scholarly journals Estimated SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Seroprevalence in Firefighters from a Northeastern Brazilian State: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author(s):  
Lysandro P. Borges ◽  
Laranda C. Nascimento ◽  
Luana Heimfarth ◽  
Daniela R. V. Souza ◽  
Aline F. Martins ◽  
...  

The new coronavirus has been affecting health worldwide and essential service workers are continually exposed to this infectious agent, increasing the chance of infection and the development of the disease. Thus, this study aimed to estimate the frequency of infection and seroprevalence for SARS-CoV-2 in military firefighters in a city in Northeastern Brazil in January 2021. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out with 123 firefighters who answered a brief questionnaire to collect socio-epidemiological data and underwent RT-PCR and immunofluorescence test (IgM and IgG). The results found reveal a positive seroprevalence, with a high rate of infection in this class of workers, since they are essential service professionals who are exposed to risk due to their working hours, in addition to sharing some spaces and work materials. Besides, there were significant associations between positivity for IgG and IgM, as well as for positive RT-PCR prior to the study and the presence of IgG, with odd ratios of 3.04 and 4.9, respectively. These findings reinforce the need for immunization in this category, whose line of service hinders the adoption of distancing measures, since in many situations physical contact is inevitable.

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cristiane Coimbra de Paula ◽  
João Pedro Castoldo Passos ◽  
Walkiria Shimoya-Bittencour ◽  
Caroline Aquino Vieira de Lamare ◽  
Ruberlei Godinho de Oliveira

AbstractBACKGROUNDCOVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), became a pandemic in 2020 with mortality rate of 2% and high transmissibility, which makes studies with an epidemiological profile essential.OBJECTIVESTo characterize the population that performed the SARS-CoV-2 molecular and serological tests in Carlos Chagas-Sabin laboratories in Cuiabá.METHODSA retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out with all the samples collected from nasal swab tested by RT-PCR and serological for SARM-CoV-2 IgM / IgG from the population served between April and July 2020.FINDINGSIn the analyzed period, 11,113 PCR-Covid-19 exams were registered. Of this total of cases, 3,912 (35.20%) tested positive, while 6,889 (61.90%) did not detect viral RNA and 312 (2.80%) of the visits resulted as undetermined. The peak of positive RT-PCR performed in July (n = 5878), with 35.65% (n = 2096). A total of 6,392 tests performed on SOROVID-19, with a peak of 1161 (18.16%) of the positive tests for SARS-CoV-2 in July.MAIN CONCLUSIONSMolecular positivity and serological tests, both peaked in July 2020, were mostly present in women aged 20-39, characterizing Cuiabá as the epicenter of the Midwest region in this period due to the high rate of transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Seok-Jin Hong ◽  
Byoung-Eun Yang ◽  
Dae-Myoung Yoo ◽  
Sung-Jae Kim ◽  
Hyo-Geun Choi ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Chronic periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease resulting in patients exhibiting high levels of inflammatory factors causing systemic inflammatory bone destruction that may lead to osteoporosis development. The association between periodontitis and osteoporosis has been documented; however, the findings remain unclear. This study aimed to identify the association between periodontitis and osteoporosis using a cross-sectional study design and Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) health examinee data. Methods This cross-sectional study used epidemiological data from the KoGES during 2004–2016. Of 125,324 participants (age, 40–79 years), 9969 with periodontitis and 115,332 controls (without periodontitis) were selected. We analyzed the history of osteoporosis and fractures of all participants. All participants were examined according to age, sex, income group, obesity, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and food intake. To analyze the odds ratio (OR) of periodontitis for those with osteoporosis and fractures, a logistic regression model was used. Results The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of periodontitis for osteoporosis was 2.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.01–2.31; P < 0.001). The aOR of periodontitis for any fracture was 1.54 (95% CI 1.46–1.62; P < 0.001). Conclusion Osteoporosis and fractures are associated with periodontitis. Performing regular oral hygiene and examinations of bone mineral density are recommended to prevent aggravation of osteoporosis and periodontitis.


