Last data update: May 13, 2024. (Total: 46773 publications since 2009)
Records 1-17 (of 17 Records) |
Query Trace: Devries A[original query] |
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Did internal displacement from the 2010 earthquake in Haiti lead to long-term violence against children A matched pairs study design
Cerna-Turoff I , Kane JC , Devries K , Mercy J , Massetti G , Baiocchi M . Child Abuse Negl 2020 102 104393 BACKGROUND: Empirical evidence is limited and contradictory on violence against children after internal displacement from natural disasters. Understanding how internal displacement affects violence is key in structuring effective prevention and response. OBJECTIVE: We examined the effect of internal displacement from the 2010 Haitian earthquake on long-term physical, emotional, and sexual violence against children and outlined a methodological framework to improve future evidence quality. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING: We analyzed violence against adolescent girls and boys within the nationally representative, Haiti Violence Against Children Survey. METHODS: We pre-processed data by matching on pre-earthquake characteristics for displaced and non-displaced children and applied 95 % confidence intervals from McNemar's exact test, with sensitivity analyses, to evaluate differences in violence outcomes between matched pairs after the earthquake. RESULTS: Internal displacement was not associated with past 12-month physical, emotional, and sexual violence two years after the earthquake for girls and boys. Most violence outcomes were robust to potential unmeasured confounding. Odds ratios for any form of violence against girls were 0.84 (95 % CI: 0.52-1.33, p = 0.500) and against boys were 1.03 (95 % CI: 0.61-1.73, p = 1.000). CONCLUSIONS: Internal displacement was not a driver of long-term violence against children in Haiti. Current global protocols in disaster settings may initiate services after the optimal window of time to protect children from violence, and the post-displacement setting may be central in determining violence outcomes. The combination of specific data structures and matching methodologies is promising to increase evidence quality after rapid-onset natural disasters, especially in low-resource settings. |
A case of Lassa fever diagnosed at a community hospital - Minnesota 2014
Choi MJ , Worku S , Knust B , Vang A , Lynfield R , Mount MR , Objio T , Brown S , Griffith J , Hulbert D , Lippold S , Ervin E , Stroher U , Holzbauer S , Slattery W , Washburn F , Harper J , Koeck M , Uher C , Rollin P , Nichol S , Else R , DeVries A . Open Forum Infect Dis 2018 5 (7) ofy131 Background: In April 2014, a 46-year-old returning traveler from Liberia was transported by emergency medical services to a community hospital in Minnesota with fever and altered mental status. Twenty-four hours later, he developed gingival bleeding. Blood samples tested positive for Lassa fever RNA by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Methods: Blood and urine samples were obtained from the patient and tested for evidence of Lassa fever virus infection. Hospital infection control personnel and health department personnel reviewed infection control practices with health care personnel. In addition to standard precautions, infection control measures were upgraded to include contact, droplet, and airborne precautions. State and federal public health officials conducted contract tracing activities among family contacts, health care personnel, and fellow airline travelers. Results: The patient was discharged from the hospital after 14 days. However, his recovery was complicated by the development of near complete bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Lassa virus RNA continued to be detected in his urine for several weeks after hospital discharge. State and federal public health authorities identified and monitored individuals who had contact with the patient while he was ill. No secondary cases of Lassa fever were identified among 75 contacts. Conclusions: Given the nonspecific presentation of viral hemorrhagic fevers, isolation of ill travelers and consistent implementation of basic infection control measures are key to preventing secondary transmission. When consistently applied, these measures can prevent secondary transmission even if travel history information is not obtained, not immediately available, or the diagnosis of a viral hemorrhagic fever is delayed. |
Who perpetrates violence against children A systematic analysis of age-specific and sex-specific data
