Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America
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Historical Article
National estimates of healthcare utilization by individuals with hepatitis C virus infection in the United States.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health problem in the United States. Although prior studies have evaluated the HCV-related healthcare burden, these studies examined a single treatment setting and did not account for the growing "baby boomer" population (individuals born during 1945-1965). ⋯ Individuals with HCV infection are large users of outpatient, ED, and inpatient health services. Resource use is highest and increasing in the baby boomer generation. These observations illuminate the public health burden of HCV infection in the United States.
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Confirmed cases of avian influenza A(H7N9) virus infection in humans continue to occur in mainland China. Few confirmed cases have occurred in poultry workers despite potentially higher rates of exposure. ⋯ Although none of the participants in our study had virologically confirmed H7N9 infection, the high proportion of poultry workers with serologic evidence of H7N9 infection between May and December 2013 suggests a substantial risk of mild H7N9 infections in this group, supporting stricter control measures in live poultry markets.
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Comparative Study
Clinical efficacy of polyspecific intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in patients with streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: a comparative observational study.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and necrotizing fasciitis are the 2 most severe invasive manifestations caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS). Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy has been suggested as adjunctive treatment with a beneficial effect on mortality. However the clinical evidence is limited. Here we aim to further document the clinical efficacy of administered IVIG therapy in a comparative observational study of well-defined patients with STSS. ⋯ This comparative observational study of prospectively identified STSS patients demonstrates that both IVIG and clindamycin therapy contribute to a significantly improved survival in STSS.
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While the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS pandemic continues, the incidence of HIV infections has fallen because of the deployment of antiretroviral drugs and multiple prevention modalities. To achieve a durable end to the pandemic, a vaccine remains essential. Recent advances in vaccinology offer new promise for an effective HIV vaccine.