2014 ◽  
Vol 109 (3) ◽  
pp. 340-344 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Vinaud de Melo ◽  
Walfredo da Costa ◽  
Maria José Conceição ◽  
José Rodrigues Coura

Author(s):  
Thanh Xuan Nguyen

TÓM TẮT Đặt vấn đề: Bệnh COVID-19 đa dạng từ không có triệu chứng đến có các triệu chứng nhẹ cho đến viêm phổi nặng, hội chứng suy hô hấp cấp tiến triển (ARDS), nhiễm khuẩn huyết suy đa tạng và tử vong. Người cao tuổi, người có bệnh mạn tính sẽ có nguy cơ diễn biến nặng nhiều hơn. Nghiên cứu này nhằm xác định nồng độ lactate và PCT ở những bệnh nhân Covid-19 và xét mối liên quan giữa lactate và PCT trên bệnh nhân Covid-19. Đối tượng và phương pháp: Nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang trên 126 bệnh nhân được chẩn đoán nhiễm Sars-Cov-2 bằng xét nghiệm RT PCR. Kết quả: Tuổi trung bình 55,98 ± 17,1 tuổi (4 - 98 tuổi). Bệnh nhân > 60 tuổi chiếm tỉ lệ cao nhất (42,8%). Trung vị PCT: 3,6 (95%CI:3,21 - 3,75) ng/ml; trung vị lactate 1,5 (95%CI:1,21 - 1,91) mmol/L; lactate có tương quan thuận và yếu với procalcitonin với r = 0,241; p < 0,001. Nồng độ procalcitonin > 0,1 ng/ml; lactate > 2 mmol/l ở bệnh nhân Covid-19 chiếm tỷ lệ cao với 89,7% và 39,7%. Kết luận: Chỉ điểm procalcitonin, lactate tăng cao ở bệnh nhân Covid-19. ABSTRACT ASSESSMENT OF SERUM LEVEL OF LACTATE AND PROCALCITONIN IN COVID-19 PATIENTS Background: Sars-CoV-2 has been identified as the cause of acute respiratory infections in Wuhan city, Hubei province, China, and has since spread worldwide. Sars-CoV-2 is capable of aerosol transmission in enclosed, crowded, and poorly ventilated spaces. COVID-19 illness ranges from asymptomatic to mild symptoms to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis, multiple organ failure, and death. This study aims to determine lactate and PCT levels in Covid-19 patients and examine the relationship between lactate and PCT in Covid-19 patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed on 126 patients diagnosed with Sars-Cov-2 infection by RT-PCR. Results: Mean age was 55.98 ± 17.1 years (range: 4-98 years). Patients more than 60 years old were accounted for the highest rate (42.8%). Median PCT: 3.6 (95%CI:3.21 - 3.75) ng/ml; median lactate 1.5 (95%CI:1.21 - 1,91) mmol/L; lactate has a positive and weak correlation with procalcitonin with r = 0.241; p < 0.001. Procalcitonin concentration > 0.1 ng/ml; lactate > 2 mmol/l in patients with Covid-19 accounted for a high rate with 89.7% and 39.7%. Conclusion: Serum level of procalcitonin and lactate raise highly in Covid-19 patients. Keywords: Covid-19, procalcitonin, lactate.


2013 ◽  
Vol 10 (1-2) ◽  
pp. 51-56 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. S. Rahman ◽  
S. Mithu ◽  
M. T. Islam ◽  
M. J. Uddin ◽  
R. R. Sarker ◽  
...  

