Last data update: May 06, 2024. (Total: 46732 publications since 2009)
Records 1-30 (of 42 Records) |
Query Trace: Mullins M[original query] |
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A Community Guide Systematic Review: Digital HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis interventions
Kamitani E , Peng Y , Hopkins D , Higa DH , Mullins MM . Am J Prev Med 2024 INTRODUCTION: HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective when taken as prescribed. Digital health adherence interventions have been identified as effective for improving antiretroviral therapy adherence among people with HIV, but limited evidence exists for PrEP adherence interventions among people without HIV. The purpose of this Community Guide systematic review was to present the characteristics and effectiveness of digital PrEP adherence interventions. METHODS: The author searched the CDC HIV Prevention Research Synthesis cumulative database for digital health interventions with PrEP adherence outcomes published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000-2022. Studies with comparison arms or pre-post data evaluating interventions in high-income countries were included. Two reviewers independently screened citations, extracted data, conducted risk of bias assessment, and resolved discrepancies through discussion. Summary effect estimates were calculated using median and interquartile interval. RESULTS: Nine studies were included and all focused on gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Eight studies were U.S.-based while the other was conducted in the Netherlands. Five were randomized control trials and four were pre-/post studies. All studies showed improved adherence in the intervention arms compared with comparison groups or pre-intervention data. One study also reported improvement in PrEP care retention. DISCUSSION: Digital health adherence interventions with different strategies to improve PrEP and HIV-related outcomes were identified. The small number of studies identified is a limitation. Findings from this review served as the basis for the Community Preventive Services Task Force recommendation to use these interventions to increase PrEP adherence to prevent HIV infection. |
An integrated process for co-developing and implementing written and computable clinical practice guidelines
Matson-Koffman DM , Robinson SJ , Jakhmola P , Fochtmann LJ , Willett D , Lubin IM , Burton MM , Tailor A , Pitts DL , Casey DE Jr , Opelka FG , Mullins R , Elder R , Michaels M . Am J Med Qual 2023 38 S12-s34 The goal of this article is to describe an integrated parallel process for the co-development of written and computable clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to accelerate adoption and increase the impact of guideline recommendations in clinical practice. From February 2018 through December 2021, interdisciplinary work groups were formed after an initial Kaizen event and using expert consensus and available literature, produced a 12-phase integrated process (IP). The IP includes activities, resources, and iterative feedback loops for developing, implementing, disseminating, communicating, and evaluating CPGs. The IP incorporates guideline standards and informatics practices and clarifies how informaticians, implementers, health communicators, evaluators, and clinicians can help guideline developers throughout the development and implementation cycle to effectively co-develop written and computable guidelines. More efficient processes are essential to create actionable CPGs, disseminate and communicate recommendations to clinical end users, and evaluate CPG performance. Pilot testing is underway to determine how this IP expedites the implementation of CPGs into clinical practice and improves guideline uptake and health outcomes. |
Protocol for a sequential, prospective meta-analysis to describe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the pregnancy and postpartum periods (preprint)
Smith ER , Oakley E , He S , Zavala R , Ferguson K , Miller L , Grandner GW , Abejirinde IO , Afshar Y , Ahmadzia H , Aldrovandi G , Akelo V , Tippett Barr BA , Bevilacqua E , Brandt JS , Broutet N , Fernández Buhigas I , Carrillo J , Clifton R , Conry J , Cosmi E , Delgado-López C , Divakar H , Driscoll AJ , Favre G , Flaherman V , Gale C , Gil MM , Godwin C , Gottlieb S , Hernandez Bellolio O , Kara E , Khagayi S , Kim CR , Knight M , Kotloff K , Lanzone A , Le Doare K , Lees C , Litman E , Lokken EM , Laurita Longo V , Magee LA , Martinez-Portilla RJ , McClure E , Metz TD , Money D , Mullins E , Nachega JB , Panchaud A , Playle R , Poon LC , Raiten D , Regan L , Rukundo G , Sanin-Blair J , Temmerman M , Thorson A , Thwin S , Tolosa JE , Townson J , Valencia-Prado M , Visentin S , von Dadelszen P , Adams Waldorf K , Whitehead C , Yang H , Thorlund K , Tielsch JM . medRxiv 2022 2020.11.08.20228056 We urgently need answers to basic epidemiological questions regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant and postpartum women and its effect on their newborns. While many national registries, health facilities, and research groups are collecting relevant data, we need a collaborative and methodologically rigorous approach to better combine these data and address knowledge gaps, especially those related to rare outcomes. We propose that using a sequential, prospective meta-analysis (PMA) is the best approach to generate data for policy- and practice-oriented guidelines. As the pandemic evolves, additional studies identified retrospectively by the steering committee or through living systematic reviews will be invited to participate in this PMA. Investigators can contribute to the PMA by either submitting individual patient data or running standardized code to generate aggregate data estimates. For the primary analysis, we will pool data using two-stage meta-analysis methods. The meta-analyses will be updated as additional data accrue in each contributing study and as additional studies meet study-specific time or data accrual thresholds for sharing. At the time of publication, investigators of 25 studies, including more than 76,000 pregnancies, in 41 countries had agreed to share data for this analysis. Among the included studies, 12 have a contemporaneous comparison group of pregnancies without COVID-19, and four studies include a comparison group of non-pregnant women of reproductive age with COVID-19. Protocols and updates will be maintained publicly. Results will be shared with key stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO) Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (MNCAH) Research Working Group. Data contributors will share results with local stakeholders. Scientific publications will be published in open-access journals on an ongoing basis.Competing Interest StatementClare Whitehead declares a a relationship with the following entities, Ferring Pharmaceuticals COVID19 Investigational, Grant, NHMRC Fellowship (salary support). Alice Panchaud declares the following research grants to institution: H2020-Grant (Consortium member of Innovative medicine initiative call 13 topic 9) (ConcePTION), Efficacy and safety studies on Medicines EMA/2017/09/PE/11, Lot 4, WP 2 lead (CONSIGN: Study on impact of COVID-19 infection and medicines in pregnancy), Safety monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU Reopening of competition no. 20 under a framework contract following procurement procedure EMA/2017/09/PE (Lot 3) 4. Federal Office of Public Health (207000 CHF). (The COVI-Preg registry). Edward Mullins declares a relationship with the following entities National Institute for Health Research (Project grant for PAN COVID study) Deborah Money declares a relationship with the following entities, Canadian Institutes of Health Research (payments to my institution only), Public Health Agency of Canada (payments to my institution only), BC Womens Foundation (payments to my institution only) and is a Member of the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force sponsored by the Canadian government. Torri D. Metz declares a relationship with the following entities, Pfizer (site Principal Investigator for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnancy study, money paid to institution and member of Medical Advisory Board for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnancy study, money paid to me), NICHD (subcommittee Chair for the NICHD Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network Gestational Research Assessments of COVID-19 (GRAVID) study), and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (board member). Erica Lokken declares a relationship with the following entity, US NIH (paid institution). Karen L. Kotloff declares a relationship with the following entity, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Siran He declares a relationship with the following entity, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundtion (payments made to my institution). Valerie Flaherman declares a relationship with the following entities, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (payments to my institution), Yellow Chair Foundati n (payments to my institution), Robert Woods Johnson Foundation (payments to my institution), CDC Foundation, California Health Care Foundation (payments to my institution), Tara Health Foundation (payments to my institution), UCSF Womens Health Center of Excellence (payments to my institution) and California Department of Health Care Services (payments made to my institution). Jose Sanin-Blair declares a relationship with the following entity, Ferring Pharmaceuticals which give a grant ($10,000) for the expenses of RECOGEST trial and is a part of the Columbian Federation of Perinatology Yalda Afshar declares a relationship with the following entities, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (payments made to my institution), CDC Foundation (payments made to my institution), Robert Woods Johnson Foundation (payments made to my institution), and UCLA Deans Office COVID-19 research (payments made to my institution). Rebecca Cliffton declares a relationship with the following entity, NIH HD36801 (MFMU Network DCC).Clinical TrialPROSPERO ID: 188955Funding StatementFunded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grant to Emily Smith (INV-022057) at George Washington University and a grant to Emily Smith via a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to Stephanie Gaw (INV-017035) at University of California San Francisco.Author DeclarationsI confirm all relevant ethical guidelines have been followed, and any necessary IRB and/or ethics committee approvals have been obtained.YesThe details of the IRB/oversight body that provided approval or exemption for the research described are given below:This is a protocol paper and thus exempt from ethical approval. Ultimately, the meta-analysis study is exempt from human research ethics approval as the study authors will be synthesizing de-identified or aggregate data.I confirm that all necessary patient/participant consent has been obtained and the appropriate institutional forms have been archived, and that any patient/participant/sample identifiers included were not known to anyone (e.g., hospital staff, patients or participants themselves) outside the research group so cannot be used to identify individuals.YesI understand that all clinical trials and any other prospective interventional studies must be registered with an ICMJE-approved registry, such as ClinicalTrials.gov. I confirm that any such study reported in the manuscript has been registered and the trial registration ID is provided (note: if posting a prospective study registered retrospectively, please provide a statement in the trial ID field explaining why the study was not registered in advance).YesI have followed all appropriate research reporting guidelines and uploaded the relevant EQUATOR Network research reporting checklist(s) and other pertinent material as supplementary files, if applicable.YesThis is a protocol paper and there is no related data to share. |
Systematic review of social determinants of health associated with HIV testing among Hispanic/Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the United States
Crepaz N , Salabarría-Peña Y , Mullins MM , Gunn JKL , Higa DH . AIDS Educ Prev 2023 35 (1) 36-s6 This systematic review synthesized published literature (January 2008-October 2021) about the association between social determinants of health (SDOH) and HIV testing among Hispanic/Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (HLMSM), a group disproportionally affected by HIV. Having higher education than a high school diploma, health insurance and access to health care services, and visiting a health care provider in the past 12 months were some of the determinants associated with HIV testing, while limited English proficiency was associated with reduced odds of HIV-testing among HLMSM. More research is needed to understand the relationship of SDOH (especially neighborhood) and HIV testing, how SDOH may affect HIV testing among different HLMSM groups, and how to increase self-testing and use of e-health in this priority population. Additionally, culturally and linguistically appropriate multilevel interventions and health services for HLMSM are urgently needed to diagnose HIV as early as possible after infection. |
Adverse maternal, fetal, and newborn outcomes among pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection: an individual participant data meta-analysis
Smith ER , Oakley E , Grandner GW , Ferguson K , Farooq F , Afshar Y , Ahlberg M , Ahmadzia H , Akelo V , Aldrovandi G , Tippett Barr BA , Bevilacqua E , Brandt JS , Broutet N , Fernández Buhigas I , Carrillo J , Clifton R , Conry J , Cosmi E , Crispi F , Crovetto F , Delgado-López C , Divakar H , Driscoll AJ , Favre G , Flaherman VJ , Gale C , Gil MM , Gottlieb SL , Gratacós E , Hernandez O , Jones S , Kalafat E , Khagayi S , Knight M , Kotloff K , Lanzone A , Le Doare K , Lees C , Litman E , Lokken EM , Laurita Longo V , Madhi SA , Magee LA , Martinez-Portilla RJ , McClure EM , Metz TD , Miller ES , Money D , Moungmaithong S , Mullins E , Nachega JB , Nunes MC , Onyango D , Panchaud A , Poon LC , Raiten D , Regan L , Rukundo G , Sahota D , Sakowicz A , Sanin-Blair J , Söderling J , Stephansson O , Temmerman M , Thorson A , Tolosa JE , Townson J , Valencia-Prado M , Visentin S , von Dadelszen P , Adams Waldorf K , Whitehead C , Yassa M , Tielsch JM . BMJ Glob Health 2023 8 (1) INTRODUCTION: Despite a growing body of research on the risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, there is continued controversy given heterogeneity in the quality and design of published studies. METHODS: We screened ongoing studies in our sequential, prospective meta-analysis. We pooled individual participant data to estimate the absolute and relative risk (RR) of adverse outcomes among pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection, compared with confirmed negative pregnancies. We evaluated the risk of bias using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: We screened 137 studies and included 12 studies in 12 countries involving 13 136 pregnant women.Pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection-as compared with uninfected pregnant women-were at significantly increased risk of maternal mortality (10 studies; n=1490; RR 7.68, 95% CI 1.70 to 34.61); admission to intensive care unit (8 studies; n=6660; RR 3.81, 95% CI 2.03 to 7.17); receiving mechanical ventilation (7 studies; n=4887; RR 15.23, 95% CI 4.32 to 53.71); receiving any critical care (7 studies; n=4735; RR 5.48, 95% CI 2.57 to 11.72); and being diagnosed with pneumonia (6 studies; n=4573; RR 23.46, 95% CI 3.03 to 181.39) and thromboembolic disease (8 studies; n=5146; RR 5.50, 95% CI 1.12 to 27.12).Neonates born to women with SARS-CoV-2 infection were more likely to be admitted to a neonatal care unit after birth (7 studies; n=7637; RR 1.86, 95% CI 1.12 to 3.08); be born preterm (7 studies; n=6233; RR 1.71, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.29) or moderately preterm (7 studies; n=6071; RR 2.92, 95% CI 1.88 to 4.54); and to be born low birth weight (12 studies; n=11 930; RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.40). Infection was not linked to stillbirth. Studies were generally at low or moderate risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection at any time during pregnancy increases the risk of maternal death, severe maternal morbidities and neonatal morbidity, but not stillbirth or intrauterine growth restriction. As more data become available, we will update these findings per the published protocol. |
Clinical risk factors of adverse outcomes among women with COVID-19 in the pregnancy and postpartum period: A sequential, prospective meta-analysis.