Devries K , Knight L , Petzold M , Merrill KG , Maxwell L , Williams A , Cappa C , Chan KL , Garcia-Moreno C , Hollis N , Kress H , Peterman A , Walsh SD , Kishor S , Guedes A , Bott S , Butron Riveros BC , Watts C , Abrahams N . BMJ Paediatr Open 2018 2 (1) e000180 Objective: The epidemiology of violence against children is likely to differ substantially by sex and age of the victim and the perpetrator. Thus far, investment in effective prevention strategies has been hindered by lack of clarity in the burden of childhood violence across these dimensions. We produced the first age-specific and sex-specific prevalence estimates by perpetrator type for physical, sexual and emotional violence against children globally. Design: We used random effects meta-regression to estimate prevalence. Estimates were adjusted for relevant quality covariates, variation in definitions of violence and weighted by region-specific, age-specific and sex-specific population data to ensure estimates reflect country population structures. Data sources: Secondary data from 600 population or school-based representative datasets and 43 publications obtained via systematic literature review, representing 13 830 estimates from 171 countries. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies: Estimates for recent violence against children aged 0-19 were included. Results: The most common perpetrators of physical and emotional violence for both boys and girls across a range of ages are household members, with prevalence often surpassing 50%, followed by student peers. Children reported experiencing more emotional than physical violence from both household members and students. The most common perpetrators of sexual violence against girls aged 15-19 years are intimate partners; however, few data on other perpetrators of sexual violence against children are systematically collected internationally. Few age-specific and sex-specific data are available on violence perpetration by schoolteachers; however, existing data indicate high prevalence of physical violence from teachers towards students. Data from other authority figures, strangers, siblings and other adults are limited, as are data on neglect of children. Conclusions: Without further investment in data generation on violence exposure from multiple perpetrators for boys and girls of all ages, progress towards Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5 and 16 may be slow. Despite data gaps, evidence shows violence from household members, peers in school and for girls, from intimate partners, should be prioritised for prevention. Trial registration number: PROSPERO 2015: CRD42015024315. |
Immunohistochemistry and electrophysiological findings in swine abattoir workers with immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy
Muley SA , Holzbauer S , Clark B , Sejvar J , Lynfield R , Parry G , DeVries AS . J Neurol Sci 2018 385 34-38 Importance: Workers exposed to aerosolized brain in a swine-processing plant developed immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy (IP) possibly triggered by an immune response. Objective Immunohistochemistry results were correlated with electrophysiological variables to examine the immunopathogenesis of this disorder. Design/setting Laboratory studies used normal nerve tissue that was exposed to sera from 12 IP patients; 10 exposed controls; and 10 unexposed controls. Clinical and electrophysiological data from IP patients were obtained from medical record reviews. Main outcome measures Analysis included electromyography results of IP patients and nerve conduction studies examining CMAP amplitude, distal motor latency, motor conduction velocity, F-wave latency, sensory nerve action potential amplitude, and sensory nerve conduction velocity. Case and control results were compared relative to distance from exposure. Results Electrodiagnostic findings revealed prolongation of the distal and f-wave latencies suggestive of demyelination at the level of the nerve root and distal nerve terminals. Immunohistochemical results identified an antibody to the peripheral nerve, with staining at the level of the axolemma. Thus, IP may be a primary axonopathy with secondary paranodal demyelination causing the conduction changes. Staining of the distal and proximal portions of the nerve appears consistent with easier access through the blood-nerve barrier. Conclusions and relevance IP is an immune-mediated neuropathy related to antibodies to an axon-based antigen on peripheral nerves. Secondary paranodal demyelination is likely. Further studies to identify the primary axonal antigenic target would be useful. |
Improving human papillomavirus vaccine use in an integrated health system: Impact of a provider and staff intervention
McLean HQ , VanWormer JJ , Chow BDW , Birchmeier B , Vickers E , DeVries E , Meyer J , Moore J , McNeil MM , Stokley S , Gee J , Belongia EA . J Adolesc Health 2017 61 (2) 252-258 PURPOSE: Acceptance and coverage of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the United States has been suboptimal. We implemented a multifaceted provider and staff intervention over a 1-year period to promote HPV vaccination in a regional health care system. METHODS: The intervention was conducted in nine clinical departments from February 2015 to March 2016; 34 other departments served as controls. The intervention included in-person provider and staff education, quarterly feedback of vaccine coverage, and system-wide changes to patient reminder and recall notifications. Change in first-dose HPV vaccine coverage and series completion were estimated among 11- to 