4.8 Review

The Lancet Commission on lessons for the future from the COVID-19 pandemic

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For Yue Tso et al.

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Harsh Shah et al.

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ACTA DIABETOLOGICA (2021)

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Perspective Contact Tracing and the COVID-19 Response in Africa: Best Practices, Key Challenges, and Lessons Learned from Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda

Jean B. Nachega et al.

Summary: African countries have implemented strong public health measures early on to combat COVID-19, resulting in lower burdens compared to Western countries. Best practices for contact tracing include multi-platform public communications, technology innovations, and deployment of community health workers, while challenges include overwhelming workload for healthcare workers, misinformation, and poor adherence to isolation and quarantine. Further research and implementation science are needed to evaluate the role of contact tracing and develop cost-effective digital solutions.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE (2021)

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How an outbreak became a pandemic: a chronological analysis of crucial junctures and international obligations in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic

Sudhvir Singh et al.

Summary: The independent panel has conducted a retrospective analysis of events, actions, and recommendations during the outbreak from late 2019 to early 2020, revealing both rapid responses and areas where improvements could have been made. Furthermore, countries with previous experience in handling similar outbreaks were more successful in containing the virus at the initial stage.

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The political theatre of the UK's travel ban on South Africa Comment

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Damian F. Santomauro et al.

Summary: This study aimed to quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence and burden of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders globally in 2020. The findings showed that the pandemic led to increased prevalence of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders, with females and younger age groups being more affected. The pandemic has created an increased urgency to strengthen mental health systems in most countries and mitigation strategies are needed to address the burden of these mental disorders.

LANCET (2021)

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Evidence of early circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in France: findings from the population-based CONSTANCES cohort

Fabrice Carrat et al.

Summary: Through testing serum samples from a French general population-based cohort, researchers found participants with positive anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG test results, some of whom showed early symptoms or potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2 between November 2019 and January 2020.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGY (2021)

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Omicron border bans ignore the evidence, say scientists

Smriti Mallapaty

NATURE (2021)

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Priorities for the COVID-19 pandemic at the start of 2021: statement of the Lancet COVID-19 Commission

Jeffrey D. Sachs et al.

LANCET (2021)

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Analysis of the initial lot of the CDC 2019-Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) real-time RT-PCR diagnostic panel

Justin S. Lee et al.

Summary: At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, CDC developed a Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel for SARS-CoV-2 detection, but encountered issues with false-positive reactions in N1 and N3 components. An internal investigation revealed that contamination with a synthetic template caused false reactivity in N1, while base pairing between probe and primer led to false reactivity in N3. These findings prompted improvements in quality control, assurance, and validation practices at CDC.

PLOS ONE (2021)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Attributes and predictors of long COVID

Carole H. Sudre et al.

Summary: Reports on long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms, known as 'long COVID', are increasing. Analysis of data from over 4,000 COVID-19 cases revealed that long COVID is more common in older individuals, those with higher body mass index, and females. Experiencing more than five symptoms in the first week of illness was associated with long COVID. A simple model showed promise in distinguishing between short and long COVID cases early in the disease.

NATURE MEDICINE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

The anti-vaccination infodemic on social media: A behavioral analysis

Federico Germani et al.

Summary: The article points out that anti-vaccination supporters on Twitter are more active, sharing conspiracy theories and using emotional language. They rely on a small fraction of influential figures to disseminate information and form a united community. The article proposes policies targeting the anti-vaccination community and solutions to improve the communication strategy of health organizations.

PLOS ONE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

The origin and early spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Europe

Sarah A. Nadeau et al.

Summary: The study examined the migratory patterns of SARS-CoV-2 in Europe before the border closures in spring 2020, revealing that the predominant viral lineage in Europe originated in Italy and local transmission began there before spreading to other European regions. Prior to border closures, the rate of new cases from within-country transmission was comparable to that from migration, indicating the importance of understanding early epidemic states and migration patterns for timely border closure policies.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Mechanistic transmission modeling of COVID-19 on the Diamond Princess cruise ship demonstrates the importance of aerosol transmission

Parham Azimi et al.

Summary: The study suggests that aerosol inhalation was the dominant mode of COVID-19 transmission among the passengers on the cruise ship, with short-range, long-range, and fomite transmission contributing similarly. Passenger quarantine measures also impacted the importance of each transmission mode.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Close proximity risk assessment for SARS-CoV-2 infection

G. Cortellessa et al.

Summary: This study provides insights into the mechanism of exposure to exhaled droplets in close proximity and offers a comprehensive risk assessment of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a minimum safe distance based on exposure duration to reduce the risk of infection.

SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT (2021)

Article Immunology

NIH funding for vaccine readiness before the COVID-19 pandemic

Anthony E. Kiszewski et al.

Summary: This study examines the maturity of COVID-19 vaccine candidate technologies and NIH funding for these technologies, finding that sustained NIH funding plays a crucial role in advancing vaccine technologies. However, vaccine research against specific pandemic threats did not receive sustained funding.

VACCINE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 are transmitted through the air between ferrets over more than one meter distance

Jasmin S. Kutter et al.

Summary: The study shows that SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted through the air over more than a meter distance in ferrets, indicating that ferrets may be a sensitive model to study interventions aimed at preventing virus transmission.

NATURE COMMUNICATIONS (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Predicting mammalian hosts in which novel coronaviruses can be generated

Maya Wardeh et al.

Summary: The study utilized a machine learning approach to predict associations between mammals and multiple coronaviruses, estimating the potential for novel coronavirus generation through recombination. It demonstrated a significant underestimation of the scale of novel coronavirus generation in wild and domesticated animals, while also identifying high-risk species for coronavirus surveillance.

NATURE COMMUNICATIONS (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Covid-19 pandemic and the social determinants of health

Lauren Paremoer et al.

BMJ-BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL (2021)

Review Medicine, Research & Experimental

Historical Insight into Infections and Disorders Associated with Neurological and Psychiatric Sequelae Similar to Long COVID

George B. Stefano

Summary: Long-term sequelae of COVID-19, known as long COVID, may lead to altered cognition. Historical analysis of past pandemics and epidemics has identified common post-infectious disorders related to long COVID, suggesting potential neural effects from invertebrate and vertebrate virosphere.

MEDICAL SCIENCE MONITOR (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in six districts in Zambia in July, 2020: a cross-sectional cluster sample survey

Lloyd B. Mulenga et al.

Summary: The study revealed a significantly higher estimated number of SARS-CoV-2 infections compared to reported cases in six districts in Zambia. The high rtPCR-positive prevalence indicated community transmission, while the low ELISA-positive prevalence was likely influenced by early mitigation measures. It is important for Zambia to monitor the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and implement measures to reduce transmission.

LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

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Seroprevalence surveys in sub-Saharan Africa: what do they tell us?

Effua Usuf et al.

LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

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Community Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 at Three Fitness Facilities — Hawaii, June–July 2020

Laura M. Groves et al.

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COVID-19 Outbreak Among Attendees of an Exercise Facility — Chicago, Illinois, August–September 2020

Frances R. Lendacki et al.

MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT (2021)

Review Respiratory System

The impact of outdoor air pollution on COVID-19: a review of evidence from in vitro, animal, and human studies

Thomas Bourdrel et al.

Summary: Studies suggest that air pollution may contribute to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the specific links are still unclear. Epidemiological investigations have linked various air pollutants to COVID-19 morbidity and mortality, but there are limitations. Air pollution may increase COVID-19 severity and lethality through impacts on chronic diseases and immune response, facilitating viral penetration and replication. Further epidemiological studies and experimental research are needed to better understand the impact of air pollution on COVID-19.

EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW (2021)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among the general population and healthcare workers in India, June-July 2021: A population-based cross-sectional study

Manoj V. Murhekar et al.

Summary: The fourth nationwide serosurvey conducted in India between June and July 2021 showed that over two-thirds of individuals aged 6 years and above in the general population and 85% of healthcare workers had antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. With one-third of the population still seronegative, accelerating COVID-19 vaccination coverage among adults and maintaining non-pharmaceutical interventions is necessary.

PLOS MEDICINE (2021)

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Indoor Air Changes and Potential Implications for SARS-CoV-2 Transmission

Joseph G. Allen et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2021)

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SARS-CoV-2 elimination, not mitigation, creates best outcomes for health, the economy, and civil liberties

Miquel Oliu-Barton et al.

LANCET (2021)

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Ten scientific reasons in support of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2

Trisha Greenhalgh et al.

LANCET (2021)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Variation in COVID-19 Mortality in the US by Race and Ethnicity and Educational Attainment

Justin M. Feldman et al.

