Early Release

Synopses

• Childcare Exposure to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 for 4-Year-Old Presymptomatic Child, South Korea
  Y. Yoon et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Data on transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from preschool-age children to children and adults are limited. We investigated SARS-CoV-2 exposure at a childcare center in South Korea. A 4-year-old child, probably infected by his grandmother, attended the center during the presymptomatic period (February 19–21, 2020). Fever developed on February 22, and he was given a diagnosis SARS-CoV-2 infection on February 27. At the center, 190 persons (154 children and 36 adults) were identified as contacts; 44 (23.2%) were defined as close contacts (37 children and 7 adults). All 190 persons were negative for SARS-CoV-2 on days 8–9 after the last exposure. Two close contacts (1 child and 1 adult) showed development of symptoms on the last day of quarantine. However, subsequent test results were negative. This investigation adds indirect evidence of low potential infectivity in a childcare setting with exposure to a presymptomatic child.

• Symptom Profiles and Progression in Hospitalized and Nonhospitalized Patients with Coronavirus Disease, Colorado, USA, 2020
  G. M. Vahey et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To improve recognition of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and inform clinical and public health guidance, we randomly selected 600 COVID-19 case-patients in Colorado. A telephone questionnaire captured symptoms experienced, when symptoms occurred, and how long each lasted. Among 128 hospitalized patients, commonly reported symptoms included fever (84%), fatigue (83%), cough (73%), and dyspnea (72%). Among 236 nonhospitalized patients, commonly reported symptoms included fatigue (90%), fever (83%), cough (83%), and myalgia (74%). The most commonly reported initial symptoms were cough (21%–25%) and fever (20%–25%). In multivariable analysis, vomiting, dyspnea, altered mental status, dehydration, and wheezing were significantly associated with hospitalization, whereas rhinorrhea, headache, sore throat, and anosmia or ageusia were significantly associated with nonhospitalization. General symptoms and upper respiratory symptoms occurred earlier in disease, and anosmia, ageusia, lower respiratory symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms occurred later. Symptoms should be considered alongside other epidemiologic factors in clinical and public health decisions regarding potential COVID-19 cases.

• Characteristics and Timing of Initial Virus Shedding in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, Utah, USA
  N. M. Lewis et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Virus shedding in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can occur before onset of symptoms; less is known about symptom progression or infectiousness associated with initiation of viral shedding. We investigated household transmission in 5 households with daily specimen collection for 5 consecutive days starting a median of 4 days after symptom onset in index patients. Seven contacts across 2 households implementing no precautionary measures were infected. Of these 7, 2 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcription PCR on day 3 of 5. Both had mild, nonspecific symptoms for 1–3 days preceding the first positive test. SARS-CoV-2 was cultured from the fourth-day specimen in 1 patient and from the fourth- and fifth-day specimens in the other. We also describe infection control measures taken in the households that had no transmission. Persons exposed to SARS-CoV-2 should self-isolate, including from household contacts, wear a mask, practice hand hygiene, and seek testing promptly.

• Characteristics of Patients Co-infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 and Dengue Virus, Buenos Aires, Argentina, March–June 2020
  L. M. Carosella et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  An epidemic of dengue virus and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) co-infections occurred in Argentina during 2020. We describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes in a cohort of patients hospitalized because of co-infection. We retrospectively identified 13 patients from different hospitals in Buenos Aires who had confirmed infection with SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus and obtained clinical and laboratory data from clinical records. All patients had febrile disease when hospitalized. Headache was a common symptom. A total of 8 patients had respiratory symptoms, 5 had pneumonia, and 3 had rash. Nearly all patients had lymphopenia when hospitalized. No patients were admitted to an intensive care unit or died during follow up. Co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus can occur in patients living in areas in which both viruses are epidemic. The outcome of these patients did not seem to be worse than those having either SARS-CoV-2 or dengue infection alone.

• Zika Virus–Associated Birth Defects, Costa Rica, 2016–2018
  A. Benavides-Lara et al.
• Plasmodium ovale wallikeri and P. ovale curtisi Infections and Diagnostic Approaches to Imported Malaria, France, 2013–2018
  V. Joste et al.

Research

• Addressing COVID-19 Misinformation on Social Media Preemptively and Responsively
  E. K. Vraga and L. Bode View Abstract Email this Article

  Efforts to address misinformation on social media have special urgency with the emergence of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In one effort, the World Health Organization (WHO) designed and publicized shareable infographics to debunk coronavirus myths. We used an experiment to test the efficacy of these infographics, depending on placement and source. We found that exposure to a corrective graphic on social media reduced misperceptions about the science of 1 false COVID-19 prevention strategy but did not affect misperceptions about prevention of COVID-19. Lowered misperceptions about the science persisted >1 week later. These effects were consistent when the graphic was shared by the World Health Organization or by an anonymous Facebook user and when the graphics were shared preemptively or in response to misinformation. Health organizations can and should create and promote shareable graphics to improve public knowledge.

