended vaccine. METHODS: Retrospective study whereby flu diagnosis and lineage analysis were determined by RT-PCR. RESULTS: All samples belonged to the Victoria lineage. Most prevalent viral co-infection was due to SARS-CoV-2. The population affected by influenza B was mainly paediatric and non-vaccinated patients more frequently required hospital admittance. CONCLUSIONS: Influenza type B has a higher incidence in the paediatric population and type A affects more the adult population. Only 28.8% of patients with Influenza B that presented with some underlying condition or risk factor were vaccinated. This shows the need to increase coverage with tetravalent vaccines in order to reduce the burden of disease associated with the Influenza B virus.

Nasopharyngeal swab for the diagnosis of COVID-19

Introduction and objective: The diagnostic test of COVID-19 with the highest sensitivity is a nasopharyngeal sample using a swab for subsequent study using RT-PCR. The objective of our work is to explain in detail the most appropriate way to perform this technique. Method: Description of the different steps necessary for taking a nasopharyngeal sample in patients with covid-19. Results: The steps to take into account to get a nasopharyngeal sample in a patient with COVID-19 are: 1Previously, it is necessary to rule out that there are no contraindications for sampling2. Sample labeling and preparation of the petition form. 3. Placement of PPE according to the institution rules4. Explanation to the patient of the process to be performed 5. Procedure for taking a nasopharyngeal sample. &. Withdrawal of the EPI. /. Handling and tranportation of the sample to the laboratory. Discussion/Conclusions: Given that the sensitivity of the nasopharyngeal simples for the diagnosis of COVID-19 depends largely on a correct technique, the adequate training of the personnel involved in this collection is very important. The examiner must know the objetive of the procedure, how top ut on and take off the PPE, know how the technique is performed and how the sample is handled.

Behavioral economics and COVID-19: A social interpretation of reality

From the knowledge of the Behavioral Economy, the present essay aims to analyze the manifestations of the current and future behaviors of individuals, based on the new social conditions generated by the COVID-19 pandemic. To do this, a selection was made of the main authors of behavioral economics. The analytical-synthetic method was applied. The main units of analysis and their causal explanations (rationality, biases, nudges) were then used to interpret social behavior. The results point to the possibilities of using scientific knowledge to obtain good behavioral practices, fostering opportunities to mitigate the effect of the pandemic. The conclusions emphasize the need to overcome positivist, rationalist and deterministic limits in the conception of human nature;the social sciences have to promote the critical analysis of these conditions and project the mechanisms that guarantee an existence in the new environment, based on interdisciplinarity and a complex approach in the analysis of reality. It is concluded that Behavioral Economy has the potential for analysis and adjustment in future public policy decisions, therefore their knowledge and experiences must be applied to minimize the effect on human beings and the economy. © 2020. All Rights Reserved.