Updated 24 April 2024
Long-term taste and smell outcomes after COVID-19
In this study, taste dysfunction as measured objectively was absent 1 year after exposure to COVID-19 while some smell loss remained in nearly one-third of individuals with this exposure, likely explaining taste complaints of many individuals with post–COVID-19 condition. Infection with earlier untyped and Alpha variants was associated with the greatest degree of smell loss. JAMA 23 April 2024
COVID-19 vaccination and incidence of pediatric SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization
The findings of this case series analysis of 3 913 063 cases suggest reduced pediatric SARS-CoV-2 transmission following immunization. These results support the use of COVID-19 vaccines to reduce COVID-19 incidence and hospitalization in pediatric populations. JAMA 23 April 2024
Serum and salivary IgG and IgA response after COVID-19 messenger RNA vaccination
The findings of this cohort study suggest that mRNA vaccination was associated with mucosal immunity in individuals without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, but at much lower levels than in previously infected individuals. Further studies are needed to determine the association between specific saliva IgA levels and prevention of infection or transmission. JAMA 23 April 2024
Post-COVID-19 condition: recommendations for pregnant individuals
Post-COVID-19 condition affects females more than males and can develop in about 10%–30% of people following acute infection during pregnancy. Currently, there are no guidelines for managing obstetric patients with post-COVID-19 condition. The authors propose an approach to individuals with post-COVID-19 condition who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant. The Lancet regional health – Europe 22 April 2024
The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in tissues and its association with long COVID symptoms: a cross-sectional cohort study in China
These findings suggest that residual SARS-CoV-2 can persist in patients who have recovered from mild COVID-19 and that there is a significant association between viral persistence and long COVID symptoms. Further research is needed to verify a mechanistic link and identify potential targets to improve long COVID symptoms. The Lancet infectious diseases 22 April 2024
The role of colchicine in the management of COVID-19: a Meta-analysis
Colchicine caused a significant clinical improvement among COVID-19 patients as compared with the standard care or placebo, in terms of the need for O2, and mortality. This beneficial effect could play a role in the management of COVID-19 especially severe cases to decrease need for oxygen and to decrease mortality among these patients. BMC pulmonary medicine 20 April 2024
Maternal COVID-19 vaccination status and association with neonatal congenital anomalies
The authors add additional information regarding the safety of COVID-19 vaccination status and timing as it pertains to neonatal composite congenital anomalies, with no association demonstrated. The findings agree with prior literature that COVID-19 vaccination is not associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes or small for gestational age neonates. Further research is needed to elucidate the association between COVID-19 vaccination and eye, ear, face, neck, anomalies. Frontiers in pediatrics 19 April 2024
COVID-19 and surgery: A post-pandemic update
The Annals Consult Guys discuss the approach to a patient who requires nonemergent surgery after COVID-19 and other viral infections. They update their 2022 guidance to postpone surgery for 7 weeks after COVID diagnosis. Annals of internal medicine 16 April 2024
Changes in hospital mortality in patients with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic (ISARIC-CCP-UK): a prospective, multicentre cohort study
People with cancer have a higher risk of mortality from COVID-19 than those without cancer. Patients younger than 50 years with cancer treatment have the highest relative risk of death. Continued action is needed to mitigate the poor outcomes in patients with cancer, such as through optimising vaccination, long-acting passive immunisation, and early access to therapeutics. These findings underscore the importance of the ISARIC-WHO pandemic preparedness initiative. The Lancet oncology 12 April 2024
Assessment of risk for sudden cardiac death among adolescents and young adults after receipt of COVID-19 vaccine — Oregon, June 2021–December 2022
The data do not support an association of COVID-19 vaccination with sudden cardiac death among previously healthy young persons. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all persons aged ≥6 months to prevent COVID-19 and complications, including death. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) 11 April 2024
Lung outcomes and related risk factors in patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection: a hospitalised single-centre cohort from Johannesburg, South Africa
This study demonstrates substantial lung and functional morbidity within the first weeks post-COVID-19, particularly in individuals with pre-existing comorbidities including TB, HIV, and low or high BMI. Chest-CT and diffusing capacity for the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) show best early potential at reflecting COVID-19-related pathologies. eClinicalMedicine 11 April 2024
Efficacy and safety of GST-HG171 in adult patients with mild to moderate COVID-19: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2/3 trial
Treatment with GST-HG171 plus Ritonavir has demonstrated benefits in symptom recovery and viral clearance among low-risk vaccinated adult patients with COVID-19, without apparent safety concerns. As most patients were treated within 2 days after symptom onset in our study, confirming the potential benefits of symptom recovery for patients with a longer duration between symptom onset and treatment initiation will require real-world studies. eClinicalMedicine 10 April 2024
Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines to prevent long COVID: data from Norway
This study using data from more than 20 million participants has shown that COVID-19 vaccines consistently prevent long COVID symptoms in adults, with meta-analytic calibrated subdistribution hazard ratio. In addition, when considering post-COVID thromboembolic and cardiovascular complications as outcomes of interest, recently published data have shown that vaccination with any COVID-19 first vaccine dose (ChAdOx1, BNT162b2, and mRNA-1273) is associated with reduced risk of post-acute heart failure 0–30 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection; 91–180 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection), venous thromboembolism 0–30 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection; 91–180 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection), and arterial thrombosis 0–30 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection; 180 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection). The Lancet respiratory medicine 10 April 2024
Long-term symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection among blood donors
This study’s findings suggest that long-term symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks are common in the adult population, but there is a significantly higher prevalence among those with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Continued efforts to define and track long-term sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 using a control group without infection and serologic information to include those who had asymptomatic or unidentified infections are needed. JAMA 8 April 2024
Attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines among pregnant and recently pregnant individuals
Decreasing confidence in COVID-19 vaccine safety in a large, diverse pregnant and recently pregnant insured population is a public health concern. JAMA 8 April 2024
Plasma-based antigen persistence in the post-acute phase of COVID-19
Although not without limitations this study’s data provides strong evidence that SARS-CoV-2, in some form or location, persists for up to 14 months following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. This persistence is influenced by the events of acute infection. These findings motivate an urgent research agenda regarding the clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 persistence, specifically whether it is causally related to either post-acute chronic symptoms (eg, fatigue, pain, and cognitive difficulty) or discrete incident complications (eg, cardiovascular events). The Lancet infectious diseases 8 April 2024
Why we must keep using the term 'long COVID'
Our understanding of long COVID is still evolving and incomplete, but the future looks brighter as we move beyond “what is it?” to “what can we do about it?” MJA insight 8 April 2024
What is the economic benefit of annual COVID-19 vaccination from the adult individual perspective?
There is both clinical and economic incentive for the individual to continue to get vaccinated against COVID-19 each year. JAMA 6 April 2024
Cough symptoms in children following COVID-19: a single-center retrospective study
Allergic disease contributes to the prolonged duration and severity of coughing in children with mild COVID-19 Frontiers in pediatrics 5 April 2024
Potential strategies for supporting mental health and mitigating the risk of burnout among healthcare professionals: insights from the COVID-19 pandemic
Healthcare professionals (HCPs) experienced prolonged stressful conditions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, and the global situation (particularly in the United Kingdom) meant that they continue to sustain mental stress related to the subsequent cost-of-living and healthcare budgeting crises. The psychological toll on HCPs may lead to increased staff attrition, adversely impacting the quality of patient care and work security. To help mitigate this psychological impact, the current evidence is strongly supportive of healthcare providers consistently adopting programmes fostering improvement in coping and resilience, facilitating healthy lifestyle, and allocating some resources for therapeutic strategies (e.g. cognitive behavioural therapy-based strategies and other strategies specified to trauma-related issues) which can be delivered by trained professionals. We stress that some approaches are not a one-size-fits-all strategy, and we also highlight the need to encourage treatment-seeking among those who need it. These strategies are highly relevant to healthcare employers and policymakers to support all HCPs in settings marked by prolonged periods of stress. The investment in these strategies are expected not only to reduce staff attrition in the long-term, but are likely to add to the cost-effectiveness of overall healthcare budgetary allocation. eClinicalMedicine 5 April 2024
Functional limitations and exercise intolerance in patients with Post-COVID condition: A randomized crossover clinical trial
In this study, nonhospitalized patients with post-COVID condition (PCC) generally tolerated exercise with preserved cardiovascular function but showed lower aerobic capacity and less muscle strength than the control group. They also showed signs of postural orthostatic tachycardia and myopathy. The findings suggest cautious exercise adoption could be recommended to prevent further skeletal muscle deconditioning and health impairment in patients with PCC. JAMA 4 April 2024
Severity of Respiratory Syncytial Virus vs COVID-19 and Influenza among hospitalized US adults
Among adults hospitalized in this US cohort during the 16 months before the first RSV vaccine recommendations, RSV disease was less common but similar in severity compared with COVID-19 or influenza disease among unvaccinated patients and more severe than COVID-19 or influenza disease among vaccinated patients for the most serious outcomes of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) or death. JAMA 4 April 2024
Global burden of 288 causes of death and life expectancy decomposition in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Long-standing gains in life expectancy and reductions in many of the leading causes of death have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the adverse effects of which were spread unevenly among populations. Despite the pandemic, there has been continued progress in combatting several notable causes of death, leading to improved global life expectancy over the study period. Each of the seven GBD super-regions showed an overall improvement from 1990 and 2021, obscuring the negative effect in the years of the pandemic. Additionally, our findings regarding regional variation in causes of death driving increases in life expectancy hold clear policy utility. Analyses of shifting mortality trends reveal that several causes, once widespread globally, are now increasingly concentrated geographically. These changes in mortality concentration, alongside further investigation of changing risks, interventions, and relevant policy, present an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of mortality-reduction strategies. Examining patterns in mortality concentration might reveal areas where successful public health interventions have been implemented. Translating these successes to locations where certain causes of death remain entrenched can inform policies that work to improve life expectancy for people everywhere. Lancet 3 April 2024
Viral clearance as a surrogate of clinical efficacy for COVID-19 therapies in outpatients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Despite the aggregation of studies with differing designs, and evidence of risk of bias in some virological outcomes, this review provides evidence that treatment-induced acceleration of viral clearance within the first 5 days after treatment is a potential surrogate of clinical efficacy to prevent hospitalisation with COVID-19. This work supports the use of viral clearance as an early phase clinical trial endpoint of therapeutic efficacy. The Lancet microbe 3 April 2024
Nirmatrelvir for vaccinated or unvaccinated adult outpatients with Covid-19
The time to sustained alleviation of all signs and symptoms of Covid-19 did not differ significantly between participants who received nirmatrelvir–ritonavir and those who received placebo. NEJM 3 April 2024
Ipsilateral and contralateral coadministration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines produce similar antibody responses
Coadministration of influenza and bivalent COVID-19 vaccines in the same arm or different arms did not strongly influence the antibody response to either vaccine. eBioMedicine 3 April 2024
High frequency of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection by sensitive Nucleocapsid Assays
Prior infection with SARS-CoV-2 is typically measured by nucleocapsid serology assays. In this study, the authors show that the Simoa serology assays and T cell intracellular cytokine staining assays are more sensitive than the clinical Elecsys assay for detection of nucleocapsid-specific immune responses. These data suggest that the prevalence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection in the population may be higher than currently appreciated. Journal of infectious diseases 3 April 2024
Long COVID in a highly vaccinated but largely unexposed Australian population following the 2022 SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron wave: a cross‐sectional survey
The known: The estimated prevalence of long COVID varies widely between studies (range, 9–81% of people with SARS‐CoV‐2 infections).
The new: In a highly vaccinated population not broadly exposed to earlier SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, 18% of people infected with the Omicron variant reported symptoms consistent with long COVID 90 days after infection; 18% of these people had not fully resumed previous work or study by three months, and 38% required care from general practitioners for their symptoms two to three months after infection.