• Rapid Transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Detention Facility, Louisiana, USA, May–June, 2020
  M. Wallace et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To assess transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a detention facility experiencing a coronavirus disease outbreak and evaluate testing strategies, we conducted a prospective cohort investigation in a facility in Louisiana, USA. We conducted SARS-CoV-2 testing for detained persons in 6 quarantined dormitories at various time points. Of 143 persons, 53 were positive at the initial test, and an additional 58 persons were positive at later time points (cumulative incidence 78%). In 1 dormitory, all 45 detained persons initially were negative; 18 days later, 40 (89%) were positive. Among persons who were SARS-CoV-2 positive, 47% (52/111) were asymptomatic at the time of specimen collection; 14 had replication-competent virus isolated. Serial SARS-CoV-2 testing might help interrupt transmission through medical isolation and quarantine. Testing in correctional and detention facilities will be most effective when initiated early in an outbreak, inclusive of all exposed persons, and paired with infection prevention and control.

• Outbreak of Severe Vomiting in Dogs Associated with a Canine Enteric Coronavirus, United Kingdom
  A. D. Radford et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The lack of population health surveillance for companion animal populations leaves them vulnerable to the effects of novel diseases without means of early detection. We present evidence on the effectiveness of a system that enabled early detection, rapid response, and ultimately control of a canine gastroenteritis outbreak in the United Kingdom. In January 2020, prolific vomiting among dogs was sporadically reported in the United Kingdom. Electronic health records from a nationwide sentinel network of veterinary practices confirmed a significant increase in dogs with signs of gastroenteric disease. Male dogs and dogs living with other vomiting dogs were more likely to be affected. Diet and vaccination status were not associated with the disease; however, a canine enteric coronavirus was significantly associated with illness. The system we describe potentially fills a gap in surveillance in neglected populations and could provide a blueprint for other countries.

• Excess Deaths during Influenza and Coronavirus Disease and Infection-Fatality Rate for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, the Netherlands
  L. van Asten et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Since the 2009 influenza pandemic, the Netherlands has used a weekly death monitoring system to estimate deaths in excess of expectations. We present estimates of excess deaths during the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic and 10 previous influenza epidemics. Excess deaths per influenza epidemic averaged 4,000. The estimated 9,554 excess deaths (41% in excess) during the COVID-19 epidemic weeks 12–19 of 2020 appeared comparable to the 9,373 excess deaths (18%) during the severe influenza epidemic of 2017–18. However, these deaths occurred in a shorter time, had a higher peak, and were mitigated by nonpharmaceutical control measures. Excess deaths were 1.8-fold higher than reported laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 deaths (5,449). Based on excess deaths and preliminary results from seroepidemiologic studies, we estimated the infection-fatality rate to be 1%. Monitoring of excess deaths is crucial for timely estimates of disease burden for influenza and COVID-19. Our data complement laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 death reports and enable comparisons between epidemics.

• Universal Admission Screening for SARS-CoV-2 Infections among Hospitalized Patients, Switzerland, 2020
  T. Scheier et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Switzerland began a national lockdown on March 16, 2020, in response to the rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We assessed the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among patients admitted to 4 hospitals in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland, in April 2020. These 4 acute care hospitals screened 2,807 patients, including 2,278 (81.2%) who did not have symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Overall, 529 (18.8%) persons had >1 symptom of COVID-19, of whom 60 (11.3%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Eight asymptomatic persons (0.4%) also tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Our findings indicate that screening on the basis of COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of clinical suspicion, can identify most SARS-CoV-2–positive persons in a low-prevalence setting.

• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N8) Virus Spread by Short- and Long-Range Transmission, France, 2016–17
  F. Briand et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We detected 3 genotypes of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N8) virus in France during winter 2016–17. Genotype A viruses caused dramatic economic losses in the domestic duck farm industry in southwestern France. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests that genotype A viruses formed 5 distinct geographic clusters in southwestern France. In some clusters, local secondary transmission might have been started by a single introduction. The intensity of the viral spread seems to correspond to the density of duck holdings in each production area. To avoid the introduction of disease into an unaffected area, it is crucial that authorities limit the movements of potentially infected birds.