Brucellosis is an important bacterial zoonotic disease causing significant economic loss in dairy industries worldwide including Bangladesh. But limited studies are devoted to determine the prevalence of brucellosis in goat in all districts of Bangladesh. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis in Black Bengal goats in Nilphamari Sadar and Kishoreganj upazillas of Nilphamari district of Bangladesh using Rose Bengal Test (RBT) as screening test and I-ELISA as confirmatory test. A total of 154 sera samples from Black Bengal goats were collected from Nilphamari district. Epidemiological data on the selected Black Bengal goats were collected using a structured questionnaire. The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis was found to be 2.59% in Black Bengal goats. A significantly (p<0.01) higher prevalence of brucellosis was found in Black Bengal goats with the history of previous abortion (33.33%). An insignificant (p>0.05) but higher prevalence of brucellosis was found in adult Black Bengal goats (>24 months) than young. The prevalence was relatively higher in cross-bred than pure Black Bengal goats, in female than male and in pregnant than non-pregnant Black Bengal goats. The result of the study will provide baseline data for control of brucellosis in goat in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v10i1-2.15646


2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 88-94
Author(s):  
Corrado Giua Marassi ◽  
Assunta Pistone ◽  
Fabio Parazzini ◽  
Silvia Vannuccini ◽  
Felice Petraglia

Introduction: Several epidemiological data on women afferent to clinics for medical treatment of pelvic pain are available, while few studies explored the general population. Thus, this study aimed to investigate women presenting with gynecological pain at the community pharmacy and to evaluate the relevance of pharmacist advice regarding medical treatment. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 10 Italian community pharmacies, by administering a structured questionnaire to fertile age women reporting pelvic pain during the last 3 months. Questions were concerning demographic information, pain characteristics, women’s behavior toward gynecological pain, and diagnosis possibly received from a physician. Results: A group of 290 women were interviewed. Severe pain was reported in 58.3%, with a mean ± SD of 4.4 ± 6.8 days of suffering, causing absenteeism from work in 45.3% of cases. Almost half of women reported that the onset of gynecological pain was before 15 years and 72.2% had consulted a physician in the past, with a mean delay of 2.5 ± 4.3 years between the onset of pain and medical consultation. However, only 28% of the overall population received a diagnosis. 51.0% received one treatment, while 39% received two or more. The first therapy was prescribed in 40.2% cases by the physician, while in the remaining it was recommended either by the pharmacist or it was a self-medication. Conclusion: Gynecological pelvic pain is a disabling problem, regardless of the underlying cause, with significant impact on social and working life and requiring a better medical management.


2017 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Elainy Fabrícia Galdino Dantas Malta ◽  
Fabiane do Amaral Gubert ◽  
Camila Teixeira Moreira Vasconcelos ◽  
Emília Soares Chaves ◽  
João Marcos Ferreira de Lima Silva ◽  
...  

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the factors related to inadequate practice of the Papanicolaou test among women in northeastern Brazil. Method: cross-sectional study using a KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE inquiry, performed from June to October, 2013, with 240 women aged between 24 and 59 years. Results: inadequacies were observed, particularly in knowledge, because, despite having information about the examination, it was only used to detect sexually transmitted infections. Regarding the issue of practice, it was noted that single women and those up to 29 years of age were more likely to present inadequate practice than the older and married women, increasing the likelihood of developing cervical cancer. The greater difficulty for performing the examination was the lack of materials (68.1%). Conclusion: clarification for women regarding the examination requires effective communication between the users and health professionals, as well as guarantees and support for the continuity of care by managers.


Author(s):  
Ana Cebrián-Cuenca ◽  
José Joaquín Mira ◽  
Elena Caride-Miana ◽  
Antonio Fernández-Jiménez ◽  
Domingo Orozco-Beltrán

