scholarly journals A Serosurvey Identifying Vulnerability to Measles in Health Care Workers. A Hospital-Based Prospective Seroprevalence Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (12) ◽  
pp. 4219
Author(s):  
Jana Malinová ◽  
Marek Petráš ◽  
Alexander M. Čelko
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Smoking Status ◽  
Concomitant Disease ◽  
Serum Samples ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
History Of ◽  
A Prospective Study ◽  
The Way

The aim of this serological survey was to assess the persistence of measles antibodies among health care workers (HCWs) at risk of incidental measles. A prospective study of measles-specific antibodies in serum samples obtained from a total of 2782 participants aged 19–89 years was conducted between May 2018 and December 2019. The seropositivity rate of 93.7% (95% CI: 92.4–94.9%) in fully vaccinated participants aged 19–48 years was significantly lower than that of 98.0% (95% CI: 96.5–99.0%) in participants naturally immunised before 54 years. A cohort of those born in 1971–1975, vaccinated predominantly with one dose, showed lower seropositivity persistence (86.6%) than those fully vaccinated with two doses or naturally immunised. Otherwise, seropositivity was not markedly influenced by sex, age, smoking status, overweight, obesity or concomitant disease. The presence of sufficient antibody levels in a high proportion of HCWs irrespective of the way they acquired immunity is a favourable finding for managing incidental measles; hence, in the presence of a risk of a measles outbreak, it would be possible to perform targeted vaccination of only at-risk HCWs with a history of incomplete vaccination or missing information about the way in which immunity is acquired.

Hypersensitivity to Latex in Health Care Workers: Report of Five Cases

1993 ◽  
Vol 109 (4) ◽  
pp. 731-734 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arie Rosen ◽  
David Isaacson ◽  
Mary Brady ◽  
Jacquelynne P. Corey
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Latex Allergy ◽  
Total Ige ◽  
Latex Gloves ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Long Term Treatment ◽  
History Of

Concern about transmission of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and hepatitis has greatly increased the use of latex gloves. Latex allergy is a newly emerging problem with potential life-threatening sequelae among health care personnel. Patients are also at risk. We report on five cases of latex allergy in health care workers who were using latex gloves for variable lengths of time before their allergic reaction. All workers had a significant history of reactions to other allergens, including inhalants and food. Each individual had at least one systemic symptom that was directly attributed to latex exposure. Reactions to latex ranged from severe contact urticaria (all cases), bronchospasm (three cases), angioedema (two cases), and rhinorrhea (one case) to anaphylactic reactions that required immediate attention in three cases. Levels of specific IgE to latex (as measured by in vitro enzyme immunoassay) and total IgE were elevated in all five patients (total IgE > 100 kU/L). Long-term treatment included avoidance of latex, administration of antihistamines, and desensitization to other, nonlatex allergens. Health care workers should have increased awareness of latex allergy. At risk are health care workers with a history of other allergies and those with atopic dermatitis or eczema. In vitro testing may be useful, especially in persons with skin conditions such as eczema or urticaria or for persons with a history of systemic reactions to the latex allergen as reported in these five cases

scholarly journals Persistence of antibodies against Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 in health care workers post double dose of BBV-152 and AZD1222 vaccines

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hari Ram Choudhary ◽  
Debaprasad Parai ◽  
Girish Chandra Dash ◽  
Jaya Singh Kshatri ◽  
Narayan Mishra ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Serum Samples ◽  
Igg Antibody ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Post Vaccination ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
History Of ◽  
Heath Care ◽  
Antibody Levels

