RESUMEN
This retrospective observational study describes the results of an ad-hoc designated prevention protocol aimed at containing the spread of the scabies infestation among healthcare workers (HCWs) of a large University Hospital in Italy. The outbreak started on October 2022 and a preventive protocol was set up thanks to a multidisciplinary approach. HCWs at high scabies risk were defined as subjects working in Operative Units with a scabies prevalence higher than 2%, close contacts of a confirmed case of scabies, or HCWs with signs and symptoms of the disease. All cases at high scabies risk underwent a dermatological examination, and the infested HCWs were suspended from work until definitive healing. Mass drug administration was established for all HCWs working in Operative Units with a scabies prevalence higher than 2%. Until March 2023, out of 183 screening dermatological examinations, 21 (11.5%) were diagnostic for scabies. Between 11 October 2022 (date of the first diagnosed scabies case) and 6 March 2023 (the end of incubation period related to the last case detected), the frequency of scabies was 0.35% (21 scabies cases/6000 HCWs). The duration of the outbreak in our hospital was 14.7 weeks. Statistical analysis shows a significant association between scabies and being a nurse and having an allergy to dust mites. We obtained a low frequency of scabies infection, limiting the duration of the outbreak and the related economic burden.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics, clinical course and outcomes of COVID-19 breakthrough infections (BIs) among healthcare workers (HCWs) of an Italian University Hospital. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 6111 HCWs, from January 2021 to February 2022. The study population was offered the full vaccination with BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. To allow return to work after BI, the protocol required one negative nasopharyngeal RT-PCR swab followed by a medical examination to assess the HCW's health status. Laboratory tests, instrumental tests and specialist evaluations were carried out if necessary. RESULTS: The cases of BIs observed numbered 582 (9.7%). The frequency of BIs was significantly higher in females than in males (67% vs. 33%; p = 0.03), and in nurses than in all other professional categories (p = 0.001). A total of 88% of the HCWs affected by BI were still symptomatic after the negative swab. None of the instrumental tests carried out showed any new findings of pathological significance. All cases showed progressive disappearance of symptoms, such that no cases of long COVID and no hospitalization or deaths were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm that SARS-CoV-2 infections occur even after a full vaccination course; however, the clinical course is favorable and severe outcomes are reduced.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 has infected many healthcare workers and (HCWs) worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine, analyze, and compare the frequency and characteristics of COVID-19 cases among HCWs of the University Hospital of Bari. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted after preventive protocol implementation. The SARS-CoV-2 infection frequency was determined by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on nasopharyngeal samples. RESULTS: Overall, 519 HCWs (9%) tested positive among a total of 6030 HCWs during the three waves. The highest frequency of COVID-19 cases (n = 326; 63%) was observed during the 2nd wave, from September 2020 to December 2020, and the lowest (n = 34; 7%) was observed during the 1st wave, from March 2020 to August 2020 (p < 0.001). Working in a designated COVID-19 department was not a risk factor for infection. CONCLUSIONS: The correct use of personal protective equipment and the early identification of symptomatic workers are still essential factors to avoid nosocomial clusters, even in this current phase of vaccine availability.