bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
559. A Nationwide Survey of COVID-19 Management in the Dominican Republic Over the Course of the Pandemic
Authors: Mena Lora Alfredo J , Rojas-Fermin Rita Alexandra , de Luna David , Echeverria Stephanie L , Roque Yori , Calcano Ruben , Blanco Claudia , Perez Clevy , Hernandez Anny , Espinal Adames , Coronado Carolina , Castro Michelle , Batista Arelis , Borgetti Scott , