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COVID-19 Evidence Update1st – 17th April 2020

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1. Clinical observation and management of COVID-19 patients.

Author(s): Li, Taisheng; Lu, Hongzhou; Zhang, Wenhong

Source: Emerging microbes & infections; Dec 2020; vol. 9 (no. 1); p. 687-690

Publication Date: Dec 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32208840

Available at Emerging microbes & infections - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Emerging microbes & infections - from Nature (Open Access)

Available at Emerging microbes & infections - from ProQuest (Health Research Premium) - NHS Version

Available at Emerging microbes & infections - from Unpaywall

Abstract:Three leading infectious disease experts in China were invited to share their bedside observations in the management of COVID-19 patients. Professor Taisheng Li was sent to Wuhan to provide frontline medical care. He depicts the clinical course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, he observes the significant abnormality of coagulation function and proposes that the early intravenous immunoglobulin and low molecular weight heparin anticoagulation therapy are very important. Professor Hongzhou Lu, a leader in China to try various anti-viral drugs, expresses concern on the quality of the ongoing clinical trials as most trials are small in scale and repetitive in nature, and emphasizes the importance of the quick publication of clinical trial results. Regarding the traditional Chinese medicine, Professor Lu suggests to develop a creative evaluation system because of the complicated chemical compositions. Professor Wenhong Zhang is responsible for Shanghai's overall clinical management of the COVID-19 cases. He introduces the team approach to manage COVID-19 patients. For severe or critically ill patients, in addition to the respiratory supportive treatment, timely multiorgan evaluation and treatment is very crucial. The medical decisions and interventions are carefully tailored to the unique characteristics of each patient.

Database: Medline

2. SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-COV: A comparative overview

Author(s): Rabaan, Ali A; Al-Ahmed, Shamsah H; Haque, Shafiul; Sah, Ranjit; Tiwari, Ruchi; Malik, Yashpal Singh; Dhama, Kuldeep; Yatoo, M Iqbal; Bonilla-Aldana, D Katterine; Rodriguez-Morales, Alfonso J

Source: Le infezioni in medicina; ; vol. 28 (no. 2); p. 174-184

Publication Type(s): Comparative Study Journal Article Review

PubMedID: 32275259

Available at Le infezioni in medicina - from EBSCO (MEDLINE Complete)

Abstract:The recent outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 that started in Wuhan, China, has now spread to several other countries and is in its exponential phase of spread. Although less pathogenic than SARS-CoV, it has taken several lives and taken down the economies of many countries. Before this outbreak, the most recent coronavirus outbreaks were the SARS-CoV and the MERS-CoV outbreaks that happened in China and Saudi Arabia, respectively. Since the SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the same family as of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, they share several similarities. So, this review aims at understanding the new scenario of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak and compares the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and the genetics of these coronaviruses. Studies reveal that SARS-CoV-2 is very similar in structure and pathogenicity with SARS-CoV, but the most important structural protein, i.e., the spike protein (S), is slightly different in these viruses. The presence of a furin-like cleavage site in SARS-CoV-2 facilitates the S protein priming and might increase the efficiency of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 as compared to other beta coronaviruses. So, furin inhibitors can be targeted as potential drug therapies for SARS-CoV.

Database: Medline

3. When will the battle against novel coronavirus end in Wuhan: A SEIR modeling analysis.

Author(s): Wan, Kangkang; Chen, Jing; Lu, Changming; Dong, Lanlan; Wu, Zhicheng; Zhang, Lianglu

Source: Journal of global health; Jun 2020; vol. 10 (no. 1); p. 011002

Publication Date: Jun 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32257174

Available at Journal of global health - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Journal of global health - from ProQuest (Health Research Premium) - NHS Version

Available at Journal of global health - from EBSCO (CINAHL Complete)

Available at Journal of global health - from PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Journal of global health - from Unpaywall

Abstract:BackgroundRecent outbreak of 2019-nCoV in Wuhan raised serious public health concerns. By February 15, 2020 in Wuhan, the total number of confirmed infection cases has reached 37 914, and the number of deaths has reached 1123, accounting for 56.9% of the total confirmed cases and 73.7% of

the total deaths in China. People are eager to know when the epidemic will be completely controlled and when people's work and life will be on the right track.MethodIn this study we analyzed the epidemic dynamics and trend of 2019-nCoV in Wuhan by using the data after the closure of Wuhan city till February 12, 2020 based on the SEIR modeling method.ResultsThe optimal parameters were estimated as R0 = 1.44 (interquartile range: 1.40-1.47), TI = 14 (interquartile range = 14-14) and TE = 3.0 (interquartile range = 2.8-3.1). Based on these parameters, the number of infected individuals in Wuhan city may reach the peak around February 19 at about 47 000 people. Once entering March, the epidemic would gradually decline, and end around the late March. It is worth noting that the above prediction is based on the assumption that the number of susceptible population N = 200 000 will not increase. If the epidemic situation is not properly controlled, the peak of infected number can be further increased and the peak time will be a little postponed. It was expected that the epidemic would subside in early March, and disappear gradually towards the late March.ConclusionsThe epidemic situation of 2019-nCoV in Wuhan was effectively controlled after the closure of the city, and the disease transmission index also decreased significantly. It is expected that the peak of epidemic situation would be reached in late February and end in March.

Database: Medline

4. An evidence-based framework for priority clinical research questions for COVID-19.

Author(s): Harris, Carlyn; Carson, Gail; Baillie, J Kenneth; Horby, Peter; Nair, Harish

Source: Journal of global health; Jun 2020; vol. 10 (no. 1); p. 011001

Publication Date: Jun 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article Systematic Review

PubMedID: 32257173

Available at Journal of global health - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Journal of global health - from ProQuest (Health Research Premium) - NHS Version

Available at Journal of global health - from EBSCO (CINAHL Complete)

Available at Journal of global health - from PubMed Central - Open Access

Abstract:BackgroundOn 31 December, 2019, the World Health Organization China Country Office was informed of cases of pneumonia of unknown aetiology. Since then, there have been over 75 000 cases globally of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19), 2000 deaths, and over 14 000 cases recovered. Outbreaks of novel agents represent opportunities for clinical research to inform real-time public health action. In 2018, we conducted a systematic review to identify priority research questions for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-related coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Here, we review information available on COVID-19 and provide an evidenced-based framework for priority clinical research in the current outbreak.MethodsThree bibliographic databases were searched to

identify clinical studies published on SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV in the outbreak setting. Studies were grouped thematically according to clinical research questions addressed. In February 2020, available information on COVID19 was reviewed and compared to the results of the SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV systematic review.ResultsFrom the research objectives for SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, ten themes in the literature were identified: Clinical characterisation, prognosis, diagnosis, clinical management, viral pathogenesis, epidemiological characterisation, infection prevention and control/transmission, susceptibility, psychosocial, and aetiology. For COVID19, some information on clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, and aetiology is available but many clinical research gaps have yet to be filled.ConclusionsBased on a systematic review of other severe coronaviruses, we summarise the state of clinical research for COVID-19, highlight the research gaps, and provide recommendations for the implementation of standardised protocols. Data based on internationally standardised protocols will inform clinical practice real-time.

Database: Medline

5. Implications of COVID-19 for patients with pre-existing digestive diseases.

Author(s): Mao, Ren; Liang, Jie; Shen, Jun; Ghosh, Subrata; Zhu, Liang-Ru; Yang, Hong; Wu, Kai-Chun; Chen, Min-Hu; Chinese Society of IBD, Chinese Elite IBD Union; Chinese IBD Quality Care Evaluation Center Committee

Source: The lancet. Gastroenterology & hepatology; May 2020; vol. 5 (no. 5); p. 426-428

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32171057

Available at The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

6. Traumatic stress in the age of COVID-19: A call to close critical gaps and adapt to new realities.

Author(s): Horesh, Danny; Brown, Adam D

Source: Psychological trauma : theory, research, practice and policy; May 2020; vol. 12 (no. 4); p. 331-335

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32271070

Available at Psychological trauma : theory, research, practice and policy - from ProQuest PsycARTICLES - NHS

