Early Release

Synopses

• Industry Sectors Highly Affected by Worksite Outbreaks of Coronavirus Disease, Los Angeles County, California, USA, March 19–September 30, 2020
  Z. Contreras et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Worksites with on-site operations have experienced coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreaks. We analyzed data for 698 nonresidential, nonhealthcare worksite COVID-19 outbreaks investigated in Los Angeles County, California, USA, during March 19, 2020‒September 30, 2020, by using North American Industry Classification System sectors and subsectors. Nearly 60% of these outbreaks occurred in 3 sectors: manufacturing (n = 184, 26.4%), retail trade (n = 137, 19.6%), and transportation and warehousing (n = 73, 10.5%). The largest number of outbreaks and largest number and highest incidence rate of outbreak-associated cases occurred in manufacturing. Furthermore, 7 of the 10 industry subsectors with the highest incidence rates were within manufacturing. Approximately 70% of outbreak-associated case-patients reported Hispanic ethnicity. Facilities employing more on-site staff had larger and longer outbreaks. Identification of highly affected industry sectors and subsectors is necessary for targeted public health planning, outreach, and response, including ensuring vaccine access, to reduce burden of COVID-19 in vulnerable workers.

• Risks and Preventive Strategies for Clostridioides difficile Transmission to Household or Community Contacts during Transition in Healthcare Settings
  R. Asgary et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The burden of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has greatly increased. We evaluated the risks for CDI transmission to community members after hospitalized patients are discharged. We conducted a systematic literature review in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL plus EBSCO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and gray literature during January 2000‒February 2019 and identified 4,798 citations were identified. We eliminated 4,554 citations through title and abstract screening; 217 additional citations did not meet full criteria. We reviewed texts for the 27 remaining articles qualitatively for internal/external validity. A few identified studies describing risks to community members lacked accurate risk measurement or preventative strategies. Primary data are needed to assess efficacy of and inform current expertise-driven CDI prevention practices. Raising awareness among providers and researchers, conducting clinical and health services research, linking up integrated monitoring and evaluation processes at hospitals and outpatient settings, and developing and integrating CDI surveillance systems are warranted.

• Transboundary Spread of Brucella canis through Import of Infected Dogs, the Netherlands, November 2016–December 2018
  M. van Dijk et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Brucella canis had not been isolated in the Netherlands until November 2016, when it was isolated from a dog imported from Romania. Including this case, 16 suspected cases were notified to the authorities during the following 25 months. Of these 16 dogs, 10 were seropositive; tracking investigations found another 8 seropositive littermates. All seropositive animals were rescue dogs imported from Eastern Europe. B. canis was cultured from urine, blood, and other specimens collected from the dogs. Genotyping of isolates revealed clustering by litter and country. Isolating B. canis in urine indicates that shedding should be considered when assessing the risk for zoonotic transmission. This case series proves introduction of B. canis into a country to which it is not endemic through import of infected dogs from B. canis–endemic areas, posing a threat to the naive autochthonous dog population and humans.

Research

• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 P.2 Lineage Associated with Reinfection Case, Brazil, June–October 2020
  P. Resende et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  A 37-year-old healthcare worker from the northeastern region of Brazil experienced 2 clinical episodes of coronavirus disease. Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was confirmed by reverse transcription PCR in samples collected 116 days apart. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the 2 infections were caused by the most prevalent lineage in Brazil, B.1.1.33, and the emerging lineage P.2. The first infection occurred in June 2020; Bayesian analysis suggests reinfection at some point during September 14–October 11, 2020, a few days before the second episode of coronavirus disease. Of note, P.2 corresponds to an emergent viral lineage in Brazil that contains the mutation E484K in the spike protein. The P.2 lineage was initially detected in the state of Rio de Janeiro, and since then it has been found throughout the country. Our findings suggest not only a reinfection case but also geographic dissemination of the emerging Brazil clade P.2.

• Novel Morbillivirus as Putative Cause of Fetal Death and Encephalitis among Swine
  B. Arruda et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Morbilliviruses are highly contagious pathogens. The Morbillivirus genus includes measles virus, canine distemper virus (CDV), phocine distemper virus (PDV), peste des petits ruminants virus, rinderpest virus, and feline morbillivirus. We detected a novel porcine morbillivirus (PoMV) as a putative cause of fetal death, encephalitis, and placentitis among swine by using histopathology, metagenomic sequencing, and in situ hybridization. Phylogenetic analyses showed PoMV is most closely related to CDV (62.9% nt identities) and PDV (62.8% nt identities). We observed intranuclear inclusions in neurons and glial cells of swine fetuses with encephalitis. Cellular tropism is similar to other morbilliviruses, and PoMV viral RNA was detected in neurons, respiratory epithelium, and lymphocytes. This study provides fundamental knowledge concerning the pathology, genome composition, transmission, and cellular tropism of a novel pathogen within the genus Morbillivirus and opens the door to a new, applicable disease model to drive research forward.

• Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 among Blood Donors and Changes after Introduction of Public Health and Social Measures, London, UK
  G. Amirthalingam et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We describe results of testing blood donors in London, UK, for severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) IgG before and after lockdown measures. Anonymized samples from donors 17–69 years of age were tested using 3 assays: Euroimmun IgG, Abbott IgG, and an immunoglobulin receptor-binding domain assay developed by Public Health England. Seroprevalence increased from 3.0% prelockdown (week 13, beginning March 23, 2020) to 10.4% during lockdown (weeks 15–16) and 12.3% postlockdown (week 18) by the Abbott assay. Estimates were 2.9% prelockdown, 9.9% during lockdown, and 13.0% postlockdown by the Euroimmun assay and 3.5% prelockdown, 11.8% during lockdown, and 14.1% postlockdown by the receptor-binding domain assay. By early May 2020, nearly 1 in 7 donors had evidence of past SARS-CoV-2 infection. Combining results from the Abbott and Euroimmun assays increased seroprevalence by 1.6%, 2.3%, and 0.6% at the 3 timepoints compared with Euroimmun alone, demonstrating the value of using multiple assays.

• Whole-Genome Analysis of Streptococcus pneumoniae Serotype 4 Causing Outbreak of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease, Alberta, Canada
  J. D. Kellner et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  After the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for children, invasive pneumococcal disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 4 declined in all ages in Alberta, Canada, but it has reemerged and spread in adults in Calgary, primarily among persons who are experiencing homelessness or who use illicit drugs. We conducted clinical and molecular analyses to examine the cases and isolates. Whole-genome sequencing analysis indicated relatively high genetic variability of serotype 4 isolates. Phylogenetic analysis identified 1 emergent sequence type (ST) 244 lineage primarily associated within Alberta and nationally distributed clades ST205 and ST695. Isolates from 6 subclades of the ST244 lineage clustered regionally, temporally, and by homeless status. In multivariable logistic regression, factors associated with serotype 4 invasive pneumococcal disease were being male, being <65 years of age, experiencing homelessness, having a diagnosis of pneumonia or empyema, or using illicit drugs.

• Triclabendazole Treatment Failure for Fasciola hepatica Infection among Preschool and School-Age Children, Cusco, Peru
  M. L. Morales et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children who had chronic fascioliasis in the highlands of Peru to determine triclabendazole treatment efficacy. Children passing Fasciola eggs in stool were offered directly observed triclabendazole treatment (>1 doses of 10 mg/kg). Parasitologic cure was evaluated by using microscopy of stool 1–4 months after each treatment. A total of 146 children who had chronic fascioliasis participated in the study; 53% were female, and the mean ± SD age was 10.4 ± 3.1 years. After the first treatment, 55% of the children achieved parasitologic cure. Cure rates decreased after the second (38%), third (30%), and fourth (23%) treatments; 17 children (11.6%) did not achieve cure after 4 treatments. Higher baseline egg counts and lower socioeconomic status were associated with triclabendazole treatment failure. Decreased triclabendazole efficacy in disease-endemic communities threatens control efforts. Further research on triclabendazole resistance and new drugs to overcome it are urgently needed.

• Plasmodium falciparum kelch 13 Mutations, 9 Countries in Africa, 2014–2018
  S. E. Schmedes et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The spread of drug resistance to antimalarial treatments poses a serious public health risk globally. To combat this risk, molecular surveillance of drug resistance is imperative. We report the prevalence of mutations in the Plasmodium falciparum kelch 13 propeller domain associated with partial artemisinin resistance, which we determined by using Sanger sequencing samples from patients enrolled in therapeutic efficacy studies from 9 sub-Saharan countries during 2014–2018. Of the 2,865 samples successfully sequenced before treatment (day of enrollment) and on the day of treatment failure, 29 (1.0%) samples contained 11 unique nonsynonymous mutations and 83 (2.9%) samples contained 27 unique synonymous mutations. Two samples from Kenya contained the S522C mutation, which has been associated with delayed parasite clearance; however, no samples contained validated or candidate artemisinin-resistance mutations.

• Effects of Coronavirus Disease Pandemic on Tuberculosis Notifications, Malawi
  R. Soko et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic might affect tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and patient care. We analyzed a citywide electronic TB register in Blantyre, Malawi and interviewed TB officers. Malawi did not have an official COVID-19 lockdown but closed schools and borders on March 23, 2020. In an interrupted time series analysis, we noted an immediate 35.9% reduction in TB notifications in April 2020; notifications recovered to near prepandemic numbers by December 2020. However, 333 fewer cumulative TB notifications were received than anticipated. Women and girls were affected more (30.7% fewer cases) than men and boys (20.9% fewer cases). Fear of COVID-19 infection, temporary facility closures, inadequate personal protective equipment, and COVID-19 stigma because of similar symptoms to TB were mentioned as reasons for fewer people being diagnosed with TB. Public health measures could benefit control of both TB and COVID-19, but only if TB diagnostic services remain accessible and are considered safe to attend.