The implications: Long COVID affects a considerable number of people in Australia, and general practices play a major role in managing its burden. MJA 1 April 2024
Post‐COVID‐19 condition symptoms 12 and 24 months after COVID‐19 during the first month of the pandemic in Melbourne: a cohort study
In this article, the authors report the 12‐ and 24‐month follow‐up of a cohort of people infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 during a five‐week period in 2020. MJA 1 April 2024
The experience of traumatic events, psychological distress, and social support: links to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and trends with age in a group of older Australians
There may be factors beyond disease-associated risks that play a role in vaccine acceptance with age. Older Australians on the younger end of the age spectrum may have specific needs to address their hesitancy that may be overlooked. BMC geriatrics 31 March 2024
Older women’s experience with COVID-19 pandemic: A study of risk perception and coping among culturally and linguistically diverse population in South Australia
Evidence shows a fear among the older CALD women with an endeavor to cope and prepare for emergency situations. This suggests the requirements for interventions that improve coping and reduce the risk of stress among them. Plos one 28 March 2024
Efficacy of respiratory rehabilitation in patients with COVID-19: a retrospective study
Airway clearance technology combined with prone ventilation intervention in patients with COVID-19 can improve the total effective rate and oxygenation index, improve the inflammatory indicators and respiratory function of patients. And it may be widely promoted and used in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 (severe). BMC Pulmonary Medicine 26 March 2024
Predicting factors for acute encephalopathy in febrile seizure children with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant: a retrospective study
In pediatric patients with COVID-19-related febrile seizures, the occurrence of seizures beyond the first day of fever, bradycardia, clustered seizures, status epilepticus, hyperglycemia, and metabolic acidosis should raise concerns about acute encephalitis/encephalopathy. However, the highest body temperature and the severity of leukocytosis or C-reactive protein levels were not associated with poor outcomes. BMC pediatrics 25 March 2024
Effect of molnupiravir on SARS-CoV-2 evolution in immunocompromised patients: a retrospective observational study
Molnupiravir treatment in immunocompromised patients led to the accumulation of a distinctive pattern of mutations beyond the recommended 5 days of treatment. Treated patients maintained persistent PCR positivity for the duration of monitoring, indicating clear potential for transmission and subsequent emergence of novel variants. The Lancet microbe 22 March 2024
How does the SARS-CoV-2 reinfection rate change over time? The global evidence from systematic review and meta-analysis
Meta-regression analysis found that the overall reinfection rate increased and then decreased over time, followed by a period of plateauing and then a trend of increasing and then decreasing, but the peak of the second wave of reinfection rate was lower than the first wave. SARS-CoV-2 is at risk of reinfection and the Omicron variant has a higher reinfection rate than other currently known variants. The results of this study could help guide public health measures and vaccination strategies in response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. BMC infectious diseases 21 March 2024
Increased faecal shedding in SARS-CoV-2 variants BA.2.86 and JN.1
Taken together, the authors provide evidence confirming that both BA.2.86 and JN.1 show higher rates of viral shedding compared with XBB.1.5, EG.5.1, HV.1, and JD.1.1, including in presymptomatic and vaccinated individuals, which might partly explain the increase in wastewater levels. The Lancet infectious diseases 21 March 2024
Safety and immunogenicity of the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 Vaccine in solid organ transplant recipients
mRNA-1273 (100 µg) was well-tolerated and dose 3 and the additional dose improved antibody responses among solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs). Journal of infectious diseases 21 March 2024
Interim safety and immunogenicity of COVID-19 omicron BA.1 variant-containing vaccine in children in the USA: an open-label non-randomised phase 3 trial
mRNA-1273.214 was immunogenic against BA.1 and D614G in children aged 6 months to 5 years, with a comparable safety profile to mRNA-1273, when given as a two-dose primary series or a booster dose. These results are aligned with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for the use of variant-containing vaccines for continued protection against the emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2. The Lancet infectious diseases 19 March 2024
Lower vs higher oxygenation target and days alive without life support in COVID-19: The HOT-COVID randomized clinical trial
In adult ICU patients with COVID-19 and severe hypoxemia, targeting a Pao2 of 60 mm Hg resulted in more days alive without life support in 90 days than targeting a Pao2 of 90 mm Hg. JAMA 19 March 2024
Virtual pulmonary rehabilitation approaches in patients with post COVID syndrome: a pilot study
Virtual pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) with exercises delivered via video conference or pre-recorded video were feasible, safe, and well-received by individuals with post-COVID syndrome (PCS). BMC Pulmonary Medicine 18 March 2024
SARS-CoV-2 infection is detrimental to pregnancy outcomes after embryo transfer in IVF/ICSI: a prospective cohort study
This prospective cohort study shows that SARS-CoV-2 infection in a short period of time after embryo transfer is not conducive to clinical pregnancy. Reproductive physicians should advise patients to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection shortly after embryo transfer. Meanwhile, women should be encouraged to vaccinate at least 2–3 times before embryo transfer or pregnancy. BMC medicine 18 March 2024
