Subacute thyroiditis and thyrotoxicosis after SARS-CoV-2 vaccine: report of 2 cases / Tiroiditis subaguda y tirotoxicosis posterior a vacuna contra SARS-CoV-2: reporte de 2 casos

La enfermedad por coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 que surgió en el año 2019 (COVID-19), ha obligado al rápido desarrollo de vacunas para prevenir su propagación e intentar controlar la pandemia. Dentro de las vacunas desarrolladas, las primeras en ser aprobadas con una tecnología nueva en el campo de la vacunación, fueron las vacunas basadas en ARNm (ácido ribonucleico mensajero), que lograron tasas de efectividad cercanas al 95 % para la prevención de la enfermedad COVID-19 grave. Los eventos adversos comunes son reacciones locales leves, pero ha habido varios informes de pacientes que desarrollaron tiroiditis subaguda y disfunción tiroidea después de recibir la vacuna contra SARS-CoV-2. Este artículo presenta dos casos de tiroiditis subaguda poco después de recibir la vacuna contra COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus disease which emerged in 2019 (COVID-19), has forced the rapid development of vaccines to prevent the spread of infection and attempt to control the pandemic. Among the vaccines developed, one of the first to be approved with a new technology in the field of vaccination, was the mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) vaccine, with rates of effectiveness close to 95% for the prevention of severe COVID-19 disease. Common adverse events are mild local reactions, but there have been some reports of patients developing sub-acute thyroiditis and thyroid dysfunction after receiving the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. This article presents two case reports of subacute thyroiditis shortly after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine

Knowledge and attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine among India's general rural population

Introduction Even after the enforcement of the lockdown, the government was unable to control the spread of the COVID-19 infection. Vaccination is the only remaining hope for preventing and controlling COVID-19 infections. The knowledge and attitude of the recipients can influence vaccine acceptance. In this study, we aim to assess the knowledge and attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccine among the general rural population of India. Methodology A community-based, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2021 to October 2021 in the rural part of the Mandya district of Karnataka, India. Individuals over the age of 18 who met the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's vaccination eligibility criteria were included in the study. Demographic details of participants and assessment of knowledge and attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine were done in a designed and validated data collection form. Results The study included 596 participants, with females dominating males by 54.9 % (327). The average age of the participants was 31 years. Among them, 81.71% (487) had adequate knowledge, and 81.5% (486) had a positive attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine. Females (85.3%, 279) tend to have a more positive attitude than males (77%, 207). Positive attitude participants (86.86 %, 423) have a higher level of knowledge about the COVID-19 vaccine than negative attitude participants (57.79 %, 63). Conclusion In the study, we found that 81.71% had adequate knowledge and 81.5% had a positive attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Resumen Introducción Incluso tras la obligatoriedad del confinamiento el gobierno fue incapaz de controlar la propagación de la infección por COVID-19. La vacuna es la única esperanza que queda para prevenir y controlar las infecciones por COVID-19. El conocimiento y la actitud de los receptores pueden influir en la aceptación de la vacuna. En este estudio, nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el conocimiento y la actitud hacia la vacuna contra la COVID-19 entre la población rural general de India. Metodología Se realizó un estudio transversal, prospectivo y con base comunitaria de mayo a octubre de 2021 en la zona rural del distrito Mandya de Karnataka, India. Se incluyó en el estudio a los individuos mayores de 18 años que cumplieron los criterios de elegibilidad del Ministerio de Sanidad y Bienestar Familiar. Los datos demográficos de los participantes y la evaluación del conocimiento y la actitud hacia la vacuna contra la COVID-19 se incluyeron en un formulario de recopilación de datos diseñado y validado. Resultados El estudio incluyó a 596 participantes, siendo más numerosas las mujeres que los hombres en un 54,9 % (327). La edad media de los participantes fue de 31 años. Entre ellos, el 81,71% (487) tenía un conocimiento adecuado, y el 81,5% (486) una actitud positiva hacia la vacuna contra la COVID-19. Las mujeres (85,3%, 279) tendieron a tener una actitud más positiva que los hombres (77%, 207). Los participantes con actitud positiva (86,86 %, 423) tuvieron un mayor nivel de conocimiento sobre la vacuna contra la COVID-19 que los participantes con actitud negativa (57,79 %, 63). Conclusión En el estudio, encontramos que el 81,71% tuvo un conocimiento adecuado, y el 81,5% una actitud positiva hacia la vacuna contra la COVID-19.

