Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 contributed to reducing the prevalence of depression in Chinese adults - A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 vaccination has been reported to improve mental health. However, few relevant data were collected in China. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on the risk of depression in China and risk factors contributing to depression. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study carried out from May 2020 to July 2021. Participants were widely recruited in China to participate in the survey using an online questionnaire including Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, Athens Insomnia Scale-8.After exclusion of 105 ineligible questionnaires, 9452 participants were included in our final analysis. Chi-square test and Multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to analyze data. RESULTS: Of the 9452 participants, 7207 were vaccinated. Our results showed that the prevalence of depression decreased significantly after vaccination (56.1 % for unvaccinated participants vs. 19.7 % for vaccinated participants). The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe depression was also significantly lower in the vaccinated participants than in the unvaccinated participants (14.8 % vs 29.0 %, 2.8 % vs 13.3 %, 2.0 % vs 13.8 %, respectively). Besides, among vaccinated participants, male and aged participants had a lower chance of developing depression (AOR = 1.34; AOR = 0.63; AOR = 0.5, respectively). In addition, although with vaccination, participants with anxiety and insomnia were more likely to suffer from depression (AOR = 29.2; AOR = 11.89). LIMITATIONS: The study was a cross-sectional survey. The numbers of participants differed much in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The present study confirmed that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination contributed to reducing the prevalence of depression in Chinese adults. Moreover, vaccinated men and older adult participants had less prevalence of depression.

Dengue grave en fémina con infección previa por SARS-CoV-2 / Serious dengue in a woman with previous infection due to SARS-CoV-2 i: en

Se presenta el caso clínico de una paciente de 30 años de edad, con antecedentes de asma bronquial, úlcera gastroduodenal y virus C de la hepatitis, quien fue ingresada en el Hospital Universitario Clínico-Quirúrgico Dr. Ambrosio Grillo Portuondo de la provincia de Santiago de Cuba en 2 ocasiones: primero por presentar infección del virus SARS-CoV-2 y luego, el virus del dengue, con formas graves de la enfermedad en ambos momentos, por lo que se deduce que el daño vascular producido por el SARS-CoV-2 puede ser un factor de riesgo para que se desarrolle un dengue con signos de alarma.

The case report of a 30 years patient with history of bronchial asthma, gastroduodenal ulcer and hepatitis C virus is presented. She was admitted to Dr. Ambrosio Grillo Portuondo Clinical-Surgical University Hospital in Santiago de Cuba in 2 occasions: first for presenting SARS-CoV-2 infection and then, dengue virus, with serious forms of the disease in both moments, reason why it is deduced that the vascular damage caused by SARS-CoV-2 can be a risk factor so that dengue with warning signs is developed.

Utilización del equipo de protección personal e infección por SARS-CoV-2 en trabajadores del sector salud / Use of Personal Protective Equipment and SARS-Cov-2 Infection Among Healthcare Workers

Introducción: Los trabajadores de salud son los primeros en enfrentarse a brotes epidemiológicos, como el causado con el agente infeccioso emergente síndrome agudo respiratorio severo de tipo 2 (SARS-CoV-2). El cumplimiento de las medidas de protección es primordial para evitar el contagio. Para ello se implementó el uso se equipos protección personal (EPP)Método: Difusión de encuesta voluntaria y anónima entre los empleados de centros sanitarios. (Datos obtenidos desde 6 de noviembre 2020 al 6 febrero de 2021). Se recibieron 443 respuestas validas con las que se evaluó la correcta utilización y acceso al EPP, se midió los casos de enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) y el efecto de la pandemia en el personal del sector salud. Diseño del estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y transversal Resultados: Mayor percepción de los erro-res cometidos (x2=161,663 con una p=0,000), probabilidad de contagio (x2=81,118 con una p=0,024) y duración síntomas (x2=440,955 con una p=0,001) según la profesión. Existe relación entre la residencia y nacionalidad del trabajador y la infección por SARS-CoV-2 x2=72,630 con una p=0,020 y una x2=61,247 con una p=0,132. Hay relación entre el número de ítems de EPP usado y la infección por SARS-CoV-2 (x2=38,373 con una p=0,032). Mayor riesgo de contagio según el departamento: residencias (x2=10,223 con una p=0,006), las unidades de pacientes con problemas respiratorios (x2=6,050 con una p=0,049) y las unida-des de paliativos (x2=7,795 con una p=0,020).Conclusiones: Los sanitarios no han estado debidamente protegidos contra la infección por SARS-CoV-2, sobre todo al principio de la pandemia. (AU)