Decoding the historical tale: COVID-19 impact on haematological malignancy patients—EPICOVIDEHA insights from 2020 to 2022
Patients with hematological malignancies still face elevated risks, despite reductions in critical infections and overall mortality rates over time. Hospitalization, especially in ICUs, remains a significant concern. The study underscores the importance of vaccination and the timing of COVID-19 exposure in 2022 for enhanced survival in this patient group. Ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions are essential to support this vulnerable population, emphasizing the critical role of timely diagnosis and prompt treatment in preventing severe COVID-19 cases. eClinicalMedicine 18 March 2024
Resistance exercise program is feasible and effective in improving functional strength in Post-COVID survivors
These results demonstrate the effectiveness of a well-tolerated, protocol-based approach that can be used to diminish long-lasting functional deficits in post-COVID survivors. Journal of clinical medicine 16 March 2024
Early treatment with fluvoxamine, bromhexine, cyproheptadine, and niclosamide to prevent clinical deterioration in patients with symptomatic COVID-19: a randomized clinical trial
Early treatment with these combinations among outpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 was associated with lower likelihood of clinical deterioration, and with significant and rapid reduction in the viral load and serum cytokines, and with lower burden of PASC symptoms. When started very soon after symptom onset, these repurposed drugs have high potential to prevent clinical deterioration and death in vaccinated and unvaccinated COVID-19 patients. eClinicalMedicine 14 March 2024
Estimating the health effects of COVID-19-related immunisation disruptions in 112 countries during 2020–30: a modelling study
These results highlight the importance of the timing of catch-up activities, considering estimated burden to improve vaccine coverage in affected cohorts. The suthors estimated that mitigation measures for measles and yellow fever were particularly effective at reducing excess burden in the short term. Additionally, the high long-term effect of HPV vaccine as an important cervical-cancer prevention tool warrants continued immunisation efforts after disruption. The Lancet global health 14 March 2024
Risk of acute kidney injury in critically-ill patients with COVID-19 compared with seasonal influenza: a retrospective cohort study
These results suggest that the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients severely ill with COVID-19 was lower than in patients with influenza A. The burden of concurrent organ failure complicating respiratory viral infections, such as the higher disease-attributable risk of AKI associated with influenza, should be clarified. eClinicalMedicine 14 March 2024
COVID-19 rebound after VV116 vs Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir treatment: A randomized clinical trial
In this randomized clinical trial of patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19, viral load rebound and symptom rebound were both common after a standard 5-day course of treatment with either VV116 or nirmatrelvir-ritonavir. Prolongation of treatment duration might be investigated to reduce COVID-19 rebound. JAMA 13 March 2024
Mental well-being among adversity-exposed adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic
These findings suggest that in-person schooling and several coping behaviors (caring for one’s body, exercising, and engaging in healthy behaviors) were associated with significantly higher positive affect (PA) and lower perceived stress (PS) during the COVID-19 pandemic among adolescents with high adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Adolescents with high ACEs demonstrated especially greater mental health scores when they reported in-person schooling. Future studies should build on these findings to identify clinical and school-based mental health protective factors for adolescents with high ACE risk. JAMA 13 March 2024
The role of COVID-19 vaccines in preventing post-COVID-19 thromboembolic and cardiovascular complications
COVID-19 vaccination reduced the risk of post-COVID-19 cardiac and thromboembolic outcomes. These effects were more pronounced for acute COVID-19 outcomes, consistent with known reductions in disease severity following breakthrough versus unvaccinated SARS-CoV-2 infection. Heart 12 March 2024
Global age-sex-specific mortality, life expectancy, and population estimates in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1950–2021, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: a comprehensive demographic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Global adult mortality rates markedly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, reversing past decreasing trends, while child mortality rates continued to decline, albeit more slowly than in earlier years. Although COVID-19 had a substantial impact on many demographic indicators during the first 2 years of the pandemic, overall global health progress over the 72 years evaluated has been profound, with considerable improvements in mortality and life expectancy. Additionally, we observed a deceleration of global population growth since 2017, despite steady or increasing growth in lower-income countries, combined with a continued global shift of population age structures towards older ages. These demographic changes will likely present future challenges to health systems, economies, and societies. The comprehensive demographic estimates reported here will enable researchers, policy makers, health practitioners, and other key stakeholders to better understand and address the profound changes that have occurred in the global health landscape following the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, and longer-term trends beyond the pandemic. The Lancet 11 March 2024
Mitoquinone mesylate as post-exposure prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans: an exploratory single center pragmatic open label non-randomized pilot clinical trial with matched controls