Incidencia y factores asociados con las reacciones adversas tras la primera dosis de la vacuna Pfizer-BioNTech en trabajadores de la salud.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of adverse reactions (AR) after the first dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and to identify some factors associated with AR. METHOD: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Data were obtained through an epidemiological survey answered online. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with early (< 2 h) and late (≥ 2 h) AR. RESULTS: A total of 2295 health care workers were included; in them, the cumulative incidence of AR was 18.2% (95% confidence interval: 16.6-19.8), where the majority were late (78.2%). The associated factors that increased the risk of early AR were being female (odds ratio [OR]: 2.23, p = 0.002) and belonging to the medical staff (OR: 1.56; p = 0.041). In late AR were being female (OR: 1.94; p < 0.0001); on the other hand, diabetes (OR: 0.46; p = 0.021), asthma (OR: 0.53; p = 0.040) and smoking (OR: 0.44, p = 0.002) were inversely associated factors. Interestingly, history of COVID-19 was not associated with either early or late AR. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of presenting some type of AR due to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in health care workers is < 20%.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la incidencia de reacciones adversas (RA) tras la primera dosis de la vacuna Pfizer-BioNTech e identificar algunos factores asociados con ellas. MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Los datos fueron obtenidos mediante una encuesta epidemiológica contestada en línea. Se realizaron análisis multivariados para identificar factores asociados con las RA tempranas (< 2 h) y tardías (≥ 2 h). RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 2295 trabajadores de la salud; en ellos, la incidencia acumulada de RA fue del 18.2% (intervalo de confianza del 95%: 16.6-19.8%) y la mayoría fueron tardías (78.2%). Las RA tempranas más frecuentes fueron dolor local, cefalea y mareo; en las tardías fueron dolor local, cefalea y fatiga. No se documentaron casos de anafilaxia; sin embargo, en el grupo de RA tempranas y tardías hubo un caso y tres casos, respectivamente, con síntomas sistémicos que afectaron a dos órganos diferentes. Los factores asociados que incrementaron el riesgo de RA tempranas fueron ser mujer (odds ratio [OR]: 2.23; p = 0.002) y pertenecer al personal médico (OR: 1.56; p = 0.041). En las RA tardías fue ser mujer (OR: 1.94; p < 0.0001); por su parte, la diabetes (OR: 0.46; p = 0.021), el asma (OR: 0.53; p = 0.040) y el tabaquismo (OR: 0.44; p = 0.002) fueron factores asociados inversamente. Es interesante que la historia de COVID-19 no se asoció con RA tempranas ni tardías. CONCLUSIONES: El riesgo de presentar algún tipo de RA debido a la vacuna Pfizer-BioNTech en trabajadores de la salud es < 20%.

Influence of influenza vaccine and comorbidity on the evolution of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. / Influencia de la vacunación antigripal y la comorbilidad en la evolución de los pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 coronavirus disease outbreak is evolving around the world. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between influenza vaccination and the risk of mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, as well as other risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study. This study was conducted among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 at Hospital La Mancha Centro between March 5 and 25, 2020. Information on influenza vaccination was extracted from electronic medical records. We used a multivariate logistic regression to explore the association between influenza vaccination and mortality from COVID and other risk factors. RESULTS: 410 patients were included. Influenza vaccine had no effect among COVID-19 hospitalized patients [OR: 1.55 (95%CI: 0.96 - 2.48; p=0.071)]. Increasing hospital mortality was associated with older age [OR: 1.05 (95% CI 1.02-1.07), per year increase; p<0.001)], Charlson ≥3 [OR: 1.84 (95%CI: 1.07-3.15, p=0.027)] and heart failure on admission [OR: 6 (IC95%: 1.6 - 21.7; p=0.007)] CONCLUSIONS: Influenza vaccine had no effect among COVID-19 hospitalized patients. The risk factors identified were older age, higher comorbidity and heart failure on admission.