Summary: Racial and ethnic inequities in COVID-19 mortality exist in the US, with significant disparities based on race, ethnicity, and educational attainment. If all groups had experienced the same mortality rates as college-educated non-Hispanic White individuals, there would have been a 48% reduction in COVID-19 deaths among adults aged 25 years or older.

JAMA NETWORK OPEN (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Health systems resilience in managing the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons from 28 countries

Victoria Haldane et al.

Summary: A review of COVID-19 responses in 28 selected countries highlights elements of effective public health responses and provides recommendations for strengthening health systems resilience. The study covers areas such as governance and financing, health workforce, medical products and technologies, public health functions, health service delivery, and community engagement.

NATURE MEDICINE (2021)

Letter Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Return-to-work, disabilities and occupational health in the age of COVID-19

Diane Godeau et al.

SCANDINAVIAN JOURNAL OF WORK ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Household COVID-19 risk and in-person schooling

Justin Lessler et al.

Summary: Research suggests that school-based mitigation measures can significantly reduce COVID-19 risk, with a significant relationship no longer observed when seven or more measures are implemented. Additionally, teachers working outside the home are associated with an increased risk of COVID-19, similar to other occupations.

SCIENCE (2021)

Letter Multidisciplinary Sciences

Investigate the origins of COVID-19

Jesse D. Bloom et al.

SCIENCE (2021)

Editorial Material Multidisciplinary Sciences

A paradigm shift to combat indoor respiratory infection Building ventilation systems must get much better

Lidia Morawska et al.

SCIENCE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Timing the SARS-CoV-2 index case in Hubei province

Jonathan Pekar et al.

Summary: The study found that SARS-CoV-2 may have emerged in Hubei province, China between mid-October and mid-November 2019. The dynamics of the virus before discovery showed that over two-thirds of SARS-CoV-2-like zoonotic events would self-limit, without causing a pandemic. The study highlights shortcomings in current zoonosis surveillance methods.

SCIENCE (2021)

Review Health Policy & Services

Community health workers at the dawn of a new era: 11. CHWs leading the way to Health for All

Henry B. Perry et al.

Summary: CHWs are increasingly recognized as critical in achieving national and global health goals. Despite facing challenges such as inadequate funding and supervision, strengthening CHW programs is essential in realizing their enormous potential. Increased sustainable funding, domestic political support, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation are crucial in accelerating progress towards global health goals.

HEALTH RESEARCH POLICY AND SYSTEMS (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

A systematic review and meta-analysis of geographic differences in comorbidities and associated severity and mortality among individuals with COVID-19

Bhaskar Thakur et al.

Summary: COVID-19 patients commonly have comorbidities such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, with chronic kidney or other renal diseases, cerebrovascular accident, and cardiovascular disease associated with higher severity and mortality rates. There is considerable variation in comorbidity prevalence, severity, and mortality across different geographic regions, with the highest mortality observed in Latin American and European patients, particularly older adults and males. Risk stratification and control strategies for COVID-19 should consider comorbidities, age, and gender differences specific to geographical location.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Covid-19 has redefined airborne transmission Improving indoor ventilation and air quality will help us all to stay safe

Julian W. Tang et al.

BMJ-BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL (2021)

Review Environmental Sciences

Factors Associated with the Implementation of Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions for Reducing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Systematic Review

Krishna Regmi et al.

Summary: There has been much discussion about the importance of implementing non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to protect the public from COVID-19. Different governments have adopted various NPIs to reduce transmission, but the effectiveness and factors impacting NPI are varied. This study reviewed factors associated with NPI implementation and highlighted the need for a combination of measures to effectively reduce COVID-19.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Review Microbiology

Emergence of Bat-Related Betacoronaviruses: Hazard and Risks

Roger Frutos et al.

Summary: The current COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the threat of coronavirus-induced diseases. Despite worldwide distribution of bats and bat-borne beta-CoVs, only a few hotspots of beta-CoV emergence have been identified, with monitoring in South and East Africa as well as South America suggested for future hotspots.

FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY (2021)

Article Clinical Neurology

Persistent neurologic symptoms and cognitive dysfunction in non-hospitalized Covid-19 long haulers

Edith L. Graham et al.

Summary: This study investigated the neurologic manifestations in non-hospitalized Covid-19 long haulers, revealing prominent symptoms such as brain fog and fatigue which negatively affect their cognition and quality of life.

ANNALS OF CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL NEUROLOGY (2021)

Article Psychology, Biological

A global database of COVID-19 vaccinations

Edouard Mathieu et al.

