scholarly journals Case Report: Sars-CoV-2 Infection in a Vaccinated Individual: Evaluation of the Immunological Profile and Virus Transmission Risk

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claudia Strafella ◽  
Valerio Caputo ◽  
Gisella Guerrera ◽  
Andrea Termine ◽  
Carlo Fabrizio ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Immune Response ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
High Efficacy ◽  
Correlates Of Protection ◽  
Immunological Profile ◽  
Individual Evaluation ◽  
Precautionary Measures ◽  
Active Investigation ◽  
Over Time

During the COVID19 pandemic, a range of vaccines displayed high efficacy in preventing disease, severe outcomes of infection, and mortality. However, the immunological correlates of protection, the duration of immune response, the transmission risk over time from vaccinated individuals are currently under active investigation. In this brief report, we describe the case of a vaccinated Healthcare Professional infected with a variant of Sars-CoV-2, who has been extensively investigated in order to draw a complete trajectory of infection. The patient has been monitored for the whole length of infection, assessing the temporal viral load decay, the quantification of viral RNA and subgenomic mRNA, antibodies (anti Sars-CoV-2, IgA, IgG, IgM) and cell-mediated (cytokine, B- and T-cell profiles) responses. Overall, this brief report highlights the efficacy of vaccine in preventing COVID19 disease, accelerating the recovery from infection, reducing the transmission risk, although the use of precautionary measures against Sars-CoV-2 spreading still remain critical.

scholarly journals Virus Transmission Risk in Urban Rail Systems: Microscopic Simulation-Based Analysis of Spatio-Temporal Characteristics

2021 ◽  
pp. 036119812110101
Author(s):  
Jiali Zhou ◽  
Haris N. Koutsopoulos
Keyword(s):  
Public Transportation ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Flow Characteristics ◽  
Transportation Systems ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Microscopic Simulation ◽  
Spatial And Temporal Patterns ◽  
Subway System ◽  
Public Transportation Systems ◽  
The Impact

The transmission risk of airborne diseases in public transportation systems is a concern. This paper proposes a modified Wells-Riley model for risk analysis in public transportation systems to capture the passenger flow characteristics, including spatial and temporal patterns, in the number of boarding and alighting passengers, and in number of infectors. The model is used to assess overall risk as a function of origin–destination flows, actual operations, and factors such as mask-wearing and ventilation. The model is integrated with a microscopic simulation model of subway operations (SimMETRO). Using actual data from a subway system, a case study explores the impact of different factors on transmission risk, including mask-wearing, ventilation rates, infectiousness levels of disease, and carrier rates. In general, mask-wearing and ventilation are effective under various demand levels, infectiousness levels, and carrier rates. Mask-wearing is more effective in mitigating risks. Impacts from operations and service frequency are also evaluated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining reliable, frequent operations in lowering transmission risks. Risk spatial patterns are also explored, highlighting locations of higher risk.

scholarly journals Application of Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) Method to Describe Critical Points in Healthcare Waste Management of Razi Hospital in Ghaemshahr, Iran During COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Seyedeh Fatemeh Erfaneh Mousavi ◽  
Fathollah Gholami-Borujeni
Keyword(s):  
Waste Management ◽  
Direct Contact ◽  
Hazard Analysis ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Control Points ◽  
Healthcare Waste ◽  
Critical Control Points ◽  
Healthcare Waste Management ◽  
Corrective Actions

