Low back pain, lower physical activity, and loneliness associated with decreased frequency of going out during COVID-19 in Japanese older adults

Background: This study investigated the association of frequency of going out with physical activity, low back pain, and loneliness among urban Japanese community-dwelling older adults affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited older adults aged 65 and over residing in apartment buildings in an urban area of Japan as participants. The questionnaire comprised items on participants' frequency of going out, musculoskeletal pain, physical activity, mobility, loneliness, and sociodemographic characteristics. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the associations of decreased frequency of going out (less than once a week) during the pandemic with musculoskeletal pain, physical activity, and loneliness after controlling for age, sex, living alone, comorbidity, and social activity as confounding factors. Results: This study analyzed 236 older adults (mean age: 75.5 years;females 54.2%) whowent out more than two to three days a week before the pandemic. Participants who went out less than once a week during the pandemic (14%) had more arthritis than those who went out more. They also had a higher prevalence of reduced physical activity, low back pain, gait disability, and loneliness. Additionally, decreased frequency of going out was associated with lower physical activity [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 3.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.78-8.61], low back pain (OR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.08-7.24), and loneliness (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.14-1.98). Conclusions: This study indicated that reduced physical activity, loneliness, and low back pain are associated with a decreased frequency of going out during the pandemic among older adults.

Association between diet quality and BMI with side effects of pfizer-biontech COVID-19 vaccine and SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G titers. (Special Issue: The relationship between nutrition and COVID-19.)

Purpose: The nutritional and anthropometric status can be essential in determining their immune response to vaccines. The purpose of this paper was to investigate the association between diet quality and anthropometric indices with the side effects of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G titer among Kurdish adults. Design/methodology/approach: This cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted between December 2021 and February 2022. This paper included data on 115 adults, 20-89 years old, from the Kurdistan region. Dietary information was collected using a short food frequency questionnaire, and diet quality was assessed using a plant-based healthy diet score. A blood test was performed to measure the SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobin G (IgG) titer after the vaccination's first and second doses. Findings: Overweight and obese subjects reported more local pain, myalgia, headache, local bruising and local reactions after receiving the first dose of the vaccine (p = 0.04). People on a less healthy diet reported more local pain, myalgia and headache (p = 0.04) and more local bruising and reactions (p = 0.01) after receiving the second dose of the vaccine. On the other hand, the authors observed that those with healthy dietary habits had more IgG titer after the first and second doses of vaccination than those with less healthy dietary habits (p = 0.001). Originality/valueThe results showed that participants with a healthy diet and normal weight status had fewer side effects of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine than obese people and those with a less healthy diet.

Analysis on traditional Chinese medicine syndrome characteristics of patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant in a shelter hospital in Shanghai

Objective: To analyze the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndromes of patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) omicron variant in a shelter hospital in Shanghai. Methods: A total of 621 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant from Apr. 4 to May 24, 2022 in a shelter hospital in Shanghai were enrolled. The data of the patients, including the general information and common clinical syndromes (such as fever, headache, stuffy nose, runny nose, cough, and sputum), were collected on admission by TCM syndrome electronic scale, and core syndrome characteristics were analyzed base on the proportion of each symptom. The syndromes were divided according to the symptom score of patients, and the differences of disease course among the syndromes were compared. Results: The proportion of patients aged 30 to 49 years old was the highest among 621 patients infected with omicron variant (49.76%, 309/621). The most prominent symptoms were cough and expectoration, accounting for 62.32% (387/621) and 68.12% (423/621), respectively. The more common symptoms included sore throat, stuffy nose, runny nose, fatigue, muscle pain, and headache. White sputum was mostly seen in the expectoration and clear mucus was mostly seen in runny nose. According to the clinical symptoms, the core syndrome characteristic of patients infected with omicron variant was cold epidemic constraint in the lung featuring dampness and toxins. The main syndrome was plague invading the defensive exterior, accounting for 40.10% (249/621). The second and third ones were heat toxin attacking the lung syndrome (29.95%, 186/621) and dampness obstructing (17.55%, 109/621), while the least common syndrome was deficiency of qi and yin (7.73%, 48/621). The course of qi and yin deficiency was longer than the other 3 syndromes (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The core TCM syndrome characteristic of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant is cold epidemic constraint in the lung featuring dampness and toxins. The main syndrome is plague invading the defensive exterior. The pattern tends to convert into qi and yin deficiency along the long course.

Surveillance of SARS CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in 2020-2021 winter season

Aim: The global COVID-19 pandemic and new variants continue to seriously threaten society. In this study;It was aimed to investigate surveillance of SARS CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in respiratory tract samples in the winter season of 2020-2021 in Sakarya province. Material and Method: The study was carried out at Sakarya Training and Research Hospital between 2020-2021. e study was carried out with respiratory tract samples (Nasopharyngeal swab) stored in the laboratory. Clinical samples included in study were stored in a Bio-SpeedyRvNATRtransfer tube (Bioeksen,Turkey) and no extraction was performed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. All analyzes were recorded on BIO-RAD CFX-96C1000 Touch Real-time system device using Diagnovital influenza A/B, SARS CoV-2, RSV multiplex Real Time PCR amplification kit. Results: Of the 200 patients diagnosed with URTI/LRTI, 54.5% were male and 45.5% female. e most common clinical symptoms;sore throat 74%, cough 73.5%, fatigue 71%, fever 57%, runny nose 56%, headache 48.5%, sneezing 41.5%, loss of smell / taste 39.5%, diarrhea 36%, dyspnea was 31.5% and myalgia was 23.5%. PCR positivity rates of samples were analyzed as 28.5% for SARS COV-2 and 1.5% for RSV, respectively. PCR positivity for influenza A/B was not defined in the study. Considering the statistical significance between PCR results and COVID-19 symptoms in patients;symptoms of dyspnea (n=63), fever(n= 62) and sneezing(n=56), respectively, were statistically significant(p<0.05). Conclusion: Due to the circumstances, only three main viral agents could be investigated in the study. RSV was frequently identified as an important factor in pediatric patients, whereas influenza-which may be related to social and individual measures (mask,distance,hygiene)- was not detected in any sample. More comprehensive scientific studies are needed to support the data.

The general characteristics of hospitalized patients with the diagnosis of COVID-19, and the relationship between presenting symptoms and clinical course: a single center experience

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to reveal the relationship between the clinical features, presenting symptoms, and prognosis of COVID-19 patients who were hospitalized in our center. Materials and Methods: 499 patients with the diagno-sis of COVID-19 followed in the service and intensive care units of Sakarya University Training and Research Hospital between March 2020 and January 2021 were included in the study. The clinical and demographical data of the patients were obtained from the patient files and hospital automation system. The obtained data were ana-lyzed statistically. Results: Of 499 patients, 171 were followed up in the ward and 328 in the intensive care unit. Follow-up of 230 patients resulted in death, while 269 patients were dis-charged. Comorbid diseases were found to be more fre-quently seen in the mortal group (p< 0.05). Mean leuko-cyte, neutrophil, c-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, d-dimer, and troponin values were higher in the mortal group;whereas mean lymphocyte value was found to be lower (p< 0.05). While fever, cough, and other less common symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, muscle weakness, etc.) were more frequently seen in the non-mortal group (p=0.022, p=0.038, and p=0.000 respectively), shortness of breath was significantly more common in the mortal group (p=0.000). The frequency of symptoms such as sputum, fatigue, sore throat, and the headache were found to be similar in both groups (p >0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded that the clinical course of patients with dyspnea at admission may be more severe and these patients should be followed more closely.