Immunogenicity, effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccine in older adults living in nursing homes: A real-life study.

INTRODUCTION: BNT162b2 (BioNTech and Pfizer) is a nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine that provides protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection and is generally well tolerated. However, data about its efficacy, immunogenicity and safety in people of old age or with underlying chronic conditions are scarce. PURPOSE: To describe BNT162b2 (BioNTech and Pfizer) COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity, effectiveness and reactogenicity after complete vaccination (two doses), and immunogenicity and reactogenicity after one booster, in elders residing in nursing homes (NH) and healthy NH workers in real-life conditions. METHODS: Observational, ambispective, multicenter study. Older adults and health workers were recruited from three nursing homes of a private hospital corporation located in three Spanish cities. The primary vaccination was carried out between January and March 2021. The follow-up was 13 months. Humoral immunity, adverse events, SARS-CoV-2 infections, hospitalizations and deaths were evaluated. Cellular immunity was assessed in a participant subset. RESULTS: A total of 181 residents (mean age 84.1 years; 89.9% females, Charlson index ≥2: 45%) and 148 members of staff (mean age 45.2 years; 70.2% females) were surveyed (n:329). After primary vaccination of 327 participants, vaccine response in both groups was similar; ≈70% of participants, regardless of the group, had an antibody titer above the cut-off considered currently protective (260BAU/ml). This proportion increased significantly to ≈ 98% after the booster (p<0.0001 in both groups). Immunogenicity was largely determined by a prior history of COVID-19 infection. Twenty residents and 3 workers were tested for cellular immunity. There was evidence of cellular immunity after primary vaccination and after booster. During the study, one resident was hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2. No SARS-CoV-2-related deaths were reported and most adverse events were mild. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is immunogenic, effective and safe in elderly NH residents with underlying chronic conditions.

Myocarditis related SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination: an expert consensus statement on its diagnosis and management.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has revealed several cardiovascular complications, including myocarditis caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) or after messenger RNA vaccine administration. Because of the high prevalence of COVID-19, the expansion of vaccination programs, and the appearance of new information on myocarditis in these contexts, there is a need to condense the knowledge acquired since the start of the pandemic. To meet this need, this document was drafted by the Myocarditis Working Group of the Heart Failure Association of the Spanish Society of Cardiology, with the collaboration of the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS). The document aims to address the diagnosis and treatment of cases of myocarditis associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection or messenger RNA vaccine administration.

Recommendations of the Spanish Group on Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis on the importance, screening and vaccination in inflammatory bowel disease patients. / Recomendaciones del Grupo Español de Trabajo en Enfermedad de Crohn y Colitis Ulcerosa sobre la importancia, el cribado y la vacunación en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal.

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may require different immunosuppressive treatments throughout their illness. It is essential to assess the immunization status of patients at diagnosis or, if this is not possible, at least before the beginning of immunosuppressive therapy and, subsequently, administering the appropriate vaccines. Therefore, the aim of this work is to establish clear and concise recommendations on vaccination in patients with IBD in the different settings of our clinical practice including vaccination in children, during pregnancy, breastfeeding or on trips. This consensus document emphasises the differences between inactivated and attenuated vaccines and the different degrees of immunosuppression and correlates them with the administration of both mandatory and optional vaccines recommended to our patients with IBD. Finally, as a summary, 17 recommendations are established based on the available scientific evidence and expert opinion. A multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in IBD and vaccination, made up of specialists in gastroenterology, paediatrics, nursing and pharmacy, has participated in the preparation of these recommendations of the Spanish Working Group on Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

COVID-19 vaccination rate and willingness of an additional dose among inflammatory bowel disease patients receiving biologic therapy: Fearless and with desire.