Background: Frontline healthcare workers are the first to face epidemiological outbreaks, such as the caused by the emerging infectious agent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Compliance with protective measures is essential to avoid the infection. Therefore, use of personal protection equipment (PPE) was implemented.Method: Dissemination of a voluntary and anon-ymous survey among employees in healthcare centers. (Data obtained from 6th November 2020 to 6th February 2021). 443 valid answers were re-ceived. The correct use and access to PPE was evaluated, cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were measured as well as the effect of the pandemic on healthcare workers.The design of the study is cross-sectional, de-scriptive and prospective.Results: Greater perception of the errors com-mitted (x2=161.663 with a p=0.000), greater probability of contagion (x2= 81.118 with a p=0.024) and longer duration of symptoms (x2= 440.955 with a p= 0.001) according to the pro-fession.Relationship between the residence and nation-ality of the healthcare worker with the infection by SARS-CoV-2 x2=72.630 with a p=0.020 and x2=61.247 with a p=0.132. Relationship between the number of PPE used and SARS-CoV-2 infec-tion (x2= 38.373 with a p= 0.032). Greater risk of contagion according to the workplace: care homes (x2= 10.223 with a p= 0.006), respiratory wards (x2=6.050 with a p= 0.049) and palliative care units (x2= 7.795 with a p=0.020).Conclusions: Healthcare workers have not been adequately protected against the SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially at the beginning of the pandemic. (AU)

Epidemiological survey on the benefit of neuraminidase inhibitors on severe acute respiratory syndrome due to COVID-19 / Levantamento epidemiológico do benefício de inibidores de neuraminidase na síndrome respiratória aguda grave por COVID-19 / Encuesta epidemiológica del beneficio de inhibidores de neuraminidase en síndrome respiratorio agudo severo por COVID-19

Background and objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic and its consequent severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) have taken the lives of millions since 2020. The use of neuraminidase inhibitors is a promising alternative in treating this disease, with several studies on off-label use being conducted since the beginning of the pandemic, but none of them have a large sample size and analyze multiple risk factors. The purpose of this article is to identify possible associations between various factors and risk of hospitalization, need for ventilation and death, as well as the influence of the prescription of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir on these same indicators. Methods: In this transversal study, approximately 900,000 medical records from all regions of Brazil were collected from the Ministry of Health database, and after that, proper statistical analysis of the variables was performed. Results: Hospitalization was associated with gender, ethnicity, education, local urbanization, State, and its percentage of elderly, as well as the climate. The prescription of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir was associated with higher incidence of symptoms, lower hospitalization and death rate, and lower need for invasive and non-invasive ventilation. Medical records from146,160 patients were excluded due to SARS not caused by COVID-19. Conclusion: From this data, it is possible to draw a risk profile for hospitalization by SARS and consider the use of Zanamivir and Oseltamivir as a treatment for these patients.(AU)

Justificativa e objetivos: A pandemia de COVID-19 e sua consequente síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) levaram milhões de pessoas a óbito desde 2020. O uso de inibidores da neuraminidase é uma alternativa promissora no tratamento dessa doença, com vários estudos sobre o uso off-label sendo conduzidos desde o início da pandemia, mas nenhum que tenha um grande tamanho amostral e que analise vários fatores de risco. O objetivo deste artigo é identificar possíveis associações entre diversos fatores e risco de hospitalização, necessidade de ventilação e óbito, assim como a influência da prescrição de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir nos mesmos indicadores. Métodos: Neste estudo transversal, foi feito o levantamento de aproximadamente 900 mil prontuários de todas as regiões do Brasil, provenientes de dados do Ministério da Saúde, e em seguida foi realizado o tratamento estatístico adequado das variáveis. Resultados: A hospitalização foi associada a sexo, etnia, escolaridade, urbanização do local, Estado e porcentagem de idosos do mesmo, assim como o clima. Já a prescrição de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir foi associada a maior incidência de sintomas, menor taxa de hospitalização e óbito e menor necessidade de ventilação invasiva e não-invasiva. Foram excluídos 146.160 prontuários devido a SRAG não ocasionada pela COVID-19. Conclusão: Com esses dados, é possível traçar um perfil de risco para hospitalização por SRAG e considerar o uso de Zanamivir e Oseltamivir como tratamento para esses pacientes.(AU)

Justificación y objetivos: la pandemia Covid-19 y su consiguiente síndrome respiratorio agudo severo (SRAS) han muerto millones de personas desde 2020. El uso de inhibidores de la neuraminidasa es una alternativa prometedora en el tratamiento de esta enfermedad, con varios estudios sobre el uso off-label que se realiza desde el principio de la pandemia, pero ninguno que tenga un tamaño de muestra grande y analice múltiples factores de riesgo. El propósito de este artículo es identificar posibles asociaciones entre varios factores y el riesgo de hospitalización, necesidad de ventilación y muerte, así como la influencia de la prescripción de Zanamivir y Oseltamivir en los mismos indicadores. Métodos: En este estudio transversal, se encuestaron a los datos del Ministerio de Salud de aproximadamente 900,000 registros de todas las regiones de Brasil, después de que se realizó un tratamiento estadístico adecuado de las variables. Resultados: La hospitalización se asoció con género, etnia, educación, urbanización del sitio, Estado y porcentaje de ancianos, así como el clima. La prescripción de zanamivir y oseltamivir se asoció con la mayor incidencia de síntomas, menor hospitalización y tasa de mortalidad y menor necesidad de ventilación invasiva y no invasiva. Se excluyeron 146,160 registros médicos debido a SRAS no causado por Covid-19. Conclusión: con estos datos, es posible dibujar un perfil de riesgo para la hospitalización por SRAS y considerar el uso de zanamivir y oseltamivir como tratamiento para estos pacientes.(AU)