Summary: An effective rollout of COVID-19 vaccines is crucial in ending the pandemic, and Our World in Data's vaccination dataset tracks the progress and scale of vaccine distribution globally, aiding policymakers and researchers in understanding the global vaccination efforts.

NATURE HUMAN BEHAVIOUR (2021)

Editorial Material Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Reimagining global health systems for the 21st century: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic

Yibeltal Assefa et al.

BMJ GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

Article Engineering, Chemical

Reducing COVID-19 airborne transmission risks on public transportation buses: an empirical study on aerosol dispersion and control

Nathan J. Edwards et al.

Summary: This study fully characterizes the dispersion and control of cough aerosols in the turbulent real-world environment of driving regular bus routes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of masks in reducing particle count and dispersion distance, as well as the reduction in aerosol particles and residence time with certain control measures. The study provides empirical observations of aerosol dispersion in a real-world air environment and offers insights for improving bus air quality and operational considerations for public transportation organizations in various weather conditions.

AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Prisons and COVID-19 Spread in the United States

Kaitlyn M. Sims et al.

Summary: The study shows that the presence and capacities of prisons are strong correlates of county-level COVID-19 case counts, with the presence of prisons leading to a 9% increase in case counts during the first wave of the pandemic. Policymakers should consider the public health concerns posed by prisons when developing pandemic-response policies.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Kumbh Mela Religious Gathering as a Massive Superspreading Event: Potential Culprit for the Exponential Surge of COVID-19 Cases in India

Ian Christopher N. Rocha et al.

Summary: Kumbh Mela in India, a significant religious gathering, turned into a massive superspreading event for COVID-19, contributing to the uncontrollable second wave of the pandemic in the country. Leadership worldwide should learn from this experience to prevent and manage potential superspreading events and curb the spike of COVID-19 cases.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Effective public health measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19: a systematic review

Imen Ayouni et al.

Summary: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of various public health interventions, including travel restrictions, border measures, quarantine, city lockdowns, mass gathering restrictions, social distancing, mask wearing, contact tracing, testing, school closures, and personal protective equipment in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

BMC PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

The origins of SARS-CoV-2: A critical review

Edward C. Holmes et al.

Summary: This article critically reviews the current scientific evidence to help clarify the origin of SARS-CoV-2. Recent debate has centered around two competing ideas: a laboratory escape scenario and zoonotic emergence.
Article Medicine, General & Internal

COVID-19 in older adults

Saket Saxena et al.

CLEVELAND CLINIC JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2021)

Editorial Material Immunology

A Paradigm Shift to Align Transmission Routes With Mechanisms

Linsey C. Marr et al.

Summary: Current infection-control guidelines are outdated and need to be modified to more accurately describe different transmission routes in order to improve control measures for emerging more transmissible variants of SARS-CoV-2.

CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Review Immunology

Impact of the Delta variant on vaccine efficacy and response strategies

Lianlian Bian et al.

Summary: The Delta variant has caused a new wave of COVID-19 epidemic, requiring a higher proportion of the population to be vaccinated to reduce disease burden. Existing vaccines have shown decreased protective efficacy against the Delta variant, with a decline in neutralizing antibody titers post-vaccination. Accelerating vaccine coverage and intervention measures like mask-wearing are effective ways to control the spread of the Delta variant.

EXPERT REVIEW OF VACCINES (2021)

Letter Health Care Sciences & Services

Trends and Disparities in Teleworking During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the USA: May 2020-February 2021

Adam W. Gaffney et al.

JOURNAL OF GENERAL INTERNAL MEDICINE (2021)

Letter Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Aerosols should not be defined by distance travelled

J. W. Tang et al.

JOURNAL OF HOSPITAL INFECTION (2021)

Review Infectious Diseases

Systematic review of empirical studies comparing the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions against COVID-19

Alba Mendez-Brito et al.

Summary: School closing, workplace closing, business and venue closing, and public event bans were found to be the most effective NPIs in controlling the spread of COVID-19 based on a systematic review of 34 studies. Early implementation and a combination of specific social distancing measures were associated with reducing COVID-19 cases and deaths.

JOURNAL OF INFECTION (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Symptoms, complications and management of long COVID: a review

Olalekan Lee Aiyegbusi et al.

Summary: Patients with long COVID experience a wide range of physical and mental symptoms, with common issues including fatigue, shortness of breath, and headaches. Beyond symptoms and complications, they often report impaired quality of life, mental health issues, and employment problems.

JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF MEDICINE (2021)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

SARS-CoV-2's origin should be investigated worldwide for pandemic prevention

Zhiqiang Wu et al.

LANCET (2021)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

A beautiful idea: how COVAX has fallen short

Ann Danaiya Usher

LANCET (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Tracking development assistance for health and for COVID-19: a review of development assistance, government, out-of-pocket, and other private spending on health for 204 countries and territories, 1990-2050

Angela E. Micah et al.

Summary: Global health spending is expected to continue to grow, but remain unequally distributed between countries. In 2020, we estimate that development organisations substantially increased the amount of development assistance for health provided. Continued efforts are needed to raise sufficient resources to mitigate the pandemic for the most vulnerable, and to help curtail the pandemic for all.

LANCET (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Spread of a SARS-CoV-2 variant through Europe in the summer of 2020

Emma B. Hodcroft et al.

Summary: A variant of SARS-CoV-2, 20E (EU1), was identified in Spain in early summer 2020 and later spread across Europe. Despite not showing increased transmissibility, the variant's success can be attributed to rising incidence in Spain, resumption of travel, and lack of effective screening and containment measures. Travel played a significant role in introducing the variant multiple times to European countries during the summer, undermining local efforts to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection.

NATURE (2021)

Article Pediatrics

Pediatric long-COVID: An overlooked phenomenon?

Caroline L. H. Brackel et al.

Summary: A survey of Dutch pediatricians identified 89 children aged 2-18 suspected of long-COVID, with 36% experiencing severe limitations in daily function. Common symptoms include fatigue, dyspnea, and concentration difficulties. The study emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to early detection and effective management of this condition in pediatric population.

PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Racial and ethnic differentials in COVID-19-related job exposures by occupational standing in the US

Noreen Goldman et al.

Summary: This study examines racial and ethnic disparities in work-related exposure to COVID-19, and finds that white frontline workers are often overrepresented in high-risk jobs, while black and Latino frontline workers are generally underrepresented. However, further analysis by occupational standing reveals that Latino and black frontline workers are overrepresented in lower standing occupations and may have inadequate COVID-19 protections.

PLOS ONE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Temporal trends of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence during the first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic in Kenya

Ifedayo M. O. Adetifa et al.

Summary: A study conducted in Kenya found that while the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among blood donors was relatively low, there was evidence of widespread transmission with low associated mortality. This suggests that although many individuals in Kenya remained susceptible to COVID-19, the virus had already spread widely throughout the country.

NATURE COMMUNICATIONS (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Animal sales from Wuhan wet markets immediately prior to the COVID-19 pandemic

Xiao Xiao et al.

Summary: The study documents the sale of 47,381 individuals from 38 species in Wuhan's markets, noting the absence of pangolins and bats which supports the theory that they are not the source of the COVID-19 pandemic. China implemented a temporary ban on wildlife trade and a permanent ban on eating and trading terrestrial wild animals to protect human health, address past inconsistencies, and benefit global biodiversity conservation and animal welfare.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Effectiveness of contact tracing apps for SARS-CoV-2: a rapid systematic review

Kevin Jenniskens et al.

Summary: Studies suggest that contact tracing apps for SARS-CoV-2 can be effective in reducing transmission and mortality rates, but the specific impact depends on other model parameters. Further methodologically sound comparative studies are needed to confirm these findings.

BMJ OPEN (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Changing the Narrative: Structural Barriers and Racial and Ethnic Inequities in COVID-19 Vaccination

Anuli Njoku et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minority groups in the United States, with disparities in vaccine access threatening their health despite the promising solution of vaccination. Discussions have focused on vaccine hesitancy and structural racism as drivers of disparate vaccination rates among racial and ethnic minorities. Recommendations include public health, health system, and community-engaged approaches to reduce racial disparities in COVID-19 disease and mortality.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Editorial Material Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Mounting antiscience aggression in the United States

Peter J. Hotez

Summary: There is a troubling new expansion of antiscience aggression in the United States, led by far-right extremism targeting prominent biological scientists fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLOS BIOLOGY (2021)

Article Microbiology

Dating first cases of COVID-19

David L. Roberts et al.

Summary: The study suggests that COVID-19 may have emerged in China as early as November 17, 2019, and had spread globally by January 2020. Novel methods showed that six countries had exceptionally early cases, which were unlikely to be part of their main case series. These results imply an earlier and more rapid timeline of spread than previously thought based on confirmed cases.