12-year-olds using generalized estimating equations adjusted for age and sex. RESULTS: HPV vaccine coverage in the intervention departments increased from 41% to 59%, and the increase was significantly greater than that seen in the control departments (32%-45%, p = .0002). The largest increase occurred in the quarter after completion of the provider and staff education and a patient reminder and recall postcard mailing (p = .004). Series completion also increased significantly system wide among adolescents aged 11-12 years following mailing of HPV vaccine reminder letters to parents of adolescents aged 12 years rather than 16 years. CONCLUSIONS: HPV vaccine uptake can be improved through a multifaceted approach that includes provider and staff education and patient reminder/recall. System-level change to optimize reminder and recall notices can have substantial impact on HPV vaccine utilization. |
Development and implementation of the Ebola Traveler Monitoring Program and clinical outcomes of monitored travelers during October - May 2015, Minnesota
DeVries A , Talley P , Sweet K , Kline S , Stinchfield P , Tosh P , Danila R . PLoS One 2016 11 (12) e0166797 BACKGROUND: In October 2014, the United States began actively monitoring all persons who had traveled from Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone in the previous 21 days. State public health departments were responsible for monitoring all travelers; Minnesota has the largest Liberian population in the United States. The MDH Ebola Clinical Team (ECT) was established to assess travelers with symptoms of concern for Ebola virus disease (EVD), coordinate access to healthcare at appropriate facilities including Ebola Assessment and Treatment Units (EATU), and provide guidance to clinicians. METHODS: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) began receiving traveler information collected by U.S. Customs and Border Control and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staff on October 21, 2014 via encrypted electronic communication. All travelers returning from Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea during 10/21/14-5/15/15 were monitored by MDH staff in the manner recommended by CDC based on the traveler's risk categorization as "low (but not zero)", "some" and "high" risk. When a traveler reported symptoms or a temperature ≥100.4 degrees F at any time during their 21-day monitoring period, an ECT member would speak to the traveler and perform a clinical assessment by telephone or via video-chat. Based on the assessment the ECT member would recommend 1) continued clinical monitoring while at home with frequent telephone follow-up by the ECT member, 2) outpatient clinical evaluation at an outpatient site agreed upon by all parties, or 3) inpatient clinical evaluation at one of four Minnesota EATUs. ECT members assessed and approved testing for Ebola virus infection at MDH. Traveler data, calls to the ECT and clinical outcomes were logged on a secure server at MDH. RESULTS: During 10/21/14-5/15/15, a total of 783 travelers were monitored; 729 (93%) traveled from Liberia, 30 (4%) Sierra Leone, and 24 (3%) Guinea. The median number monitored per week was 59 (range 45-143). The median age was 35 years; 136 (17%) were aged <18 years. Thirteen of 256 women of reproductive age (5%) were pregnant. The country of passport issuance was known for 720 of the travelers. The majority of monitored travelers (478 [66%]) used a non-U.S. passport including 442 (61%) Liberian nationals. A total of 772 (99%) travelers were "low (but not zero)" risk; 11 (1%) were "some" risk. Among monitored travelers, 43 (5%) experienced illness symptoms; 29 (67%) had a symptom consistent with EVD. Two were tested for Ebola virus disease and had negative results. Most frequently reported symptoms were fever (20/43, 47%) and abdominal pain (12/43, 28%). During evaluation, 16 (37%) of 43 travelers reported their symptoms began prior to travel; chronic health conditions in 24 travelers including tumors/cancer, pregnancy, and orthopedic conditions were most common. Infectious causes in 19 travelers included upper respiratory infection, malaria, and gastrointestinal infections. DISCUSSION: Prior to 2014, no similar active monitoring program for travelers had been performed in Minnesota; assessment and management of symptomatic travelers was a new activity for MDH. Ensuring safe entrance into healthcare was particularly challenging for children, and pregnant women, as well as those without an established connection to healthcare. Unnecessary inpatient evaluations were successfully avoided by close clinical follow-up by phone. Before similar monitoring programs are considered in the future, careful thought must be given to necessary resources and the impact on affected populations, public health, and the healthcare system. |
An outbreak of measles in an undervaccinated community