Effective vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 are already available and offer a promising action to control the COVID-19 pandemic. IBD patients on biological agents accept the vaccine as well as an additional dose if recommended. BACKGROUND: Vaccination against COVID-19 prevents its severe forms and associated mortality and offers a promising action to control this pandemic. In September 2021, an additional dose of vaccine was approved in patients with immunosuppression including IBD patients on biologic agents. We evaluated the vaccination rate and additional dose willingness in this group of at risk patients. METHODS: A single-center, cross-sectional study was performed among IBD patients on biologic agents and eligible for an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. IBD clinical characteristics and type of vaccine and date of administration were checked in medical records. Acceptance was evaluated after telephone or face-to-face surveys in IBD patients. RESULTS: Out of a total of 344 patients, 269 patients (46.1% male; mean age 47±16 years; Crohn's disease 73.6%) were included. Only 15 (5.6%) patients refused the COVID-19 vaccine mainly (40%) for conviction (COVID-19 pandemic denial). 33.3% would re-consider after discussing with their doctor and/or receiving information on the adverse effects of the vaccine. Previous to the additional dose, the COVID-19 vaccination was present in 94.4% of patients (n=254). Adverse effects occurred in 53.9% of the cases, mainly pain in the arm (40%). Up to 94.1% of the patients agreed to an additional dose and 79.4% had already received the additional dose at the final time of the assessment. CONCLUSIONS: IBD patients on biological agents accept the vaccine as well as an additional dose if recommended. Physicians in charge of IBD units should provide information and confidence in the use of the vaccine in these IBD patients.

Serological response to vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. / Respuesta serológica a las vacunas frente a SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal.

OBJECTIVE: To study the serological response (SR) and tolerability of COVID-19 vaccine in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and its relation with IBD treatment and type of vaccine. METHODS: Observational, cross-sectional study in patients with IBD vaccinated against COVID-19 without known previous infection. SR was analyzed by the determination of IgG antibodies against the S1 subunit. Safety was studied using a questionnaire to identify adverse effects (AE). RESULTS: 280 patients with IBD were included. Type of vaccines: Comirnaty® 68.8%; Spikevax® 10.8%, Vaxzevria® 18.3%, Ad26.COV2-S® 2.2%. 51.3% had AE, being 100% mild. 65% developed IgG antibodies after vaccination. The SR was higher for vaccines with mRNA technology (100% Spikevax®, 68.5% Comirnaty®) compared to those based on adenovirus vector (38.0% Vaxzevria®, 33.3% Ad26.COV2-S®) (P<.001). In the multivariate analysis, SR was related to age (<60 years; OR: 3.8, 95% CI 1.9-7.0; P<.001). The SR in patients with aminosalicylates was 65.4%, 61.4% with immunosuppressants, 65.8% with anti-TNF, and 68.7% with non-anti-TNF biologicals (P=.9). CONCLUSIONS: One third of patients with IBD did not develop antibodies with the initial vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The SR to vaccines based on mRNA technology was higher, and it was related to age (higher in younger patients). Immunosuppressants and biologicals did not decrease SR. More than half of the patients presented AD, being mild in all cases.

The urgency of strengthening health information to support public perception and involvement in the COVID-19 vaccine.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the driving and inhibiting factors and to find a prototype of community involvement in the COVID-19 vaccine. METHOD: Data sources from PubMed database, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ProQuest. The data were obtained based on searches using the keyword COVID-19 (n=11,.599), focusing on community acceptance (n=813), community involvement (n=86), and types of articles (n=46). Articles that meet the inclusion criteria are seven, and the data were analyzed with ATLAS Ti.9 software. RESULTS: Engagement and driving factors have the highest correlation (0.38). The drivers, perceptions of vulnerability, and inhibiting factors determine community involvement. The perception of exposure can be a supporting or inhibiting factor influenced by information reinforcement. CONCLUSIONS: Strengthening positive information can alter the sense of community vulnerability, making it a driving force for participation in the COVID-19 vaccine campaign. This finding is an appropriate strategy to expand the reach and resolve public doubts about accepting the vaccine.