Smith ER , Oakley E , Grandner GW , Rukundo G , Farooq F , Ferguson K , Baumann S , Waldorf KA , Afshar Y , Ahlberg M , Ahmadzia H , Akelo V , Aldrovandi G , Bevilacqua E , Bracero N , Brandt JS , Broutet N , Carrillo J , Conry J , Cosmi E , Crispi F , Crovetto F , Gil MDM , Delgado-Lpez C , Divakar H , Driscoll AJ , Favre G , Buhigas IF , Flaherman V , Gale C , Godwin CL , Gottlieb S , Gratacs E , He S , Hernandez O , Jones S , Joshi S , Kalafat E , Khagayi S , Knight M , Kotloff K , Lanzone A , Longo VL , LeDoare K , Lees C , Litman E , Lokken EM , Madhi SA , Magee LA , Martinez-Portilla RJ , Metz TD , Miller ES , Money D , Moungmaithong S , Mullins E , Nachega JB , Nunes MC , Onyango D , Panchaud A , Poon LC , Raiten D , Regan L , Sahota D , Sakowicz A , Sanin-Blair J , Stephansson O , Temmerman M , Thorson A , Thwin SS , TippettBarr BA , Tolosa JE , Tug N , Valencia-Prado M , Visentin S , vonDadelszen P , Whitehead C , Wood M , Yang H , Zavala R , Tielsch JM . Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022 228 (2) 161-177 OBJECTIVE: This sequential, prospective meta-analysis (sPMA) sought to identify risk factors among pregnant and postpartum women with COVID-19 for adverse outcomes related to: disease severity, maternal morbidities, neonatal mortality and morbidity, adverse birth outcomes. DATA SOURCES: We prospectively invited study investigators to join the sPMA via professional research networks beginning in March 2020. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Eligible studies included those recruiting at least 25 consecutive cases of COVID-19 in pregnancy within a defined catchment area. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS: We included individual patient data from 21 participating studies. Data quality was assessed, and harmonized variables for risk factors and outcomes were constructed. Duplicate cases were removed. Pooled estimates for the absolute and relative risk of adverse outcomes comparing those with and without each risk factor were generated using a two-stage meta-analysis. RESULTS: We collected data from 33 countries and territories, including 21,977 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy or postpartum. We found that women with comorbidities (pre-existing diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease) versus those without were at higher risk for COVID-19 severity and pregnancy health outcomes (fetal death, preterm birth, low birthweight). Participants with COVID-19 and HIV were 1.74 times (95% CI: 1.12, 2.71) more likely to be admitted to the ICU. Pregnant women who were underweight before pregnancy were at higher risk of ICU admission (RR 5.53, 95% CI: 2.27, 13.44), ventilation (RR 9.36, 95% CI: 3.87, 22.63), and pregnancy-related death (RR 14.10, 95% CI: 2.83, 70.36). Pre-pregnancy obesity was also a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes including ICU admission (RR 1.81, 95% CI: 1.26,2.60), ventilation (RR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.20,3.51), any critical care (RR 1.89, 95% CI: 1.28,2.77), and pneumonia (RR 1.66, 95% CI: 1.18,2.33). Anemic pregnant women with COVID-19 also had increased risk of ICU admission (RR 1.63, 95% CI: 1.25, 2.11) and death (RR 2.36, 95% CI: 1.15, 4.81). CONCLUSION: We found that pregnant women with comorbidities including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease were at increased risk for severe COVID-19-related outcomes, maternal morbidities, and adverse birth outcomes. We also identified several less commonly-known risk factors, including HIV infection, pre-pregnancy underweight, and anemia. Although pregnant women are already considered a high-risk population, special priority for prevention and treatment should be given to pregnant women with these additional risk factors. |
Protocol for a sequential, prospective meta-analysis to describe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the pregnancy and postpartum periods.
Smith ER , Oakley E , He S , Zavala R , Ferguson K , Miller L , Grandner GW , Abejirinde IO , Afshar Y , Ahmadzia H , Aldrovandi G , Akelo V , Tippett Barr BA , Bevilacqua E , Brandt JS , Broutet N , Fernández Buhigas I , Carrillo J , Clifton R , Conry J , Cosmi E , Delgado-López C , Divakar H , Driscoll AJ , Favre G , Flaherman V , Gale C , Gil MM , Godwin C , Gottlieb S , Hernandez Bellolio O , Kara E , Khagayi S , Kim CR , Knight M , Kotloff K , Lanzone A , Le Doare K , Lees C , Litman E , Lokken EM , Laurita Longo V , Magee LA , Martinez-Portilla RJ , McClure E , Metz TD , Money D , Mullins E , Nachega JB , Panchaud A , Playle R , Poon LC , Raiten D , Regan L , Rukundo G , Sanin-Blair J , Temmerman M , Thorson A , Thwin S , Tolosa JE , Townson J , Valencia-Prado M , Visentin S , von Dadelszen P , Adams Waldorf K , Whitehead C , Yang H , Thorlund K , Tielsch JM . PLoS One 2022 17 (6) e0270150 We urgently need answers to basic epidemiological questions regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant and postpartum women and its effect on their newborns. While many national registries, health facilities, and research groups are collecting relevant data, we need a collaborative and methodologically rigorous approach to better combine these data and address knowledge gaps, especially those related to rare outcomes. We propose that using a sequential, prospective meta-analysis (PMA) is the best approach to generate data for policy- and practice-oriented guidelines. As the pandemic evolves, additional studies identified retrospectively by the steering committee or through living systematic reviews will be invited to participate in this PMA. Investigators can contribute to the PMA by either submitting individual patient data or running standardized code to generate aggregate data estimates. For the primary analysis, we will pool data using two-stage meta-analysis methods. The meta-analyses will be updated as additional data accrue in each contributing study and as additional studies meet study-specific time or data accrual thresholds for sharing. At the time of publication, investigators of 25 studies, including more than 76,000 pregnancies, in 41 countries had agreed to share data for this analysis. Among the included studies, 12 have a contemporaneous comparison group of pregnancies without COVID-19, and four studies include a comparison group of non-pregnant women of reproductive age with COVID-19. Protocols and updates will be maintained publicly. Results will be shared with key stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO) Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (MNCAH) Research Working Group. Data contributors will share results with local stakeholders. Scientific publications will be published in open-access journals on an ongoing basis. |
Potential quantitative effect of a laboratory-based approach to Lyme disease surveillance in high-incidence states
Kugeler KJ , Cervantes K , Brown CM , Horiuchi K , Schiffman E , Lind L , Barkley J , Broyhill J , Murphy J , Crum D , Robinson S , Kwit NA , Mullins J , Sun J , Hinckley AF . Zoonoses Public Health 2022 69 (5) 451-457 Historically, public health surveillance for Lyme disease has required clinical follow-up on positive laboratory reports for the purpose of case classification. In areas with sustained high incidence of the disease, this resource-intensive activity yields a limited benefit to public health practice. A range of burden-reducing strategies have been implemented in many states, creating inconsistencies that limit the ability to decipher trends. Laboratory-based surveillance, or surveillance based solely on positive laboratory reports without follow-up for clinical information on positive laboratory reports, emerged as a feasible alternative to improve standardization in already high-incidence areas. To inform expectations of a laboratory-based surveillance model, we conducted a retrospective analysis of Lyme disease data collected during 2012-2018 from 10 high-incidence states. The number of individuals with laboratory evidence of infection ranged from 1302 to 20,994 per state and year. On average, 55% of those were ultimately classified as confirmed or probable cases (range: 29%-86%). Among all individuals with positive laboratory evidence, 18% (range: 2%-37%) were determined to be 'not a case' upon investigation and 23% (range: 2%-52%) were classified as suspect cases due to lack of associated clinical information and thus were not reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The number of reported cases under a laboratory-based approach to surveillance in high-incidence states using recommended two-tier testing algorithms is likely to be, on average, 1.2 times higher (range: 0.6-1.8 times) than what was reported to CDC during 2012-2018. A laboratory-based surveillance approach for high-incidence states will improve standardization and reduce burden on public health systems, allowing public health resources to focus on prevention messaging, exploration of novel prevention strategies and alternative data sources to yield information on the epidemiology of Lyme disease. |
Strategies to improve HIV care outcomes for people with HIV who are out of care: a meta-analysis