This work describes antiviral activity of mito-MES in humans. Mito-MES was well tolerated in the study population and attenuated transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given established safety of Mito-MES in humans, these results suggest that randomized control clinical trials of Mito-MES as post-exposure prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 infection are warranted. eBioMedicine 11 March 2024
Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health visits in primary care: an interrupted time series analysis from nine INTRePID countries
Findings suggest an overall increase in mental health visits, driven largely by anxiety/depression. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the studied countries adopted virtual care in particular for mental health visits. Primary care plays a crucial role in addressing mental ill-health in times of crisis. eClinicalMedicine 9 March 2024
Immunogenicity and safety of a bivalent (omicron BA.5 plus ancestral) SARS-CoV-2 recombinant spike protein vaccine as a heterologous booster dose: interim analysis of a phase 3, non-inferiority, randomised, clinical trial
All three coprimary endpoints were met in part 2 of the ongoing 2019nCoV-311 study. These data support the development of monovalent and/or bivalent vaccines for the most currently circulating variants, to optimise protection. With no new safety findings, further investigation of omicron-based subvariant vaccines is supported by the evidence. The Lancet infectious diseases 6 March 2024
Risk perception as a motivational resource during the COVID-19 pandemic: the role of vaccination status and emerging variants
These findings suggest that risk severity served as a critical and dynamic resource for adherence to behavioral measures because it fostered greater autonomous regulation. BMC public health 6 March 2024
A novel anti-nucleocapsid antibody avidity method for identifying SARS-CoV-2 reinfections
Detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reinfections is challenging with current serology assays and is further complicated by the marked decrease in routine viral testing practices as viral transmission increased during Omicron. Here, we provide proof-of-principle that high-avidity anti-nucleocapsid (N) antibodies detects reinfections after a single infection with higher specificity (85%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 80%–90%) compared to anti-N antibody levels (72%; 95% CI, 66%–79%) in a vaccinated cohort. This method could be used to retroactively investigate the epidemiology and incremental long-term health consequences of SARS-CoV-2 reinfections. Journal of infectious diseases 5 March 2024
Estimates of hospitalisations and deaths in patients with COVID-19 associated with undiagnosed diabetes during the first phase of the pandemic in eight low-income and middle-income countries: a modelling study
These findings suggest that undiagnosed diabetes contributed substantially to COVID-19 hospitalisations and deaths in many low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). eClinicalMedicine 5 March 2024
Long-term autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic outcomes of COVID-19: A binational cohort study
SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with increased risk for incident autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) compared with matched patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection or with influenza infection. The risk for incident AIRD was higher with greater severity of acute COVID-19. Annals of infectious disorders 5 March 2024
Self-reported everyday functioning after COVID-19 infection
These findings suggest that the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on everyday function may occur via multiple pathways regardless of whether or not they had a documented infection with COVID-19. JAMA 1 March 2024
Relationship between hepatitis C infection and treatment status and COVID-19-related hospitalizations in Georgia
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment prior to COVID-19 infection was associated with lower odds of COVID-19-related hospitalization, highlighting the benefits of HCV management in the context of the pandemic. Journal of infectious diseases 1 March 2024
Cognition and memory after Covid-19 in a large community sample
Participants with resolved persistent symptoms after Covid-19 had objectively measured cognitive function similar to that in participants with shorter-duration symptoms, although short-duration Covid-19 was still associated with small cognitive deficits after recovery. Longer-term persistence of cognitive deficits and any clinical implications remain uncertain. NEJM 29 February 2024
“Provided a window on the world and lessened my feeling of isolation”: older adults’ perceived COVID-19 impact and technology use in Australia during recurrent lockdowns
Findings suggest a critical need for interventions that address the social loss experienced by older adults during COVID-19 recurrent lockdowns, particularly to alleviate the associated negative impact on mental wellbeing. Recognising the positive aspect of increased time for relationships and leisure activities indicates potential areas for resilience-building strategies. The pivotal role of technology in mitigating adverse effects highlights its significance in building social connections and supporting overall wellbeing during challenging times. These implications can guide future efforts to enhance older adults’ resilience, mental health, and holistic wellbeing in future public health crises. BMC geriatrics 28 February 2024
Evaluating a peer-to-peer health education program in Australian public housing communities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Concierges’ impact on residents may have contributed to high community uptake of COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and had benefits beyond the COVID-19 remit. The authors recommend the program be revised and continued to inform further preparedness planning and support service access generally. Program models such as this have potential to inform and reassure high-risk communities during a pandemic. In addition, such programs can help overcome vaccine hesitancy and promote protective health behaviours, regardless of whether a pandemic is currently occurring. Ensuring these programs remain responsive to the changing needs of end-users needs over time is imperative. BMC health services research 27 February 2024