• Multiplex Real-Time Reverse Transcription PCR for Influenza A Virus, Influenza B Virus, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
  B. Shu et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in late 2019, and the outbreak rapidly evolved into the current coronavirus disease pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to those caused by influenza A and B viruses. On July 2, 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorization for in vitro diagnostic use of the Influenza SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Assay. This assay detects influenza A virus at 10^2.0, influenza B virus at 10^2.2, and SARS-CoV-2 at 10^0.3 50% tissue culture or egg infectious dose, or as few as 5 RNA copies/reaction. The simultaneous detection and differentiation of these 3 major pathogens increases overall testing capacity, conserves resources, identifies co-infections, and enables efficient surveillance of influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2.

• Transmission Dynamics of African Swine Fever Virus, South Korea, 2019
  D. Yoo et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  African swine fever (ASF) is a substantial concern for global food production and security. However, lack of epidemiologic data in affected areas has limited the knowledge of the main drivers of ASF virus (ASFV) transmission. To assess the role of vehicle movements and wild boar populations in spreading ASFV to pig farms in South Korea, we combined data generated by ASF surveillance on pig farms and of wild boars with nationwide global positioning system–based tracking data for vehicles involved in farming activities. Vehicle movements from infected premises were associated with a higher probability of ASFV incursion into a farm than was geographic proximity to ASFV-infected wild boar populations. Although ASFV can spill over from infected wild boars into domestic pigs, vehicles played a substantial role in spreading infection between farms, despite rapid on-farm detection and culling. This finding highlights the need for interventions targeting farm-to-farm and wildlife-to-farm interfaces.

• Fatal Human Infection with Evidence of Intrahost Variation of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus, Alabama, USA, 2019
  H. R. Hughes et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is an arbovirus in the family Togaviridae, genus Alphavirus, found in North America and associated with freshwater/hardwood swamps in the Atlantic, Gulf Coast, and Great Lakes regions. EEEV disease in humans is rare but causes substantial illness and death. To investigate the molecular epidemiology and microevolution of EEEV from a fatal case in Alabama, USA, in 2019, we used next-generation sequencing of serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Phylogenetic inference indicated that the infecting strain may be closely related to isolates from Florida detected during 2010–2014, suggesting potential seeding from Florida. EEEV detected in serum displayed a higher degree of variability with more single-nucleotide variants than that detected in the CSF. These data refine our knowledge of EEEV molecular epidemiologic dynamics in the Gulf Coast region and demonstrate potential quasispecies bottlenecking within the central nervous system of a human host.

• Ethnically Disparate Disease Progression and Outcomes among Acute Rheumatic Fever Patients in New Zealand, 1989–2015
  J. Oliver et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We investigated outcomes for patients born after 1983 and hospitalized with initial acute rheumatic fever (ARF) in New Zealand during 1989–2012. We linked ARF progression outcome data (recurrent hospitalization for ARF, hospitalization for rheumatic heart disease [RHD], and death from circulatory causes) for 1989–2015. Retrospective analysis identified initial RHD patients <40 years of age who were hospitalized during 2010–2015 and previously hospitalized for ARF. Most (86.4%) of the 2,182 initial ARF patients did not experience disease progression by the end of 2015. Progression probability after 26.8 years of theoretical follow-up was 24.0%; probability of death, 1.0%. Progression was more rapid and ≈2 times more likely for indigenous Māori or Pacific Islander patients. Of 435 initial RHD patients, 82.2% had not been previously hospitalized for ARF. This young cohort demonstrated low mortality rates but considerable illness, especially among underserved populations. A national patient register could help monitor, prevent, and reduce ARF progression.

• Shiga Toxin–Associated Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Adults, France, 2009–2017
  B. Travert et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We conducted a retrospective study on hemolytic uremic syndrome caused by Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in 96 adults enrolled in the cohort of the National Reference Center for Thrombotic Microangiopathies network in France during 2009–2017. Most infections were caused by STEC strains not belonging to the O157 or O104 serogroups. Thirty (31.3%) patients had multiple risk factors for thrombotic microangiopathy. In total, 61 (63.5%) patients required dialysis, 50 (52.1%) had a serious neurologic complication, 34 (35.4%) required mechanical ventilation, and 19 (19.8%) died during hospitalization. We used multivariate analysis to determine that the greatest risk factors for death were underlying immunodeficiency (hazard ratio 3.54) and severe neurologic events (hazard ratio 3.40). According to multivariate analysis and propensity score-matching, eculizumab treatment was not associated with survival. We found that underlying conditions, especially immunodeficiency, are strongly associated with decreased survival in adults who have hemolytic uremic syndrome caused by STEC.