• Increasing Incidence of Invasive Group A Streptococcus Disease in First Nations Population, Alberta, Canada, 2003–2017
  G. J. Tyrrell et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The incidence of invasive group A Streptococcus (iGAS) disease in the general population in Alberta, Canada, has been steadily increasing. To determine whether rates for specific populations such as First Nations are also increasing, we investigated iGAS cases among First Nations persons in Alberta during 2003–2017. We identified cases by isolating GAS from a sterile site and performing emm typing. We collected demographic, social, behavioral, and clinical data for patients. During the study period, 669 cases of iGAS in First Nations persons were reported. Incidence increased from 10.0 cases/100,000 persons in 2003 to 52.2 cases/100,000 persons in 2017. The 2017 rate was 6 times higher for the First Nations population than for non–First Nations populations (8.7 cases/100,000 persons). The 5 most common emm types from First Nations patients were 59, 101, 82, 41, and 11. These data indicate that iGAS is severely affecting the First Nations population in Alberta, Canada.

• Hepatitis C Virus Transmission Clusters in Public Health and Correctional Settings, Wisconsin, USA, 2016–2017
  K. R. Hochstatter et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Ending the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic requires stopping transmission among networks of persons who inject drugs. Identifying transmission networks by using genomic epidemiology may inform community responses that can quickly interrupt transmission. We retrospectively identified HCV RNA–positive specimens corresponding to 459 persons in settings that use the state laboratory, including correctional facilities and syringe services programs, in Wisconsin, USA, during 2016–2017. We conducted next-generation sequencing of HCV and analyzed it for phylogenetic linkage by using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Global Hepatitis Outbreak Surveillance Technology platform. Analysis showed that 126 persons were linked across 42 clusters. Phylogenetic clustering was higher in rural communities and associated with female sex and younger age among rural residents. These data highlight that HCV transmission could be reduced by expanding molecular-based surveillance strategies to rural communities affected by the opioid crisis.

• Spread of Multidrug-Resistant Rhodococcus equi, United States
  S. Álvarez-Narváez et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Multidrug resistance has been detected in the animal and zoonotic human pathogen Rhodococcus equi after mass macrolide/rifampin antibioprophylaxis in endemically affected equine farms in the United States. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) R. equi emerged upon acquisition of pRERm46, a conjugative plasmid conferring resistance to macrolides, lincosamides, streptogramins, and, as we describe, tetracycline. Phylogenomic analyses indicate that the increasing prevalence of MDR R. equi since it was first documented in 2002 is caused by a clone, R. equi 2287, attributable to coselection of pRErm46 with a chromosomal rpoB^S531F mutation driven by macrolide/rifampin therapy. pRErm46 spillover to other R. equi genotypes has given rise to a novel MDR clone, G2016, associated with a distinct rpoB^S531Y mutation. Our findings illustrate that overuse of antimicrobial prophylaxis can generate MDR pathogens that could transmit to humans. MDR R. equi and pRErm46-mediated resistance are currently disseminating in the United States and are likely to spread internationally through horse movements.

• Plasma MicroRNA Profiling of Plasmodium falciparum Biomass and Association with Severity of Malaria Disease
  H. Gupta et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Severe malaria (SM) is a major public health problem in malaria-endemic countries. Sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum–infected erythrocytes in vital organs and the associated inflammation leads to organ dysfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which are rapidly released from damaged tissues into the host fluids, constitute a promising biomarker for the prognosis of SM. We applied next-generation sequencing to evaluate the differential expression of miRNAs in SM and in uncomplicated malaria (UM) in children in Mozambique. Six miRNAs were associated with in vitro P. falciparum cytoadhesion, severity in children, and P. falciparum biomass. Relative expression of hsa-miR-4497 quantified by TaqMan-quantitative reverse transcription PCR was higher in plasma of children with SM than those with UM (p<0.048) and again correlated with P. falciparum biomass (p = 0.033). These findings suggest that different physiopathological processes in SM and UM lead to differential expression of miRNAs and suggest a pathway for assessing their prognostic value malaria.

• Prolonged Maternal Zika Viremia as a Marker of Adverse Perinatal Outcomes
  L. Pomar et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Whether prolonged maternal viremia after Zika virus infection represents a risk factor for maternal–fetal transmission and subsequent adverse outcomes remains unclear. In this prospective cohort study in French Guiana, we enrolled Zika virus–infected pregnant women with a positive PCR result at inclusion and noninfected pregnant women; both groups underwent serologic testing in each trimester and at delivery during January–July 2016. Prolonged viremia was defined as ongoing virus detection >30 days postinfection. Adverse outcomes (fetal loss or neurologic anomalies) were more common in fetuses and neonates from mothers with prolonged viremia (40.0%) compared with those from infected mothers without prolonged viremia (5.3%, adjusted relative risk [aRR] 7.2 [95% CI 0.9–57.6]) or those from noninfected mothers (6.6%, aRR 6.7 [95% CI 3.0–15.1]). Congenital infections were confirmed more often in fetuses and neonates from mothers with prolonged viremia compared with the other 2 groups (60.0% vs. 26.3% vs. 0.0%, aRR 2.3 [95% CI 0.9–5.5]).