A risk profile using simple Hematologic parameters to assess benefits from Baricitinib in patients hospitalized with COVID-19: A post hoc analysis of the Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial-2
The Adaptive COVID-19 Treatment Trial (ACCT) risk profile identifies a subgroup of hospitalized patients who benefit most from baricitinib treatment and captures a patient phenotype of treatment response to an immunomodulator and an antiviral. Changes in absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) trajectory suggest a mechanism whereby an immunomodulator limits severe COVID-19. Annals of internal medicine 27 February 2024
Adverse events after XBB.1.5-containing COVID-19 mRNA vaccines
In a nationwide cohort of more than 1 million adults aged 65 years and older, no increased risk of 28 adverse events was observed following vaccination with a monovalent XBB.1.5-containing vaccine. JAMA 26 February 2024
COVID-19−associated acute kidney injury and longitudinal kidney outcomes
The findings of this multicenter cohort study indicate that survivors of hospitalization with COVID- acute kidney injury (AKI) experience lower rates of major adverse kidney events (MAKE), long-term kidney function decline, and mortality compared with patients with AKI associated with other illnesses. JAMA 26 February 2024
Impact of vaccination status on clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients
Complete vaccination of COVID-19 led to a milder disease in terms of clinical, imaging, and laboratory criteria of patients and decreased the possibility of hospitalization in ICUs, intubation, and mortality in patients. BMC infectious diseases 23 February 2024
Blood–brain barrier disruption and sustained systemic inflammation in individuals with long COVID-associated cognitive impairment
Vascular disruption has been implicated in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis and may predispose to the neurological sequelae associated with long COVID, yet it is unclear how blood–brain barrier (BBB) function is affected in these conditions. Here the authors show that BBB disruption is evident during acute infection and in patients with long COVID with cognitive impairment, commonly referred to as brain fog. Using dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, the authors show BBB disruption in patients with long COVID-associated brain fog. Transcriptomic analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed dysregulation of the coagulation system and a dampened adaptive immune response in individuals with brain fog. Accordingly, peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed increased adhesion to human brain endothelial cells in vitro, while exposure of brain endothelial cells to serum from patients with long COVID induced expression of inflammatory markers. Together, the data suggest that sustained systemic inflammation and persistent localized BBB dysfunction is a key feature of long COVID-associated brain fog. Nature neuroscience 22 February 2024
Nursing workforce plays a significant role in reducing COVID-19 deaths worldwide: A cross-sectional analysis of data from 178 countries
Key points
Nursing and health sciences 21 February 2024
Data from four consecutive cohorts of students in Australia (2019–2022) show the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic and international university students’ mental health
The pandemic was associated with a marked increase in psychological distress in first-year university students, not all of which settled with the easing of restrictions. Post-pandemic recovery in the Australian university sector must include university-wide access to mental health information and support for incoming students. ANZ journal of psychiatry 21 February 2024
Results of the Cologne Corona Surveillance (CoCoS) project– a cross-sectional study: survey data on risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and moderate-to-severe course in primarily immunized adults
The results provide a first indication of which factors may be associated with SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection and moderate-to-severe course of infection despite vaccination. However, the retrospective nature of the study and risk of bias in the reporting of breakthrough infection severity limit the strength of the results. BMC public health 21 February 2024
The mediating role of coping styles in the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and mental health problems: a cross-sectional study among nurses
Fear of being infected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could trigger mental health problems among nurses at the frontline. BMC public health 21 February 2024
Evaluation of clinically relevant serum proteins as biomarkers for monitoring COVID-19 severity, and end-organ damage among hospitalized unvaccinated patients
The levels of measured serum proteins were impacted by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Serum ferritin, CRP, D-dimer, and procalcitonin are good predicting tools for end-organ damage and acute kidney impairment in COVID-19. Procalcitonin is a strong indicator of severity and mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. BMC infectious diseases 20 February 2024
Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based cross-sectional study
Considering that older adults with disabilities experience triple the burden amid COVID-19 due to old age, disabilities, and the digital divide, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and engineers should aim to narrow the gaps between Internet users and Internet non-users among this population. Narrowing the gaps will make decreasing health gaps and increasing well-being among older adults with disabilities more attainable. BMC public health 20 February 2024
A forecasting tool for a hospital to plan inbound transfers of COVID-19 patients from other regions