Angiotensin and pain

The role of the renin-angiotensin system in human pain is a complicated and controversial field, partly due to the complexities of the system itself, but also because of the diverse ways in which pain functions. Here, we focus on what is known about the angiotensins in pathological pain and describe the ongoing attempts to identify candidate modulators of clinical significance. Systemic angiotensin agonists and antagonists have effects in a number of neuropathic ailments, including some of the most medically intractable conditions, such as endocrine disorders, cancer, myopathies, and viral infections (such as COVID-19), apart from direct damage to the nervous system. These arise due to multiple physiological processes involving both neural and nonneural pathways that could be overcome with future research. In summary, it is clear that the angiotensins acting through their different receptors exercise both algesic and analgesic effects, but less clear how this diversity of responses arises. © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical risk factors for predicting anti-Sars-CoV-2 antibody immunoreactivity duration after mild COVID-19 infection

Introdução: a doença causada pelo coronavírus (COVID-19) é complexa e multissistêmica. Ainda não se sabe se os sintomas da fase aguda estão correlacionados com a duração da resposta imune e com a persistência dos sintomas crônicos. Objetivo: o presente estudo visa acessar e monitorar os sintomas clínicos do COVID-19, correlacionando-os com a produção de anticorpos neutralizantes. Método: uma coorte de 69 profissionais da saúde da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (HUCAM-UFES/EBSERH) diagnosticados com infecção por SARS-CoV-2 confirmada via RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction) foram avaliados do início dos sintomas até seis meses depois. Exames laboratoriais de IgG e IgM foram utilizados para detectar a presença de IgG e IgM contra a proteína do nucleocapsídeo do vírus SARS-CoV-2 nas amostras de plasma sanguíneo. Sorologia de anticorpos IgG e IgM, função pulmonar via espirometria e avaliação clínica dos pacientes foram realizadas nos dias 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 e 180 após o início dos sintomas da doença. Resultados: sessenta e nove profissionais da saúde (idade, 40 ± 10 anos;74% mulheres) foram avaliados por seis meses. Todos apresentaram a forma leve a moderada do COVID-19. O número médio de sintomas foi 5.1 (± 2.3). O sintoma inicial mais comum foi dor muscular (77%), cefaleia (75%), anosmia (70%), ageusia (64%), coriza (59%), febre (52%), e tosse (52%). Após 30 dias, os pacientes mantiveram anosmia (18%), astenia (18%), adinamia (14%), dor muscular (7%), e ageusia (7%). Em relação à função pulmonar, 9.25% apresentaram padrão obstrutivo e todos recuperaram ao final dos seis meses. Dentre todos os participantes analisados, 18/69 (26%) não obtiveram nenhum valor de IgG e IgM considerados reagentes nos exames realizados. A curva sorológica de IgG mostrou um pico enquanto a de IgM apresentou seu maior valor médio no 15º dia. Houve um declínio progressivo e níveis similares aos basais aos 90. 15/53 (28%) permaneceram com IgG reagente após seis meses. Dor de garganta e dispneia foram considerados fatores de risco independentes, e os pacientes com esses sintomas tiveram 5,9 vezes mais chances de apresentar IgG reativa no 180º dia. Pacientes com diarreia tiveram quatro vezes mais chances de apresentar IgM reagente. Conclusão: nossos achados mostraram que 26% dos pacientes não produziram uma resposta humoral pós-COVID-19 leve. Seus títulos de anticorpos caíram significativamente após 90 dias e apenas 28% mantiveram anticorpos IgG reativos após seis meses. Dor de garganta e dispneia foram preditores de maior duração da resposta imune humoral.Alternate abstract: Introduction: coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a complex multisystem disorder. It is not yet well known whether symptoms in the acute phase correlate with the duration of the immune response and the persistence of chronic symptoms. Objective: this study aimed to assess and monitor the clinical symptoms of COVID-19 and correlate them with the production of neutralizing antibodies. Methods: a cohort of 69 health workers at the University Hospital of the Federal University of Espírito Santo (HUCAM-UFES/EBSERH) diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed via RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction) were evaluated from the onset of symptoms up to six months. SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM assays were used to detect the presence of IgG and IgM against the nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 in serum samples. IgG and IgM antibody serology, pulmonary function via spirometry, and the clinical evolution of patients were performed at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 180 days after the onset of COVID-19 symptoms. Results: sixty-nine health workers (age, 40 ± 10 years;74% women) were evaluated for six months. All subjects showed mild to moderate COVID-19. The mean number of symptoms was 5.1 (± 2.3). The most common initial symptoms were muscle pain (77%), headache (75%), anosmia (70%), ageusia (64%), runny nose (59%), fever (52%), and coughing (52%). After 30 days, the patients had anosmia (18%), asthenia (18%), adynamia (14%), muscle pain (7%), and ageusia (7%). Regarding lung function, 9.25% presented with an obstructive pattern, and all recovered after six months. Of all analyzed participants, 18/69 (26%) did not have any reactive IgG or IgM values in any of the assessments. The IgG serology curve showed a peak, whereas IgM had the highest mean value on the 15th day. There was a progressive decrease and levels similar to those at baseline after 90 days, and 15/53 (28%) remained with reactive IgG after six months. Sore throat and shortness of breath were found to be independent risk factors, and patients with these symptoms were 5.9 times more likely to have reactive IgG on the 180th day. Patients with diarrhea were four times more likely to have reactive IgM. Conclusion: our findings showed that 26% of patients did not produce a humoral response post-mild COVID-19. Their antibody titers dropped significantly after 90 days, and only 28% maintained reactive IgG antibodies after six months. Sore throat and shortness of breath are predictors of a longer duration of the humoral immune response.

