Irish journal of medical science
-
To study the immunization status and IgM and IgG antibody behavior against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in an unvaccinated population of Northeast Portugal (including RT-PCR diagnosed and undiagnosed individuals). ⋯ IgM and IgG displayed a similar initial increase (within 1/2 weeks), with IgG having a significant decrease after the 21st week post-diagnosis, translating a loss of immunity at this point. The youngest and oldest symptomatic age groups were found to be the highest responders. Antibody assays enabled the identification of previously undiagnosed participants.
-
Observational Study
COVID-19 outbreak impact on emergency trauma visits and trauma surgery in a level 3 trauma center.
This study aims to compare emergency trauma visits' severity, emergency surgical needs, and characteristics between the pandemic and pre-pandemic periods. ⋯ Despite the decrease in the visit frequency of adult trauma patients during the pandemic period, the needs for trauma surgery, ICU, and ward admission did not change. Trauma teams should continue their duties during the pandemic period.
-
Data from literature shows that antigen tests are rapid and helpful tools for diagnosis of COVID-19. ⋯ The comparison data obtained in this study support that this method seems a proper approach for rapid screening of patients with high SARS-CoV-2 viral load; however, the rate of sensitivity is highly Ct-dependent.
-
Direct Provision in Ireland provides basic needs of food and shelter to asylum seekers while their refugee status is processed. There are a number of issues associated with living conditions in these centres including overcrowding, nutrition and play facilities (1,2). This article outlines the protocol of contact tracing and management of latent tuberculosis infection in the paediatric setting after a confirmed adult case of tuberculosis within a Direct Provision centre in Ireland. ⋯ Sixteen children (20%) were treated for possible latent tuberculosis infection with isoniazid for 6-9 months; compliance was good with no side effects reported. This article highlights the risk to vulnerable populations, especially children, when residing in Direct Provision facilities. Initial migrant screening on entry is essential, in addition to improving living conditions and time spent by families in this living environment.
-
To establish the demographics, injury patterns, management and outcomes of paediatric major trauma patients at Cork University Hospital (CUH). ⋯ Paediatric trauma is of low volume, creating challenges in terms of preparedness. The annual number of paediatric major trauma presentations to CUH, including road trauma cases, remains roughly constant.