Abstract Rationale: Vaccine rollout in India was initiated in mid-January, 2021 and is supposed to be the only antidote against SARS-CoV-2 as of now.Objectives: To study the dynamicity of vaccine-induced IgG antibody against SARS-CoV-2.Methodology: The present cross-sectional cohort study was undertaken to determine IgG antibody among health care workers with completed dose of either Covaxin or Covishield and were followed for 24 weeks after first dose of either vaccine to record the periodic changes in titre, concentration, clinical growth and persistence of vaccine-induced SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.Results: Serum samples were collected from 614 participants during each follow-up and tested them in two CLIA-based platforms for testing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies both qualitatively and quantitatively. Among these participants, 308 (50.2%) were Covishield recipient and rest 306 (49.8%) took Covaxin. A total of 81 breakthrough cases was recorded among the cohort participants for whom infection post vaccination acted as booster. The rest 533 heath care workers without any history of post-vaccination infection showed significant antibody waning either from T3 (Covaxin recipient) or T4 (Covishield recipient).Conclusion: The clinical implications of waning antibody levels post vaccination are not well understood, and it remains crucial to establish S-antibody thresholds associated with protection against clinical outcomes.

Stepping up detection, response, preparedness and readiness measures for “COVID-19”- A Pandemic

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 1042-1047
Author(s):  
Khushbu Balsara ◽  
Deepankar Shukla
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Clinical History ◽  
Frontline Workers ◽  
Diagnostic Assays ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Short Period ◽  
History Of ◽  
Detection Response ◽  
Care Worker

In a very short period of time, “COVID-19” has seized the consciousness globally by making remarkable changes in our day to day living and has superintended as a public health emergency globally. It has high radar of transmission, affecting an individual at work to frontline workers. The measures and planning for a response plays a key role from drawing up an emergency committee and this follows an equation which broadly deals with epidemiological to clinical history of the patient, management steps from isolation, screening, diagnostic assays for identification and treatment. The application of an organized plan with secure structure aids in better performance, increases efficacy of management and saves time. Also saves time for a health care worker to g through routine levels of channels of administration if already a familiar way of operation is known for such situations. Thus, planning and developing a ‘blueprint of approach’ towards management of patient while facing such situation is a must. This review provides an insight to the measures for detection, response and preparedness of the hospital and health care workers should largely be inclusive of; also highlights the measures to be taken at every step after coming in contact with a positive case of “COVID-19”.

scholarly journals 460. Point-of-Care, In-Home SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody Testing to Assess Seroprevalence in At-Risk Health Care Workers

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S297-S297
Author(s):  
Eric G Meissner ◽  
Christine Litwin ◽  
Tricia Crocker ◽  
Elizabeth Mack ◽  
Lauren Card
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Medical Center ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Academic Medical Center ◽  
Significant Risk ◽  
Documented Infection ◽  
Inconclusive Result ◽  
Care Workers

Abstract Background Health care workers are at significant risk for infection with the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Methods We utilized a point-of-care, lateral flow SARS-CoV-2 IgG immunoassay (RayBiotech) to conduct a seroprevalence study in a cohort of at-risk health care workers (n=339) and normal-risk controls (n=100) employed at an academic medical center. To minimize exposure risk while conducting the study, consents were performed electronically, tests were mailed and then self-administered at home using finger stick blood, and subjects uploaded a picture of the test result while answering an electronic questionnaire. We also validated the assay using de-identified serum samples from patients with PCR-proven SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results Between April 14th and May 6th 2020, 439 subjects were enrolled. Subjects were 68% female, 93% white, and most were physicians (38%) and nurses (27%). In addition, 37% had at least 1 respiratory symptom in the prior month, 34% had cared for a patient with known SARS-CoV-2 infection, 57% and 23% were worried about exposure at work or in the community, respectively, and 5 reported prior documented SARS-CoV-2 infection. On initial testing, 3 subjects had a positive IgG test, 336 had a negative test, and 87 had an inconclusive result. Of those with an inconclusive result who conducted a repeat test (85%), 96% had a negative result. All 3 positive IgG tests were in subjects reporting prior documented infection. Laboratory validation showed that of those with PCR-proven infection more than 13 days prior, 23/30 were IgG positive (76% sensitivity), whereas 1/26 with a negative prior PCR test were seropositive (95% specificity). Repeat longitudinal serologic testing every 30 days for up to 4 times is currently in progress. Conclusion We conducted a contact-free study in the setting of a pandemic to assess SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in an at-risk group of health care workers. The only subjects found to be IgG positive were those with prior documented infection, even though a substantial proportion of subjects reported significant potential occupational or community exposure and symptoms that were potentially compatible with SARS-COV-2 infection. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

scholarly journals Perceptions on Diet and Dietary Modifications during Postpartum Period Aiming at Attenuating Progression of GDM to DM: A Qualitative Study of Mothers and Health Care Workers