Acute pancreatitis - a rare manifestation in scrub typhus

Background: Scrub typhus is an acute febrile illness caused by the bacteria - Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted through the bite of an infected chigger. This infection is endemic in tropical countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It usually presents with fever, headache, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and tender lymphadenopathy. The presence of an eschar clinches the diagnosis clinically. Commonly encountered complications in scrub typhus include acute kidney injury (AKI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute liver injury, and rarely acute pancreatitis. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 70 year-old teetotaller male, who presented with acute febrile illness and respiratory distress during the peak period of the COVID -19 pandemic. During the course of illness, the patient developed acute pancreatitis as evidenced by elevated serum amylase and lipase as well as features of pancreatitis in the CT abdomen. Common causes of acute pancreatitis were ruled out with necessary investigations. He tested negative for malaria, dengue fever, enteric fever, and leptospirosis, but his IgM and IgG ELISA for scrub typhus were positive with high titres. He also had AKI, ARDS, and acute liver injury. The patient was treated symptomatically and with doxycycline. His condition improved gradually. Conclusion: Even though acute pancreatitis is one of the rare manifestations of scrub typhus, it should be suspected early and treated promptly.

Fenofibrate and statins in patients with COVID-19

Statins, which are widely used to treat hypercholesterolemia, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, upregulate angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, which happen to be SARS-CoV-2's gateway into cells. This study aims to analyse the effects of Fenofibrate in comparison to Statins and a control group in patients with COVID-19. This is a retrospective open blind observational study of cohort of 300 patients experienced COVID-19 (symptoms' severity varied between patients). The participants were divided into three cohorts;a control group received standard COVID-19 treatment (n=100);a second group (n=100) of patients who were on Statins, in addition they received the standard treatment;and a third cohort for patients who were already taking Fenofibrate (TRICORR) as a medication to treat hyperlipidemia (n=100). Most symptoms (including cough, exertional dyspnoea, SOB, sore throat, sneezing, headache, tiredness, agitation, diarrhoea, joint pain, insomnia, myalgia, and fatigue) were less prevalent for patients who administered antihyperlipidemic drugs compared to the control group. Patients who were already taking Cholesterol-lowering medication presented with symptoms varied between mild to severe. Patients on Statins or Fenofibrate also showed less tachycardia and tachypnoea compared to those who were not on antihyperlipidemic drugs, and also the need for oxygen and ICU admission were less frequent. The length of stay in hospital was shorter in patients who were already on Statins or Fenofibrate. Both Statins and Fenofibrate have improved the outcome and the severity of symptoms for patients with Covid 19 infection.