PLOS PATHOGENS (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Barbara Chmielewska et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes, leading to increased rates of stillbirth, maternal death, surgically managed ectopic pregnancies, and postpartum depression. Disparities exist between high-resource and low-resource settings, emphasizing the urgent need for prioritizing safe, accessible, and equitable maternity care in response to this pandemic and future health crises.

LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

Review Infectious Diseases

Long COVID or post-COVID-19 syndrome: putative pathophysiology, risk factors, and treatments

Shin Jie Yong

Summary: Long COVID or post-COVID-19 syndrome is a poorly understood condition that affects survivors with symptoms like fatigue, dyspnoea, cognitive impairments, and more. The pathophysiology, risk factors, and treatments are still lacking in literature, but potential treatments may include rehabilitation training and repurposed drugs from similar conditions. Further research is needed to substantiate risk factors and treatment options.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Learning from previous lockdown measures and minimising harmful biopsychosocial consequences as they end: A systematic review

Paula A. Muehlschlegel et al.

Summary: This systematic review aims to analyze the biopsychosocial consequences after lockdown measures end according to short, medium, and long-term impacts. The study found that short to long-term effects included psychological distress, economic repercussions, maladaptive behaviors, and mental health deterioration. Supporting vulnerable groups and offering education, workplace modifications, financial, and social assistance may mitigate negative repercussions.

JOURNAL OF GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

Article Microbiology

Investigation of Long COVID Prevalence and Its Relationship to Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation

Jeffrey E. Gold et al.

Summary: The study found a prevalence of 30.3% for long COVID symptoms among COVID-19 patients, with some initially asymptomatic patients developing long-term symptoms. Additionally, a significantly higher rate of EBV reactivation was observed in long COVID subjects compared to control subjects, suggesting a potential association between COVID-19 inflammation and EBV reactivation.

PATHOGENS (2021)

Article Biology

How did we get here: what are droplets and aerosols and how far do they go? A historical perspective on the transmission of respiratory infectious diseases

K. Randall et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed gaps in our understanding of airborne virus transmission, leading to confusion in public health policies and messaging. Current recommendations are based on inconsistent principles requiring better collaboration and integration of scientific research for effective public health policies.

INTERFACE FOCUS (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

SARS-CoV-2 transmission in schools: An updated living systematic review (version 2; November 2020)

Wei Xu et al.

Summary: This study updated a living systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission in schools, finding low overall infection rates and slightly higher rates among students compared to staff. Limited high-quality evidence is available to quantify the extent of transmission in schools.

JOURNAL OF GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Burden and characteristics of COVID-19 in the United States during 2020

Pei Sen et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic in the United States in 2020 was characterized by increasing ascertainment rates, high population susceptibility, and rising community infectious rates, with infection fatality rate decreasing towards the end of the year.

NATURE (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Optimal strategies for COVID-19 prevention from global evidence achieved through social distancing, stay at home, travel restriction and lockdown: a systematic review

Tadele Girum et al.

Summary: The study reviewed evidence on the effectiveness of social distancing, stay at home, travel restrictions, and lockdown in preventing COVID-19. Mandatory, long-term, and early initiated programs were found to be more effective in reducing contacts and infections.

ARCHIVES OF PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Article Economics

Comparing COVID-19 Control in the Asia-Pacific and North Atlantic Regions

Jeffrey D. Sachs

ASIAN ECONOMIC PAPERS (2021)

Article Economics

The Paradox of Thailand's Success in Controlling COVID-19

Poum Tangkitvanich

Summary: Thailand has been successful in containing COVID-19 due to high public fear, strict border control, centralized leadership, active involvement of health volunteers, cautious phased lockdown lifting, and effective response to threats of a second wave. However, the economy is expected to contract by 8 percent, reflecting low potential GDP growth rate, high dependence on tourism, and overly strict measures used to contain the virus.

ASIAN ECONOMIC PAPERS (2021)

Article Endocrinology & Metabolism

Long COVID: An overview

A. V. Raveendran et al.

Summary: Long COVID refers to the persistence of symptoms in individuals who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection, possibly related to organ damage, post viral syndrome, etc. Clinical evaluation should focus on identifying the pathophysiology and appropriate remedial measures.

DIABETES & METABOLIC SYNDROME-CLINICAL RESEARCH & REVIEWS (2021)

Letter Respiratory System

Long COVID-19: An emerging pandemic in itself

Karthikeyan P. Iyengar et al.