Background: During the outbreak of COVID-19 in developing countries such as Iran, the management of healthcare waste has become a very important issue. It is necessary to investigate the risk of virus transmission through direct contact, inhalation, and environmental pollution to reduce transmission risk. The Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points framework is used to simplify quick responses of waste management for facing the novel infectious disease. Objectives: The aim of this study was to use risk analysis frameworks to describe hazard critical control points (HACCP) and make recommendations and corrective actions for staff who work in healthcare facilities and communities experiencing the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: In the present descriptive-analytical study, a team of environmental health experts identified the critical control points of healthcare waste produced in Razi Hospital and divided them into three categories and six steps. A tested and verified hazard analysis flow diagram was prepared to determine critical points in different steps of healthcare waste management. Critical control points were identified and analyzed by the team at each step. Recommendations and corrective actions were made for each control point. Results: The production rate significantly increased from 580 to 1,733 kg per day, probably caused by the increased use of disposable waste during the pandemic. Transportation, disinfection, and storage appeared to be associated with an individually high level of transmission risk of COVID-19 virus. Also, direct contact with infectious waste was often associated with a high risk of virus transmission. In the final disposal of healthcare waste, people were exposed to a lower level of risk. Conclusions: Training staff in different wards of the hospital to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), hand washing, disinfectants, and ventilation could reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission through healthcare waste. Using the HACCP method for providing recommendations and corrective actions could simplify responses to reduce the transmission risk of COVID-19 during pandemics.

scholarly journals Resolved Hepatitis B: Achieved or Imaginary Wellbeing?

2021 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-19
Author(s):  
S. N. Batskikh
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Liver Diseases ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Hbv Infection ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Viral Dna ◽  
Occult Hbv Infection ◽  
Occult Hbv ◽  
Hbsag Clearance

Aim. Assessment of the clinical impact of previous hepatitis B infection (PHB).Key points. PHB is characterized by the presence of viral DNA in the organism (including intrahepatic cccDNA and integrated DNA). Possible virus persistence in the PHB patient's hepatocytes potentiates the agent transmission risk via haemotransfusion, organ transplantation and haemodialysis. Occult HBV infection in PHB individuals can reactivate at background immunosuppressive or chemotherapies. PHB with chronic liver diseases of various aetiology significantly rises the risk of cirrhosis and hepatic cancer. The PHB association with autoimmune liver diseases and extrahepatic gastrointestinal cancer needs a careful research to confirm the possible involvement of hepatitis B virus in morbid genesis.Conclusion. No clinical signs of acute or chronic disease, HBsAg clearance and negative viral DNA load in blood of PHB individuals do not necessarily imply a complete disease eradication.PHB elicitation improves accuracy of the overall prognosis, reduces the virus transmission risk and prevents the reactivation of HBV infection.

scholarly journals Use of masks in public places in Poland during SARS-Cov-2 epidemic: a  covert observational study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Ganczak ◽  
Oskar Pasek ◽  
lukasz Duda-Duma ◽  
Dawid Świstara ◽  
Marcin Korzeń
Keyword(s):  
Health Promotion ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Observational Study ◽  
Communication Channels ◽  
Public Spaces ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Closed Space ◽  
Public Places ◽  
Young Males ◽  
Over Time

Abstract Background: Face masks protect against SARS-Cov-2, however, if used incorrectly masks may increase transmission risk. Many countries, including Poland, recommend masks in pandemic control plans. In Poland, obligatory wearing of masks in public spaces was introduced on April 10th, 2020 [18]; a relaxation of previous universal measures was announced on May 29th, 2020, limiting use to indoor public spaces.Objective: to assess use of masks or other protective devices in public spaces in Poland during the SARS-Cov-2 epidemic and to evaluate influencing determinants.Methods: A non-participatory covert observational study was conducted on three dates, (10.05/18.05/ 25.05.2020) at public spaces in 13 regions with different risks. Ten consecutive individuals were observed by each of 82 medical students (n=2460 observations), using a structured checklist.Results: Among 2353 observed persons, the female/male ratios were 1.0, 1.1, and 1.0 on the three dates. As for age, 21-60-year-olds predominated at 70.8%, 71.9%, and 70.2%; 73.6% (n=552/750) were using masks on date 1, 66.5% (544/818) on date 2; and 65.7% (516/785) on date 3. Cloth masks predominated on all dates (64.7%-62.3%-62.6%), followed by medical (23.4%-28.5%-26.9%). Being female (OR=1.75-1.47-1.53 respectively), aged >40 years (OR=1.46-1.48 respectively), and location in a closed space (OR=2.56-2.63-2.36) were each associated with higher usage. Participants in sports were about two times less likely to use masks (OR=0.64-0.54-0.5) as compared to other activities. The proportion using masks correctly decreased gradually over time (364/552; 65.9%; 339/544; 62.3% and 304/516; 58.9%). More females wore masks correctly (date 1: 205/294; 69.7% vs 159/258; 61.6%, and date 3: 186/284; 65.5% vs 118/232; 50.9%; p=0.045; p=0.0008 respectively). Uncovered noses (47.3%-52.7%) and masks around the neck (39.2%-42.6%) were the most frequent incorrect practices. Conclusions: Practices were not in line with official recommendations, especially among young males, and deteriorated over time. Cloth masks were predominantly used in public spaces. Health promotion, through utilizing all available communication channels, would be helpful to increase compliance.