Epidemiological and clinical profile of laboratory confirmed cases of COVID 19 admitted in tertiary care hospital Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir

Background: Three or more waves of COVID 19 pandemic have hit the different parts of world including India very hard, taking toll on the lives of people both in terms of morbidity and mortality. Keeping this in mind, the present study was conducted with an aim to determine the socio-demographic and clinical profile of laboratory confirmed COVID 19 cases and to determine their association with oxygen requirement and outcome of disease at the time of discharge. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on lab confirmed COVID 19 cases admitted in tertiary care hospital in Jammu from June-July 2021. Data was collected using convenient sampling method. The self-designed questionnaire used for data collection obtained information regarding socio-demographic characteristics of patients as well as clinical features of the disease. Results: Out of total 161 patients studied, 60.8% were males and 39.2% were females. Mean age was 51.2 .. 17.5 years. Comorbid conditions were present in 37.8% patients, with hypertension being the most common (36%). Cough, Fever, breathlessness and myalgia were the main presenting symptoms (90%, 81%, 57.7% and 56% respectively). The variables which were found to have statistically significant association with oxygen requirement and the outcome of disease at the time of discharge were age, gender and presence of co-morbidity (p <0.05). Conclusions: Advancing age, male gender and presence of underlying co-morbidity were found to be significant risk factors for the requirement of oxygen and poor outcome of the disease.

Post-COVID symptoms and health-related quality of life in extended postpartum period

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has remarkable effect not just on physical health, but also on psychological state and overall quality of life (QoL). It affected all the section of community including vulnerable section of pregnant females and children. Aims and Objective: The aim of the study was to assess health-related QoL in recovered COVID-19 positive pregnant females in their extended postpartum period along with insight into prevailing post-COVID symptoms in this population. This was a cross-sectional and questionnaire-based study conducted in Kota, Rajasthan, India. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 173 admitted females between March 1, 2021 and June 30, 2021 who were pregnant and contacted COVID-19 infection at any point of their antenatal/intrapartum period. The questionnaire included details related to demographics, symptomatology, hospitalization, oxygen requirement, and ventilator use during the acute disease as well as any symptoms after recovery from acute COVID-19 disease. Patients were contacted during their extended postpartum period and systematically asked about a list of post-COVID-19 symptoms (dyspnea, myalgia, fatigue, anosmia, ageusia, chest pain, cough, mood disturbances, etc.), but they were also free to report any other symptoms that they considered relevant. The health-related QoL was evaluated using the EuroQoL five-dimension five-level questionnaire telephone interview version. In-person interview and telephonic interview methods were arranged for collection of data. Descriptive statistical analysis was done. Results: Among the 173 consented participants, the mean age was 26.3 (..6.6) years, most of them were primiparous (45.66%), admitted with gestational age between 37 and 40 weeks (68.21%), asymptomatic (85.54%) or mildly symptomatic. For symptomatic cases, the most common clinical presentations included fever, cough, and dyspnea. Only 1.16% of symptomatic subjects required ventilator support. For 58.96% patients, hospital stay was less than a week. Mean duration of stay was 5.86 days. However, 87.28% patients required antiviral medications. About 23.70% have various comorbidities among which anemia 7.51% and preeclampsia 6.35% predominated. About 85.55% did not experienced any persistent symptoms after discharge but some of the subjects shown persistent symptoms such as cough, fever, and breathlessness among which persistent cough predominates (7.51%). In relation to post-COVID effects, 82.56% were found asymptomatic while rest 17.44% showed effects such as body ache, insomnia, cough, and loss of taste and smell and depression. Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic left its sequels both in the form of physical as well as psychological symptoms in extended postpartum period although health-related QoL does not significantly affected by COVID-19 disease during this period.