Abstract:THE ISSUECoronavirus-19 (COVID-19) is transforming every aspect of our lives. Identified in late 2019, COVID-19 quickly became characterized as a global pandemic by March of 2020. Given the rapid acceleration of transmission, and the lack of preparedness to prevent and treat this virus, the negative impacts

of COVID-19 are rippling through every facet of society. Although large numbers of people throughout the world will show resilience to the profound loss, stress, and fear associated with COVID-19, the virus will likely exacerbate existing mental health disorders and contribute to the onset of new stress-related disorders for many.RECOMMENDATIONSThe field of traumatic stress should address the serious needs that will emerge now and well into the future. However, we propose that these efforts may be limited, in part, by ongoing gaps that exist within our research and clinical care. In particular, we suggest that COVID-19 requires us to prioritize and mobilize as a research and clinical community around several key areas: (a) diagnostics, (b) prevention, (c) public outreach and communication, (d) working with medical staff and mainstreaming into nonmental health services, and (e) COVID-19-specific trauma research. As members of our community begin to rapidly develop and test interventions for COVID-19-related distress, we hope that those in positions of leadership in the field of traumatic stress consider limits of our current approaches, and invest the intellectual and financial resources urgently needed in order to innovate, forge partnerships, and develop the technologies to support those in greatest need. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Database: Medline

7. The Novel Coronavirus - A Snapshot of Current Knowledge.

Author(s): Brüssow, Harald

Source: Microbial biotechnology; May 2020; vol. 13 (no. 3); p. 607-612

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article Review

PubMedID: 32144890

Available at Microbial biotechnology - from EBSCO (MEDLINE Complete)

Available at Microbial biotechnology - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Microbial biotechnology - from Wiley Online Library Free Content - NHS OPEN ACCESS Freely available. (Please note, publishers alter access arrangements regularly. We cannot guarantee that the access shown here will be available).

Available at Microbial biotechnology - from ProQuest (Health Research Premium) - NHS Version

Available at Microbial biotechnology - from Unpaywall

Abstract:Another animal to human transmission of a coronavirus occurred in December 2019 on a live animal market in the Chinese city of Wuhan causing an epidemic in China, reaching now different continents. This minireview summarizes the research literature on the virological, clinical and epidemiological aspects of this epidemic published until end of February 2020.

Database: Medline

8. Potential interventions for novel coronavirus in China: A systematic review.

Author(s): Zhang, Lei; Liu, Yunhui

Source: Journal of medical virology; May 2020; vol. 92 (no. 5); p. 479-490

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Research Support, Non-u.s. Gov't Journal Article Systematic Review

PubMedID: 32052466

Available at Journal of medical virology - from Wiley Online Library Medicine and Nursing Collection 2020

Available at Journal of medical virology - from Unpaywall

Abstract:An outbreak of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19 or 2019-CoV) infection has posed significant threats to international health and the economy. In the absence of treatment for this virus, there is an urgent need to find alternative methods to control the spread of disease. Here, we have conducted an online search for all treatment options related to coronavirus infections as well as some RNA-virus infection and we have found that general treatments, coronavirus-specific treatments, and antiviral treatments should be useful in fighting COVID-19. We suggest that the nutritional status of each infected patient should be evaluated before the administration of general treatments and the current children's RNA-virus vaccines including influenza vaccine should be immunized for uninfected people and health care workers. In addition, convalescent plasma should be given to COVID-19 patients if it is available. In conclusion, we suggest that all the potential interventions be implemented to control the emerging COVID-19 if the infection is uncontrollable.

Database: Medline

9. Economic impacts of Wuhan 2019-nCoV on China and the world.

Author(s): Ayittey, Foster K; Ayittey, Matthew K; Chiwero, Nyasha B; Kamasah, Japhet S; Dzuvor, Christian

Source: Journal of medical virology; May 2020; vol. 92 (no. 5); p. 473-475

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32048740

Available at Journal of medical virology - from Wiley Online Library Medicine and Nursing Collection 2020

Available at Journal of medical virology - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

10. The deadly coronaviruses: The 2003 SARS pandemic and the 2020 novel coronavirus epidemic in China.

Author(s): Yang, Yongshi; Peng, Fujun; Wang, Runsheng; Guan, Kai; Jiang, Taijiao; Xu, Guogang; Sun, Jinlyu; Chang, Christopher

Source: Journal of autoimmunity; May 2020; vol. 109 ; p. 102434

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Research Support, Non-u.s. Gov't Historical Article Journal Article Review