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting people worldwide. In Spain, the first wave was especially severe. Objectives: This study aimed to identify sources and levels of distress among Spanish primary care physicians (PCPs) during the first wave of the pandemic (April 2020). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a survey that included sociodemographic data, a description of working conditions related to distress [such as gaps in training in protective measures, cleaning, and hygiene procedures in work setting, unavailability of personal protective equipments (PPEs) and COVID-19 RT-PCR test, and lack of staff due to be infected] and a validated scale, the ‘Self-applied Acute Stress Scale’ (EASE). The survey was answered by a non-probability sampling of PCPs working in family healthcare centres from different regions of Spain. Analysis of variance and multivariate linear regression analysis were performed. Results: In all, out of 518 PCP participants, 123 (23.7%) obtained high psychological distress scores. Only half of them had received information about the appropriate use of PPE. PCP characteristics associated with higher levels of distress include female gender [1.69; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.54, 2.84]; lack of training in protective measures (1.96; 95% CI 0.94, 2.99); unavailable COVID-19 RT-PCR for health care workers after quarantine or COVID-19 treatment (−0.77 (−1.52, −0.02). Reinforcing disinfection of the work environment (P < 0.05), availability of PPEs (P < 0.05), and no healthcare professional was infected (P < 0.05) were related to the lowest distress score. Conclusions: A better understanding of the sources of distress among PCPs could prevent its effect on future outbreaks.


F1000Research ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 6 ◽  
pp. 1831
Author(s):  
Hyder M. Mahgoub ◽  
Omar E. Fadlelseed ◽  
Ammar H. Khamis ◽  
Jalal A. Bilal ◽  
Ishag Adam

Background: Adolescents, especially girls, are susceptible to malnutrition and their diet must be adequate to support their very rapid growth and development. Currently, there is little published data on the nutritional state amongst adolescent girls in Sudan. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted to assess the nutritional and micronutrient status of adolescent schoolgirls in eastern Sudan during the period of January-February 2015. Weight and height were measured using standard methods. Haemoglobin and ferritin levels were measured using blood samples, and blood films for malaria and stool samples for Schistosoma mansoni were investigated. Nutritional status was assessed according to the WHO 2006 reference values. Copper and zinc concentrations were measured by atomic absorption. Results: Twenty-five (13.7%) out of 183 girls were stunted. Seventy (38.3%) were thin; 17.5, 9.3 and 11.5% had mild, moderate and severe thinness, respectively. Only 10 (5.5%) and six (3.3%) girls were overweight and obese, respectively. The prevalence of anaemia was 77.0%. While there was no significant difference in the haemoglobin, ferritin, copper levels and thinness; thin children had significantly lower zinc (P=0.007). Conclusions: There is a high rate of stunting, thinness and anaemia among adolescent schoolgirls in eastern Sudan. More care has to be taken in order to provide a better nutrition status in the area.


F1000Research ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 ◽  
pp. 123
Author(s):  
Maysaa El Sayed Zaki ◽  
Raghdaa Shrief ◽  
Rasha H. Hassan

Background: Sapovirus has emerged as a viral cause of acute gastroenteritis. However, there are insufficient data about the presence of this virus among children with acute gastroenteritis. The present study aimed to evaluate the presence of sapovirus in children with acute gastroenteritis by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Methods: A cross-sectional study enrolled 100 children patients with acute gastroenteritis from outpatient clinics with excluded bacterial pathogens and parasitic infestation. A stool sample was collected from each child for laboratory examination. Each stool sample was subjected to study by direct microscopic examination, study for rotavirus by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and the remaining sample was subjected to RNA extraction and RT- PCR for sapovirus. Results: The most frequently detected virus was rotavirus by ELISA (25%). RT-PCR detected sapovirus in 7% of the stool samples. The children with sapovirus were all from rural regions and presented mainly during the winter season in Egypt (42.9%). The main presenting symptoms were fever (71.4%) and vomiting (57.1%). None of the children with sapovirus had dehydration. Rotavirus was significantly associated with sapovirus infections in 5 patients (71.4%, P=0.01). There was an insignificant difference between symptoms of gastroenteritis in children with sapovirus and children with gastroenteritis without sapovirus as regards vomiting (P=0.7), fever (P=0.46), and abdominal pain (P=0.69). Conclusion: The present study highlights the emergence of sapovirus as a frequent pathogen associated with acute gastroenteritis in children. There is a need for a national survey program for the study of sapovirus among other pathogens associated with acute gastroenteritis for better management of such infection.


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