Interpretation of chest CT scan of patients with COVID-19 in imam Khomeini Hospital of Jiroft University of Medical Sciences from December to March 2019

Background & Aims: Along with laboratory testing, chest CT scans may be helpful to diagnose COVID-19 in individuals with a high clinical suspicion of infection. Due to their availability and rapid turnaround time, the role of chest computed tomography (CT) scan is growing for early diagnosis of patients with COVID-19. However, due to the low efficiency of viral nucleic acid detection as well as low specificity of chest CT scan for detecting COVID-19 pneumonia, this method shows incomplete clinical performance for proper COVID-19 disease diagnosis. Due to the highly contagious nature of the Coronavirus 2019 and the importance of early detection of the disease, a limited number of nucleic acid test kits, such as rRT-PCR and the possibility of false-negative rRT-PCR results, chest CT scan as a non-invasive method, it can be a highly accurate tool for early detection of suspected COVID-19 cases. The purpose of this study was the Interpretation of chest CT scan of patints with COVID-19 in Imam Khomeini Hospital of Jiroft University of Medical Sciences from December to March 2019 Methods: This research is a retrospective study that was conducted with the aim of interpreting CT scans of the chest in patients with covid-19 in Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences from March 2018 to June 2019. After obtaining permission from the ethics committee of the university, the researcher appeared in the research environment according to the pre-determined schedule for sampling. The desired data were extracted from the patients' files and recorded in a questionnaire form that was designed for this purpose. The criteria for entering the study included cases whose demographic information, clinical and laboratory data were complete and the positive PCR test along with chest CT imaging findings were available in the file, the exclusion criterion was the presence of low quality chest images. The data were extracted from the hospital information system based on clinical electronic medical records. including demographic information including age, sex, level of education and data related to the underlying disease, disease symptoms (cough, fever, phlegm, shortness of breath, chest pain, etc.) and the frequency of imaging findings in the chest CT scan that They were examined and evaluated according to age, gender, level of education, clinical symptoms, underlying disease and based on lymphopenia and lymphocytosis. and chest CT scan report of patients with COVID-19, which was available in the PACS system of this hospital, were evaluated. In this way, all the CT images of the chest by a radiologist as well as a lung specialist who were not aware of the clinical and laboratory data of the patients, in terms of the types of findings include, Patchy ground glass opcification, diffuse ground glass opacification, Air space opacity, Consolidation, pleural effusion, Atelectasis, Bronchiectasis, Fibrotic change, Cavitation, Lymphadenopathy. And the distribution of conflict was investigated as peripheral, central, bilateral, and unilateral. Results: The highest number of people with Covid-19 were in the age range of 30 to 59 years and men. In CT scan findings, the highest CT scan imaging findings as well as the highest mortality rate in patients were PGGO view (63.3%) and peripheral and bilateral involvement and the lowest frequency was related to Cavitation findings. In the examination of CT scan findings, PGGO and peripheral and bilateral involvement were the most frequent and Cavitation was the least frequent. Also, the findings of PGGO, Peripheral and Bilateral in the CT scan of the people who died had the highest frequency. In none of the imaging findings of the chest scan, there was no statistically significant relationship with the level of education, the level of education and death of patients due to COVID-19. There was no significant difference between gender and the findings of PGGO and Cavitation and peripheral involvement and Bilateral, but between the findings of DGGO and gender and there was a significant relationsh

COVID-19 infection rate following COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare professionals at a tertiary care public hospital in city of Mumbai

Background: India launched COVID-19 mass Vaccination campaign after regulatory approval of Covishield & Covaxin vaccines. However, inspite of Vaccination, cases of COVID-19 infection are being reported. Hence, this study is aimed to assess the COVID-19 infection and/or re-infection rate, including breakthrough infections, following vaccination among Health Care Workers at a Tertiary Care Dedicated COVID Hospital. This questionnaire-based survey was initiated following Institutional Ethics Committee approval. We also looked at reasons for Vaccine hesitancy and occurrence of adverse reactions following vaccination, their management and duration amongst the Healthcare Workers. Results: Of 564 Healthcare Workers (HCWs) who consented to participate, only 503 filled in the questionnaire completely. Majority of the HCWs received Covishield vaccine (78.56%). The infection rate postvaccination was 8.28% (with a median of 22 days and IQR of 8-43 days). This infection rate was significantly higher in those who were not vaccinated as compared to the Vaccinated HCWs (OR = 0.10, 95 CI% = 0.05-0.22, p <0.0001). Breakthrough infection rate was 2.42. Although 58.39% of the participants suffered adverse reactions after vaccination, like myalgia, Fever, Headache, these were mild in nature lasting for an average of 3-4 days. The vaccine hesitancy rate at our hospital HCWs was 6.36%, the main issue being the concerns regarding safety and effectiveness of the vaccines against the COVID-19 infection. Discussion/Conclusion: The infection and Breakthrough infection rates in our study were low and severity of COVID infection post vaccination was mild, not requiring hospitalisation.