• Use of Commercial Claims Data for Evaluating Trends in Lyme Disease Diagnoses, United States,, 2010-2018
  A. M. Schwartz et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We evaluated MarketScan, a large commercial insurance claims database, for its potential use as a stable and consistent source of information on Lyme disease diagnoses in the United States. The age, sex, and geographic composition of the enrolled population during 2010–2018 remained proportionally stable, despite fluctuations in the number of enrollees. Annual incidence of Lyme disease diagnoses per 100,000 enrollees ranged from 49 to 88, ≈6–8 times higher than that observed for cases reported through notifiable disease surveillance. Age and sex distributions among Lyme disease diagnoses in MarketScan were similar to those of cases reported through surveillance, but proportionally more diagnoses occurred outside of peak summer months, among female enrollees, and outside high-incidence states. Misdiagnoses, particularly in low-incidence states, may account for some of the observed epidemiologic differences. Commercial claims provide a stable data source to monitor trends in Lyme disease diagnoses, but certain important characteristics warrant further investigation.

• Role of Burkholderia pseudomallei–Specific IgG2 in Adults with Acute Melioidosis, Thailand
  P. Chaichana et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Melioidosis is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by the gram-negative bacillus Burkholderia pseudomallei. An effective vaccine is needed, but data on protective immune responses in human melioidosis are lacking. We used ELISA and an antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis assay to identify the major features of protective antibodies in patients with acute melioidosis in Thailand. We found that high levels of B. pseudomallei–specific IgG2 are associated with protection against death in a multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, diabetes, renal disease, and neutrophil count. Serum from melioidosis survivors enhanced bacteria uptake into human monocytes expressing FcγRIIa-H/R131, an intermediate-affinity IgG2-receptor, compared with serum from nonsurvivors. We did not find this enhancement when using monocytes carrying the low IgG2–affinity FcγRIIa-R131 allele. The findings indicate the importance of IgG2 in protection against death in human melioidosis, a crucial finding for antibody-based therapeutics and vaccine development.

• Effects of Social Distancing Measures during the First Epidemic Wave of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, Greece
  V. Sypsa et al.
• Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-Rich Protein 2 and 3 Gene Deletions in Strains from Nigeria, Sudan, and South Sudan
  C. Prosser et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Deletion of histidine-rich protein genes pfhrp2/3 in Plasmodium falciparum causes infections to go undetected by HRP2-based malaria rapid diagnostic tests. We analyzed P. falciparum malaria cases imported to Australia (n = 210, collected 2010–2018) for their pfhrp2/3 status. We detected gene deletions in patients from 12 of 25 countries. We found >10% pfhrp2-deletion levels in those from Nigeria (13.3%, n = 30), Sudan (11.2%, n = 39), and South Sudan (17.7%, n = 17) and low levels of pfhrp3 deletion from Sudan (3.6%) and South Sudan (5.9%). No parasites with pfhrp2/3 double deletions were detected. Microsatellite typing of parasites from Nigeria, Sudan, and South Sudan revealed low relatedness among gene-deleted parasites, indicating independent emergences. The gene deletion proportions signify a risk of false-negative HRP2-RDT results. This study’s findings warrant surveillance to determine whether the prevalence of gene-deleted parasites justifies switching malaria rapid diagnostic tests in Nigeria, Sudan, and South Sudan.

• Emergence of Lyme Disease on Treeless Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom
  C. Millins et al.

Dispatches

• Murine Typhus in Canary Islands, Spain, 1999–2015
  J. Robaina-Bordón et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To document the epidemiology, clinical features, and outcomes of murine typhus patients in the Canary Islands (Spain), we analyzed data that were retrospectively collected for 16 years for 221 patients. Murine typhus in the Canary Islands is characterized by a high rate of complications (31.6%), mainly liver, lung, kidney or central nervous system involvement.

• Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi AcrB-R717Q/L Azithromycin-Resistant Isolates, Singapore
  S. Octavia et al.
• Evidence of Zika Virus Infection in Pigs and Mosquitoes, Mexico
  D. Nunez-Avellaneda et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Evidence suggests that pigs seroconvert after experimental exposure to Zika virus and are potential sentinels. We demonstrate that pigs are also susceptible to natural Zika virus infection, shown by the presence of antibodies in domestic pigs in Yucatan, Mexico. Zika virus RNA was detected in 5 species of mosquitoes collected inside pigpens.

• Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2–Specific Antibodies, Japan, June 2020
  T. Yoshiyama et al.
• Novel Arterivirus Associated with Outbreak of Fatal Encephalitis in European Hedgehogs, England, 2019
  A. Dastjerdi et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  In the fall of 2019, a fatal encephalitis outbreak led to the deaths of >200 European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in England. We used next-generation sequencing to identify a novel arterivirus with a genome coding sequence of only 43% similarity to existing GenBank arterivirus sequences.

• Early Transmission Dynamics, Spread, and Genomic Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 in Panama
  D. Franco et al.
• Plasmodium cynomolgi Co-infections among Symptomatic Malaria Patients, Thailand
  C. Putaporntip et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Among 1,180 symptomatic malaria patients, 9 (0.76%) infected with Plasmodium cynomolgi were co-infected with P. vivax (n = 7), P. falciparum (n = 1), or P. vivax and P. knowlesi (n = 1). Patients were from Tak, Chanthaburi, Ubon Ratchathani, Yala, and Narathiwat Provinces, suggesting P. cynomolgi is widespread in this country.

• SARS-CoV-2 Transmission between Mink (Neovison vison) and Humans, Denmark
  A. Hammer et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has caused a pandemic in humans. Farmed mink (Neovison vison) are also susceptible. In Denmark, this virus has spread rapidly among farmed mink, resulting in some respiratory disease. Full-length virus genome sequencing revealed novel virus variants in mink. These variants subsequently appeared within the local human community.

• Estimating Transmission Parameters for COVID-19 Clusters by Using Symptom Onset Data, Singapore, January–April 2020
  S. Ng et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We estimated the generation interval distribution for coronavirus disease on the basis of serial intervals of observed infector–infectee pairs from established clusters in Singapore. The short mean generation interval and consequent high prevalence of presymptomatic transmission requires public health control measures to be responsive to these characteristics of the epidemic.

• Population-Based Serosurvey for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Transmission, India
  S. Selvaraju et al.
• Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Stricto DNA in Field-Collected Haemaphysalis longicornis Ticks, Pennsylvania, United States
  K. J. Price et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We collected questing Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks from southeastern counties of Pennsylvania, USA. Of 263 ticks tested by PCR for pathogens, 1 adult female was positive for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, yielding a 0.4% infection rate. Continued monitoring of this invasive tick is essential to determine its public health role.

• Strand-Specific PCR for Detection of Replicating SARS-CoV-2
  C. A. Hogan et al.
• Vaccine-Derived Polioviruses, Central African Republic, 2019
  M. Joffret et al.
• COVID-19 and Fatal Sepsis Caused by Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, Japan, 2020
  T. Hosoda et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  A patient in Japan with coronavirus disease and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae K2 sequence type 86 infection died of respiratory failure. Bacterial and fungal co-infections caused by region-endemic pathogens, including hypervirulent K. pneumoniae in eastern Asia, should be included in the differential diagnosis of coronavirus disease patients with acutely deteriorating condition.

• SARS-CoV-2 Infections among Recent Organ Recipients, March–May 2020, United States
  J. M. Jones et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We conducted public health investigations of 8 organ transplant recipients who tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Findings suggest the most likely source of transmission was community or healthcare exposure, not the organ donor. Transplant centers should educate transplant candidates and recipients about infection prevention recommendations.

• Shuni Virus in Cases of Neurologic Disease in Humans, South Africa
  T. P. Motlou and M. Venter View Abstract Email this Article

  We describe Shuni virus (SHUV) detection in human neurologic disease cases in South Africa. SHUV RNA was identified in 5% of cerebrospinal fluid specimens collected during the arbovirus season from public sector hospitals. This finding suggests that SHUV may be a previously unrecognized cause of human neurologic infections in Africa.

• Combined Epidemiologic and Entomologic Survey to Detect Urban Malaria Transmission, Guinea, 2018
  D. Sayre et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Malaria incidence is generally lower in cities than rural areas. However, reported urban malaria incidence may not accurately reflect the level of ongoing transmission, which has potentially large implications for prevention efforts. To guide mosquito net distribution, we assessed the extent of malaria transmission in Conakry, Guinea, in 2018. We found evidence of active malaria transmission.