• Psychobehavioral Responses and Likelihood of Receiving COVID-19 Vaccines during the Pandemic, Hong Kong
  K. O. Kwok et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To access temporal changes in psychobehavioral responses to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, we conducted a 5-round (R1–R5) longitudinal population-based online survey in Hong Kong during January–September 2020. Most respondents reported wearing masks (R1 99.0% to R5 99.8%) and performing hand hygiene (R1 95.8% to R5 97.7%). Perceived COVID-19 severity decreased significantly, from 97.4% (R1) to 77.2% (R5), but perceived self-susceptibility remained high (87.2%–92.8%). Female sex and anxiety were associated with greater adoption of social distancing. Intention to receive COVID-19 vaccines decreased significantly (R4 48.7% to R5 37.6%). Greater anxiety, confidence in vaccine, and collective responsibility and weaker complacency were associated with higher tendency to receive COVID-19 vaccines. Although its generalizability should be assumed with caution, this study helps to formulate health communication strategies and foretells the initial low uptake rate of COVID-19 vaccines, suggesting that social distancing should be maintained in the medium term.

• Medscape CME Activity
  Non–C. difficile Clostridioides Bacteremia in Intensive Care Patients, France
  G. Morel et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Usually responsible for soft tissue infections, Clostridioides species can also cause bacteremia, life-threatening infections often requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission. We conducted a multicenter retrospective study to investigate Clostridioides bacteremia in ICUs to describe the clinical and biologic characteristics and outcomes in critically ill patients. We identified 135 patients with Clostridioides bacteremia, which occurred almost exclusively (96%) in patients with underlying conditions. Septic shock and digestive symptoms were the hallmarks of Clostridioides bacteremia in the ICU. We identified 16 different species of Clostridioides, among which C. perfringens accounted for 31% of cases. Despite the high sensitivity of Clostridioides to common antimicrobial drugs, mortality rates were high: 52% for ICU patients and 71% overall at 3 months. In multivariate analysis, the most important factor associated with increased risk for death was the presence of hemolysis. Clostridioides bacteremia often leads to multiple organ failures, which have high mortality rates.

• Susceptibility of Well-Differentiated Airway Epithelial Cell Cultures from Domestic and Wild Animals to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
  M. Gultom et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally, and the number of worldwide cases continues to rise. The zoonotic origins of SARS-CoV-2 and its intermediate and potential spillback host reservoirs, besides humans, remain largely unknown. Because of ethical and experimental constraints and more important, to reduce and refine animal experimentation, we used our repository of well-differentiated airway epithelial cell (AEC) cultures from various domesticated and wildlife animal species to assess their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. We observed that SARS-CoV-2 replicated efficiently only in monkey and cat AEC culture models. Whole-genome sequencing of progeny viruses revealed no obvious signs of nucleotide transitions required for SARS-CoV-2 to productively infect monkey and cat AEC cultures. Our findings, together with previous reports of human-to-animal spillover events, warrant close surveillance to determine the potential role of cats, monkeys, and closely related species as spillback reservoirs for SARS-CoV-2.

Dispatches

• COVID-19 Outbreak on a Passenger Ship and Assessment of Response Measures, Greece, 2020
  S. Hatzianastasiou et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We describe response measures to an outbreak involving 128 (33.4%) coronavirus disease cases (46.1% asymptomatic) among 383 persons onboard a passenger ship. Multivariate analysis indicated that dining in certain rooms and bar areas, nationality, working department (for crew members), and quarantining onboard the ship were significantly associated with infection.

• Polymicrobial Infections Among Patients with Vascular Q Fever, France, 2004–2020
  M. Puges et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report 5 cases of vascular Q fever complicated by polymicrobial superinfection in patients who had no risk factors for acute Q fever. Q fever was diagnosed by serologic and molecular assays for Coxiella burnetii. We confirmed additional infections using conventional graft cultures.

• Anthrenus sp. and an Uncommon Cluster of Dermatitis
  L. Simon et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report patients in their homes in France who had cutaneous lesions caused by Anthrenus sp. larvae during the end of winter and into spring. These lesions mimic bites but are allergic reactions to larvae hairs pegged in the skin. These lesions should be distinguished from bites of bed bugs or fleas.

• Assessing Community Vulnerability over 3 Waves of COVID-19 Pandemic, Hong Kong, China
  Q. Liao et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We constructed a coronavirus disease community vulnerability index using micro district-level socioeconomic and demographic data and analyzed its correlations with case counts across the 3 pandemic waves in Hong Kong, China. We found that districts with greater vulnerability reported more cases in the third wave when widespread community outbreaks occurred.