PubMedID: 32143990

Available at Journal of autoimmunity - from Unpaywall

Abstract:The 2019-nCoV is officially called SARS-CoV-2 and the disease is named COVID-19. This viral epidemic in China has led to the deaths of over 1800 people, mostly elderly or those with an underlying chronic disease or immunosuppressed state. This is the third serious Coronavirus outbreak in less than 20 years, following SARS in 2002-2003 and MERS in 2012. While human strains of Coronavirus are associated with about 15% of cases of the common cold, the SARS-CoV-2 may present with varying degrees of severity, from flu-like symptoms to death. It is currently believed that this deadly Coronavirus strain originated from wild animals at the Huanan market in Wuhan, a city in Hubei province. Bats, snakes and pangolins have been cited as potential carriers based on the sequence homology of CoV isolated from these animals and the viral nucleic acids of the virus isolated from SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Extreme quarantine measures, including sealing off large cities, closing borders and confining people to their homes, were instituted in January 2020 to prevent spread of the virus, but by that time much of the damage had been done, as human-human transmission became evident. While these quarantine measures are necessary and have prevented a historical disaster along the lines of the Spanish flu, earlier recognition and earlier implementation of quarantine measures may have been even more effective. Lessons learned from SARS resulted in faster determination of the nucleic acid sequence and a more robust quarantine strategy. However, it is clear that finding an effective antiviral and developing a vaccine are still significant challenges. The costs of the epidemic are not limited to medical aspects, as the virus has led to significant sociological, psychological and economic effects globally. Unfortunately, emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has led to numerous reports of Asians being subjected to racist behavior and hate crimes across the world.

Database: Medline

11. The epidemiology and pathogenesis of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

Author(s): Rothan, Hussin A; Byrareddy, Siddappa N

Source: Journal of autoimmunity; May 2020; vol. 109 ; p. 102433

Publication Date: May 2020

Publication Type(s): Research Support, N.i.h., Extramural Journal Article Review

PubMedID: 32113704

Available at Journal of autoimmunity - from Unpaywall

Abstract:Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by SARS-COV2 and represents the causative agent of a potentially fatal disease that is of great global public health concern. Based on the large number of infected people that were exposed to the wet animal market in Wuhan City, China, it is suggested that this is likely the zoonotic origin of COVID-19. Person-to-person transmission of

COVID-19 infection led to the isolation of patients that were subsequently administered a variety of treatments. Extensive measures to reduce person-to-person transmission of COVID-19 have been implemented to control the current outbreak. Special attention and efforts to protect or reduce transmission should be applied in susceptible populations including children, health care providers, and elderly people. In this review, we highlights the symptoms, epidemiology, transmission, pathogenesis, phylogenetic analysis and future directions to control the spread of this fatal disease.

Database: Medline

12. Public Health Interventions to Mitigate Early Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Poland.

Author(s): Pinkas, Jarosław; Jankowski, Mateusz; Szumowski, Łukasz; Lusawa, Aleksandra; Zgliczyński, Wojciech S; Raciborski, Filip; Wierzba, Waldemar; Gujski, Mariusz

Source: Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research; Apr 2020; vol. 26 ; p. e924730

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32282789

Available at Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research - from EBSCO (MEDLINE Complete)

Available at Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research - from PubMed Central - Open Access

Abstract:This study aimed (1) to present public health interventions to mitigate the early spread of SARS-CoV-2 implemented in Poland between January 9 and March 29, 2020, and (2) to analyze the potential impact of these regulations on the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in Poland. All legal regulations published in the Journal of Laws between January 9 and March 29, 2020, were analyzed. Out of 406 legal regulations identified, 56 were related to the COVID-19 outbreak. Moreover, the official announcements published on the governmental websites dedicated to the coronavirus and health issues were analyzed. On March 4, Poland reported the first laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 case. On March 9, Poland introduced border sanitary control. Six days after the first laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 case, all mass events in Poland were banned. All schools and universities were closed 8 days after the first COVID-19 case. All gastronomic facilities and sport and entertainment services were limited starting on March 14. Eleven days after the first COVID-19 case, controls at all Polish borders were introduced, and a ban on entry into Poland by foreigners (with some exemptions) was implemented. Starting on March 15, all citizens returning from abroad had to undergo compulsory 14 days self-quarantine. On March 20, a state of epidemic was announced, which resulted in new social distancing measures starting on March 25. In Poland, compared to

other European countries, far-reaching solutions were implemented relatively early to reduce the spread of infection.