• Human Tacheng Tick Virus 2 Infection, China, 2019
  Z. Dong et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We used metagenomic analysis to identify Tacheng tick virus 2 infection in a patient with a history of tick bite in northwestern China. We confirmed the virus with reverse transcription-PCR, virus isolation, and genomic analysis. We detected viral RNA in 9.6% of ticks collected from the same region.

• Estimating the Frequency of Lyme Disease Diagnoses, United States, 2010–2018
  K. J. Kugeler et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  By using commercial insurance claims data, we estimated that Lyme disease was diagnosed and treated in ≈476,000 patients in the United States annually during 2010–2018. Our results underscore the need for accurate diagnosis and improved prevention.

• Non-Norovirus Viral Gastroenteritis Outbreaks Reported to the National Outbreak Reporting System, USA, 2009–2018
  C. P. Mattison et al.
• Anopheles stephensi Mosquitoes as Vectors of Plasmodium vivax and falciparum, Horn of Africa, 2019
  F. G. Tadesse et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes, efficient vectors in parts of Asia and Africa, were found in 75.3% of water sources surveyed and contributed to 80.9% of wild-caught Anopheles mosquitoes in Awash Sebat Kilo, Ethiopia. High susceptibility of these mosquitoes to Plasmodium falciparum and vivax infection presents a challenge for malaria control in the Horn of Africa.

Research Letters

• Potential Association between Zika Infection and Microcephaly during 2007 Fever Outbreak, Gabon
  C. Koumavor et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Although Zika virus (ZIKV) circulates in sub-Saharan Africa, no case of ZIKV-associated microcephaly has thus far been reported. Here, we report evidence of a possible association between a 2007 outbreak of febrile illness and an increase in microcephaly and possibly ZIKV infection in Gabon.

• Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Guilan Province, Iran, April 2020
  M. Shakiba et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We determined the seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in an affected area in northern Iran in April 2020. Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 528 persons by using rapid tests. Adjusted prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity was 22.2% (95% CI 16.4%–28.5%).

• COVID-19–Related Misinformation and Parents of Patients with Pediatric Cancer
  J. Guidry et al.
• Intrauterine Transmission of SARS-CoV-2
  E. S. Stonoga et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We documented fetal death associated with intrauterine transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. We found chronic histiocytic intervillositis, maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion, microglial hyperplasia, and lymphocytic infiltrate in muscle in the placenta and fetal tissue. Placenta and umbilical cord blood tested positive for the virus by PCR, confirming transplacental transmission.

• Protective Immunity and Persistent Lung Sequelae in Domestic Cats after SARS-CoV-2 Infection
  S. Chiba et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 readily transmits between domestic cats. We found that domestic cats that recover from an initial infection might be protected from reinfection. However, we found long-term persistence of inflammation and other lung lesions after infection, despite a lack of clinical symptoms and limited viral replication in the lungs.

• Puumala Virus Infection in Family, Switzerland
  P. Vetter et al.
• Asymptomatic or Mildly Symptomatic Long-Term Humoral Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2, Vietnam
  H. Mai et al.
• Genomic Diversity of Burkholderia pseudomallei Isolates, Colombia
  C. Duarte et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report an analysis of the genomic diversity of isolates of Burkholderia pseudomallei, the cause of melioidosis, recovered in Colombia from routine surveillance during 2016–2017. B. pseudomallei appears genetically diverse, suggesting it is well established and has spread across the region.

• COVID-19 Infection Control Measures in Long-Term Care Facility, Pennsylvania, USA
  S. T. Shimotsu et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Residents of long-term care facilities are at risk for coronavirus disease. We report a surveillance exercise at such a facility in Pennsylvania, USA. After introduction of a testing strategy and other measures, this facility had a 17-fold lower coronavirus disease case rate compared with those of neighboring facilities.

• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Outbreak Related to a Nightclub, Germany, 2020
  N. Muller et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report an outbreak of coronavirus disease with 74 cases related to a nightclub in Germany in March 2020. Staff members were particularly affected (attack rate 56%) and likely caused sustained viral transmission after an event at the club. This outbreak illustrates the potential for superspreader events and corroborates current club closures.

• COVID-19 and Infant Hospitalizations for Seasonal Respiratory Virus Infections, New Zealand, 2020
  A. Trenholme et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  In March 2020, a national elimination strategy for coronavirus disease was introduced in New Zealand. Since then, hospitalizations for lower respiratory tract infection among infants <2 years of age and cases of respiratory syncytial or influenza virus infection have dramatically decreased. These findings indicate additional benefits of coronavirus disease control strategies.

• Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in an Oropharyngeal Swab Specimen, Milan, Italy, Early December 2019
  A. Amendola et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We identified severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 RNA in an oropharyngeal swab specimen collected from a child with suspected measles in early December 2019, ≈3 months before the first identified coronavirus disease case in Italy. This finding expands our knowledge on timing and mapping of novel coronavirus transmission pathways.

• SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Mitigation Efforts among Office Workers, Washington, DC, USA
  S. Sami et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Despite mitigation efforts, 2 coronavirus disease outbreaks were identified among office workers in Washington, DC. Moderate adherence to workplace mitigation efforts was reported in a serologic survey; activities outside of the workplace were associated with infection. Adherence to safety measures are critical for returning to work during the pandemic.

• Prevalence and Time Trend of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Puducherry, India, August–October 2020
  S. Kar et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We conducted 3 population-based cross-sectional surveys, at 1-month intervals, to estimate the prevalence and time-trend of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in Puducherry, India. Seropositivity rate increased from 4.9% to 34.5% over 2 months and was 20-fold higher than the number of diagnosed cases of infection.

• Rift Valley Fever and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Viruses in Ruminants, Jordan
  M. M. Obaidat et al.

Books and Media

• The Rules of Contagion: Why Things Spread—and Why They Stop
  V. J. Morley Email this Article

Etymologia

• Etymologia: Falciparum
  A. Tiwari and A. Singh Email this Article

Perspective

• Parallels and Mutual Lessons in Tuberculosis and COVID-19 Transmission, Prevention, and Control
  P. C. Hopewell et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had unprecedented negative effects on global health and economies, drawing attention and resources from many other public health services. To minimize negative effects, the parallels, lessons, and resources from existing public health programs need to be identified and used. Often underappreciated synergies relating to COVID-19 are with tuberculosis (TB). COVID-19 and TB share commonalities in transmission and public health response: case finding, contact identification, and evaluation. Data supporting interventions for either disease are, understandably, vastly different, given the diseases’ different histories. However, many of the evolving issues affecting these diseases are increasingly similar. As previously done for TB, all aspects of congregate investigations and preventive and therapeutic measures for COVID-19 must be prospectively studied for optimal evidence-based interventions. New attention garnered by the pandemic can ensure that knowledge and investment can benefit both COVID-19 response and traditional public health programs such as TB programs.

Synopses

• Genomic Evidence of In-Flight Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Despite Predeparture Testing
  T. Swadi et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Since the first wave of coronavirus disease in March 2020, citizens and permanent residents returning to New Zealand have been required to undergo managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) for 14 days and mandatory testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). As of October 20, 2020, of 62,698 arrivals, testing of persons in MIQ had identified 215 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among 86 passengers on a flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that arrived in New Zealand on September 29, test results were positive for 7 persons in MIQ. These passengers originated from 5 different countries before a layover in Dubai; 5 had negative predeparture SARS-CoV-2 test results. To assess possible points of infection, we analyzed information about their journeys, disease progression, and virus genomic data. All 7 SARS-CoV-2 genomes were genetically identical, except for a single mutation in 1 sample. Despite predeparture testing, multiple instances of in-flight SARS-CoV-2 transmission are likely.

• Systematic Review of Pooling Sputum as an Efficient Method for MTB/RIF Testing for Tuberculosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic
  L. E. Cuevas et al.
• Evaluation of National Event-Based Surveillance, Nigeria, 2016–2018
  K. Beebeejaun et al.

Research

• SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Seroprevalence among Healthcare Personnel in Hospitals and Nursing Homes, Rhode Island, USA, July–August 2020
  L. J. Akinbami et al.
• Population-Based Geospatial and Molecular Epidemiologic Study of Tuberculosis Transmission Dynamics, Botswana, 2012–2016
  N. M. Zetola et al.
• Oral Human Papillomavirus Infection in Children during the First 6 Years of Life
  S. Syrjänen et al.
• Excess All-Cause Deaths during Coronavirus Disease Pandemic, Japan, January–May 2020
  T. Kawashima et al.
• Genomic Characterization of hlyF-positive Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli, Italy and the Netherlands, 2000–2019
  F. Gigliucci et al.
• Foodborne Origin and Local and Global Spread of Human Staphylococcus saprophyticus Urinary Tract Infections
  O. U. Lawal et al.
• Clusters of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Detected by Whole-Genome Sequence Analysis of Nationwide Sample, Thailand, 2014–2017
  D. Nonghanphithak et al.
• Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections in Hospitalized Patients, United States, 2010–2014
  E. E. Ricotta et al.
• Fluconazole-Resistant Candida glabrata Bloodstream Isolates, South Korea, 2008–2018
  E. Won et al.
• Epidemiology and Clinical Course of First Wave Coronavirus Disease Cases, Faroe Islands
  M. F. Kristiansen et al.
• Mycoplasma genitalium and Other Reproductive Tract Infections in Pregnant Women, Papua New Guinea, 2015–2017
  M. L. Scoullar et al.
• Preventive Therapy for Persons Exposed at Home to Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis, Karachi, Pakistan
  A. A. Malik et al.
• Decline of Tuberculosis Burden in Vietnam Measured by Consecutive National Surveys, 2007–2017
  H. Nguyen et al.
• Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in First Responders and Public Safety Personnel, New York City, New York, USA, May–July 2020
  S. Sami et al.
• Isolate-based Surveillance of Bordetella pertussis, Austria, 2018–2020
  A. Cabal et al.