Gahr P , DeVries AS , Wallace G , Miller C , Kenyon C , Sweet K , Martin K , White K , Bagstad E , Hooker C , Krawczynski G , Boxrud D , Liu G , Stinchfield P , LeBlanc J , Hickman C , Bahta L , Barskey A , Lynfield R . Pediatrics 2014 134 (1) e220-8 Measles is readily spread to susceptible individuals, but is no longer endemic in the United States. In March 2011, measles was confirmed in a Minnesota child without travel abroad. This was the first identified case-patient of an outbreak. An investigation was initiated to determine the source, prevent transmission, and examine measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine coverage in the affected community. Investigation and response included case-patient follow-up, post-exposure prophylaxis, voluntary isolation and quarantine, and early MMR vaccine for non-immune shelter residents >6 months and <12 months of age. Vaccine coverage was assessed by using immunization information system records. Outreach to the affected community included education and support from public health, health care, and community and spiritual leaders. Twenty-one measles cases were identified. The median age was 12 months (range, 4 months to 51 years) and 14 (67%) were hospitalized (range of stay, 2-7 days). The source was a 30-month-old US-born child of Somali descent infected while visiting Kenya. Measles spread in several settings, and over 3000 individuals were exposed. Sixteen case-patients were unvaccinated; 9 of the 16 were age-eligible: 7 of the 9 had safety concerns and 6 were of Somali descent. MMR vaccine coverage among Somali children declined significantly from 2004 through 2010 starting at 91.1% in 2004 and reaching 54.0% in 2010 (chi2 for linear trend 553.79; P < .001). This was the largest measles outbreak in Minnesota in 20 years, and aggressive response likely prevented additional transmission. Measles outbreaks can occur if undervaccinated subpopulations exist. Misunderstandings about vaccine safety must be effectively addressed. |
Investigation of inhalation anthrax case, United States
Griffith J , Blaney D , Shadomy S , Lehman M , Pesik N , Tostenson S , Delaney L , Tiller R , Devries A , Gomez T , Sullivan M , Blackmore C , Stanek D , Lynfield R . Emerg Infect Dis 2014 20 (2) 280-3 Inhalation anthrax occurred in a man who vacationed in 4 US states where anthrax is enzootic. Despite an extensive multi-agency investigation, the specific source was not detected, and no additional related human or animal cases were found. Although rare, inhalation anthrax can occur naturally in the United States. |
Foodborne outbreak of group a streptococcus pharyngitis associated with a high school dance team banquet--Minnesota, 2012
Kemble SK , Westbrook A , Lynfield R , Bogard A , Koktavy N , Gall K , Lappi V , Devries AS , Kaplan E , Smith KE . Clin Infect Dis 2013 57 (5) 648-54 BACKGROUND: On 20 March 2012, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) was notified of multiple Facebook postings suggestive of a foodborne outbreak of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) pharyngitis occurring among attendees of a high school dance team banquet. An investigation was initiated. METHODS: Associations between GAS pharyngitis and specific food items were assessed among banquet attendees. Pharyngeal swabs were performed on attendees, household contacts, and food workers. Patient GAS isolates from clinical laboratories were also obtained. Pharyngeal and food specimens were cultured for GAS by the MDH Public Health Laboratory. Isolates were further characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and emm typing. RESULTS: Among 63 persons who consumed banquet food, 18 primary illnesses occurred, yielding an attack rate of 29%. Although no food or beverage items were significantly associated with illness, pasta consumption yielded the highest relative risk (risk ratio, 3.56; 95% confidence interval, .25-50.6). GAS colonies with indistinguishable PFGE patterns corresponding to emm subtype 1.0 were isolated from 5 patients and from leftover pasta. The pasta was prepared at home by a dance team member parent; both parent and child reported GAS pharyngitis episodes 3 weeks before the banquet. CONCLUSIONS: In this foodborne outbreak of GAS pharyngitis, pasta was implicated as the vehicle. Recognition of foodborne GAS illness is challenging because transmission is typically assumed to occur by respiratory spread; foodborne transmission should be considered when clusters of GAS pharyngitis patients are encountered. DNA-based typing can reveal potentially epidemiologically related isolates during GAS disease outbreaks and facilitate understanding and control of GAS disease. |
A comparative risk assessment of burden of disease and injury attributable to 67 risk factors and risk factor clusters in 21 regions, 1990-2010: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010