Serological response to vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Objective To study the serological response (SR) and tolerability of COVID-19 vaccine in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and its relation with IBD treatment and type of vaccine. Methods Observational, cross-sectional study in patients with IBD vaccinated against COVID-19 without known previous infection. SR was analyzed by the determination of IgG antibodies against the S1 subunit. Safety was studied using a questionnaire to identify adverse effects (AE). Results 280 patients with IBD were included. Type of vaccines: Comirnaty® 68.8%;Spikevax® 10.8%, Vaxzevria® 18.3%, Ad26.COV2-S® 2.2%. 51.3% had AE, being 100% mild. 65% developed IgG antibodies after vaccination. The SR was higher for vaccines with mRNA technology (100% Spikevax®, 68.5% Comirnaty®) compared to those based on adenovirus vector (38.0% Vaxzevria®, 33.3% Ad26.COV2-S®) (P < .001). In the multivariate analysis, SR was related to age (<60 years;OR: 3.8, 95% CI 1.9–7.0;P < .001). The SR in patients with aminosalicylates was 65.4%, 61.4% with immunosuppressants, 65.8% with anti-TNF, and 68.7% with non-anti-TNF biologicals (P = .9). Conclusions One third of patients with IBD did not develop antibodies with the initial vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The SR to vaccines based on mRNA technology was higher, and it was related to age (higher in younger patients). Immunosuppressants and biologicals did not decrease SR. More than half of the patients presented AD, being mild in all cases. Resumen Objetivo Estudiar la respuesta serológica (RS) y tolerabilidad frente a la vacuna COVID-19 en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) y su relación con el tratamiento de la EII y tipo de vacuna. Métodos Estudio observacional, transversal en pacientes con EII vacunados contra COVID-19 sin infección previa conocida. La RS se analizó mediante la determinación de anticuerpos IgG frente a la subunidad S1. La seguridad se estudió mediante cuestionario para identificación de efectos adversos (EA). Resultados Se incluyeron 280 pacientes con EII. Tipo de vacunas: Comirnaty® 68,8%;Spikevax® 10,8%, Vaxzevria® 18,3%, Ad26.COV2-S® 2,2%. Un 51,3% tuvo EA, siendo el 100% leves. Un 65% desarrolló anticuerpos IgG tras la vacunación. La RS fue superior para vacunas con tecnología ARNm (100% Spikevax®, 68,5% Comirnaty®) frente a las basadas en vector con adenovirus (38,0% Vaxzevria®, 33,3% Ad26.COV2-S®) (P < ,001). En el análisis multivariante la RS se relacionó con la edad (<60 años;OR: 3,8, IC 95% 1,9–7,0;P < ,001). La RS en pacientes con aminosalicilatos fue del 65,4%, 61,4% con inmunosupresor, 65,8% con anti-TNF y 68,7% con biológicos no anti-TNF (P = ,9). Conclusiones Un tercio de pacientes con EII no desarrolló anticuerpos con la pauta vacunal inicial frente a SARS-CoV-2. La RS a las vacunas basadas en tecnología ARNm fue superior, y estuvo relacionada con la edad (mayor en pacientes más jóvenes). Los inmunosupresores y biológicos no disminuyeron la RS. Más de la mitad de los pacientes presentaron EA, leves en todos los casos.

Comparative severity of COVID-19 cases caused by Alpha, Delta or Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants and its association with vaccination.