Hospitalización a domicilio para pacientes quirúrgicos ante una pandemia por SARS-CoV-2: nuestra experiencia / Hospitalization at home for surgical patients in the face of a SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: our experience

Introducción: La hospitalización a domicilio para pacientes quirúrgicos (HaDQ) es una al-ternativa a la hospitalización convencional para pacientes quirúrgicos estables clínicamente, que precisen procedimientos de enfermería complejos por intensidad, frecuencia o carac-terísticas, y control por especialista quirúrgico en el domicilio.Método: Estudio transversal, descriptivo y retrospectivo de la actividad de la HADQ de nuestro hospital durante los primeros seis me-ses del 2020, para analizar la repercusión de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 en la unidad. Se distinguen tres periodos: prepandemia (enero-febreo), confinamiento (marzo-abril), poscon-finamiento (mayo-junio). Se diferencian dos grupos: A (HaD convencional) y B (despistaje preoperatorio COVID19). Se recogieron diver-sas variables: mes, tipo, estancia (HaD y hospi-tal), procedimientos, reingresos, domicilio, tipo visitas, COVID+. Se realizó un análisis estadís-tico descriptivo cuantitativo y cualitativo de los resultados obtenidosResultados: Ingresaron 345 pacientes, 225 en el grupo A (fase Pre (34%), fase C (40%), y fase Pos (25%)), y 120 en el B (fase C (75%), fase Pos (25%)). El confinamiento (fase C) fue el pe-ríodo más activo de la HADQ, tanto por número de ingresos (53%), como por la complejidad del grupo A que requería más procedimientos (71%) y más visitas domiciliarias (52%). Tam-bién aumentaron los pacientes de zona de no cobertura (42%), que implicaron visitas médicas y de enfermería en Hospital de Día (HD) (21%), y aumento de consultas telefónicas médicas (36%). En la fase Pos disminuyeron un 37% los ingresos del grupo A.Conclusiones: La HaDQ se reorganizó por la pandemia para atender a más pacientes quirúr-gicos, siendo un recurso asistencial esencial, especialmente durante el confinamiento. (AU)

Introduction: The HaDQ is an alternative to conventional hospitalization for clinically stable surgical patients who require complex nursing procedures due to intensity, frequency or char-acteristics, and control by a surgical specialist at home.Method: Cross-sectional, descriptive and ret-rospective study of the HADQ activity of our hospital during the first six months of 2020, to analyze the impact of the SARSCov2 pandemic in the unit. Three periods are distinguished: pre-pandemic (Jan-Feb), lockdown (Mar-Apr), post-lockdown (May-Jun). Two groups are differen-tiated: A (conventional HaD) and B (COVID19 preoperative screening). Various variables were collected: month, type, stay (HaD and hospi-tal), procedures, readmissions, address, type of visits, covid+. A quantitative and qualitative descriptive statistical analysis of the results ob-tained was carried out.Results: 345 patients were admitted, 225 in group A (phase Pre (34%), Phase C (40%), and phase Post (25%)), and 120 in group B (Phase C (75%), phase Post (25%)). %)). The confinement (phase C) was the most active period of the HADQ, both due to the number of admissions (53%), and the complexity of group A, which re-quired more procedures (71%) and more home visits (52%). There was also an increase in pa-tients from the non-coverage area (42%), which involved medical and nursing visits at the Day Hospital (HD) (21%), and an increase in medi-cal telephone consultations (36%). In the phase Post, the income of group A decreased by 37%.Conclusions: The HaDQ was reorganized due to the pandemic to care for more surgical pa-tients, being an essential care resource, espe-cially during confinement. (AU)

Cáncer y COVID-19, un vínculo peligroso / Cancer and COVID-19, a dangerous association

Fundamento: La COVID-19 es una pandemia causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2 cuya asociación con el cáncer puede tener efectos adversos. Objetivo: Describir los principales vínculos entre el cáncer y la COVID-19. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en Google Académico, SciELO y PubMed Central con los descriptores SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 y cáncer, consultados en el DeCS. Se seleccionaron artículos a texto completo en español e inglés, principalmente de revistas arbitradas por pares. Resultados: La COVID-19 produce resultados más desfavorables en los pacientes con cáncer. Estos resultados se relacionan con altas tasas de hospitalización, complicaciones y mortalidad. La frecuente asociación de comorbilidades en pacientes con cáncer parece contribuir a este vínculo peligroso. Las vías de señalización comunes al cáncer y a la infección por el SARS-CoV-2 son citocinas proinflamatorias, interferón tipo I, receptor de andrógenos y puntos de control inmune. Este conocimiento tiene aplicación práctica en el empleo de medicamentos para combatir la COVID-19 en pacientes con cáncer. Conclusiones: El cáncer se relaciona con la COVID-19 grave, por lo que esos pacientes son más vulnerables a la infección viral.