Lim Stephen S , Vos Theo , Flaxman Abraham D , Danaei Goodarz , Shibuya Kenji , Adair-Rohani Heather , Amann Markus , Anderson H Ross , Andrews Kathryn G , Aryee Martin , Atkinson Charles , Bacchus Loraine J , Bahalim Adil N , Balakrishnan Kalpana , Balmes John , Barker-Collo Suzanne , Baxter Amanda , Bell Michelle L , Blore Jed D , Blyth Fiona , Bonner Carissa , Borges Guilherme , Bourne Rupert , Boussinesq Michel , Brauer Michael , Brooks Peter , Bruce Nigel G , Brunekreef Bert , Bryan-Hancock Claire , Bucello Chiara , Buchbinder Rachelle , Bull Fiona , Burnett Richard T , Byers Tim E , Calabria Bianca , Carapetis Jonathan , Carnahan Emily , Chafe Zoe , Charlson Fiona , Chen Honglei , Chen Jian Shen , Cheng Andrew Tai-Ann , Child Jennifer Christine , Cohen Aaron , Colson K Ellicott , Cowie Benjamin C , Darby Sarah , Darling Susan , Davis Adrian , Degenhardt Louisa , Dentener Frank , Des Jarlais Don C , Devries Karen , Dherani Mukesh , Ding Eric L , Dorsey E Ray , Driscoll Tim , Edmond Karen , Ali Suad Eltahir , Engell Rebecca E , Erwin Patricia J , Fahimi Saman , Falder Gail , Farzadfar Farshad , Ferrari Alize , Finucane Mariel M , Flaxman Seth , Fowkes Francis Gerry R , Freedman Greg , Freeman Michael K , Gakidou Emmanuela , Ghosh Santu , Giovannucci Edward , Gmel Gerhard , Graham Kathryn , Grainger Rebecca , Grant Bridget , Gunnell David , Gutierrez Hialy R , Hall Wayne , Hoek Hans W , Hogan Anthony , Hosgood H Dean 3rd , Hoy Damian , Hu Howard , Hubbell Bryan J , Hutchings Sally J , Ibeanusi Sydney E , Jacklyn Gemma L , Jasrasaria Rashmi , Jonas Jost B , Kan Haidong , Kanis John A , Kassebaum Nicholas , Kawakami Norito , Khang Young-Ho , Khatibzadeh Shahab , Khoo Jon-Paul , Kok Cindy , Laden Francine , Lalloo Ratilal , Lan Qing , Lathlean Tim , Leasher Janet L , Leigh James , Li Yang , Lin John Kent , Lipshultz Steven E , London Stephanie , Lozano Rafael , Lu Yuan , Mak Joelle , Malekzadeh Reza , Mallinger Leslie , Marcenes Wagner , March Lyn , Marks Robin , Martin Randall , McGale Paul , McGrath John , Mehta Sumi , Mensah George A , Merriman Tony R , Micha Renata , Michaud Catherine , Mishra Vinod , Hanafiah Khayriyyah Mohd , Mokdad Ali A , Morawska Lidia , Mozaffarian Dariush , Murphy Tasha , Naghavi Mohsen , Neal Bruce , Nelson Paul K , Nolla Joan Miquel , Norman Rosana , Olives Casey , Omer Saad B , Orchard Jessica , Osborne Richard , Ostro Bart , Page Andrew , Pandey Kiran D , Parry Charles D H , Passmore Erin , Patra Jayadeep , Pearce Neil , Pelizzari Pamela M , Petzold Max , Phillips Michael R , Pope Dan , Pope C Arden 3rd , Powles John , Rao Mayuree , Razavi Homie , Rehfuess Eva A , Rehm Jurgen T , Ritz Beate , Rivara Frederick P , Roberts Thomas , Robinson Carolyn , Rodriguez-Portales Jose A , Romieu Isabelle , Room Robin , Rosenfeld Lisa C , Roy Ananya , Rushton Lesley , Salomon Joshua A , Sampson Uchechukwu , Sanchez-Riera Lidia , Sanman Ella , Sapkota Amir , Seedat Soraya , Shi Peilin , Shield Kevin , Shivakoti Rupak , Singh Gitanjali M , Sleet David A , Smith Emma , Smith Kirk R , Stapelberg Nicolas J C , Steenland Kyle , Stockl Heidi , Stovner Lars Jacob , Straif Kurt , Straney Lahn , Thurston George D , Tran Jimmy H , Van Dingenen Rita , van Donkelaar Aaron , Veerman J Lennert , Vijayakumar Lakshmi , Weintraub Robert , Weissman Myrna M , White Richard A , Whiteford Harvey , Wiersma Steven T , Wilkinson James D , Williams Hywel C , Williams Warwick , Wilson Nicholas , Woolf Anthony D , Yip Paul , Zielinski Jan M , Lopez Alan D , Murray Christopher J L , Ezzati Majid , Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 . Lancet 2013 380 (9859) 2224-60 BACKGROUND: Quantification of the disease burden caused by different risks informs prevention by providing an account of health loss different to that provided by a disease-by-disease analysis. No complete revision of global disease burden caused by risk factors has been done since a comparative risk assessment in 2000, and no previous analysis has assessed changes in burden attributable to risk factors over time. METHODS: We estimated deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs; sum of years lived with disability [YLD] and years of life lost [YLL]) attributable to the independent effects of 67 risk factors and clusters of risk factors for 21 regions in 1990 and 2010. We estimated exposure distributions for each year, region, sex, and age group, and relative risks per unit of exposure by systematically reviewing and synthesising published and unpublished data. We used these estimates, together with estimates of cause-specific deaths and DALYs from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010, to calculate the burden attributable to each risk factor exposure compared with the theoretical-minimum-risk exposure. We incorporated uncertainty in disease burden, relative risks, and exposures into our estimates of attributable burden. FINDINGS: In 2010, the three leading risk factors for global disease burden were high blood pressure (7.0% [95% uncertainty interval 6.2-7.7] of global DALYs), tobacco smoking including second-hand smoke (6.3% [5.5-7.0]), and alcohol use (5.5% [5.0-5.9]). In 1990, the leading risks were childhood underweight (7.9% [6.8-9.4]), household air pollution from solid fuels (HAP; 7.0% [5.6-8.3]), and tobacco smoking including second-hand smoke (6.1% [5.4-6.8]). Dietary risk factors and physical inactivity collectively accounted for 10.0% (95% UI 9.2-10.8) of global DALYs in 2010, with the most prominent dietary risks being diets low in fruits and