Higa DH , Crepaz N , Mullins MM , Adegbite-Johnson A , Gunn JKL , Denard C , Mizuno Y . AIDS 2022 36 (6) 853-862 OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of five intervention strategies: patient navigation, appointment help/alerts, psychosocial support, transportation/appointment accompaniment, and data-to-care on HIV care outcomes among persons with HIV (PWH) who are out of care (OOC). DESIGN: A systematic review with meta-analysis. METHODS: We searched CDC's Prevention Research Synthesis (PRS) Project's cumulative HIV database to identify intervention studies conducted in the U.S., published between 2000 and 2020 that included comparisons between groups or prepost, and reported at least one relevant outcome (i.e., re-engagement and retention in HIV care, and viral suppression). Effect sizes were meta-analyzed using random-effect models to assess intervention effectiveness. RESULTS: Thirty-nine studies reporting on 42 unique interventions met the inclusion criteria. Overall, intervention strategies are effective in improving re-engagement in care [odds ratio (OR) = 1.79; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.36-2.36, k = 14], retention in care (OR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.64-2.64, k = 22), and viral suppression (OR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.87-3.34, k = 27). Patient navigation, appointment help/alerts, psychosocial support, and transportation/appointment accompaniment improved all three HIV care outcomes. Data-to-care improved re-engagement and retention but had insufficient evidence for viral suppression. CONCLUSION: Several strategies are effective for improving HIV care outcomes among PWH who are OOC. More work is still needed for consistent definitions of OCC and HIV care outcomes, better reporting of intervention and cost data, and identifying how best to implement and scale-up effective strategies to engage and retain OOC PWH in care and reach the ending the HIV epidemic goals. |
Agritourism and Kidding Season: A Large Outbreak of Human Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli O157 (STEC O157) Infections Linked to a Goat Dairy Farm-Connecticut, 2016.
Nichols MC , Gacek P , Phan Q , Gambino-Shirley KJ , Gollarza LM , Schroeder MN , Mercante A , Mullins J , Blackstock A , Laughlin ME , Olson SM , Pizzo E , Nguyen TN , Mank L , Holmes-Talbot K , McNutt A , Noel D , Muyombwe A , Razeq JH , Lis MJ , Sherman B , Kasacek W , Whitlock L , Strockbine N , Martin H , Vidyaprakash E , McCormack P , Cartter M . Front Vet Sci 2021 8 744055 The objective of this study was to determine sources of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157 (STEC O157) infection among visitors to Farm X and develop public health recommendations. A case-control study was conducted. Case-patients were defined as the first ill child (aged <18 years) in the household with laboratory-confirmed STEC O157, or physician-diagnosed hemolytic uremic syndrome with laboratory confirmation by serology, who visited Farm X in the 10 days prior to illness. Controls were selected from Farm X visitors aged <18 years, without symptoms during the same time period as case-patients. Environment and animal fecal samples collected from Farm X were cultured; isolates from Farm X were compared with patient isolates using whole genome sequencing (WGS). Case-patients were more likely than controls to have sat on hay bales at the doe barn (adjusted odds ratio: 4.55; 95% confidence interval: 1.41-16.13). No handwashing stations were available; limited hand sanitizer was provided. Overall, 37% (29 of 78) of animal and environmental samples collected were positive for STEC; of these, 62% (18 of 29) yielded STEC O157 highly related by WGS to patient isolates. STEC O157 environmental contamination and fecal shedding by goats at Farm X was extensive. Farms should provide handwashing stations with soap, running water, and disposable towels. Access to animal areas, including animal pens and enclosures, should be limited for young children who are at risk for severe outcomes from STEC O157 infection. National recommendations should be adopted to reduce disease transmission. |
HIV care outcomes among transgender persons with HIV infection in the United States: a systematic review and meta-analysis, 2006-2021
Becasen JS , Morris JD , Denard CL , Mullins MM , Kota KK , Higa DH . AIDS 2021 36 (2) 305-315 OBJECTIVES: HIV prevalence is an estimated 14% among transgender women (TW) and 3% among transgender men (TM). HIV care is vital for viral suppression but is hindered by transphobia and HIV stigma. We assessed HIV care outcomes among transgender persons (TG) with HIV in the United States. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed journal articles. METHODS: We searched multiple electronic databases and CDC's HIV Prevention Research Synthesis database for 2006-September 2018. Eligible reports were US-based studies that included TG and reported HIV care outcomes. Random-effects models were used to calculate HIV care outcome rates. The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018079564). RESULTS: Few studies reported outcomes for TM; therefore, only TW meta-analysis results are reported. Twenty-one studies were identified having low-to-medium risk-of-bias scores. Among TW with HIV, 82% had ever received HIV care; 72% were receiving care, and 83% of those were retained in HIV care. Sixty-two percent were currently virally suppressed. Among those receiving HIV care or antiretroviral therapy (ART), 67% were virally suppressed at last test. Sixty-five percent were linked to HIV care ≤3 months after diagnosis. Seventy-one percent had ever been prescribed ART. Approximately 66% were taking ART, and 66% were ART-adherent. Only 56% were currently adherent the previous year. CONCLUSIONS: HIV care outcomes for TW were not ideal, and research gaps exists for TM. High heterogeneity was observed; therefore, caution should be taken interpreting the findings. Integrating transgender-specific health needs are needed to improve outcomes of transgender persons across the HIV care continuum. |
A rapid review of disparities in HIV prevention and care outcomes among Hispanic/Latino men who have sex with men in the United States
Crepaz N , Mullins MM , Higa D , Gunn JKL , Salabarría-Peña Y . AIDS Educ Prev 2021 33 (4) 276-289 In the United States, Hispanic/Latino men who have sex with men (HLMSM) are disproportionally affected by HIV. We conducted a rapid review of national surveillance data to examine disparities in HIV prevention and care outcomes among HLMSM. Thirteen reports provided relevant data from 2011 to 2018. Compared to White MSM, a higher percentage of HIV-negative HLMSM reported not taking PrEP and engaging in condomless sex; a lower percentage of HIV-negative HLMSM at risk for HIV reported PrEP awareness and use; and a lower percentage of HIV-positive HLMSM were aware of their status, linked to HIV care, and virally suppressed. Viral suppression rates in HLMSM were better among Ryan White clients than the national rates, suggesting that access to comprehensive care/services reduces disparities. Findings also call for identifying individual, social, and structural factors contributing to condomless sex without PrEP use and HIV status unawareness and identifying best approaches for scaling up comprehensive care/services. |
Research Synthesis, HIV Prevention Response, and Public Health: CDC's HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis Project
Koenig LJ , Lyles CM , Higa D , Mullins MM , Sipe TA . Public Health Rep 2021 137 (1) 33354920988871 OBJECTIVE: Research synthesis, through qualitative or quantitative systematic reviews, allows for integrating results of primary research to improve public health. We examined more than 2 decades of work in HIV prevention by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis (PRS) Project. We describe the context and contributions of research synthesis, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, through the experience of the PRS Project. METHODS: We reviewed PRS Project publications and products and summarized PRS contributions from 1996 to July 2020 in 4 areas: synthesis of interventions and epidemiologic studies, synthesis methods, prevention programs, and prevention policy. RESULTS: PRS Project publications summarized risk behaviors and effects of prevention interventions (eg, changing one's perception of risk, teaching condom negotiation skills) across populations at risk for HIV infection and intervention approaches (eg, one-on-one or group meetings) as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and science evolved. We used the PRS Project cumulative database and intervention efficacy reviews to contribute to prevention programs and policies through identification of evidence-based interventions and development of program guidance. Subject matter experts and scientific evidence informed PRS Project products and contributions, which were implemented through strategic programmatic partnerships. CONCLUSIONS: The contributions of the PRS Project to HIV prevention and public health efforts in the United States can be credited to CDC's long-standing support of the project and its context within a federal prevention agency, where HIV programs and policies were developed and implemented. The effect of the PRS Project was likely facilitated by opportunities to directly influence program and policy because of connections with other research translation activities and program and policy decision making within CDC. |
Nosocomial hepatitis A outbreak among healthcare workers and patients in a community hospital during an ongoing statewide outbreak.