Background: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which relation with cancer may have adverse effects. Objective: To describe the main associations between cancer and COVID-19. Methodology: A literature review was conducted in Google Scholar, SciELO and PubMed Central with the descriptors SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 and cancer, consulted in DeCS. Full-text articles in Spanish and English were selected, mainly from peer-reviewed journals. Results: COVID-19 produces more non-favorable outcomes in patients with cancer. These outcomes are related to high hospitalization rates, complications and mortality. Frequent comorbidity relations in patients with cancer seem to contribute to this dangerous association. Signaling pathways common to cancer and SARS-CoV-2 infection are proinflammatory cytokines, type I interferon, androgen receptor, and immune checkpoints. This knowledge has a practical use with drugs against COVID-19 in patients with cancer. Conclusions: Cancer is associated with severe COVID-19, making such patients more vulnerable to viral infection.

More than a 'Hundred Days War': Persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in a patient with ANCA-associated vasculitis.

BACKGROUND: Few reports exist on the characteristics and outcomes of persistent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in immunocompromised hosts. METHODS: A 49-year-old patient with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and a renal transplant experienced multiple hospitalizations for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia and relapses between October 2020 and February 2021. Careful chart review of medical history, hospitalizations, and microbiological testing including SARS-CoV-2 cycle threshold values, therapies, and imaging was undertaken. SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing was performed in five viral samples to distinguish persistent infection from re-infection with a different strain. RESULTS: Sequencing confirmed that all samples tested were from the same viral lineage, indicating a long-term, persistent infection rather than re-infection with a new strain. The patient ultimately stabilized after two courses of remdesivir plus dexamethasone, replacement intravenous immunoglobulin, and bamlanivimab. Rituximab maintenance therapy for vasculitis remains on hold. CONCLUSIONS: SARS-CoV-2 may persist for several months in immunocompromised hosts and may go unrecognized as an ongoing active infection. More studies are needed to determine how to optimize COVID-19 treatment in this vulnerable population.

HISTORIQUE: Il existe peu de rapports sur les caractéristiques et les issues de l'infection par le coronavirus 2 du syndrome respiratoire aigu sévère (SRAS-CoV-2) chez les hôtes immunodéprimés. MÉTHODOLOGIE: UNE PATIENTE de 49 ans receveuse d'une transplantation rénale atteinte d'une granulomatose avec polyangéite a été hospitalisée à de multiples reprises à cause d'une pneumonie à maladie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) et de récidives entre octobre 2020 et février 2021. Les chercheurs ont exécuté une analyse attentive du dossier pour connaître l'histoire médicale de la patiente, les hospitalisations et les tests microbiologiques effectués, y compris les valeurs seuils du cycle du SRAS-CoV-2, les traitements et les techniques d'imagerie. Ils ont procédé au séquençage du génome du SRAS-CoV-2 dans cinq prélèvements viraux pour distinguer l'infection persistante de la réinfection par une souche différente. RÉSULTATS : Le séquençage a confirmé que tous les prélèvements effectués provenaient de la même lignée virale, ce qui détermine une infection persistante prolongée plutôt qu'une réinfection par une nouvelle souche. L'état de la patiente a fini par se stabiliser après deux traitements au remdésivir combiné à de la dexaméthasone, une thérapie de substitution par immunoglobuline intraveineuse et du bamlanivimab. Un traitement d'entretien de la vasculite au rituximab demeure en suspens. CONCLUSIONS: Le SRAS-CoV-2 peut persister plusieurs mois chez les hôtes immunodéprimés, et un état d'infection active continue peut passer inaperçu. Plus d'études devront être réalisées pour déterminer le moyen d'optimiser le traitement de la COVID-19 dans cette population vulnérable.

Una díada de riesgo: periodontitis y COVID-19 / A risk dyad: periodontitis and COVID-19

RESUMEN Fundamento: La COVID-19 es una pandemia causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2 y su asociación con la periodontitis podría tener resultados adversos. Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre la periodontitis y los resultados adversos de la COVID-19. Desarrollo: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en Google Académico, SciELO y PubMed Central con los descriptores SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, periodontitis y enfermedad periodontal consultados en el DeCS. Se seleccionaron artículos a texto completo en español e inglés, principalmente de revistas arbitradas por pares. La periodontitis se asocia significativamente a la gravedad de la COVID-19. Los probables mecanismos que vinculan a la periodontitis con la COVID-19 grave son el favorecimiento de la replicación viral, la inflamación por disfunción inmune, la disbiosis con infección bacteriana sobreañadida y la presencia de comorbilidades. La toma de medidas de bioseguridad e higiene en la atención de los pacientes podría contribuir a un curso clínico más favorable de la COVID-19. Conclusiones: La periodontitis parece asociarse con resultados desfavorables de la COVID-19, lo que recalca la importancia de la atención estomatológica de estos pacientes.