scholarly journals Vector distribution and transmission risk of the Zika virus in South and Central America

PeerJ ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. e7920
Author(s):  
Sarah Cunze ◽  
Judith Kochmann ◽  
Lisa K. Koch ◽  
Elisa Genthner ◽  
Sven Klimpel
Keyword(s):  
South America ◽  
Central America ◽  
Zika Virus ◽  
Habitat Suitability ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Eastern Coast ◽  
Suitable Habitat ◽  
Virus Infections ◽  
Vector Species

Background Zika is of great medical relevance due to its rapid geographical spread in 2015 and 2016 in South America and its serious implications, for example, certain birth defects. Recent epidemics urgently require a better understanding of geographic patterns of the Zika virus transmission risk. This study aims to map the Zika virus transmission risk in South and Central America. We applied the maximum entropy approach, which is common for species distribution modelling, but is now also widely in use for estimating the geographical distribution of infectious diseases. Methods As predictor variables we used a set of variables considered to be potential drivers of both direct and indirect effects on the emergence of Zika. Specifically, we considered (a) the modelled habitat suitability for the two main vector species Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus as a proxy of vector species distributions; (b) temperature, as it has a great influence on virus transmission; (c) commonly called evidence consensus maps (ECM) of human Zika virus infections on a regional scale as a proxy for virus distribution; (d) ECM of human dengue virus infections and, (e) as possibly relevant socio-economic factors, population density and the gross domestic product. Results The highest values for the Zika transmission risk were modelled for the eastern coast of Brazil as well as in Central America, moderate values for the Amazon basin and low values for southern parts of South America. The following countries were modelled to be particularly affected: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Venezuela. While modelled vector habitat suitability as predictor variable showed the highest contribution to the transmission risk model, temperature of the warmest quarter contributed only comparatively little. Areas with optimal temperature conditions for virus transmission overlapped only little with areas of suitable habitat conditions for the two main vector species. Instead, areas with the highest transmission risk were characterised as areas with temperatures below the optimum of the virus, but high habitat suitability modelled for the two main vector species. Conclusion Modelling approaches can help estimating the spatial and temporal dynamics of a disease. We focused on the key drivers relevant in the Zika transmission cycle (vector, pathogen, and hosts) and integrated each single component into the model. Despite the uncertainties generally associated with modelling, the approach applied in this study can be used as a tool and assist decision making and managing the spread of Zika.

scholarly journals Responses of pregnant ewes and young lambs to ovalbumin immunization, antiovalbumin antibody transfer to lambs, and temporal changes in antiovalbumin antibody1,2

2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 585-591
Author(s):  
G. S. Lewis ◽  
S. Wang ◽  
J. B. Taylor
Keyword(s):  
Immune Response ◽  
Late Pregnancy ◽  
The Other ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Time Interaction ◽  
Injection Type ◽  
Neonatal Lambs ◽  
Changes Over Time ◽  
Over Time ◽  
Original Type