• Pneumococcal Disease Outbreak at a State Prison, Alabama, USA, September 1–October 10, 2018
  G. V. Sanchez et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  A pneumococcal disease outbreak caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 12F occurred in a state prison in Alabama, USA. Among 1,276 inmates, 40 cases were identified (3 confirmed, 2 probable, 35 suspected). Close living quarters, substance use, and underlying conditions likely contributed to disease risk. Prophylaxis for close contacts included azithromycin and 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine.

• Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome after SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 Vaccination
  M. B. Salzman et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report 3 patients in California, USA, who experienced multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) after immunization and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. During the same period, 3 adults who were not vaccinated had MIS develop at a time when ≈7% of the adult patient population had received >1 vaccine.

• Cross-Sectional Serosurvey of Companion Animals Housed with SARS-CoV-2–Infected Owners, Italy
  B. Colitti et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We conducted a serologic survey among dogs and cats in Italy to detect antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We found that SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was higher among cats (16.2%) than dogs (2.3%). In addition, seroprevalence was higher among animals living in close contact with SARS-CoV-2–positive owners.

• Cluster of Oseltamivir-Resistant and Hemagglutinin Antigenically Drifted Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 Viruses, Texas, USA, January 2020
  T. Mohan et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Four cases of oseltamivir-resistant influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection were detected among inhabitants of a border detention center in Texas, USA. Hemagglutinin of these viruses belongs to 6B.1A5A-156K subclade, which may enable viral escape from preexisting immunity. Our finding highlights the necessity to monitor both drug resistance and antigenic drift of circulating viruses.

• Trypanosoma cruzi in Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy Patients, Houston, Texas, USA
  M. S. Nolan et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To investigate possible cardiac manifestations of Chagas disease, we tested 97 Latinx patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy in Houston, Texas, USA, for Trypanosoma cruzi infection. We noted a high prevalence of underdiagnosed infection and discrepant results in clinical diagnostic assays. Latinx cardiac patients in the United States would benefit from laboratory screening for T. cruzi infection.

• Autochthonous Thelazia callipaeda Infection in Dog, New York, USA, 2020
  A. Schwartz et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report a case of autochthonous infection of the eye worm Thelazia callipaeda in a dog in the northeastern United States. Integrated morphologic identification and molecular diagnosis confirmed the species. Phylogenetic analysis suggested introduction from Europe. The zoonotic potential of this parasite warrants broader surveillance and increased awareness among physicians and veterinarians.

• Prevalence of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus in Dromedary Camels, Tunisia
  S. Eckstein et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Free-roaming camels, especially those crossing national borders, pose a high risk for spreading Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). To prevent outbreaks, active surveillance is necessary. We found that a high percentage of dromedaries in Tunisia are MERS-CoV seropositive (80.4%) or actively infected (19.8%), indicating extensive MERS-CoV circulation in Northern Africa.

• Retrospective Study of Kyasanur Forest Disease and Deaths among Nonhuman Primates, India, 1957–2020
  S. Chakraborty et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD) is a tickborne hemorrhagic disease affecting primates along the Western Ghats mountain range in India. Our retrospective study indicated that >3,314 monkey deaths attributed to KFD were reported in KFD-endemic states in India during 1957–2020. These data can help guide surveillance to protect animal and human health.

• Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 Lineage at Outpatient Testing Site, Berlin, Germany, January–March 2021
  W. van Loon et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Within 5 weeks in 2021, B.1.1.7 became the dominant severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 lineage at an outpatient testing site in Berlin, Germany. Compared with outpatients with wild-type virus infection, patients with B.1.1.7 had similar cycle threshold values, more frequent sore throat and travel history, and less frequent anosmia/ageusia.

Research Letters

• Possible Human-to-Dog Transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Italy, 2020
  N. Decaro et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We detected severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in an otherwise healthy poodle living with 4 family members who had coronavirus disease. We observed antibodies in serum samples taken from the dog, indicating seroconversion. Full-length genome sequencing showed that the canine and human viruses were identical, suggesting human-to-animal transmission.

• Outbreak of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 Infections, Ghana
  A. Ambagala et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  In September 2019, high mortality in commercial rabbits was reported in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 phylogenetically related to isolates from 2015–2017 outbreaks in the Netherlands was confirmed as the causative agent. The virus has not yet been detected in native rabbits in Ghana.

• Confirmed Cases of Ophidiomycosis in Museum Specimens from as Early as 1945, United States
  J. M. Lorch et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Ophidiomycosis represents a conservation threat to wild snake populations. The disease was reported in North America early in the 21st century, but the history of ophidiomycosis has not been investigated. We examined museum specimens and confirmed cases of ophidiomycosis >50 years before the disease’s reported emergence.