ABSTRACT Background: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus and its association with periodontitis could have adverse outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the association between periodontitis and adverse outcomes of COVID-19. Methodology: A literature review was performed in Google Scholar, SciELO and PubMed Central with the descriptors SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, periodontitis and periodontal disease consulted in DeCS. Full-text articles in Spanish and English were selected, mainly from peer-reviewed journals. Results: Periodontitis is significantly associated with COVID-19 severity. Probable mechanisms linking periodontitis with severe COVID-19 are favoring viral replication, inflammation due to immune dysfunction, dysbiosis with superimposed bacterial infection, and the presence of comorbidities. Taking biosecurity and hygiene measures in patient care could favor a more favorable clinical course of COVID-19. Conclusions: Periodontitis appears to be associated with unfavorable COVID-19 outcomes, emphasizing the importance of stomatologic care of these patients.

Avaliação da capacidade física em pacientes hospitalizados com diagnóstico de COVID-19 / Evaluación de la capacidad física en pacientes hospitalizados por Covid-19 / Physical capacity assessment in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 diagnose

RESUMO A infecção por SARS-CoV-2 pode ocasionar a síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG), levando a hipoxemia. A avaliação da capacidade física pode ser realizada anteriormente à alta hospitalar, através de testes de exercícios submáximos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade física e a tolerância ao exercício físico por meio do teste de degrau de seis minutos (TD6) em pacientes hospitalizados com diagnóstico de COVID-19 que fizeram uso de suporte de oxigênio (O2) durante a internação. Trata-se de um estudo prospectivo e intervencionista, incluindo pacientes com idade entre 18 e 90 anos, que necessitaram de oxigenoterapia durante a hospitalização. Foi realizada avaliação através do Perme escore, seguida do TD6, com análise da saturação periférica de oxigênio (SpO2), frequência cardíaca (FC), pressão arterial (PA) e percepção subjetiva do esforço através da escala de Borg, antes e imediatamente após o TD6. Foram avaliados 31 pacientes, com idade média de 51,9 anos. O dispositivo de O2 mais utilizado foi o cateter nasal (CN), em 64,5% dos pacientes. Em relação à FC, PA e escala de Borg, pudemos observar um aumento no valor médio dessas variáveis após o TD6. A SpO2 teve uma média menor quando comparada à avaliação inicial do TD6. O teste foi finalizado por 86,9% dos pacientes, sendo que, destes, 48,3% finalizaram com interrupções; 12,9% dos participantes suspenderam o teste. O TD6 foi capaz de avaliar a capacidade física e a tolerância ao exercício, tornando-se uma ferramenta eficaz para avaliação do paciente com COVID-19.

RESUMEN La infección por SARS-CoV-2 puede provocar el síndrome respiratorio agudo severo (SRAS), resultando en hipoxemia. La evaluación de la capacidad física se puede realizar antes del alta hospitalaria mediante pruebas de ejercicio submáximas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la capacidad física y la tolerancia al ejercicio a través del test de escalón de seis minutos (TE6) en pacientes hospitalizados por Covid-19 que utilizaron soporte de oxígeno (O2) durante la hospitalización. Se trata de un estudio prospectivo e intervencionista, en el que se incluyeron a pacientes con edades entre los 18 y los 90 años, que necesitaron la oxigenoterapia durante su hospitalización. La evaluación se realizó mediante el puntaje de Perme, seguido del TE6, con análisis de saturación de oxígeno periférico (SpO2), frecuencia cardíaca (FC), presión arterial (PA) y esfuerzo percibido mediante la escala de Borg, antes e inmediatamente después del TE6. Se evaluaron a 31 pacientes, con una edad media de 51,9 años. El dispositivo de O2 más utilizado fue el catéter nasal (CN) por el 64,5% de los pacientes. Con relación a la FC, PA y la escala de Borg, se observa un aumento en el valor medio de estas variables después del TE6. La SpO2 tuvo una media más baja en comparación con la evaluación inicial del TE6. El 86,9% de los pacientes completaron el test, de los cuales el 48,3% terminó con interrupciones; y el 12,9% lo suspendió. El TE6 pudo evaluar la capacidad física y la tolerancia al ejercicio, lo que resulta ser una herramienta eficaz para evaluar a los pacientes con Covid-19.