Database: Medline

13. Audio Interview: Emerging Tools in the Fight against Covid-19.

Author(s): Rubin, Eric J; Baden, Lindsey R; Morrissey, Stephen

Source: The New England journal of medicine; Apr 2020; vol. 382 (no. 15); p. e39

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Editorial

PubMedID: 32268041

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Good Hope Print Holdings Local Print Collection [location] : Good Hope Hospital Library. <br>

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Queen Elizabeth Hospital Print Holdings Local Print Collection Missing issue 2016 Vol. 374 (10-12)

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

14. SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Travelers Returning from Wuhan, China.

Author(s): Ng, Oon-Tek; Marimuthu, Kalisvar; Chia, Po-Ying; Koh, Vanessa; Chiew, Calvin J; De Wang, Liang; Young, Barnaby E; Chan, Monica; Vasoo, Shawn; Ling, Li-Min; Lye, David C; Kam, Kai-Qian; Thoon, Koh-Cheng; Kurupatham, Lalitha; Said, Zubaidah; Goh, Ethan; Low, Constance; Lim, Soon-Kok; Raj, Pream; Oh, Olivia; Koh, Valerie T J; Poh, Cuiqin; Mak, Tze-Minn; Cui, Lin; Cook, Alex R; Lin, Raymond T P; Leo, Yee-Sin; Lee, Vernon J M

Source: The New England journal of medicine; Apr 2020; vol. 382 (no. 15); p. 1476-1478

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Research Support, Non-u.s. Gov't Letter

PubMedID: 32163698

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Good Hope Print Holdings Local Print Collection [location] : Good Hope Hospital Library. <br>

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Queen Elizabeth Hospital Print Holdings Local Print Collection Missing issue 2016 Vol. 374 (10-12)

Available at The New England journal of medicine - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

15. Misinformation of COVID-19 on the Internet: Infodemiology Study.

Author(s): Cuan-Baltazar, Jose Yunam; Muñoz-Perez, Maria José; Robledo-Vega, Carolina; Pérez-Zepeda, Maria Fernanda; Soto-Vega, Elena

Source: JMIR public health and surveillance; Apr 2020; vol. 6 (no. 2); p. e18444

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Evaluation Study Journal Article

PubMedID: 32250960

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from Unpaywall

Abstract:BACKGROUNDThe internet has become an important source of health information for users worldwide. The novel coronavirus caused a pandemic search for information with broad dissemination of false or misleading health information.OBJECTIVEThe aim of this study was to evaluate the quality and readability of online information about the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which was a trending topic on the internet, using validated instruments and relating the quality of information to its readability.METHODSThe search was based on the term "Wuhan Coronavirus" on the Google website (February 6, 2020). At the search time, the terms "COVID-19" or "SARS-CoV-2" (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) did not exist. Critical analysis was performed on the first 110 hits using the Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode), the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark, the DISCERN instrument, and Google ranking.RESULTSThe first 110 websites were critically analyzed, and only 1.8% (n=2) of the websites had the HONcode seal. The JAMA benchmark showed that 39.1% (n=43) of the websites did not have any of the categories required by this tool, and only 10.0% (11/110) of the websites had the four quality criteria required by JAMA. The DISCERN score showed that 70.0% (n=77) of the websites were evaluated as having a low score and none were rated as having a high score.CONCLUSIONSNonhealth personnel and the scientific community need to be aware about the quality of the information they read and produce, respectively. The Wuhan coronavirus health crisis misinformation was produced by the media, and the misinformation was obtained by users from the internet. The use of the internet has a risk to public health, and, in cases like this, the governments should be developing strategies to regulate health information on the internet without censuring the population. By February 6, 2020, no quality information was available on the internet about COVID-19.

Database: Medline

16. Patient safety and litigation in the NHS post-COVID-19.

Author(s): Tingle, John

Source: British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing); Apr 2020; vol. 29 (no. 7); p. 444-445

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32279553

Available at British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing) - from EBSCO (CINAHL Complete)

Available at British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing) - from Unpaywall

Abstract:John Tingle, Lecturer in Law, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses patient safety during the present coronavirus pandemic.

Database: Medline

17. Covid-19: should the public wear face masks?

Author(s): Javid, Babak; Weekes, Michael P; Matheson, Nicholas J

Source: BMJ (Clinical research ed.); Apr 2020; vol. 369 ; p. m1442

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Editorial Comment

PubMedID: 32273278

Available at BMJ (Clinical research ed.) - from BMJ Journals - NHS

Available at BMJ (Clinical research ed.) - from Good Hope Print Holdings Local Print Collection [location] : Good Hope Hospital Library.