Abstract Factors affecting the decay of maternally derived IgG and ability of neonatal lambs to produce protective amounts of their own IgG are not well understood. Thus, we conducted 3 experiments to quantify the 1) response of pregnant ewes to ovalbumin immunization, 2) antiovalbumin antibody (OV-IgG) transfer to lambs, 3) changes over time in OV-IgG in lambs, and 4) response of young lambs to ovalbumin immunization. In Exp. 1, ewes (n = 10/group) either received control (adjuvant + saline) or ovalbumin (ovalbumin + adjuvant + saline) injections at ≈ 42 and 14 d prepartum. Ovalbumin increased (P < 0.001) ewe serum and colostrum OV-IgG. Serum OV-IgG was greater (P < 0.0001) in lambs from ovalbumin-treated than in lambs from control ewes. In Exp. 2, lambs (n = 20/group), which were from ewes that had received ovalbumin prepartum, were given either control or ovalbumin injections on d 1 and 15 of age. From d 1 to 15, maternally derived OV-IgG was less (P < 0.04) in ovalbumin-treated than in control lambs. After d 15, OV-IgG was greater (P < 0.001) in ovalbumin-treated than in control lambs. In Exp. 3, lambs (n = 20/group), which were from ewes naïve to ovalbumin, received 1 of 4 treatments: 1) d-1 + d-15 control injections; 2) d-1 + d-15 ovalbumin; 3) d-28 + d-42 control; and 4) d-28 + d-42 ovalbumin. In d-1 + d-15 ovalbumin lambs, OV-IgG increased (P < 0.001) from d 7 to 21 after treatment and then decreased (P < 0.004) after d 28. In d-28 + d-42 ovalbumin lambs, OV-IgG increased (P < 0.001) steadily until d 21 after treatment and then stabilized after d 21. At ≈ 159 d of age, lambs in each group received injections consistent with their original type. After the d-159 treatment, ovalbumin injection increased (P < 0.0001) OV-IgG, and the injection type × time interaction was significant (P < 0.0001). In d-28 + d-42 ovalbumin lambs, OV-IgG just before the d-159 injections was greater (P < 0.006) than that in the other groups. In this study, late pregnant ewes produced OV-IgG after ovalbumin injections and then transferred OV-IgG to lambs via colostrum. Ovalbumin treatment of young lambs reduced circulating maternally derived OV-IgG, but it also induced an immune response in the lambs. Overall, our results support recommendations to vaccinate ewes against common pathogens during late pregnancy and to ensure that lambs receive adequate colostrum soon after birth.

scholarly journals Honey Bee Virus Transmission via Hive Products

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 96 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dominik Schittny ◽  
Orlando Yañez ◽  
Peter Neumann
Keyword(s):  
Honey Bee ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Positive Association ◽  
Pathogen Transmission ◽  
Transmission Risk ◽  
Virus Genotype ◽  
Commercial Products ◽  
Deformed Wing Virus ◽  
A Genome ◽  
Significant Difference

The global trade of honey bee hive products has raised concern about pathogen transmission. However, the efficacy of hive products as virus vehicles is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the transmission capacity of hive products for Deformed wing virus genotype A (DWV-A) in a fully-crossed hoarding cage experiment and estimated the transmission risk by screening commercial products. Western honey bee workers were provided with honey, pollen and wax either contaminated with high (~2 × 109), medium (~1.7 × 108), low (~8 × 106) or zero (control) DWV-A genome copies. For 10 days, mortality was monitored. Then, virus titers were quantified in bee heads and 38 commercial products using RT-qPCR. For honey and pollen, a positive association between DWV-A concentration and mortality was observed. High concentrations always resulted in infections, medium ones in 47% of cases and low ones in 20% of cases. No significant difference was observed between the tested products. In commercial honey and pollen, 7.7 × 102–1.8 × 105 and 1.4 × 103–1.3 × 104 DWV-A copies per gram were found, respectively. The results show that DWV-A transmission via hive products is feasible. The risk of introducing novel viruses and/or strains should be considered in trade regulations by including virus analyses for health certificates of hive products

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