ABSTRACT SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), leading to hypoxemia. Physical capacity assessment can be performed before hospital discharge using submaximal exercise testing. This study sought to assess physical capacity and exercise tolerance with the six-minute step test (6MST) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients who required oxygen (O2) support during hospitalization. A prospective, interventional study was conducted with patients aged from 18 to 90 years who required oxygen therapy during hospitalization. Assessment was performed using Perme Score, followed by the 6MST tests, assessing the peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and subjective exertion perception by Borg Scale, before and immediately after the 6MST. A total of 31 patients, with a mean age of 51.9 years, were evaluated. Nasal cannula (NC) was the most used device (64.5% of patients). Regarding HR, BP, and Borg Scale, their mean value increased after 6MST. SpO2 showed a lower mean value after 6MST. Out of the 86.9% of patients who completed the test, 48.3% completed it with interruptions, and 12.9% had to suspend it. The 6MST was able to assess physical capacity and exercise tolerance, proving to be an effective tool for evaluating COVID-19 patients.

Trabajadores de la salud contagiados de SARS-CoV-2 durante sus funciones asistenciales en una institución hospitalaria / Health workers contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 during their assistance functions in a hospital institution

Introducción: La preservación de los profesionales sanitarios es siempre prioritaria, especialmente en situaciones de epidemia. Objetivo: Caracterizar a trabajadores de la salud que enfermaron de COVID-19 durante el ejercicio de su profesión. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de serie de casos, con recogida de la información en forma retrospectiva, en 12 trabajadores del Hospital Docente Infantil Sur Dr. Antonio María Béguez César de Santiago de Cuba, quienes se contagiaron del SARS-CoV-2 mientras realizaban sus funciones asistenciales en el primer semestre del año 2021. Resultados: En la serie predominaron el sexo femenino (91,7 %) y el grupo etario de 30 a 39 años (33,3 %); la mayoría de los trabajadores laboraban en los servicios de Miscelánea (41,7 %) y Microbiología (16,7 %) y fundamentalmente eran médicos. También sobresalieron los que no tenían antecedentes patológicos personales (66,7 %) y los que no mostraron complicación alguna asociada al proceso infeccioso. En cuanto a los factores de riesgo laboral, todos habían estado expuestos al virus y algunos habían tenido contacto con presuntos infectados o con pacientes que padecían la enfermedad. Entre los síntomas de la COVID-19 que les aquejaban resultaron más frecuentes la fiebre, la tos, la cefalea y el malestar general. Conclusiones: El bajo número de trabajadores que contrajo el coronavirus durante su desempeño asistencial en esa etapa se debió, en gran medida, a la eliminación de brechas en el cumplimiento de las normas de bioseguridad establecidas para la atención a los presuntos infectados por el SARS-CoV-2 y a los enfermos de la COVID-19, así como a las prácticas seguras del personal sanitario.

Introduction: The preservation of health professionals is always high-priority, especially in epidemic situations. Objective: To characterize health workers that got sick with COVID-19 during the exercise of their profession. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional serial cases study with retrospective collection of the information was carried out in 12 workers of Dr. Antonio María Béguez Cesar Southern Teaching Children Hospital in Santiago de Cuba who caught the SARS-CoV-2 while they carried out their assistance functions in the first semester of the year 2021. Results: In the series there was a prevalence of the female sex (91.7 %) and the 30 to 39 age group (33.3 %); most of the workers worked in the miscellany (41.7 %) and microbiology services (16.7 %) and they were mainly doctors. Those that didn't have personal pathological history were also notable (66.7 %) and those that didn't show any complication associated with the infectious process. As for the labor risk factors, all had been exposed to the virus and some had had contact with presumed infected or with patients that suffered from the disease. Among the symptoms of the COVID-19 that they suffered, fever, cough, migraine and diffuse discomfort were more frequent. Conclusions: The few number of workers that caught the coronavirus during their assistance performance in that phase was to a large extent due to the elimination of breaches in the execution of biosecurity norms established for the care to the presumed infected by the SARS-CoV-2 and to the sick persons of the COVID-19, as well as to the secure practices of the health staff.

Assessment of Recovery Time, Worsening, and Death among Inpatients and Outpatients with COVID-19, Treated with Hydroxychloroquine or Chloroquine plus Azithromycin Combination in Burkina Faso.

OBJECTIVES: Our study aimed to assess the statistical relationship between the use of chloroquine phosphate or hydroxychloroquine plus azithromycin (CQ/HCQ + AZ) and virological recovery, disease worsening, and death among out- and inpatients with COVID-19 in Burkina Faso. METHODS AND DESIGNS: This was a retrospective observational study that compared outcomes in terms of time to recovery, worsening, and death in patients who received CQ/HCQ + AZ and those who did not using a multivariable Cox or Poisson model before and after propensity matching. RESULTS: Of the 863 patients included in the study, about 50% (432/863) were home-based follow-up patients and 50% were inpatients. Of these, 83.3% (746/863) received at least 1 dose of CQ/HCQ + AZ and 13.7% (118/863) did not. There were no significant differences in associated time to recovery for patients receiving any CQ/HCQ + AZ (adjusted HR 1.44; 95% CI 0.76-2.71). Similarly, there was no significant association between CQ/HCQ + AZ use and worsening (adjusted IRR 0.80; 95% CI 0.50-1.50). However, compared with the untreated group, the treated group had a lower risk of death (adjusted HR 0.20; 95% CI 0.10-0.44). CONCLUSIONS: The study provided valuable additional information on the use of CQ/HCQ in patients with COVID-19 and did not show any harmful outcomes of CQ/HCQ + AZ treatment.