Available at BMJ (Clinical research ed.) - from Heartlands Print Holdings Local Print Collection

Available at BMJ (Clinical research ed.) - from Solihull Print Holdings Local Print Collection [location] : Solihull Staff Library.

Available at BMJ (Clinical research ed.) - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

18. Quarantine alone or in combination with other public health measures to control COVID-19: a rapid review.

Author(s): Nussbaumer-Streit, Barbara; Mayr, Verena; Dobrescu, Andreea Iulia; Chapman, Andrea; Persad, Emma; Klerings, Irma; Wagner, Gernot; Siebert, Uwe; Christof, Claudia; Zachariah, Casey; Gartlehner, Gerald

Source: The Cochrane database of systematic reviews; Apr 2020; vol. 4 ; p. CD013574

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Research Support, Non-u.s. Gov't Journal Article Systematic Review

PubMedID: 32267544

Available at The Cochrane database of systematic reviews - from Cochrane Collaboration (Wiley)

Abstract:BACKGROUNDCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a rapidly emerging disease that has been classified a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). To support WHO with their recommendations on quarantine, we conducted a rapid review on the effectiveness of quarantine during severe coronavirus outbreaks.OBJECTIVESWe conducted a rapid review to assess the effects of quarantine (alone or in combination with other measures) of individuals who had contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19, who travelled

from countries with a declared outbreak, or who live in regions with high transmission of the disease.SEARCH METHODSAn information specialist searched PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, WHO Global Index Medicus, Embase, and CINAHL on 12 February 2020 and updated the search on 12 March 2020. WHO provided records from daily searches in Chinese databases up to 16 March 2020.SELECTION CRITERIACohort studies, case-control-studies, case series, time series, interrupted time series, and mathematical modelling studies that assessed the effect of any type of quarantine to control COVID-19. We also included studies on SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) as indirect evidence for the current coronavirus outbreak.DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSISTwo review authors independently screened 30% of records; a single review author screened the remaining 70%. Two review authors screened all potentially relevant full-text publications independently. One review author extracted data and assessed evidence quality with GRADE and a second review author checked the assessment. We rated the certainty of evidence for the four primary outcomes: incidence, onward transmission, mortality, and resource use.MAIN RESULTSWe included 29 studies; 10 modelling studies on COVID-19, four observational studies and 15 modelling studies on SARS and MERS. Because of the diverse methods of measurement and analysis across the outcomes of interest, we could not conduct a meta-analysis and conducted a narrative synthesis. Due to the type of evidence found for this review, GRADE rates the certainty of the evidence as low to very low. Modeling studies consistently reported a benefit of the simulated quarantine measures, for example, quarantine of people exposed to confirmed or suspected cases averted 44% to 81% incident cases and 31% to 63% of deaths compared to no measures based on different scenarios (incident cases: 4 modelling studies on COVID-19, SARS; mortality: 2 modelling studies on COVID-19, SARS, low-certainty evidence). Very low-certainty evidence suggests that the earlier quarantine measures are implemented, the greater the cost savings (2 modelling studies on SARS). Very low-certainty evidence indicated that the effect of quarantine of travellers from a country with a declared outbreak on reducing incidence and deaths was small (2 modelling studies on SARS). When the models combined quarantine with other prevention and control measures, including school closures, travel restrictions and social distancing, the models demonstrated a larger effect on the reduction of new cases, transmissions and deaths than individual measures alone (incident cases: 4 modelling studies on COVID-19; onward transmission: 2 modelling studies on COVID-19; mortality: 2 modelling studies on COVID-19; low-certainty evidence). Studies on SARS and MERS were consistent with findings from the studies on COVID-19.AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONSCurrent evidence for COVID-19 is limited to modelling studies that make parameter assumptions based on the current, fragmented knowledge. Findings consistently indicate that quarantine is important in reducing incidence and mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Early implementation of quarantine and combining quarantine with other public health measures is important to ensure effectiveness. In order to maintain the best possible balance of measures, decision makers must constantly monitor the outbreak situation and the impact of the measures implemented. Testing in representative samples in different settings could help assess the true prevalence of infection, and would

reduce uncertainty of modelling assumptions. This review was commissioned by WHO and supported by Danube-University-Krems.