BACKGROUND: This study compares the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections caused by Alpha, Delta or Omicron variants in periods of co-circulation in Spain, and estimates the variant-specific association of vaccination with severe disease. METHODS: SARS-CoV-2 infections notified to the national epidemiological surveillance network with information on genetic variant and vaccination status were considered cases if they required hospitalisation or controls otherwise. Alpha and Delta were compared during June-July 2021; and Delta and Omicron during December 2021-January 2022. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were estimated using logistic regression, comparing variant and vaccination status between cases and controls. RESULTS: We included 5,345 Alpha and 11,974 Delta infections in June-July and 5,272 Delta and 10,578 Omicron in December-January. Unvaccinated cases of Alpha (aOR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.46-0.69) or Omicron (0.28; 0.21-0.36) had lower probability of hospitalisation vs. Delta. Complete vaccination reduced hospitalisation, similarly for Alpha (0.16; 0.13-0.21) and Delta (June-July: 0.16; 0.14-0.19; December-January: 0.36; 0.30-0.44) but lower from Omicron (0.63; 0.53-0.75) and individuals aged 65+ years. CONCLUSION: Results indicate higher intrinsic severity of the Delta variant, compared with Alpha or Omicron, with smaller differences among vaccinated individuals. Nevertheless, vaccination was associated to reduced hospitalisation in all groups.

Conocimiento y percepciones de la aceptación de la vacuna para el SARS - COV-2 en pobladores de la sierra peruana

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo principal determinar la relación entre los conocimientos y percepciones de la aceptación de la vacuna para el SARS-CoV-2 en pobladores de la sierra peruana. El tipo de estudio corresponde al enfoque cuantitativo, de diseño no experimental, de corte transversal y de tipo descriptivo correlacional. El muestreo fue probabilístico, de tipo aleatorio simple. La muestra estuvo conformada por 384 pobladores entre 18-59 años de edad. Los instrumentos utilizados fue la escala KNOW-P-COVID-19 y VAC-COVID-19. Los resultados demostraron que el 63.8% posee un conocimiento alto y el 36.2% un conocimiento bajo sobre COVID-19. Además, revela que el 70.6% de la población no se vacunaría y el 29.4% de la población sí se vacunaría. En cuanto a la correlación de Pearson, se muestra que existe una correlación inversa significativa (sig. bilateral es = 0,000<0,05). En conclusión, un nivel de significancia del 5%, consta de una correlación directa y significativa, es decir que, a mayores conocimientos sobre la COVID-19 mayor será la percepción de la aceptación de la vacuna para el SARS-CoV-2 en pobladores de la sierra peruana.Alternate : The general objective of this research was to determine the relationship between the level of knowledge and perceptions of acceptance of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in residents of the Peruvian highlands. The type of study corresponds to the quantitative approach, it was a non-experimental cross-sectional design of descriptive correlational type, probabilistic test, simple casual type, the sample consisted of 384 residents between 18-59 years of age. The instruments used were the KNOW-P-COVID-19 and VAC-COVID-19 scales prepared by Mejía. The results showed that 63.8% have high knowledge and 36.2% have low knowledge about COVID-19, in addition, they reveal that 70.6% of the population would not be vaccinated and 29.4% of the population would be vaccinated, according to their perception, in terms of Pearson's correlation it is shown that there is a significantly inverse correlation (bilateral sig. is = 0.000<0.05). In conclusion, at a significance level of 5%, there is a direct and significant connection, that is, the greater the knowledge about COVID-19, the greater the perception of acceptance of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in residents. from the Peruvian highlands.

Effectiveness of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 vaccine in Spanish healthcare workers.

INTRODUCTION: Frontline health care workers (HCW) have higher risk than the general population to become infected by SARS.CoV.2, so they were a priority group for Covid-19 vaccine administration. We compared the incidence and prevalence of HCW infected pre-and post-vaccination with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective observational study carried out between 01/12/20 and 07/03/21 in La Paz University Hospital, Madrid (Spain). SARS.CoV.2 positive cases in HCW after vaccination were collected and compared to those hospitalized COVID-19 patients at the same hospital. RESULTS: Two weeks after finishing the first round of vaccinations daily new cases of HCW infections (symptomatic and asymptomatic) decreased substantially and cumulative cases of infected HCW and hospitalized COVID-19 patients started to diverge. No new positive cases of HCW infection were registered seven days after the second dose of BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. CONCLUSIONS: BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective in Spanish HCW.