The frequency of sarcopenia in the post-COVID period and its relationship with the clinical course of the COVID-19

Aim: We designed this study with the intention of determining the prevalence of sarcopenia and the association between sarcopenia findings and the severity of COVID-19 disease in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: As the study group, 92 patients aged 50 and over years old and whose PCR test results were positive and 45 days passed after the test result and recovered, 92 healthy individuals over 50 years of age, who were not infected with COVID-19, were included in the study group. Results: While 33.7% of the patient group had severe sarcopenia, 7.61% sarcopenia, 30.43% probable sarcopenia, 28.26% did not have sarcopenia. While 3.26% severe sarcopenia and 10.87% probable sarcopenia were observed in the control group, 85.87% sarcopenia was not observed. The incidence of sarcopenia in the patient group was significantly higher than in the control group (p<0.001). When all participants were divided into 2 groups as 50-65 years old and over 65 years old, sarcopenia was observed at a rate of 32.65% in the 50-65 age group patient group, while sarcopenia was observed at a rate of 1.39% in the control group. While sarcopenia was observed, 10% of the control group had sarcopenia. Conclusion: The findings of this study show that people with the COVID-19 infection had an increased frequency of sarcopenia. [ FROM AUTHOR]

Associations of Country-Specific and Sociodemographic Factors With Self-Reported COVID-19-Related Symptoms: Multivariable Analysis of Data From the CoronaCheck Mobile Health Platform.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 symptom-monitoring apps provide direct feedback to users about the suspected risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 and advice on how to proceed to prevent the spread of the virus. We have developed the CoronaCheck mobile health (mHealth) platform, the first free app that provides easy access to valid information about the risk of infection with SARS-CoV-2 in English and German. Previous studies have suggested that the clinical characteristics of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 vary by age, gender, and viral variant; however, potential differences between countries have not been adequately studied. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of the users of the CoronaCheck mHealth platform and to determine country-specific and sociodemographic associations of COVID-19-related symptoms and previous contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19. METHODS: Between April 8, 2020, and February 3, 2022, data on sociodemographic characteristics, symptoms, and reports of previous close contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19 were collected from CoronaCheck users in different countries. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine whether self-reports of COVID-19-related symptoms and recent contact with a person infected with COVID-19 differed between countries (Germany, India, South Africa), gender identities, age groups, education, and calendar year. RESULTS: Most app users (N=23,179) were from Germany (n=8116, 35.0%), India (n=6622, 28.6%), and South Africa (n=3705, 16.0%). Most data were collected in 2020 (n=19,723, 85.1%). In addition, 64% (n=14,842) of the users were male, 52.1% (n=12,077) were ≥30 years old, and 38.6% (n=8953) had an education level of more than 11 years of schooling. Headache, muscle pain, fever, loss of smell, loss of taste, and previous contacts with individuals infected with COVID-19 were reported more frequently by users in India (adjusted odds ratios [aORs] 1.3-8.3, 95% CI 1.2-9.2) and South Africa (aORs 1.1-2.6, 95% CI 1.0-3.0) than those in Germany. Cough, general weakness, sore throat, and shortness of breath were more frequently reported in India (aORs 1.3-2.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.9) compared to Germany. Gender-diverse users reported symptoms and contacts with confirmed COVID-19 cases more often compared to male users. CONCLUSIONS: Patterns of self-reported COVID-19-related symptoms and awareness of a previous contact with individuals infected with COVID-19 seemed to differ between India, South Africa, and Germany, as well as by gender identity in these countries. Viral symptom-collecting apps, such as the CoronaCheck mHealth platform, may be promising tools for pandemics to support appropriate assessments. Future mHealth research on country-specific differences during a pandemic should aim to recruit representative samples.