Database: Medline

19. Fighting against the common enemy of COVID-19: a practice of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Author(s): Qian, Xu; Ren, Ran; Wang, Youfa; Guo, Yan; Fang, Jing; Wu, Zhong-Dao; Liu, Pei-Long; Han, Tie-Ru; Members of Steering Committee, Society of Global Health, Chinese Preventive Medicine Association

Source: Infectious diseases of poverty; Apr 2020; vol. 9 (no. 1); p. 34

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Letter

PubMedID: 32264957

Available at Infectious Diseases of Poverty - from Unpaywall

Abstract:The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused more than 80 813 confirmed cases in all provinces of China, and 21 110 cases reported in 93 countries of six continents as of 7 March 2020 since middle December 2019. Due to biological nature of the novel coronavirus, named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with faster spreading and unknown transmission pattern, it makes us in a difficulty position to contain the disease transmission globally. To date, we have found it is one of the greatest challenges to human beings in fighting against COVID-19 in the history, because SARS-CoV-2 is different from SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV in terms of biological features and transmissibility, and also found the containment strategies including the non-pharmaceutical public health measures implemented in China are effective and successful. In order to prevent a potential pandemic-level outbreak of COVID-19, we, as a community of shared future for mankind, recommend for all international leaders to support preparedness in low and middle income countries especially, take strong global interventions by using old approaches or new tools, mobilize global resources to equip hospital facilities and supplies to protect noisome infections and to provide personal protective tools such as facemask to general population, and quickly initiate research projects on drug and vaccine development. We also recommend for the international community to develop better coordination, cooperation, and strong solidarity in the joint efforts of fighting against COVID-19 spreading recommended by the joint mission report of the WHO-China experts, against violating the International Health Regulation (WHO, 2005), and against stigmatization, in order to eventually win the battle against our common enemy - COVID-19.

Database: Medline

20. The Three Steps Needed to End the COVID-19 Pandemic: Bold Public Health Leadership, Rapid Innovations, and Courageous Political Will.

Author(s): Guest, Jodie L; Del Rio, Carlos; Sanchez, Travis

Source: JMIR public health and surveillance; Apr 2020; vol. 6 (no. 2); p. e19043

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Editorial

PubMedID: 32240972

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at JMIR public health and surveillance - from Unpaywall

Abstract:The world is experiencing the expansive spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a global pandemic that is placing strain on health care, economic, and social systems. Commitment to implementing proven public health strategies will require bold public health leadership and courageous acts by politicians. Developing new innovative communication, mitigation, and health care approaches, particularly in the era of social media, is also clearly warranted. We believe that the best public health evidence must inform activities in three priority areas to stop this pandemic: (1) coordinated and consistent stay-at-home orders across multiple jurisdictions, including potential nationwide mandates; (2) rapid scale-up of SARS-CoV-2 testing; and (3) improved health care capacity to respond. This editorial outlines those areas, the rationale behind them, and the call for innovation and engagement of bold public health leadership to empower courageous political action to reduce the number of deaths during this pandemic.

Database: Medline

21. The global community needs to swiftly ramp up the response to contain COVID-19.

Author(s): Fisher, Dale; Wilder-Smith, Annelies

Source: Lancet (London, England); Apr 2020; vol. 395 (no. 10230); p. 1109-1110

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Letter

PubMedID: 32199470

Available at Lancet (London, England) - from ClinicalKey - Internal Medicine Essentials You will need to register (free of charge) with Clinical Key the first time you use it.

Available at Lancet (London, England) - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

22. Radiological findings from 81 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Wuhan, China: a descriptive study.