Reactogenicidad e inmunogenicidad tras la inoculación de vacuna frente a SARS-CoV-2 en personal de diálisis

Introducción: Ser personal sanitario en activo supone un factor de riesgo elevado para contraer la infección por SARS-CoV-2. La realización de programas de vacunación es la mejor herramienta disponible para enfrentar este problema. En España, los profesionales sanitarios han sido vacunados de manera prioritaria. Objetivo: Evaluar, a través del recuento de anticuerpos en sangre, la inmunogenicidad de las vacunas frente a SARS-CoV-2 en personal de diálisis y los factores relacionados con ella. Material y Método: Estudio observacional descriptivo de corte trasversal, multicéntrico. Se realizó una determinación serológica del recuento de anticuerpos totales anti-proteína "S" en las 12 semanas posteriores a la vacunación. La recogida de datos se realizó a través de un cuestionario ad-hoc, online, anónimo y voluntario. Resultados: 167 participantes, todos vacunados con vacunas ARN. EL 15% había pasado previamente la infección. El 96,4% han desarrollado anticuerpos (media de 15.776±13.640 AU/ml);aquellos profesionales que han pasado previamente la infección tienen un número promedio de anticuerpos significativamente mayor que los que no (23.532 vs 14.381 AU/ml) (p=0,05). La presencia de síntomas como cansancio, cefalea, fiebre y mialgias se asocia, también, a una reactividad significativamente mayor (p=0,004). No existe relación significativa entre la reactividad y sexo, edad, índice de masa corporal (IMC) o lugar de trabajo. Conclusiones: La inmunogenicidad provocada por las vacunas ARN administradas a personal de diálisis ha sido casi total. Padecer efectos adversos post vacunación, como cansancio, cefaleas, fiebre, náuseas y dolores, y haber pasado previamente la infección se asocia con mayor reactividad, manifestada con el desarrollo de mayor número de anticuerpos.Alternate : Introduction: Being an active healthcare worker is a high-risk factor for contracting the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The implementation of vaccination programs is the best option available to solve this problem. In Spain, healthcare professionals have been vaccinated as a matter of priority. Objective: To assess, through blood antibody counts, the immunogenicity of SARS-CoV2 vaccines in dialysis personnel and related factors. Material and Method: Observational, cross-sectional and multicentric descriptive study. Results: 167 participants, all vaccinated with RNA vaccines. 15% have previously passed the infection. 96.4% have developed antibodies (mean of 15,776 +/-13,640). Those professionals who have previously passed the infection have a significantly higher average number of antibodies than those who have not (23,532 vs 14,381) (p=0.05). The presence of symptoms such as fatigue, headache, fever, and myalgia is also related with a significantly greater reactivity (p=0.004). There is no significant relationship between reactivity and sex, age, BMI, or workplace. Conclusions: Immunogenicity caused by RNA vaccines administered to dialysis personnel has been almost complete. Suffering post-vaccination adverse effects such as fatigue, headaches, fever, nausea, pain, and having previously passed the infection is related to a greater reactivity, manifested by the development of an increased number of antibodies.

Acute hepatitis of unknown origin in children. What is the cause?

The World Health Organization has issued a report on 228 cases of acute hepatitis of unknown cause in children between 1 month and 16 years, 10% of them required liver transplantation and 4 died (3 in Indonesia), another 50 cases are under investigation. The adenovirus type 41 is one of the causative agents of acute gastroenteritis in children, characterized by diarrhea, vomiting and fever, often accompanied by respiratory symptoms. Cases of hepatitis in immunocompromised children have been documented;however, there is no available evidence to indicate that adenovirus type 41 can cause hepatitis in healthy children. Although adenovirus is currently hypothesized as the underlying cause, it does not fully explain the severity of the clinical picture. Given this new situation, we have more questions than answers, the reported cases had no apparent risk factors, most had not received the COVID-19 vaccine. Several hypotheses are being evaluated and it seems that the infectious cause is more solid. The possible role of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in children reported with acute hepatitis is analyzed. (English) [ FROM AUTHOR]

Position statement of the Spanish Society of Nephrology on the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread worldwide over the last year causing more than one million deaths. Several treatments have tried to modify the natural history of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) but only corticosteroids have demonstrated to be effective in moderate or severe affectation. In that situation, the development of vaccines for preventing the SARS-CoV-2 infection has focused the attention of the scientific community. At present, available messenger RNA-based technology vaccines have received the approval of local and international sanitary authorities. In this position statement, the Spanish Society of Nephrology wants to state that patients with chronic kidney disease and healthcare workers are at high-risk for contagion and complications of COVID-19 so they must have priority in the vaccine administration.