Brennan J , Mullins H , Tobey K , Jones C , Kainer MA , Fiscus M , May S , Dunn JR , Schaffner W , Jones TF . Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2020 42 (2) 1-3 OBJECTIVE: The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) investigated a hepatitis A virus (HAV) outbreak to identify risk factors for infection and make prevention recommendations. DESIGN: Case series. SETTING: Community hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Healthcare workers (HCWs) or patients with laboratory-confirmed acute HAV infection during October 1, 2018-January 10, 2019. METHODS: HCWs with suspected or confirmed hepatitis A infections were interviewed to assess their exposures and activities. Patient medical records and hospital administrative records were reviewed to identify common exposures. We conducted a site investigation to assess knowledge of infection control practices among HCWs. Serum specimens from ill persons were tested for HAV RNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and genotyped. RESULTS: We identified 6 HCWs and 2 patients with laboratory-confirmed HAV infection. All cases likely resulted from exposure to a homeless patient with a history of recreational substance use and undiagnosed HAV infection. Breaches in hand hygiene and use of standard precautions were identified. HAV RNA was detected in 7 serum specimens and all belonged to an identical strain of HAV genotype 1b. CONCLUSIONS: A hepatitis A outbreak among hospital patients and HCWs resulted from exposure to a single patient with undiagnosed HAV infection. Breakdowns in infection control practices contributed to the outbreak. The likelihood of nosocomial transmission can be reduced with proper hand hygiene, standard precautions, and routine disinfection. During community outbreaks, medical providers can better prevent ongoing transmission by including hepatitis A in the differential diagnosis among patients with a history of recreational substance use and homelessness. |
Association Between CMS Quality Ratings and COVID-19 Outbreaks in Nursing Homes - West Virginia, March 17-June 11, 2020.
Bui DP , See I , Hesse EM , Varela K , Harvey RR , August EM , Winquist A , Mullins S , McBee S , Thomasson E , Atkins A . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020 69 (37) 1300-1304 Nursing homes are high-risk settings for outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (1,2). During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. health departments worked to improve infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in nursing homes to prevent outbreaks and limit the spread of COVID-19 in affected facilities; however, limited resources have hampered health departments' ability to rapidly provide IPC support to all nursing homes within their jurisdictions. Since 2008, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has published health inspection results and quality ratings based on their Five-Star Quality Rating System for all CMS-certified nursing homes (3); these ratings might be associated with facility-level risk factors for COVID-19 outbreaks. On April 17, 2020, West Virginia became the first state to mandate and conduct COVID-19 testing for all nursing home residents and staff members to identify and reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in these settings (4). West Virginia's census of nursing home outbreaks was used to examine associations between CMS star ratings and COVID-19 outbreaks. Outbreaks, defined as two or more cases within 14 days (with at least one resident case), were identified in 14 (11%) of 123 nursing homes. Compared with 1-star-rated (lowest rated) nursing homes, the odds of a COVID-19 outbreak were 87% lower among 2- to 3-star-rated facilities (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.03-0.54) and 94% lower among 4- to 5-star-rated facilities (aOR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.006-0.39). Health departments could use star ratings to help identify priority nursing homes in their jurisdictions to inform the allocation of IPC resources. Efforts to mitigate outbreaks in high-risk nursing homes are necessary to reduce overall COVID-19 mortality and associated disparities. Moreover, such efforts should incorporate activities to improve the overall quality of life and care of nursing home residents and staff members and address the social and health inequities that have been recognized as a prominent feature of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States (5). |
Human immunodeficiency virus prevention for people who use drugs: Overview of reviews and the ICOS of PICOS
Johnson WD , Rivadeneira N , Adegbite AH , Neumann MS , Mullins MM , Rooks-Peck C , Wichser ME , McDonald CM , Higa DH , Sipe TA . J Infect Dis 2020 222 S278-s300 BACKGROUND: This article summarizes the results from systematic reviews of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention interventions for people who use drugs (PWUD). We performed an overview of reviews, meta-analysis, meta-epidemiology, and PROSPERO Registration CRD42017070117. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature search using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis Project database to identify quantitative systematic reviews of HIV public heath interventions with PWUD published during 2002-2017. We recombined results of US studies across reviews to quantify effects on HIV infections, continuum of HIV care, sexual risk, and 5 drug-related outcomes (sharing injection equipment, injection frequency, opioid use, general drug use, and participation in drug treatment). We conducted summary meta-analyses separately for reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experiments. We stratified effects by 5 intervention types: behavioral-psychosocial (BPS), syringe service programs (SSP), opioid agonist therapy (OAT), financial and scheduling incentives (FSI), and case management (CM). RESULTS: We identified 16 eligible reviews including >140 US studies with >55 000 participants. Summary effects among US studies were significant and favorable for 4 of 5 outcomes measured under RCT (eg, reduced opioid use; odds ratio [OR] = 0.70, confidence interval [CI] = 0.56-0.89) and all 6 outcomes under quasi-experiments (eg, reduced HIV infection [OR = 0.42, CI = 0.27-0.63]; favorable continuum of HIV care [OR = 0.68, CI = 0.53-0.88]). Each intervention type showed effectiveness on 1-6 outcomes. Heterogeneity was moderate to none for RCT but moderate to high for quasi-experiments. CONCLUSIONS: Behavioral-psychosocial, SSP, OAT, FSI, and CM interventions are effective in reducing risk of HIV and sequelae of injection and other drug use, and they have a continuing role in addressing the opioid crisis and Ending the HIV Epidemic. |
Growth in proportion and disparities of HIV PrEP use among key populations identified in the United States national goals: systematic review & meta-analysis of published surveys