PharmaCovigilance: Role of the Pharmacist During COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign: An International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Drug Experience

Introduction: COVID-19 vaccination campaign at Pederzoli Hospital (Veneto, Italy) started in January 2021 using the two approved m-RNA vaccines. The vaccination schedule included 2 doses and one booster. Objective: The Pharmacy unit created a digital form in order to collect information on the incidence of the adverse events after the anti-covid vaccination. Methods: The Pharmacy Unit created a simplified digital form including a set of questions about the occurrence of adverse events. To improve the adherence to this pharmacovigilance program, the digital form was uploaded on the hospital website and all the employees received a remainder about this vaccine adverse event reporting system via e-email regularly. The data collected from the electronic spreadsheet were analyzed by the Health Department in order to produce a report in the dedicated national website (Vigifarmaco). Results: From January 2021 to April 2022 1076 employees received the first dose, 965 received the second dose, and 1019 received the third dose. 323 adverse events reporting forms have been collected after the first dose (30% of those who received it). 291 forms (30%) were collected after the second dose. 12 forms (1.2%) were collected after the third dose. The most reported adverse events after the first dose were: local pain (38% of reported adverse events), muscle pain 15%;asthenia 12%, headache 11%. Moreover, 6 employees reported fever above 38.5 °C and 19 employees reported fever between 37.5 °C and 38.5 °C. The most reported adverse events after the second dose were: local pain 19%, muscle pain 18%;asthenia 15%, headache 13%. An employee reported a syncope. In addition,35 reported fever above 38.5 ° C and in 70 fever between 37.5 °C and 38.5 °C. After the third dose, 10 reported headache, 9 local pain, and 8 asthenia and muscle aches. Only 2 employees reported fever above 38.5 °C and 5 fever between 37.5 °C and 38.5 °C. Conclusion: The active role of the Hospital Pharmacy Unit during the vaccination campaign of the health care workers of our hospital permitted to collect data regarding the side effects of these new vaccines and nonetheless made the health care workers about more aware about the importance of vaccine adverse event reporting system. The use of this digital form supported the pharmacovigilance program creating a useful and "user friendly" tool which may be tailored to new future projects.

ACSM Newsbriefs

The article offers fitness news briefs on topics including announcement of annual rankings highlighting key health and fitness measures for the 100 largest cities in the United States by the ACSM's American Fitness Index;and different recovery strategies for optimizing exercise performance and recovery potential of a mind and body.

Correlation between Mizaj and frequency of clinical signs in patients with COVID-19

Background and purpose: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) causes different symptoms. Mizaj or temperament in Persian traditional medicine is a specific feature of every human being. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between Mizaj and severity of symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Materials and methods: A descriptive correlational study was performed in patients with symptomatic COVID-19 during recovery and interviews were carried out to record patients' symptoms (fever, cough, chills, etc.). Salmannezhad Mizaj questionnaire was used to determine the patients' temperament (warm, cold, wet, and dry). The number of symptoms in each patient was determined and the severity of symptoms was classified into three levels: mild, moderate, and severe. The relationship between Mizaj and COVID-19 clinical symptoms were assessed by Chi-square and Pearson correlation coefficients.

Do the rapid influenza diagnostic tests results reflect the truth?

Objectives: Influenza (flu) causes seasonal epidemics and has led to numerous pandemics worldwide. Its rapid diagnosis and treatment are critical. This study evaluated the correlation between rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) results and clinical reflection. Materials and Methods: A total of 795 patients who were performed the RIDT during the 2018-2019 influenza season were included. According to the test results, the patients were then divided into two groups. The Flu+ group was composed of patients with positive diagnostic test results, while the Flu- group was those with negative test results.