ADVANCES IN RESPIRATORY MEDICINE (2021)

Article Health Care Sciences & Services

Long-COVID Syndrome? A Study on the Persistence of Neurological, Psychological and Physiological Symptoms

Graziella Orru et al.

Summary: The study investigated the impact of long COVID on the general population during the ongoing pandemic, finding that common symptoms included headache, fatigue, and insomnia, leading to a decrease in overall quality of life.

HEALTHCARE (2021)

Article Psychology, Multidisciplinary

COVID-19 Protective Behaviors Are Forms of Prosocial and Unselfish Behaviors

Bojana M. Dinic et al.

Summary: The study found that the tendency to help anonymously has a positive effect on protective behaviors, while selfishness has a negative effect. Among context-related factors, fear has a significant impact on protective behaviors, whereas empathy plays a more complex role in influencing these behaviors.

FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

The relationship between cultural tightness-looseness and COVID-19 cases and deaths: a global analysis

Michele J. Gelfand et al.

Summary: The study found that by October 2020, countries with high cultural looseness were estimated to have higher numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths compared to countries with high cultural tightness. Furthermore, the evolutionary game theoretic model suggested that tight groups cooperate faster under threat and have higher survival rates.

LANCET PLANETARY HEALTH (2021)

Review Criminology & Penology

Domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic-Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Alex R. Piquero et al.

Summary: The review found that domestic violence incidents increased in response to stay-at-home/lockdown orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a stronger effect observed in studies conducted in the United States.

JOURNAL OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Words matter: political and gender analysis of speeches made by heads of government during the COVID-19 pandemic

Sara Dada et al.

Summary: The analysis of speeches from 20 heads of government around the world revealed five primary themes in discussions of COVID-19: economics, social welfare, nationalism, responsibility and emotional appeals. Women leaders focused on individual impacts and discussed a wider range of social welfare services, while leaders from lower-resource settings emphasized detailed financial relief and support. Men leaders used war metaphors more frequently in their speeches.

BMJ GLOBAL HEALTH (2021)

Article Economics

Prosociality predicts health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic

Pol Campos-Mercade et al.

Summary: Prosocial behavior is crucial for slowing the spread of infectious diseases, with individuals more inclined to protect others' health over personal benefits. Experimental measurements of prosociality predict health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, and prosociality measured two years before the pandemic also predicts health behaviors during the pandemic.

JOURNAL OF PUBLIC ECONOMICS (2021)

Article Oncology

Unexpected detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the prepandemic period in Italy

Giovanni Apolone et al.

Summary: The study found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus began circulating in Italy as early as September 2019 among asymptomatic individuals, shedding light on the origin and spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

TUMORI JOURNAL (2021)

Article Immunology

Identification of a novel lineage bat SARS-related coronaviruses that use bat ACE2 receptor

Hua Guo et al.

Summary: The study identified a new lineage of SARSr-CoVs, including RaTG15 and other viruses, in bats with characteristics similar to SARS-CoV-2 but distinct from known SARSr-CoVs. The results highlighted the need for further systematic and longitudinal research to prevent future cross-species transmission events caused by SARSr-CoVs or to better understand the origin of SARS-CoV-2.

EMERGING MICROBES & INFECTIONS (2021)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

COVID-19-related misinformation on social media: a systematic review

Elia Gabarron et al.

Summary: This study aimed to review misinformation on social media related to COVID-19 during the initial phase of the pandemic. The findings revealed a wide range of misinformation proportions, with some studies not categorizing the type of misinformation while others described specific myths. Some studies also highlighted the negative consequences of COVID-19 misinformation, with fear or panic being a common outcome. Social media's role in disseminating accurate information and misinformation is increasingly prominent, and the insights gained from this review can help health-care organizations better prepare for future infodemics.

BULLETIN OF THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (2021)

Letter Immunology

Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in an Oropharyngeal Swab Specimen, Milan, Italy, Early December 2019

Antonella Amendola et al.

Summary: The presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a child's oropharyngeal swab specimen collected in early December 2019, approximately 3 months before the first identified COVID-19 case in Italy, provides new insights into the timing and mapping of coronavirus transmission pathways.

EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Article Infectious Diseases

Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) early-stage importation risk to Europe, January 2020

Giulia Pullano et al.

