Dataset Information

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in US military compounds in Afghanistan reveals multiple introductions and outbreaks of Alpha and Delta variants.

ABSTRACT:

Background

With the emergence and spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants, genomic epidemiology and surveillance have proven invaluable tools for variant tracking. Here, we analyzed SARS-CoV-2 samples collected from personnel located at the US/NATO bases across Afghanistan.

Results

Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed at least 16 independent introductions of SARS-CoV-2 into four of these relatively isolated compounds during April and May 2021, including multiple introductions of Alpha and Delta variants. Four of the introductions resulted in sustained spread of the virus within, and in two cases between, the compounds. Three of these outbreaks, one Delta and two Alpha, occurred simultaneously.

Conclusions

Even in rigorously controlled and segregated environments, SARS-CoV-2 introduction and spread may occur frequently.

SUBMITTER: Maljkovic Berry I

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9288047 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

ACCESS DATA

Publications

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in US military compounds in Afghanistan reveals multiple introductions and outbreaks of Alpha and Delta variants.

Maljkovic Berry Irina I Hang Jun J Fung Christian C Yang Yu Y Chibucos Marcus M Pollio Adam A Gandhi Jay J Li Tao T Conte Matthew A MA Lidl Grace M GM Johannigman Jay A JA Friberg Heather H

BMC genomics 20220715 1

<h4>Background</h4>With the emergence and spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants, genomic epidemiology and surveillance have proven invaluable tools for variant tracking. Here, we analyzed SARS-CoV-2 samples collected from personnel located at the US/NATO bases across Afghanistan.<h4>Results</h4>Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed at least 16 independent introductions of SARS-CoV-2 into four of these relatively isolated compounds during April and May 2021, including multiple introductions of Al ...[more]

PMID: 35840884

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Project description:ImportanceThe coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has highlighted the need to expand telemedicine solutions.ObjectiveTo beta test a secure teleophthalmology mobile app at military treatment facilities in Afghanistan.Design, setting, and participantsThis prospective case series included 16 military treatment facilities at diverse roles of care including forward operating bases in Afghanistan and 1 location outside of Afghanistan. Thirty point-of-care medics and medical professionals were included from September to November 2019.InterventionsUsers placed teleophthalmology consults on their mobile phone using the mobile eye care app, and an expeditionary ophthalmologist stationed at a military hospital in Afghanistan responded. Users graded the mobile app using a rating scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being very dissatisfied and 5 being very satisfied.Main outcomes and measuresMean initial response time, agreement between the teleophthalmology diagnosis and final diagnosis, treatment and management following recommendations outlined in the Joint Trauma System clinical practice guidelines, prevention of the need for aeromedical evacuation, user satisfaction, and security and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliance of consult.ResultsThere were 28 consults placed over 6 weeks by 18 different users that were received by the expeditionary ophthalmologist. The mean (SD) patient age was 30.3 (9.8) years. Most patients were male (26 [93%]) and active duty US military (22 [78%]). The mean initial response time was 3 minutes 58 seconds (95% CI, 2 minutes 30 seconds to 5 minutes 26 seconds). There was agreement between the teleophthalmology diagnosis and final diagnosis in 24 consults (86%; 95% CI, 72%-100%). The treatment and management followed recommendations outlined in the Joint Trauma System Clinical Practice Guidelines for Eye Trauma: Initial Care in 28 consults (100%). Teleophthalmology consultation prevented the need for aeromedical evacuation in 4 consults (14%; 95% CI, 0.7%-28%). The patient returned to duty in 15 consults (54%; 95% CI, 34%-73%). Median overall satisfaction was 5 (minimum, 3; maximum, 5). All 28 consults (100%) were secure and compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.Conclusions and relevanceWhile only a limited number of consults were evaluated, this study suggests that teleophthalmology mobile phone apps may improve and extend ophthalmic care in combat zones.

Dataset Information

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in US military compounds in Afghanistan reveals multiple introductions and outbreaks of Alpha and Delta variants.

Background

Results

Conclusions

Publications

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in US military compounds in Afghanistan reveals multiple introductions and outbreaks of Alpha and Delta variants.

Similar Datasets

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