Article Summary
February 18, 2020
Do not violate the International Health Regulations during the COVID-19 outbreak
Habibi et al. reflect on potential violations of the International Health Regulations, in particular Article 43 which restricts what measures countries can implement when responding to public health risks, requiring that the measures by “supported by science, in commensurate with the risks involved, and anchored in human rights.” Habibi et al. (Feb 13, 2020). Do…
Authoritarianism, outbreaks, and information politics
In this brief commentary, Kavanagh discusses the potential effects of autocratic and information politics on successful and rapid outbreak response. Kavanagh (Feb 13, 2020). Authoritarianism, outbreaks, and information politics. The Lancet. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2468-2667(20)30030-X
Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Returning Travelers from Wuhan, China
An evacuation of 126 persons from Wuhan to Frankfurt, Germany, employed a symptom-based screening process that failed to detect 2 persons who subsequently tested positive for COVID-19. Neither patient developed fever nor respiratory symptoms during 7 days of hospitalization suggesting the potential for viral shedding among asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic people. Hiehl et al. (Feb…
Protecting health-care workers from subclinical coronavirus infection
In this correspondence, authors describe several recent incidents in clinical settings that suggest the possible asymptomatic transmission of 2019-nCoV. They highlight the need for high-level personal protective equipment for health care workers, even when working with subclinical patients and those who have recovered from acute illness. Chang et al. (Feb 13, 2020) Protecting health-care workers…
A deep learning algorithm using CT images to screen for Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19)
New research describes the possibility of using artificial intelligence deep learning methods to review CT images and radiographical changes to facilitate earlier diagnosis at a time when diagnostic resources remain scarce. Sensitivity of the test was 74% and specificity was 67%. Wang et al. (Feb 17, 2020). A deep learning algorithm using CT images to…
A simple laboratory parameter facilitates early identification of COVID-19 patients
Researchers discuss the potential utility of including eosinopenia in early diagnostic assessment for COVID-19 and its reliability compared to leukocyte counts and lymphopenia. Li et al. (Feb 17, 2020). A simple laboratory parameter facilitates early identification of COVID-19 patients. Pre-print downloaded Feb 18 from https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.02.13.20022830
Optimizing diagnostic strategy for novel coronavirus pneumonia, a multi-center study in Eastern China
Ai et al. conducted a prospective study to identify an optimal diagnostic strategy for COVID-19 pneumonia which includes a combination of CT, RT-PCR, and multi-plex PCR. Ai et al. (Feb 17, 2020). Optimizing diagnostic strategy for novel coronavirus pneumonia, a multi-center study in Eastern China. Pre-print downloaded Feb 18 from https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.02.13.20022673
Cancer patients in SARS-CoV-2 infection: a nationwide analysis in China
Researchers reviewed 2,007 COVID-19 cases in china and identified 18 with a history of cancer, higher than the overall incidence of cancer in the general Chinese population. Lung cancer was most common (5/18). Specific characteristics of these patients and clinical outcomes are described. Liang et al. (Feb 14, 2020). Cancer patients in SARS-CoV-2 infection: a…
Understanding the present status and forecasting of COVID―19 in Wuhan
Tomie modelled COVID-19 incidence data for Wuhan, Hubei Province excluding Wuhan, and mainland China excluding Hubei. The model suggests that the number of new cases outside of Wuhan will be negligible by the end of February if the current trends do not change. Daily fluctuation in Wuhan makes predicting the end of the outbreak there…
The role of absolute humidity on transmission rates of the COVID-19 outbreak
Researchers evaluated absolute humidity and transmission of COVID-19. They found that high humidity will not necessarily limit the survival and transmission of the virus. Sustained and exponential disease transmission can occur across a range of humidity conditions. Thus, changes in weather will likely not lead to reduced case counts without extensive public health interventions. Luo…
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