Post-vaccination SARS-CoV-2 axillary adenopathy. Differences with axillary metastases from breast cancer.

The differential diagnosis of the metastatic axillary lymphadenopathies of breast cancer with which they occur secondary to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against COVID-19, is imperative. In a series of cases, we analyzed the characteristics of unilateral axillary lymphadenopathy in patients after Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination. Axillary lymphadenopathy were observed ipsilateral to the vaccination arm. The axillary ultrasound defined these as reactive and that they disappeared in 3 weeks. The pathological findings were benign. The anamnesis, the place and date of vaccination and the radiological findings, play an essential role to carry out a correct differential diagnosis and follow-up of these adenopathies.

El diagnóstico diferencial de las adenopatías axilares metastásicas del cáncer de mama con las que se producen secundarias a la vacuna de Pfizer-BioNTech contra la COVID-19 es imperioso. Analizamos una serie de casos con las características de las adenopatías axilares unilaterales tras la administración de la vacuna de Pfizer-BioNTech. Se observaron adenopatías axilares homolaterales al brazo de vacunación. La ecografía axilar las definió como reactivas y que desaparecían en 3 semanas. Los hallazgos anatomopatológicos fueron de benignidad. La anamnesis, el lugar y la fecha de vacunación, así como los hallazgos radiológicos, desempeñan un papel esencial para realizar un correcto diagnóstico deferencial y el seguimiento de estas adenopatías.

INDIAN AND RUSSIAN VACCINE DIPLOMACY IN THEIR SPHERES OF INFLUENCE IN PANDEMIC TIMES.

New aspects emerged in the dynamics of international politics, not only globally, but in different regions of the world, after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article aims to characterize the use of vaccines by India and Russia as a diplomatic tool over their regions of traditional influence: South and Central Asia. The research makes use of the case study methodology and is based on primary and secondary sources, between August 2020 and November 2021. Russia is intensifying its presence in Central Asia, where its vaccine has greater roots and acceptance, and India is regaining its influence in neighboring countries such as Nepal and Sri Lanka. While they seek to improve their regional prestige, their actions counteract China's growing interference in these two regions. The benefits of these two Asian middle powers are concentrated in an increase in their international prestige, trade opportunities, as counterweight to China;in addition to influencing the decisions of other countries, who waver between an aligned and multivector foreign policy. (English) [ FROM AUTHOR] Nuevas aristas emergen en las dinámicas de la política internacional, no solo a nivel global, sino en las distintas regiones del mundo, tras la aparición de la pandemia de la covid-19. Este artículo se propone caracterizar el uso de las vacunas como herramienta diplomática por parte de India y Rusia sobre sus regiones de influencia tradicional: el sur y el centro de Asia. La investigación hace uso del estudio de caso y se basa en el procesamiento e interpretación de fuentes primarias y secundarias, entre agosto de 2020 y noviembre de 2021. Rusia intensifica su presencia en Asia Central, donde su vacuna tiene mayor arraigo y aceptación, e India recobra su influencia en países vecinos como Nepal y Sri Lanka. Al tiempo que buscan mejorar su prestigio regional, sus acciones contrarrestan la creciente injerencia de China en estas dos regiones. Los beneficios de estas dos potencias medias asiáticas se concentran en un aumento de su prestigio internacional, oportunidades de comercio y contrapeso a China;además de que inciden en las decisiones de otros países, que se tambalean entre una política exterior alineada y multivectorial. (Spanish) [ FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of OASIS - Observatorio de Análisis de los Sistemas Internacionales is the property of Universidad Externado de Colombia, Centro de Investigaciones y Proyectos Especiales (CIPE) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full . (Copyright applies to all s.)