2018 ◽  
Vol 2018 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thamudi D. Sundarapperuma ◽  
Champa J. Wijesinghe ◽  
Priyadarshika Hettiarachchi ◽  
Sudharshani Wasalathanthri
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Postpartum Period ◽  
Food Habits ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Dietary Recommendations ◽  
Financial Barriers ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
History Of

Background. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a global concern. GDM mothers have a 7-fold relative risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in their later life. User-friendly and culturally acceptable dietary interventions can minimize this risk. Therefore, this study aims at exploring the perceptions of GDM mothers and health care workers regarding factors that influence postpartum dietary practices aimed at attenuating the trajectory from GDM to DM. Methods. The study was conducted in selected MOH areas in three districts of Sri Lanka. Six focus group discussions were conducted with thirty mothers with a history of GDM and six in-depth interviews with six health care workers. The phenomenon of interest was to obtain inputs of two stakeholder groups on healthy food habits of GDM mothers during the postpartum period. Framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Data were coded using the analytical framework, abstracted from transcripts, and summarized verbatim in Microsoft Excel in a matrix comprised of one row per participant and one column per code. Finally, the matrix was reviewed intensely and themes were generated. Results. Overall, seven themes emerged from both cases: (1) myths and traditions specific to the postpartum period, (2) lack of motivation, (3) time pressure, (4) financial barriers, (5) negligence of mothers and families, (6) lack of awareness regarding GDM and its postpartum dietary recommendations, and (7) cultural barriers. Conclusions. This study provides an insight into the existing knowledge, common practices, and attitudes regarding food habits among postpartum mothers with a history of GDM. Since the postpartum period is unique, identifying barriers is crucial when introducing dietary modification protocols in order to prevent or attenuate the progression of GDM to T2DM in these mothers. The knowledge gained will be used to introduce feasible, scientifically sound, and culturally acceptable postpartum dietary recommendations for GDM mothers.

INVESTIGATION OF SEROPREVALENCE OF IgG ANTIBODIES AMONG HEALTH CARE WORKERS IN VIRAL RESEARCH AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY, AMRITSAR

2021 ◽  
pp. 63-65
Author(s):  
Vaibhav Chawla ◽  
Amandeep Kaur ◽  
Arashdeep Kaur ◽  
Kanwardeep Singh ◽  
Shailpreet Kaur Sidhu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Data Entry ◽  
Risk Exposure ◽  
Government Medical College ◽  
Igg Antibodies ◽  
Serum Samples ◽  
Diagnostic Laboratory ◽  
Medical College ◽  
Care Workers

Health care workers constitute the group of people who take care of COVID-19 patients. Thus, they are highly vulnerable to contract SARS-CoV-2 infection and pose a great threat to co-workers and general public. Seroprevalence studies are an important tool to monitor the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and assess the level of exposure among HCWs. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among Health Care Workers. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted at Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Government Medical College, st th Amritsar for a period from 1 December 2020 to 15 January 2021. During this period, 90 blood samples were collected from the healthcare workers from Department of Microbiology and Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Government Medical College, Amritsar. Serum samples were separated and used for detection of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies by ELISA technique. Results: Out of the 90 samples, 31 (34.44%) were found to be positive. Higher number of males 24 (26.67%) and lesser number of females 7 (7.78%) were observed with seropositivity. Out of the total participants in the study, 45.16% of laboratory supporting personnel, 19.35% of junior residents followed by housekeeping staff (12.90%), data entry operators (9.67%), consultants (6.45%) and Senior Residents/Research Scientists (6.45%) were observed to be IgG positive. It was also seen that in high risk exposure category 27.78% were seropositive and in low risk exposure group only 6.67% were seropositive and the difference between two groups was statistically signicant (p<0.000). Conclusion: High seropositivity was observed among health care workers due to their nature of work as frontline workers