A tabulated summary of the evidence on humoral and cellular responses to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron VOC, as well as vaccine efficacy against this variant.

INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) is the virus responsible for COVID-19. It is one of the most mutating virus in the world. These mutations are responsible for the appearance of new variants, the most recent of which is Omicron (line B.1.1.529). This new variant was first identified in South Africa in November 2021. The main fear with this variant is that of an immune escape and ineffectiveness of vaccines currently available. OBJECTIVE: We studied the response of our immune system and the effectiveness of current vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron VOC. METHODS: We carried out a narrative review from 32 scientific articles from databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, BioRxiv and MedRxiv. RESULTS: Faced with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron VOC: The humoral immune response decreased, while the cellular immune response was preserved. The booster vaccine provided protection against symptomatic or non-symptomatic infections, transmission, and serious forms. CONCLUSION: In the end, according to these data, the 3rd dose appears to be the solution to be able to defeat SARS-CoV-2 Omicron VOC. But the health authorities must not forget to insist on the primary vaccination of individuals not yet vaccinated, as well as on an "equal" distribution of vaccines against COVID-19 throughout the world.

Cáncer y COVID-19, un vínculo peligroso / Cancer and COVID-19, a dangerous association

Fundamento: La COVID-19 es una pandemia causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2 cuya asociación con el cáncer puede tener efectos adversos.Objetivo: Describir los principales vínculos entre el cáncer y la COVID-19.Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en Google Académico, SciELO y PubMed Central con los descriptores SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 y cáncer, consultados en el DeCS. Se seleccionaron artículos a texto completo en español e inglés, principalmente de revistas arbitradas por pares.Resultados: La COVID-19 produce resultados más desfavorables en los pacientes con cáncer. Estos resultados se relacionan con altas tasas de hospitalización, complicaciones y mortalidad. La frecuente asociación decomorbilidades en pacientes con cáncer parece contribuir a este vínculo peligroso. Las vías de señalización comunes al cáncer y a la infección por el SARS-CoV-2 son citocinas proinflamatorias, interferón tipo I, receptorde andrógenos y puntos de control inmune. Este conocimiento tiene aplicación práctica en el empleo de medicamentos para combatir la COVID-19 en pacientes con cáncer.Conclusiones: El cáncer se relaciona con la COVID-19 grave, por lo que esos pacientes son más vulnerables a la infección viral.[AU]

Una díada de riesgo: periodontitis y COVID-19 / A risk dyad: periodontitis and COVID-19

Fundamento: La COVID-19 es una pandemia causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2 y su asociación con laperiodontitis podría tener resultados adversos. Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre la periodontitis y los resultados adversos de la COVID-19. Desarrollo: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en Google Académico, SciELO y PubMed Central con los descriptores SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, periodontitis y enfermedad periodontal consultados en el DeCS. Se seleccionaron artículos a texto completo en español e inglés, principalmente de revistas arbitradas por pares. La periodontitis se asocia significativamente a la gravedad de la COVID-19. Los probables mecanismos que vinculana la periodontitis con la COVID-19 grave son el favorecimiento de la replicación viral, la inflamación por disfunción inmune, la disbiosis con infección bacteriana sobreañadida y la presencia de comorbilidades. La toma de medidasde bioseguridad e higiene en la atención de los pacientes podría contribuir a un curso clínico más favorable de la COVID-19. Conclusiones: La periodontitis parece asociarse con resultados desfavorables de la COVID-19, lo que recalcala importancia de la atención estomatológica de estos pacientes [AU]

Severidad de la colecistitis aguda en tiempos de COVID-19: ¿mito o realidad? / Severity of acute cholecystitis in times of COVID-19: myth or reality?