Kamitani E , Johnson WD , Wichser ME , Adegbite AH , Mullins MM , Sipe TA . J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020 84 (4) 379-386 BACKGROUD: PrEP use among populations most vulnerable to HIV as identified in national HIV prevention goals is not fully known. This systematic review assessed trends of lifetime self-reported PrEP use and disparities among key populations. METHODS: We used CDC HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis cumulative database of electronic and manual searches in MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO from 2000-2019 to identify English-language primary studies reporting PrEP use. Two reviewers independently screened citations, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias with modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We estimated pooled proportions and crude/adjusted odds ratios (OR). RESULTS: We identified 95 eligible studies including 95,854 US-based survey respondents. A few studies (6.3%) focused on people who inject drugs (PWID). In 2015-2017, men who have sex with men (MSM) had highest proportion of individuals who used PrEP over their lifetime (13.9%[95%CI:8.8-21.1],k[number of surveys]=49) followed by Hispanic/Latinos (11.5[7.1-18.1],12), transgender women (11.2[5.8-20.6],5), and blacks (9.9[8.3-11.8],18). Odds of PrEP use increased by 34%/year (OR=1.34/year[95%CI:1.09-1.64]) and significantly increased over time among MSM (1.53/year[1.21-1.93]) and blacks (1.44[1.13-1.83]). People in the Southern US (9.9[4.7-19.7],8) and youth (7.3[4.7-11.2],8) had lower rates and did not demonstrate growth (0.94[0.29-3.18];0.82[0.43-1.55]). Odds of reporting lifetime PrEP use was twice (2.07[1.27-3.38]) as great among MSM than non-MSM. CONCLUSIONS: Proportions of PrEP use in published surveys have been growing, but remain low for people in the Southern US and youth, and understudied in PWID. Limitations include few studies in certain years while strengths include large number of respondents. Culturally-tailored approaches targeting vulnerable populations are essential to increase PrEP use to reduce disparities in HIV acquisition. |
Social support and other factors associated with HIV testing by Hispanic/Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the U.S. south
Painter TM , Song EY , Mullins MM , Mann-Jackson L , Alonzo J , Reboussin BA , Rhodes SD . AIDS Behav 2019 23 251-265 Cognitive-psychosocial and other factors may affect participation in HIV testing, particularly by Hispanic/Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S. South, a region hard-hit by HIV. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to examine the association between social support and other cognitive-psychosocial factors; sociodemographic characteristics; risk behaviors; and self-reported HIV testing in a sample of 304 Hispanic/Latino MSM in North Carolina. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, general and HIV-related social support and HIV-related knowledge were associated with greater odds of testing; speaking only Spanish was associated with reduced odds of testing. Social support and aspects of social connectedness may constitute community-based resources for use in HIV prevention efforts with Hispanic/Latino MSM. However, harnessing these resources for HIV prevention will require a better understanding of how social support relationships and processes shape HIV risks and protective actions by these vulnerable MSM. |
Is co-location of services with HIV care associated with improved HIV care outcomes A systematic review
Mizuno Y , Higa DH , Leighton CA , Mullins M , Crepaz N . AIDS Care 2019 31 (11) 1-9 This systematic review identifies models of service co-location, a structural intervention strategy to remove barriers to HIV care and services, and examines their associations with HIV care outcomes. A cumulative database (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE) of HIV, AIDS, and STI literature was systematically searched and manual searches were conducted to identify relevant studies. Thirty-six studies were classified into six models of co-location: HIV care co-located with multiple ancillary services, tuberculosis (TB) care, non-HIV specific primary care, drug abuse treatment, prevention of mother to child transmission programs (PMTCT), and mental health care. More evidence of a positive association was seen for linkage to care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) uptake than for retention and viral suppression. Models of co-location that addressed HIV and non-HIV medical care issues (i.e., co-location with non-HIV specific primary care, PMTCT, and TB) had more positive associations, particularly for linkage to care and ART uptake, than other co-location models. While some findings are encouraging, more research with rigorous study designs is needed to strengthen the evaluation of, and evidence for, service co-location. |
Estimating the prevalence of HIV and sexual behaviors among the US transgender population: A systematic review and meta-analysis, 2006-2017
Becasen JS , Denard CL , Mullins MM , Higa DH , Sipe TA . Am J Public Health 2018 109 (1) e1-e8 BACKGROUND: Transgender women (transwomen) in the United States have been shown to have high HIV risk with Black and Hispanic transwomen being particularly vulnerable. Growing research on transgender men (transmen) also shows increased HIV risk and burden, although not as much is known for this transgender population. OBJECTIVES: This systematic review estimates the prevalence of self-reported and laboratory-confirmed HIV infection, reported sexual and injection behaviors, and contextual factors associated with HIV risk of transgender persons living in the United States. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the HIV Prevention Research Synthesis database and MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Sociological Abstracts databases from January 2006 to March 2017 and January 2006 to May 2017, respectively. Additional hand searches were conducted in December 2017 to obtain studies not found in the literature searches. SELECTION CRITERIA: Eligible reports were published US-based studies that included transgender persons and reported HIV status. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data were double-coded and quality assessed. We used random-effects models employing the DerSimonian-Laird method to calculate overall prevalence of HIV infection, risk behaviors, and contextual factors for transwomen, transmen, and race/ethnicity subgroups. MAIN RESULTS: We reviewed 88 studies, the majority of which were cross-sectional surveys. Overall laboratory-confirmed estimated prevalence of HIV infection was 9.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 6.0%, 13.7%; kappa = 24). Among transwomen and transmen, HIV infection prevalence estimates were 14.1% (95% CI = 8.7%, 22.2%; kappa = 13) and 3.2% (95% CI = 1.4%, 7.1%; kappa = 8), respectively. Self-reported HIV infection was 16.1% (95% CI = 12.0%, 21.2%; kappa = 44), 21.0% (95% CI = 15.9%, 27.2%; kappa = 30), and 1.2% (95% CI = 0.4%, 3.1%; kappa = 7) for overall, transwomen, and transmen, respectively. HIV infection estimates were highest among Blacks (44.2%; 95% CI = 23.2%, 67.5%; kappa = 4). Overall, participation in sex work was 31.0% (95% CI = 23.9%, 39.0%; kappa = 39). Transwomen (37.9%; 95% CI = 29.0%, 47.7%; kappa = 29) reported higher participation in sex work than transmen (13.1%; 95% CI = 6.6%, 24.3%; kappa = 10; P = .001). Most outcomes indicated high heterogeneity in the overall and subgroup analyses. CONCLUSIONS: The availability of more data allowed us to calculate estimates separately for transwomen and transmen. HIV prevalence estimates for US transwomen were lower than previous estimates, but estimates for HIV prevalence and participation in sex work were higher when compared with transmen. Evidence gaps remain for transmen and the syndemic relationship of HIV, risky behaviors, and contextual factors specific to the transgender experience. Public Health Implications. This study highlights gender disparities for HIV and risky sexual behavior, as well as evidence gaps that exist for transmen. Tailored programs and services for the transgender population need to be developed to encourage use of and access to HIV prevention services. (Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print November 29, 2018: e1-e8. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2018.304727). |
Increasing prevalence of self-reported HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use in published surveys - a systematic review and meta-analysis
Kamitani E , Wichser ME , Adegbite AH , Mullins MM , Johnson WD , Crouch PC , Sipe TA . AIDS 2018 32 (17) 2633-2635 When combining results from all published surveys, about one in nine global study participants (10.7%) reported ever using PrEP by 2017, a significant increase since U.S. FDA approval in 2012 (OR = 1.6/year, p < 0.00001). Moreover, nearly one in six US-based study participants (17.3%) and nearly one in four MSM who met the CDC's PrEP indications (24.5%) reported ever using PrEP by 2016. The odds of reporting PrEP use are approximately doubling each year (OR = 1.8/year, p < 0.00001; OR = 2.0/year, p < 0.00001). |