Dispatches

• Bedaquiline as Treatment for Disseminated Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infection in 2 Patients Co-Infected with HIV
  E. Gil et al.
• Implementation of an Animal Sporotrichosis Surveillance and Control Program, Southeastern Brazil
  S. M. Moreira et al.
• Extraintestinal Seeding of Salmonella enterica Serotype Typhi, Pakistan
  S. Irfan et al.
• Human Infection with a Eurasian Avian-Like Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus, the Netherlands, September 2019
  A. Parys et al.
• Antibody Responses 8 Months after Asymptomatic or Mild SARS-CoV-2 Infection
  P. Choe et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Waning humoral immunity in coronavirus disease patients has raised concern over usefulness of serologic testing. We investigated antibody responses of 58 persons 8 months after asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. For 3 of 4 immunoassays used, seropositivity rates were high (69.0%–91.4%).

• Addressing Gaps in Immunization to Control the Reemergence of Diphtheria among Adolescents in Telangana, India, 2017
  K. Maramraj et al.
• Familial Clusters of Coronavirus Disease in 10 Prefectures, Japan, February−May, 2020
  R. Miyahara et al.
• COVID-19 Outbreak in a Large Penitentiary Complex, April–June 2020, Brazil
  F. A. Gouvea-Reis et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  An outbreak of coronavirus disease began in a large penitentiary complex in Brazil on April 1, 2020. By June 12, there were 1,057 confirmed cases among inmates and staff. Nine patients were hospitalized, and 3 died. Mean serial interval was ≈2.5 days; reproduction number range was 1.0–2.3.

• Lung Pathology of Mutually Exclusive Co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 and Streptococcus pneumoniae
  T. Tsukamoto et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Postmortem lung pathology of a patient in Japan with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection showed diffuse alveolar damage as well as bronchopneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. The distribution of each pathogen and the accompanying histopathology suggested the infections progressed in a mutually exclusive manner within the lung, resulting in fatal respiratory failure.

Research Letters

• Validity of Diagnosis Code–Based Claims to Identify Pulmonary NTM Disease in Bronchiectasis Patients
  J. H. Ku et al.
• Histoplasmosis—a Common Disease Caused by a Well-Hidden Fungus in an Unusual Setting
  Y. Schmiedel et al.
• Severe Pulmonary Disease Caused by Mycolicibacter kumamotonensis
  K. Manika et al.
• Limited Capability of Testing Mycobacterium tuberculosis for Drug Susceptibility
  H. Z. Farooq et al.
• COVID-19–Associated Fusobacterium nucleatum Bacteremia, Belgium
  L. Wolff et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report 4 cases of Fusobacterium nucleatum bacteremia associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Three cases occurred concomitantly with COVID-19 diagnosis; 1 occurred on day 15 of intensive care. None of the patients had known risk factors for F. nucleatum bacteremia. F. nucleatum infection could represent a possible complication of COVID-19.

• Misidentification of Burkholderia pseudomallei, China
  B. Wu et al.
• Prototheca cutis Infection in Cat
  G. Maboni et al.
• SARS-CoV-2 Exposure in Escaped Mink, Utah, USA
  S. A. Shriner et al.

Another Dimension

• Without Mercy
  J. Casabona

Research

• Infections with Tickborne Pathogens after Tick Bite, Austria, 2015–2018
  M. Markowicz et al.
• Epidemiologic and Genomic Reidentification of Yaws, Liberia
  J. Timothy et al.

Dispatches

• Improving Treatment and Outcomes for Melioidosis in Children, Northern Cambodia, 2009–2018
  A. Chandna et al.
• Characteristics and Risk Factors of Hospitalized and Nonhospitalized COVID-19 Patients, Atlanta, Georgia, USA, March–April 2020
  K. Pettrone et al.

Research Letter

• Increased Likelihood of Detecting Ebola Virus RNA in Semen by Using Sample Pelleting
  C. M. Bozman et al.