those high in sodium. Several risks that primarily affect childhood communicable diseases, including unimproved water and sanitation and childhood micronutrient deficiencies, fell in rank between 1990 and 2010, with unimproved water and sanitation accounting for 0.9% (0.4-1.6) of global DALYs in 2010. However, in most of sub-Saharan Africa childhood underweight, HAP, and non-exclusive and discontinued breastfeeding were the leading risks in 2010, while HAP was the leading risk in south Asia. The leading risk factor in Eastern Europe, most of Latin America, and southern sub-Saharan Africa in 2010 was alcohol use; in most of Asia, North Africa and Middle East, and central Europe it was high blood pressure. Despite declines, tobacco smoking including second-hand smoke remained the leading risk in high-income north America and western Europe. High body-mass index has increased globally and it is the leading risk in Australasia and southern Latin America, and also ranks high in other high-income regions, North Africa and Middle East, and Oceania. INTERPRETATION: Worldwide, the contribution of different risk factors to disease burden has changed substantially, with a shift away from risks for communicable diseases in children towards those for non-communicable diseases in adults. These changes are related to the ageing population, decreased mortality among children younger than 5 years, changes in cause-of-death composition, and changes in risk factor exposures. New evidence has led to changes in the magnitude of key risks including unimproved water and sanitation, vitamin A and zinc deficiencies, and ambient particulate matter pollution. The extent to which the epidemiological shift has occurred and what the leading risks currently are varies greatly across regions. In much of sub-Saharan Africa, the leading risks are still those associated with poverty and those that affect children. FUNDING: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. |
Impact of USA300 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on clinical outcomes of patients with pneumonia or central line-associated bloodstream infections
Lessa FC , Mu Y , Ray SM , Dumyati G , Bulens S , Gorwitz RJ , Fosheim G , Devries A , Schaffner W , Nadle J , Gershman K , Fridkin SK . Clin Infect Dis 2012 55 (2) 232-41 BACKGROUND: Many assumed high morbidity and mortality would accompany the emergence of MRSA USA300 infections as a cause of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). We evaluated patients with invasive MRSA infections to assess differences in outcomes between infections caused by USA100 and USA300. METHODS: Population-based data for invasive MRSA infections were used to identify two cohorts: (1) non-dialysis patients with central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI); and (2) patients with community-onset pneumonia (PNEUMO) during 2005-2007 from 6 US metropolitan areas. Medical records of patients with confirmed MRSA USA100 or USA300 were reviewed. Logistic regression and, when appropriate, survival analysis was performed to evaluate mortality, early and late complications, and length of stay. RESULTS: A total of 236 and 100 patients were included in the CLABSI and PNEUMO cohorts, respectively. USA300 was the only independent predictor of early complications for PNEUMO patients (OR=2.6, P=.02). Independent predictors of CLABSI late complications included intensive care unit (ICU) admission before MRSA culture (aOR=2.1, P=.01) and Charlson comorbidity index (aOR=2.6; P=.003), but not strain type. PNEUMO patients were significantly more likely to die if they were older (P=.02), black (P<.001) or infected with USA100 strain (P=.02); while those with CLABSI were more likely to die if they were older (P<.001), had comorbidities (P<.001) or had an ICU admission before MRSA culture (P=.001). CONCLUSIONS: USA300 was associated with early complications in PNEUMO patients. However, it was not associated with mortality for either PNEUMO or CLABSI patients. Concerns regarding higher mortality from HAIs caused by USA300 may not be warranted. |
Fatal Naegleria fowleri infection acquired in Minnesota: possible expanded range of a deadly thermophilic organism
Kemble SK , Lynfield R , Devries AS , Drehner DM , Pomputius WF 3rd , Beach MJ , Visvesvara GS , da Silva AJ , Hill VR , Yoder JS , Xiao L , Smith KE , Danila R . Clin Infect Dis 2012 54 (6) 805-9 BACKGROUND: Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), caused by the free-living ameba Naegleria fowleri, has historically been associated with warm freshwater exposures at lower latitudes of the United States. In August 2010, a Minnesota resident, aged 7 years, died of rapidly progressive meningoencephalitis after local freshwater exposures, with no history of travel outside the state. PAM was suspected on the basis of amebae observed in cerebrospinal fluid. METHODS: Water and sediment samples were collected at locations where the patient swam during the 2 weeks preceding illness onset. Patient and environmental samples were tested for N. fowleri with use of culture