EUROSURVEILLANCE (2020)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

Positive RT-PCR Test Results in Patients Recovered From COVID-19

Lan Lan et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2020)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Clinical features of patients infected with 2019 novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China

Chaolin Huang et al.

LANCET (2020)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

First Case of 2019 Novel Coronavirus in the United States

Michelle L. Holshue et al.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2020)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

A Novel Coronavirus from Patients with Pneumonia in China, 2019

Na Zhu et al.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2020)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Early Transmission Dynamics in Wuhan, China, of Novel Coronavirus-Infected Pneumonia

Qun Li et al.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2020)

Editorial Material Microbiology

Proposed Changes to US Policy on Potential Pandemic Pathogen Oversight and Implementation

Thomas V. Inglesby et al.

MSPHERE (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

How can airborne transmission of COVID-19 indoors be minimised?

Lidia Morawska et al.

ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL (2020)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Impact of international travel and border control measures on the global spread of the novel 2019 coronavirus outbreak

Chad R. Wells et al.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (2020)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Offline: Why President Trump is wrong about WHO

Richard Horton

LANCET (2020)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

Racism and discrimination in COVID-19 responses

Delan Devakumar et al.

LANCET (2020)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

How will country-based mitigation measures influence the course of the COVID-19 epidemic?

Roy M. Anderson et al.

LANCET (2020)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Public Health Response to the Initiation and Spread of Pandemic COVID-19 in the United States, February 24-April 21, 2020

Anne Schuchat

MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT (2020)

Editorial Material Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

COVID-19: The First Posttruth Pandemic

Wendy E. Parmet et al.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH (2020)

Article Environmental Sciences

Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2: The world should face the reality

Lidia Morawska et al.

ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL (2020)

Article Construction & Building Technology

Short-range airborne route dominates exposure of respiratory infection during close contact

Wenzhao Chen et al.

BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT (2020)

Editorial Material Construction & Building Technology

Recognizing and controlling airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor environments

Joseph G. Allen et al.

INDOOR AIR (2020)

Editorial Material Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Symptom Duration and Risk Factors for Delayed Return to Usual Health Among Outpatients with COVID-19 in a Multistate Health Care Systems Network - United States, March-June 2020

Mark W. Tenforde et al.

MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT (2020)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

Persistent Symptoms in Patients After Acute COVID-19

Angelo Carfi et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2020)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Community health workers for pandemic response: a rapid evidence synthesis

Soumyadeep Bhaumik et al.

BMJ GLOBAL HEALTH (2020)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Prioritising the role of community health workers in the COVID-19 response

Madeleine Ballard et al.

BMJ GLOBAL HEALTH (2020)

Editorial Material Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

COVID-19 travel restrictions and the International Health Regulations (2005)

Barbara von Tigerstrom et al.

BMJ GLOBAL HEALTH (2020)

Article Mechanics

The Fluid Dynamics of Disease Transmission

Lydia Bourouiba

Annual Review of Fluid Mechanics (2020)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

The Lancet COVID-19 Commission

Jeffrey D. Sachs et al.

LANCET (2020)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Community health workers reveal COVID-19 disaster in Brazil

Gabriela Lotta et al.

LANCET (2020)

Editorial Material Infectious Diseases

The COVID-19 infodemic

[Anonymous]

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2020)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Zoonotic host diversity increases in human-dominated ecosystems

Rory Gibb et al.

NATURE (2020)

Editorial Material Environmental Sciences

Temporal association between particulate matter pollution and case fatality rate of COVID-19 in Wuhan

Ye Yao et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2020)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Potential transmission of SARS-CoV-2 on a flight from Singapore to Hangzhou, China: An epidemiological investigation

Junfang Chen et al.

TRAVEL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE (2020)

Review Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Social consequences of mass quarantine during epidemics: a systematic review with implications for the COVID-19 response

Isaac Yen-Hao Chu et al.

JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE (2020)

Editorial Material Immunology

Anti-science extremism in America: escalating and globalizing

Peter J. Hotez

MICROBES AND INFECTION (2020)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Community Health Workers and Covid-19-Addressing Social Determinants of Health in Times of Crisis and Beyond

Patricia J. Peretz et al.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2020)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Demographic perspectives on the mortality of COVID-19 and other epidemics

Joshua R. Goldstein et al.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (2020)

Article Infectious Diseases

Effective mitigation strategy in early stage of COVID-19 pandemic in China

Xiao-Yue Yu et al.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY (2020)

News Item Multidisciplinary Sciences

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