Introducción. La colecistitis aguda es una de las causas más frecuentes de ingresos hospitalarios y la colecistectomía laparoscópica es el estándar de oro para su manejo. Dentro de los efectos de la pandemia por COVID-19 se ha percibido un aumento en la severidad de presentación en estos pacientes. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo comparar la presentación clínica y quirúrgica de la colecistitis aguda antes y durante la pandemia por COVID-19. Métodos. Estudio retrospectivo de una cohorte con pacientes llevados a colecistectomía laparoscópica por colecistitis aguda entre 2019 y 2020. Se realizó un análisis bivariado y de Kaplan Meier con el tiempo transcurrido entre inicio de síntomas y el ingreso al hospital, y entre el ingreso del hospital y la realización de la cirugía. Resultados. Fueron llevados a colecistectomía laparoscópica por colecistitis aguda un total de 302 pacientes. El tiempo de evolución de los síntomas hasta el ingreso fue de 83,3 horas (IC95%: 70,95 ­ 96,70) antes de la pandemia y 104,75 horas (IC95%: 87,26 ­ 122,24) durante la pandemia. El tiempo entre el ingreso al hospital y el procedimiento quirúrgico fue significativamente menor en el período de pandemia (70,93 vs. 42,29; p<0,001). El porcentaje con mayor severidad (Parkland 5) fue igual antes y durante la pandemia (29 %). Conclusión. Se reporta una severidad clínica y quirúrgica similar antes y durante la pandemia por COVID-19, probablemente secundario a los resultados de un tiempo de entrada al quirófano significativamente menor durante la pandemia, debido a una mayor disponibilidad de quirófanos para las patologías quirúrgicas urgentes.

Introduction. Acute cholecystitis is one of the most frequent causes of hospital admissions in the adult population and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered the gold standard for its management. Within the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in the severity of presentation has been perceived in these patients. This study aims to compare the clinical and surgical presentation based on the different severity scales of acute cholecystitis before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was performed with patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis between 2019 and 2020. A bivariate and Kaplan Meier analysis was performed with the time elapsed between onset of symptoms and admission to hospital, and between admission to hospital and performance of surgery. Results. A total of 302 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. The time of evolution of symptoms until admission was 83.3 hours (95% CI: 70.95 - 96.70) vs. of 104.75 hours (95% CI: 87.26 - 122.24) before and during the pandemic, respectively. The time between admission to the hospital and the surgical procedure was significantly shorter in the current pandemic period (70.93 vs. 42.29; p<0.001). The patients with greater severity (Parkland 5) was the same before and during pandemic (29%). Conclusion. Similar clinical and surgical severity is reported before and during the COVID 19 pandemic, probably secondary to the results of a significantly shorter entry time to the operating room during the pandemic, due to a greater availability of operating rooms for urgent surgical pathologies.

[POCT-management during the first wave of Covid-19 in France. Results of a national survey leaded by the SFBC-POCT Working Group]. / Gestion de la biologie délocalisée lors de la première vague de Covid-19 en France. Résultats de l'enquête nationale menée par le groupe de travail des EBMD de la SFBC.

During the first wave of Covid-19 in France, in spring 2020, healthcare institution's laboratory had to adapt itself quickly to the growing demand for emergency biology, in particular by reorganizing their POCT analyzers: redeployment of analyzers and/or new installations. In order to analyze this management, a subgroup of 15 hospital biologists from the SFBC Working Group "Biochemical markers of Covid-19" sent, in fall 2020, an on-line survey to French hospital laboratories using POCT. Answers analysis (n = 86) shows a territorial disparity related to the severity of the first wave: increased activity essentially in red zones, management of unexpected situations, training of additional nursing staff for 40 % of the laboratories... The survey also showed simplification of aspects related to accreditation those periods of health crisis. An additional survey, carried out in the spring of 2021, showed good overall satisfaction of the healthcare services (n = 139) concerning the services provided by biology in the POCT sector. Because of their great adaptation capacity, the laboratories and their POCT-teams have played a key role in the management of the first wave of Covid-19 in France. However, the success of these organizations requires an essential collaboration between laboratories and healthcare services. The results of this survey are fundamental in the context of the prolongation of the pandemia throughout the world with a POCT sector appearing to be growing.

The importance of tears stability in SARS-CoV-2 transmission: COVID-19 prevalance in dry eye patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether dry eye disease (DED) is a risk factor for COVID-19. METHOD: In this retrospective cohort study, patients who were diagnosed with DED by an ophthalmologist and whose Schirmer test was less than 5mm were identified. Patients who missed follow-up examinations, patients with malignancy, Human Immunodeficiency Virus patients and patients having undergone bone marrow transplantation were excluded. Among the DED patients, patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests were identified on October 11, 2020. Subsequently, patients were divided into four age groups (25-49; 50-64; 65-79; and 80+). The COVID-19 prevalence per 100,000 people was determined for each age group, and risk analysis was performed by comparing this with the general population in Turkey. RESULTS: In total, 10,023 DED patients were identified and included in the study. Among these, the PCR test was positive in 359 patients. The COVID-19 prevalence per 100,000 population in DED patients was calculated as 3581.7, while according to the Ministry of Health data, it was 524.7 in the general Turkish population. The odds ratio of DED patients versus the general population was 6.62 (P<0.001) (7.66 in the 25-49 group; 6.59 in the 50-64 group; 6.23 in the 65-79 group; and 7.24 in the 80+ age group). CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed a high COVID-19 prevalence in DED patients compared to the general population. These findings support the concept that the ocular surface may be a gateway for SARS-CoV-2 and that the tear film is important part of the immune system.