• Anthemosoma garnhami in an HIV-Infected Man from Zimbabwe Living in South Africa
  D. Stead et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  An HIV-positive man from Zimbabwe living in South Africa sought treatment for multiple clinical signs, including fever, weight loss, anemia, and splenomegaly. We identified in his blood an African rodent piroplasm, Anthemosoma garnhami, related to Babesia species. This finding extends the known geographic and host range of A. garnhami.

• Prolonged SARS-CoV-2 RNA Shedding from Therapy Cat after Cluster Outbreak in Retirement Home
  C. Schulz et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report a therapy cat in a nursing home in Germany infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 during a cluster outbreak in the home residents. Although we confirmed prolonged presence of virus RNA in the asymptomatic cat, genome sequencing showed no further role of the cat in human infections on site.

• Postoperative Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus Wound Infection, Switzerland
  R. Di Micco et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus is a nonvirulent organism found in human and ruminant microbiota. However, P. thiaminolyticus can act as an opportunistic pathogen in humans. We describe a case of abdominal wall hematoma secondarily infected by P. thiaminolyticus. Our findings emphasize the risk for unusual Paenibacillus infections in otherwise healthy persons.

• SARS-CoV-2 Aerosol Exhaled by Experimentally Infected Cynomolgus Monkeys
  C. Zhang et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We analyzed size of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) aerosol particles shed by experimentally infected cynomolgus monkeys. Most exhaled particles were small, and virus was mainly released early during infection. By postinfection day 6, no virus was detected in breath, but air in the isolator contained large quantities of aerosolized virus.

• Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination Timing and Risk Prioritization on Mortality Rates, United States
  X. Wang et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  During rollout of coronavirus disease vaccination, policymakers have faced critical trade-offs. Using a mathematical model of transmission, we found that timing of vaccination rollout would be expected to have a substantially greater effect on mortality rate than risk-based prioritization and uptake and that prioritizing first doses over second doses may be lifesaving.

• Buffalopox Disease in Livestock and Milkers, India
  P. Roy and A. Chandramohan View Abstract Email this Article

  Buffalopox outbreaks caused by vaccinia virus were observed in villages of Tamil Nadu, India, among lactating buffaloes and cows. Milkers also had lesions on their fingers. Because vaccinia virus is known to have extended its host range in Brazil, we recommend continuous surveillance to understand cross-species transmission and to curtail disease effects.

• Natural SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Kept Ferrets, Spain
  C. Gortázar et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We found severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 RNA in 6 (8.4%) of 71 ferrets in central Spain and isolated and sequenced virus from 1 oral and 1 rectal swab specimen. Natural infection occurs in kept ferrets when virus circulation among humans is high. However, small ferret collections probably cannot maintain virus circulation.

Etymologia

• Etymologia: Sunda Pangolin
  C. Partin Email this Article

Perspective

• Considerations for Establishing Successful Coronavirus Disease Vaccination Programs in Africa
  V. Williams et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The accelerated development of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) candidate vaccines is intended to achieve worldwide immunity. Ensuring COVID-19 vaccination is crucial to stemming the pandemic, reclaiming everyday life, and helping restore economies. However, challenges exist to deploying these vaccines, especially in resource-limited sub-Saharan Africa. In this article, we highlight lessons learned from previous efforts to scale up vaccine distribution and offer considerations for policymakers and key stakeholders to use for successful COVID-19 vaccination rollout in Africa. These considerations range from improving weak infrastructure for managing data and identifying adverse events after immunization to considering financing options for overcoming the logistical challenges of vaccination campaigns and generating demand for vaccine uptake. In addition, providing COVID-19 vaccination can be used to promote the adoption of universal healthcare, especially in sub-Saharan Africa countries.

Synopses

• Mycobacterium microti Infections in Free-Ranging Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
  G. Ghielmetti et al.
• Severe Arboviral Encephalitis Observed among 4 Human Cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Connecticut, USA, 2019
  S. C. Brown et al.

Research

• Spatial, Ecologic, and Clinical Epidemiology of Community-Onset, Ceftriaxone-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae, Cook County, Illinois, USA
  V. Sardá et al.
• Fungemia and other Fungal Infections Associated with Use of Saccharomyces boulardii Probiotic Supplements
  J. Rannikko et al.
• Peridomestic Mammal Susceptibility to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection
  A. M. Bosco-Lauth et al.
• Social Distancing, Mask Use, and Transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, Brazil, April–June 2020
  M. Gonçalves et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We assessed the associations of social distancing and mask use with symptomatic, laboratory-confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in Porto Alegre, Brazil. We conducted a population-based case-control study during April–June 2020. Municipal authorities furnished case-patients, and controls were taken from representative household surveys. In adjusted logistic regression analyses of 271 case-patients and 1,396 controls, those reporting moderate to greatest adherence to social distancing had 59% (odds ratio [OR] 0.41, 95% CI 0.24–0.70) to 75% (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.15–0.42) lower odds of infection. Lesser out-of-household exposure (vs. going out every day all day) reduced odds from 52% (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29–0.77) to 75% (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.18–0.36). Mask use reduced odds of infection by 87% (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.04–0.36). In conclusion, social distancing and mask use while outside the house provided major protection against symptomatic infection.