COVID-19 in healthcare workers (literature review and own data)

2021 ◽  
Vol 61 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-26
Author(s):  
Lyubov A. Shpagina ◽  
Lyudmila P. Kuzmina ◽  
Olga S. Kotova ◽  
Ilya S. Shpagin ◽  
Natalya V. Kamneva ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Work Experience ◽  
Medical Personnel ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Main Group ◽  
Panic Attacks ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
Occupational Infection

Introduction. Health care workers are at risk of infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, many aspects of the professionally conditioned COVID-19 are still poorly understood. The aim of study is to conduct a brief review and analysis of scientific data on the prevalence, features of clinical and laboratory COVID-19 syndromes in medical professionals. To evaluate the structure of post-COVID syndrome in health care workers who are observed in a large multidisciplinary medical organization that has a center for occupational pathology. To present the current state of the problem of examination of the connection of COVID-19 with the profession and admission to work in conditions of high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and methods. At the first stage, a brief review of the literature on the problem of COVID-19 in health care workers was performed, at the second - a single-center observational prospective study of COVID-19 convalescents. The main group consisted of health care workers (n=203), the comparison group - people who do not have occupational health risks (n=156). The groups were comparable in demographic characteristics. The work experience of the medical staff was 15 (5; 21) years. Of the participants in the main group, 20.2% worked in hospitals, and 79.8% in outpatient institutions. Three of the participants (1.5%) were employees of specialized COVID hospitals. Doctors were 25.6%, secondary medical personnel - 51.7%, junior medical and technical personnel - 22.7%. A severe form of COVID-19 was suffered by 25 (12.3%) people, after the artificial ventilation of the lungs (AVL) - two participants. The observation time is 60 days. Statistical analysis included standard methods of descriptive statistics, determination of relationships by the method of logistic regression. The significance level is p<0.05. Results. Most of the known data on COVID-19 in health care workers is obtained in cross-sectional studies. The possibility of occupational infection has been sufficiently proven. The risk probably depends on the work performed and is higher in conditions of direct contact of medical personnel with adults, potentially infected patients, but not in a specialized hospital. It is possible that the course of COVID-19 in health care workers differs from the general population of patients there is evidence of a greater frequency of weakness and myalgia. Studies of the features of post-COVID syndrome in health care workers in available sources could not be identified. According to the results of their own research, health care workers who had experienced COVID-19 had a higher frequency of central thermoregulation disorders, arrhythmias, heart failure, panic attacks and depression. Conclusions. Health care workers are at risk of COVID-19. Professionally conditioned post-COVID syndrome is characterized by the frequency of violations of the central mechanisms of thermoregulation and arrhythmias. COVID-19 in health care workers meets the definition of occupational disease.

Health-Care Workers’ Perception of Patients’ Suicide Intention and Factors Leading to It: A Qualitative Study

2018 ◽  
Vol 82 (2) ◽  
pp. 323-345 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lei-Hum Wee ◽  
Norhayati Ibrahim ◽  
Suzaily Wahab ◽  
Uma Visvalingam ◽  
Seen Heng Yeoh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Health Care Workers ◽  
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Risk Minimization ◽  
Negative Attitudes ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Care Workers ◽  
History Of ◽  
Suicidal Patients

This study explored health-care workers’ perception of patients’ suicide intention and their understanding of factors leading to particular interpretations. Semistructured face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with 32 health-care workers from a general hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Interview data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis. The health-care workers were found to have four types of perceptions: to end life, not to end life, ambivalence about intention, and an evolving understanding of intention. Factors leading to their perceptions of patients’ suicide intention were patient demographics, health status, severity of ideation/attempt, suicide method, history of treatment, moral character, communication of suicide intention, affective/cognitive status, availability of social support, and health-care workers’ limited knowledge of patients’ condition/situation. Insufficient knowledge and negative attitudes toward suicidal patients led to risk minimization and empathic failure, although most health-care workers used the correct parameters in determining suicide intention.

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