Mental health and retention in HIV care: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Rooks-Peck CR , Adegbite AH , Wichser ME , Ramshaw R , Mullins MM , Higa D , Sipe TA . Health Psychol 2018 37 (6) 574-585 OBJECTIVE: Mental health (MH) diagnoses, which are prevalent among persons living with HIV infection, might be linked to failed retention in HIV care. This review synthesized the quantitative evidence regarding associations between MH diagnoses or symptoms and retention in HIV care, as well as determined if MH service utilization (MHSU) is associated with improved retention in HIV care. METHOD: A comprehensive search of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis database of electronic (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO) and manual searches was conducted to identify relevant studies published during January 2002-August 2017. Effect estimates from individual studies were pooled by using random-effects meta-analysis, and a moderator analysis was conducted. RESULTS: Forty-five studies, involving approximately 57,334 participants in total, met the inclusion criteria: 39 examined MH diagnoses or symptoms, and 14 examined MHSU. Overall, a significant association existed between MH diagnoses or symptoms, and lower odds of being retained in HIV care (odds ratio, OR = 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.90, 0.99]). Health insurance status (beta = 0.004; Z = 3.47; p = .001) significantly modified the association between MH diagnoses or symptoms and retention in HIV care. In addition, MHSU was associated with an increased odds of being retained in HIV care (OR = 1.84; 95% CI [1.45, 2.33]). CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that MH diagnoses or symptoms are a barrier to retention in HIV care and emphasize the importance of providing MH treatment to HIV patients in need. (PsycINFO Database Record |
Epidemiology and risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection in a high-prevalence population
Fill MA , Sizemore LA , Rickles M , Cooper KC , Buecker CM , Mullins HL , Hofmeister MG , Abara WE , Foster MA , Asher AK , Schaffner W , Dunn JR , Jones TF , Wester C . Epidemiol Infect 2018 146 (4) 1-7 To understand increasing rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Tennessee, we conducted testing, risk factor analysis and a nested case-control study among persons who use drugs. During June-October 2016, HCV testing with risk factor assessment was conducted in sexually transmitted disease clinics, family planning clinics and an addiction treatment facility in eastern Tennessee; data were analysed by using multivariable logistic regression. A nested case-control study was conducted to assess drug-using risks and behaviours among persons who reported intranasal or injection drug use (IDU). Of 4753 persons tested, 397 (8.4%) were HCV-antibody positive. HCV infection was significantly associated with a history of both intranasal and IDU (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 35.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 24.1-51.9), IDU alone (aOR 52.7, CI 25.3-109.9), intranasal drug use alone (aOR 2.6, CI 1.8-3.9) and incarceration (aOR 2.7, CI 2.0-3.8). By 4 October 2016, 574 persons with a reported history of drug use; 63 (11%) were interviewed further. Of 31 persons who used both intranasal and injection drugs, 26 (84%) reported previous intranasal drug use, occurring 1-18 years (median 5.5 years) before their first IDU. Our findings provide evidence that reported IDU, intranasal drug use and incarceration are independent indicators of risk for past or present HCV infection in the study population. |
Spatial clusters of latent tuberculous infection, Connecticut, 2010-2014
Mullins J , Lobato MN , Bemis K , Sosa L . Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2018 22 (2) 165-170 SETTING: In the United States, tuberculosis (TB) control is increasingly focusing on the identification of persons with latent tuberculous infection (LTBI). OBJECTIVE : To characterize the local epidemiology of LTBI in Connecticut, USA. METHODS : We used spatial analyses 1) to identify census tract-level clusters of reported LTBI and TB disease in Connecticut, 2) to compare persons and populations in clusters with those not in clusters, and 3) to compare persons with LTBI to those with TB disease. RESULT S : Significant census tract-level spatial clusters of LTBI and TB disease were identified. Compared with persons with LTBI in non-clustered census tracts, those in clustered census tracts were more likely to be foreignborn and less likely to be of white non-Hispanic ethnicity. Populations in census tract clusters of high LTBI prevalence had greater crowding, persons living in poverty, and persons lacking health care insurance than populations not in clustered census tracts. Persons with LTBI were less likely than those with TB disease to be of Asian ethnicity, and persons with LTBI were more likely than those with TB disease to reside in a clustered census tract. CONCLUS IONS : Characterizing fine-scale populations at risk for LTBI supports effective and culturally accessible screening and treatment programs. |
Evaluating the evidence for more frequent than annual HIV screening of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the United States: Results from a systematic review and CDC Expert Consultation
DiNenno EA , Prejean J , Delaney KP , Bowles K , Martin T , Tailor A , Dumitru G , Mullins MM , Hutchinson A , Lansky A . Public Health Rep 2017 133 (1) 33354917738769 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended in 2006 that sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) be screened for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) at least annually. A workgroup comprising CDC and external experts conducted a systematic review of the literature, including benefits, harms, acceptability, and feasibility of annual versus more frequent screening among MSM, to determine whether evidence was sufficient to change the current recommendation. Four consultations with managers of public and nonprofit HIV testing programs, clinics, and mathematical modeling experts were conducted to provide input on the programmatic and scientific evidence. Mathematical models predicted that more frequent than annual screening of MSM could prevent some new HIV infections and would be more cost-effective than annual screening, but this evidence was considered insufficient due to study design. Evidence supports CDC's current recommendation that sexually active MSM be screened at least annually. However, some MSM might benefit from more frequent screening. Future research should evaluate which MSM subpopulations would benefit most from more frequent HIV screening. |
Notes from the field: Multiple cases of Seoul virus infection in a household with infected pet rats - Tennessee, December 2016-April 2017