• Transmission Dynamics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in High-Density Settings, Minnesota, USA, March–June 2020
  N. B. Lehnertz et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Coronavirus disease has disproportionately affected persons in congregate settings and high-density workplaces. To determine more about the transmission patterns of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in these settings, we performed whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis on 319 (14.4%) samples from 2,222 SARS-CoV-2–positive persons associated with 8 outbreaks in Minnesota, USA, during March–June 2020. Sequencing indicated that virus spread in 3 long-term care facilities and 2 correctional facilities was associated with a single genetic sequence and that in a fourth long-term care facility, outbreak cases were associated with 2 distinct sequences. In contrast, cases associated with outbreaks in 2 meat-processing plants were associated with multiple SARS-CoV-2 sequences. These results suggest that a single introduction of SARS-CoV-2 into a facility can result in a widespread outbreak. Early identification and cohorting (segregating) of virus-positive persons in these settings, along with continued vigilance with infection prevention and control measures, is imperative.

• Intense and Mild First Wave of COVID-19, The Gambia
• Epidemiology and Spatial Emergence of Anaplasmosis, New York, USA, 2010‒2018
  A. Russell et al.
• Spotted Fever Group Rickettsioses in Israel, 2010–2019
  R. Cohen et al.
• Costs and Outcomes of Integrated Human African Trypanosomiasis Surveillance System Using Rapid Diagnostic Tests, Democratic Republic of the Congo
  R. Snijders et al.
• Effects of Patient Characteristics on Diagnostic Performance of Self-Collected Samples for SARS-CoV-2 Testing
  S. E. Smith-Jeffcoat et al.
• Targeted Nasopharyngeal Bordetella pertussis Inoculation in Mice Reveals Immune Evasion and Models Vaccine Limitations
  I. Soumana et al.
• Estimates of Toxoplasmosis Incidence Based on Healthcare Claims Data, Germany, 2011–2016
  A. Krings et al.

Dispatches

• Natural Human Infections with Plasmodium cynomolgi, Plasmodium inui, and 4 other Simian Malaria Parasites, Malaysia
  N. Yap et al.
• SARS-CoV-2 Prevalence among Outpatients during a Period of Community Transmission in 6 Districts in Zambia, July 2020
  J. Z. Hines et al.
• Weekly SARS-CoV-2 Sentinel Surveillance in Primary Schools, Kindergartens, and Nurseries, Germany, June‒November 2020
  M. Hoch et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We investigated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections in primary schools, kindergartens, and nurseries in Germany. Of 3,169 oropharyngeal swab specimens, only 2 were positive by real-time reverse transcription PCR. Asymptomatic children attending these institutions do not appear to be driving the pandemic when appropriate infection control measures are used.

• Zoonotic Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Free-Roaming Dogs, Kiribati, Western Pacific
  P. A. Zendejas-Heredia et al.
• Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 Lineage after Vaccination in Long-Term Care Facility, Germany, February–March 2021
  P. Tober-Lau et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  One week after second vaccinations were administered, an outbreak of B.1.1.7 lineage severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections occurred in a long-term care facility in Berlin, Germany, affecting 16/20 vaccinated and 4/4 unvaccinated residents. Despite considerable viral loads, vaccinated residents experienced mild symptoms and faster time to negative test results.

• Delayed Antibody and T-Cell Response to BNT162b2 Vaccination in the Elderly, Germany
  T. Schwarz et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We detected delayed and reduced antibody and T-cell responses after BNT162b2 vaccination in 71 elderly persons (median age 81 years) compared with 123 healthcare workers (median age 34 years) in Germany. These data emphasize that nonpharmaceutical interventions for coronavirus disease remain crucial and that additional immunizations for the elderly might become necessary.

• Genomic Detection of Schmallenberg Virus, Israel
  A. Behar et al.
• Endogenous Endophthalmitis Caused by ST66-K2 Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, United States
  E. Kamau et al.
• Autochthonous Cases of Tick-Borne Encephalitis, Belgium, 2020
  A. Stoefs et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  We report 3 confirmed autochthonous tick-borne encephalitis cases in Belgium diagnosed during summer 2020. Clinicians should include this viral infection in the differential diagnosis for patients with etiologically unexplained neurologic manifestations, even for persons without recent travel history.