and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR); isolates were genotyped. Historic local ambient temperature data were obtained. RESULTS: N. fowleri isolated from a specimen of the patient's brain and from water and sediment samples was confirmed using PCR as N. fowleri genotype 3. Surface water temperatures at the times of collection of the positive environmental samples ranged from 22.1 degrees C to 24.5 degrees C. August 2010 average air temperature near the exposure site was 25 degrees C, 3.6 degrees C above normal and the third warmest for August in the Minneapolis area since 1891. CONCLUSIONS: This first reported case of PAM acquired in Minnesota occurred 550 miles north of the previously reported northernmost case in the Americas. Clinicians should be aware that N. fowleri-associated PAM can occur in areas at much higher latitude than previously described. Local weather patterns and long-term climate change could impact the frequency of PAM. |
Neuraminidase H275Y and hemagglutinin D222G mutations in a fatal case of 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
Devries A , Wotton J , Lees C , Boxrud D , Uyeki T , Lynfield R . Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2012 6 (6) e85-8 Oseltamivir-resistant 2009 H1N1 influenza virus infections associated with neuraminidase (NA) H275Y have been identified sporadically. Strains possessing the hemagglutinin (HA) D222G mutation have been detected in small numbers of fatal 2009 H1N1 cases. We report the first clinical description of 2009 H1N1 virus infection with both NA-H275Y and HA-D222G mutations detected by pyrosequencing of bronchioalveolar lavage fluid obtained on symptom day 19. The 59-year-old immunosuppressed patient had multiple conditions conferring higher risk of prolonged viral replication and severe illness and died on symptom day 34. Further investigations are needed to determine the significance of infection with strains possessing NA-H275Y and HA-D222G. |
Vaccine-derived poliomyelitis 12 years after infection in Minnesota
DeVries AS , Harper J , Murray A , Lexau C , Bahta L , Christensen J , Cebelinski E , Fuller S , Kline S , Wallace GS , Shaw JH , Burns CC , Lynfield R . N Engl J Med 2011 364 (24) 2316-23 A 44-year-old woman with long-standing common variable immunodeficiency who was receiving intravenous immune globulin suddenly had paralysis of all four limbs and the respiratory muscles, resulting in death. Type 2 vaccine-derived poliovirus was isolated from stool. The viral capsid protein VP1 region had diverged from the vaccine strain at 12.3% of nucleotide positions, and the two attenuating substitutions had reverted to the wild-type sequence. Infection probably occurred 11.9 years earlier (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.9 to 13.2), when her child received the oral poliovirus vaccine. No secondary cases were identified among close contacts or 2038 screened health care workers. Patients with common variable immunodeficiency can be chronically infected with poliovirus, and poliomyelitis can develop despite treatment with intravenous immune globulin. |
Epidemiologic investigation of immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy among abattoir workers exposed to porcine brain
Holzbauer SM , DeVries AS , Sejvar JJ , Lees CH , Adjemian J , McQuiston JH , Medus C , Lexau CA , Harris JR , Recuenco SE , Belay ED , Howell JF , Buss BF , Hornig M , Gibbins JD , Brueck SE , Smith KE , Danila RN , Lipkin WI , Lachance DH , Dyck PJ , Lynfield R . PLoS One 2010 5 (3) e9782 BACKGROUND: In October 2007, a cluster of patients experiencing a novel polyradiculoneuropathy was identified at a pork abattoir (Plant A). Patients worked in the primary carcass processing area (warm room); the majority processed severed heads (head-table). An investigation was initiated to determine risk factors for illness. METHODS AND RESULTS: Symptoms of the reported patients were unlike previously described occupational associated illnesses. A case-control study was conducted at Plant A. A case was defined as evidence of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and compatible electrodiagnostic testing in a pork abattoir worker. Two control groups were used - randomly selected non-ill warm-room workers (n = 49), and all non-ill head-table workers (n = 56). Consenting cases and controls were interviewed and blood and throat swabs were collected. The 26 largest U.S. pork abattoirs were surveyed to identify additional cases. Fifteen cases were identified at Plant A; illness onsets occurred during May 2004-November 2007. Median age was 32 years (range, 21-55 years). Cases were more likely than warm-room controls to have ever worked at the head-table (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 6.