Fill MA , Mullins H , May AS , Henderson H , Brown SM , Chiang CF , Patel NR , Klena JD , de St Maurice A , Knust B , Nichol ST , Dunn JR , Schaffner W , Jones TF . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017 66 (40) 1081-1082 In late December 2016, a female aged 18 years in Tennessee (patient A) developed fever, chills, anorexia, nausea, and hematuria. Approximately 1 week later, she was evaluated by her local physician and received a diagnosis of an unspecified viral illness. Laboratory testing at that time was notable only for an elevated creatinine level (1.27 mg/dL; normal = 0.60–1.10 mg/dL). She recovered from her illness without treatment or complications. | In January 2017, an outbreak of Seoul virus infection was identified among rat breeders and owners in Wisconsin and Illinois. CDC assisted Illinois and Wisconsin health officials in performing tracing of potentially infected or exposed rats, and in late January 2017, the Tennessee Department of Health was notified that pet rats owned by patient A were linked to confirmed Seoul virus–infected rats. On February 14, 2017, a follow-up specimen of patient A’s blood tested positive for Seoul virus immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; she declined testing of her rats, although they were presumed to be positive in light of the patient’s confirmed infection. Consistent with CDC guidance, the Tennessee Department of Health recommended euthanizing the rats; however, patient A refused. In collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, an order of quarantine was issued to patient A, prohibiting movement of the rodents from her home. In addition, she and her family received extensive education about risk reduction techniques, including avoiding contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. |
Evaluating the effectiveness of physical exercise interventions in persons living with HIV: Overview of systematic reviews
Kamitani E , Sipe TA , Higa DH , Mullins MM , Soares J . AIDS Educ Prev 2017 29 (4) 347-363 Physical exercise (PE) has not been well studied in persons living with HIV (PLHIV). We conducted an overview of systematic reviews to assess the effectiveness of PE and to determine the most appropriate PE regimen for PLHIV. We used the CDC's Prevention Research Synthesis Project's database and manual searches to identify systematic reviews published between 1996 and 2013. We qualitatively synthesized the findings from five reviews to assess the effectiveness of PE and conducted meta-analyses on CD4 counts to identify the best PE regimen. PE is associated with reduced adiposity and depression, but was not associated with a decrease in HIV viral load. CD4 counts were improved by interventions with interval aerobic or 41-50 minutes of exercise three times per week compared with other modes and duration of exercise. PE appears to benefit PLHIV, but more research is needed to help develop appropriate PE strategies specifically for PLHIV. |
Recommendations for HIV screening of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men - United States, 2017
DiNenno EA , Prejean J , Irwin K , Delaney KP , Bowles K , Martin T , Tailor A , Dumitru G , Mullins MM , Hutchinson AB , Lansky A . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017 66 (31) 830-832 CDC's 2006 recommendations for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing state that all persons aged 13-64 years should be screened for HIV at least once, and that persons at higher risk for HIV infection, including sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), should be rescreened at least annually (1). Authors of reports published since 2006, including CDC (2), suggested that MSM, a group that is at highest risk for HIV infection, might benefit from being screened more frequently than once each year. In 2013, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) found insufficient evidence to specify an HIV rescreening interval but recommended annual screening for MSM as a reasonable approach (3). However, some HIV providers have begun to offer more frequent screening, such as once every 3 or 6 months, to some MSM. A CDC work group conducted a systematic literature review and held four expert consultations to review programmatic experience to determine whether there was sufficient evidence to change the 2006 CDC recommendation (i.e., at least annual HIV screening of MSM in clinical settings). The CDC work group concluded that the evidence remains insufficient to recommend screening more frequently than at least once each year. CDC continues to recommend that clinicians screen asymptomatic sexually active MSM at least annually. Each clinician can consider the benefits of offering more frequent screening (e.g., once every 3 or 6 months) to individual MSM at increased risk for acquiring HIV infection, weighing their patients' individual risk factors, local HIV epidemiology, and local testing policies. |
Notes from the field: Outbreak of Escherichia coli O157 infections associated with goat dairy farm visits - Connecticut, 2016
Laughlin M , Gambino-Shirley K , Gacek P , Phan Q , Stevenson L , Mercante A , Mullins J , Burnworth L , Blackstock A , Razeq JH , Cartter M , Nichols M . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2016 65 (5051) 1453-1454 On March 24, 2016, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) identified a cluster of seven culture-confirmed Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections in patients ranging in age from 2 to 25 years. All seven patients reported bloody diarrhea; four were evaluated in an emergency department, three were hospitalized, and two developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Six of the seven patients reported visiting the same goat dairy farm in southeastern Connecticut during the week preceding illness onset. An investigation was initiated by DPH, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, CDC, and the local health district to determine the magnitude of the outbreak, identify risk factors and potential sources of infection, and develop recommendations to prevent further illnesses. A total of 50 confirmed cases of E. coli infection were associated with the outbreak, including 47 with an epidemiologic link to the goat farm. | PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping laboratory network for foodborne disease surveillance, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) were used to identify the outbreak strains as STEC O157. A confirmed case was defined as 1) laboratory-confirmed E. coli O157 infection with the PFGE-identified outbreak strain or 2) physician-diagnosed HUS during March–April 2016 in a person with an epidemiologic link to the goat farm. Ill farm visitors were encouraged to contact DPH through a public statement released on March 28, 2016, and were interviewed about their visit. Environmental samples were collected at the farm and cultured, and the resulting bacterial isolates were compared with patient isolates using PFGE and whole genome sequencing. Genetic relatedness of isolates was determined by high-quality single nucleotide polymorphism analysis. The 2013 Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease Associated with Animals in Public Settings was used to evaluate practices at the farm (1). |
Multistate US outbreak of rapidly growing mycobacterial infections associated with medical tourism to the Dominican Republic, 2013-2014(1)
Schnabel D , Esposito DH , Gaines J , Ridpath A , Barry MA , Feldman KA , Mullins J , Burns R , Ahmad N , Nyangoma EN , Nguyen DB , Perz JF , Moulton-Meissner HA , Jensen BJ , Lin Y , Posivak-Khouly L , Jani N , Morgan OW , Brunette GW , Pritchard PS , Greenbaum AH , Rhee SM , Blythe D , Sotir M . Emerg Infect Dis 2016 22 (8) 1340-7 During 2013, the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in Baltimore, MD, USA, received report of 2 Maryland residents whose surgical sites were infected with rapidly growing mycobacteria after cosmetic procedures at a clinic (clinic A) in the Dominican Republic. A multistate investigation was initiated; a probable case was defined as a surgical site infection unresponsive to therapy in a patient who had undergone cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic. We identified 21 case-patients in 6 states who had surgery in 1 of 5 Dominican Republic clinics; 13 (62%) had surgery at clinic A. Isolates from 12 (92%) of those patients were culture-positive for Mycobacterium abscessus complex. Of 9 clinic A case-patients with available data, all required therapeutic surgical intervention, 8 (92%) were hospitalized, and 7 (78%) required ≥3 months of antibacterial drug therapy. Healthcare providers should consider infection with rapidly growing mycobacteria in patients who have surgical site infections unresponsive to standard treatment. |
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