• African Horse Sickness Virus Serotype 1 on Horse Farm, Thailand, 2020
  N. Bunpapong et al.
• Screening for Q Fever in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation, Israel, June 2018–May 2020
  N. Ghanem-Zoubi et al.
• Epidemiology of COVID-19 in Prisons, England, 2020
  W. M. Rice et al.

Research Letters

• SARS-CoV-2 Superspread in Fitness Center, Hong Kong, China, March 2021
  D. Chu et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  To investigate a superspreading event at a fitness center in Hong Kong, China, we used genomic sequencing to analyze 102 reverse transcription PCR–confirmed cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Our finding highlights the risk for virus transmission in confined spaces with poor ventilation and limited public health interventions.

• Persistence of SARS-CoV-2–Specific IgG in Children 6 Months After Infection, Australia
  Z. Toh et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  The duration of the humoral immune response in children infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is unknown. We detected specific IgG 6 months after infection in children who were asymptomatic or had mild symptoms of coronavirus disease. These findings will inform vaccination strategies and other prevention measures.

• Plague Transmission from Corpses and Carcasses
  S. Jullien et al.
• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus A(H5N8) Clade 2.3.4.4b, Western Siberia, Russia, 2020
  I. Sobolev et al.
• Tuberculosis-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths after COVID-19 Shelter-In-Place, San Francisco, California, USA
  J. K. Louie et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  A mandated shelter-in-place and other restrictions associated with the coronavirus disease pandemic precipitated a decline in tuberculosis diagnoses in San Francisco, California, USA. Several months into the pandemic, cases involving severe illness resulting in hospitalization or death increased compared with prepandemic levels, warranting heightened vigilance for tuberculosis in at-risk populations.

• Linezolid- and Multidrug-Resistant Enterococci in Raw Commercial Dog Food, Europe, 2019–2020
  A. R. Freitas et al.
• Surveillance of Soil-Transmitted Helminths, Strongyloidiasis, Toxocariasis, Cryptosporidiosis, and other Parasitic Diseases, Mississippi, USA
  R. S. Bradbury et al.
• Whole-Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 from Quarantine Hotel Outbreak
  L. Leong et al.
• Occupational Exposure to Zoonotic Tuberculosis Caused by Mycobacterium caprae, Northern Greece, 2019
  D. Papaventsis et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  Pulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium caprae was diagnosed in a 65-year-old goat breeder from northern Greece. This case represents a documented occupational transmission of M. caprae and highlights the importance of enhanced laboratory screening and increased surveillance for zoonotic tuberculosis control.

Letter

• Post-13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Dynamics in Young Children of Serotypes Included in Candidate Extended-Spectrum Conjugate Vaccines
  C. Levy et al.

Synopsis

• Epidemiology, Clinical Features, and Outcomes of Coccidioidomycosis in Utah, 2006–2015
  A. Carey et al.

Research

• Estimating the Impact of State-Wide Policies to Reduce Spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Real Time, Colorado, USA
  A. G. Buchwald et al.
• Multicenter Epidemiologic Study of Coronavirus Disease–Associated Mucormycosis, India
  A. Patel et al. View Abstract Email this Article

  During September–December 2020, we conducted a multicenter retrospective study across India to compare epidemiology and outcomes among cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)–associated mucormycosis (CAM). Among 287 mucormycosis patients, 187 (65.2%) had CAM; CAM prevalence was 0.27% among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We noted a 2.1-fold rise in mucormycosis during the study period compared with September–December 2019. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus was the most common underlying disease among CAM and non-CAM patients. COVID-19 was the only underlying disease in 32.6% of CAM patients. COVID-19–related hypoxemia and improper glucocorticoid use independently were associated with CAM. The mucormycosis case-fatality rate at 12 weeks was 45.7% but was similar for CAM and non-CAM patients. Age, rhino-orbital-cerebral involvement, and intensive care unit admission were associated with increased mortality rates; sequential antifungal drug treatment improved mucormycosis survival. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increases in mucormycosis in India, partly from inappropriate glucocorticoid use.

• Transmission of Clostridioides difficile Ribotype 078, Europe
  G. Moloney et al.
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Farmed Mink (Neovison vison), Poland
  L. Rabalski et al.
• Risk for Acquiring COVID-19 Illness among Emergency Medical Services Personnel Exposed to Aerosol-Generating Procedures
  A. Brown et al.

Dispatch

• Laboratory Exposures from an Unsuspected Case of Human Infection with Brucella canis
  J. Ahmed-Bentley et al.

Research Letter

• Invasive Meningococcal Disease, 2011–2020, and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, England
  S. Subbarao et al.

Letter

• SARS-CoV-2 superspread in fitness center, Hong Kong, China, March 2021
  L. C. Marr