Author(s): Shi, Heshui; Han, Xiaoyu; Jiang, Nanchuan; Cao, Yukun; Alwalid, Osamah; Gu, Jin; Fan, Yanqing; Zheng, Chuansheng

Source: The Lancet. Infectious diseases; Apr 2020; vol. 20 (no. 4); p. 425-434

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32105637

Available at The Lancet. Infectious diseases - from Unpaywall

Abstract:BACKGROUNDA cluster of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were successively reported in Wuhan, China. We aimed to describe the CT findings across different timepoints throughout the disease course.METHODSPatients with COVID-19 pneumonia (confirmed by next-generation sequencing or RT-PCR) who were admitted to one of two hospitals in Wuhan and who underwent serial chest CT scans were retrospectively enrolled. Patients were grouped on the basis of the interval between symptom onset and the first CT scan: group 1 (subclinical patients; scans done before symptom onset), group 2 (scans done ≤1 week after symptom onset), group 3 (>1 week to 2 weeks), and group 4 (>2 weeks to 3 weeks). Imaging features and their distribution were analysed and compared across the four groups.FINDINGS81 patients admitted to hospital between Dec 20, 2019, and Jan 23, 2020, were retrospectively enrolled. The cohort included 42 (52%) men and 39 (48%) women, and the mean age was 49·5 years (SD 11·0). The mean number of involved lung segments was 10·5 (SD 6·4) overall, 2·8 (3·3) in group 1, 11·1 (5·4) in group 2, 13·0 (5·7) in group 3, and 12·1 (5·9) in group 4. The predominant pattern of abnormality observed was bilateral (64 [79%] patients), peripheral (44 [54%]), ill-defined (66 [81%]), and ground-glass opacification (53 [65%]), mainly involving the right lower lobes (225 [27%] of 849 affected segments). In group 1 (n=15), the predominant pattern was unilateral (nine [60%]) and multifocal (eight [53%]) ground-glass opacities (14 [93%]). Lesions quickly evolved to bilateral (19 [90%]), diffuse (11 [52%]) ground-glass opacity predominance (17 [81%]) in group 2 (n=21). Thereafter, the prevalence of ground-glass opacities continued to decrease (17 [57%] of 30 patients in group 3, and five [33%] of 15 in group 4), and consolidation and mixed patterns became more frequent (12 [40%] in group 3, eight [53%] in group 4).INTERPRETATIONCOVID-19 pneumonia manifests with chest CT imaging abnormalities, even in asymptomatic patients, with rapid evolution from focal unilateral to diffuse bilateral ground-glass opacities that progressed to or co-existed with consolidations within 1-3 weeks. Combining assessment of imaging features with clinical and laboratory findings could facilitate early diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia.FUNDINGNone.

Database: Medline

23. Enteric involvement of coronaviruses: is faecal-oral transmission of SARS-CoV-2 possible?

Author(s): Yeo, Charleen; Kaushal, Sanghvi; Yeo, Danson

Source: The lancet. Gastroenterology & hepatology; Apr 2020; vol. 5 (no. 4); p. 335-337

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32087098

Available at The lancet. Gastroenterology & hepatology - from Unpaywall

Database: Medline

24. The Novel Coronavirus: A Bird's Eye View.

Author(s): Habibzadeh, Parham; Stoneman, Emily K

Source: The international journal of occupational and environmental medicine; Apr 2020; vol. 11 (no. 2); p. 65-71

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article Review

PubMedID: 32020915

Available at The international journal of occupational and environmental medicine - from EBSCO (MEDLINE Complete)

Available at The international journal of occupational and environmental medicine - from Unpaywall

Abstract:The novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak, which initially began in China, has spread to many countries around the globe, with the number of confirmed cases increasing every day. With a death toll exceeding that of the SARS-CoV outbreak back in 2002 and 2003 in China, 2019-nCoV has led to a public health emergency of international concern, putting all health organizations on high alert. Herein, we present on an overview of the currently available information on the pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of this virus.

Database: Medline

25. Indications for healthcare surge capacity in European countries facing an exponential increase in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases, March 2020.

Author(s): Verelst, Frederik; Kuylen, Elise; Beutels, Philippe

Source: Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin; Apr 2020; vol. 25 (no. 13)

Publication Date: Apr 2020

Publication Type(s): Journal Article

PubMedID: 32265003

Available at Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin - from EBSCO (MEDLINE Complete)

Available at Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin - from Europe PubMed Central - Open Access

Available at Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin - from Unpaywall

Abstract:European healthcare systems face extreme pressure from coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We relate country-specific accumulated COVID-19 deaths

(intensity approach) and active COVID-19 cases (magnitude approach) to measures of healthcare system capacity: hospital beds, healthcare workers and healthcare expenditure. Modelled by the intensity approach with a composite measure for healthcare capacity, the countries experiencing the highest pressure on 25 March 2020 - relative to Italy on 11 March - were Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and France (www.covid-hcpressure.org).

Database: Medline

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