Coordination between hospitals was necessary due to the high stress on the health care system. A simple planning tool can help to understand the impact of patient transfers on capacity utilization and improve the confidence of hospital leaders when making transfer decisions. The model was also helpful in investigating other operational scenarios and may be helpful when preparing for future outbreaks or public health emergencies. BMC Public health 16 February 2024
Long-term risks of respiratory diseases in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2: a longitudinal, population-based cohort study
This research suggests that patients with COVID-19 may have an increased risk of developing respiratory diseases, and the risk increases with the severity of infection and reinfection. Even during the 24-month follow-up, the risk of asthma and bronchiectasis continued to increase. Hence, implementing appropriate follow-up strategies for these individuals is crucial to monitor and manage potential long-term respiratory health issues. Additionally, the increased risk in lung cancer in the COVID-19 individuals was probably due to the diagnostic tests conducted and incidental diagnoses. eClinicalMedicine 15 February 2024
What is the specific role of schools and daycares in COVID-19 transmission? A final report from a living rapid review
Findings indicate that school settings do not substantially contribute to community incidence, hospitalisations, or mortality (low certainty). This living review provides a synthesis of global evidence for the role of schools and daycares during COVID-19, which might be helpful in future pandemics. The Lancet child and adolescent health 15 February 2024
“The magic triangle between bed, office, couch”: a qualitative exploration of job demands, resources, coping, and the role of leadership in remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic
The results expand the knowledge about healthy remote work by adding specific demands, resources, and coping strategies employees and managers experienced during the extreme situation of the COVID-19 pandemic to the picture as well as specifying the role of leadership. Moreover, the findings provide a foundation for guidelines for healthy remote work design and collaboration in times of abrupt change and crises. BMC public health 15 February 2024
Reverse shock index multiplied by simplified motor score as a predictor of clinical outcomes for patients with COVID-19
Compared with the shock index (SI), modified SI (mSI), and reverse shock index (rSI) combined with the Glasgow Coma Scale (rSI-GCS), the rSI-sMS has a higher predictive accuracy for general ward admission, ICU admission, and mortality among patients with COVID-19. BMC Emergency medicine 14 February 2024
Posttraumatic growth of medical staff during COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review
This review discovered moderate posttraumatic growth (PTG) levels among medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, with critical areas in interpersonal relationships, life philosophy, and personal competence. The identified influencing factors can inform future research and interventions to enhance healthcare workers’ psychological resilience and well-being. BMC public health 14 February 2024
Association between social support and the severity of positive symptoms in rural community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia during the COVID-19 pandemic
The study confirmed the importance of social support, especially subjective support, provided to rural community-dwelling schizophrenia patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. This support should be addressed and strengthened for such patients in emergent events. BMC psychiatry 14 February 2024
The role of vaccine status homophily in the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey with modelling
The uneven uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and the nature of the contact network in the population play important roles in shaping COVID-19 transmission dynamics. BMC public health 14 February 2024
Cognitive symptoms of Post–COVID-19 condition and daily functioning
The findings of this study suggest that self-reported cognitive symptoms are prevalent in post–COVID-19 condition, often co-occur with depressive symptoms, and are associated with functional impairment. JAMA 14 February 2024
Cognitive, psychological, and physiological effects of a web-based mindfulness intervention in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: an open study
The results of this study show that a web-based mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) in older adults leads to improvements in cognitive and psychological measures, with associated modulations in specific brain rhythms. While these findings are promising, further controlled studies are required to validate these preliminary results. BMC geriatrics 14 February 2024
Trajectories of mental health outcomes following COVID-19 infection: a prospective longitudinal study
The findings of this study suggest that mental health outcomes following COVID-19 infection exhibit a dynamic pattern over time. The study provides valuable insights into the mental health trajectory following COVID-19 infection, emphasizing the need for ongoing assessment, support, and interventions tailored to the evolving mental health needs of this population. BMC public health 13 February 2024
Pre-pandemic physical activity and risk of COVID-19 diagnosis and hospitalization in older adults
In this cohort study of adults aged 45 years or older, those who adhered to physical activity (PA) guidelines before the pandemic had lower odds of developing or being hospitalized for COVID-19. Thus, higher prepandemic PA levels may be associated with reduced odds of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization for COVID-19. JAMA 13 February 2024
COVID-19 vaccines and adverse events of special interest: A multinational Global Vaccine Data Network (GVDN) cohort study of 99 million vaccinated individuals
This multi-country analysis confirmed pre-established safety signals for myocarditis, pericarditis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Other potential safety signals that require further investigation were identified. Vaccine 12 February 2024