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.6-26.7), removed brains or removed muscle from the backs of heads (AOR, 10.3; 95% CI, 1.5-68.5), and worked within 0-10 feet of the brain removal operation (AOR, 9.9; 95% CI, 1.2-80.0). Associations remained when comparing head-table cases and head-table controls. Workers removed brains by using compressed air that liquefied brain and generated aerosolized droplets, exposing themselves and nearby workers. Eight additional cases were identified in the only two other abattoirs using this technique. The three abattoirs that used this technique have stopped brain removal, and no new cases have been reported after 24 months of follow up. Cases compared to controls had higher median interferon-gamma (IFNgamma) levels (21.7 pg/ml; vs 14.8 pg/ml, P<0.001). DISCUSSION: This novel polyradiculoneuropathy was associated with removing porcine brains with compressed air. An autoimmune mechanism is supported by higher levels of IFNgamma in cases than in controls consistent with other immune mediated illnesses occurring in association with neural tissue exposure. Abattoirs should not use compressed air to remove brains and should avoid procedures that aerosolize CNS tissue. This outbreak highlights the potential for respiratory or mucosal exposure to cause an immune-mediated illness in an occupational setting. |
An outbreak of neurological autoimmunity with polyradiculoneuropathy in workers exposed to aerosolised porcine neural tissue: a descriptive study
Lachance DH , Lennon VA , Pittock SJ , Tracy JA , Krecke KN , Amrami KK , Poeschla EM , Orenstein R , Scheithauer BW , Sejvar JJ , Holzbauer S , Devries AS , Dyck PJ . Lancet Neurol 2010 9 (1) 55-66 BACKGROUND: Between November, 2006, and May, 2008, a subacute neurological syndrome affected workers from two swine abattoirs in Minnesota and Indiana who had occupational exposure to aerosolised porcine brain. We aimed to describe the pathogenic and immunological characteristics of this illness. METHODS: All patients from two abattoirs who presented or were referred to the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN, USA) with neurological symptoms were included. We recorded details of exposure to aerosolised brain tissue and did comprehensive neurological, laboratory, neuroimaging, electrophysiological, pathological, and autoimmune serological assessments. Healthy controls were recruited from the community and from workers at the plant in Minnesota. FINDINGS: 24 patients were identified (21 from Minnesota, three from Indiana). The shortest duration from first exposure to symptom onset was 4 weeks. No infectious agent that could trigger disease was identified. All patients developed polyradiculoneuropathy, which was usually sensory predominant and painful. Two patients had initial CNS manifestations: transverse myelitis and meningoencephalitis. Nerve conduction studies localised abnormalities to the most proximal and distal nerve segments. Quantitative sensory and autonomic testing revealed involvement of large and small sensory fibres and sweat fibres. MRI showed prominent abnormalities of roots and ganglia. Nerve biopsies identified mild demyelination, axonal degeneration, and perivascular inflammation. Protein concentrations were high in the CSF of 18 (86%) of 21 patients. Sera from all patients and 29 (34%) of 85 unaffected workplace controls (but none of 178 community controls) had a distinctive neural-reactive IgG; 75% of patients' sera contained an IgG specific to myelin basic protein. Seropositivity correlated directly with exposure risk in patients and controls. 17 patients required immunomodulatory therapies, six improved spontaneously, and one was lost to follow-up after exposure stopped. INTERPRETATION: The neurological disorder described is autoimmune in origin and is related to occupational exposure to multiple aerosolised porcine brain tissue antigens. The pattern of nerve involvement suggests vulnerability of nerve roots and terminals where the blood-nerve barrier is most permeable. FUNDING: Mayo Clinic Foundation; Minnesota Department of Health; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. |
A clustering of immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy among swine abattoir workers exposed to aerosolized porcine brains, Indiana, United States
Adjemian JZ , Howell J , Holzbauer S , Harris J , Recuenco S , McQuiston J , Chester T , Lynfield R , Devries A , Belay E , Sejvar J . Int J Occup Environ Health 2009 15 (4) 331-8 In November 2007 a novel neuropathy, immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy (IP), was identified among workers at a Minnesota swine abattoir where a unique compressed air technique was used to remove porcine brains. An epidemiologic investigation at another abattoir in Indiana that also uses this process was launched to evaluate workers self-reporting neurologic illness compatible with IP. A nested case-control study was performed to identify cases and risk factors. Six confirmed, one probable, and three possible IP cases were detected. IP cases were 28-52 years old, of Latino origin, and 62.5% female. Onset dates ranged from April 2005-December 2007; 60% were hospitalized. IP cases at this plant were similar in clinical presentation and exposure risks to those detected in Minnesota. Swine abattoirs using similar brain extraction methods should discontinue this process. |
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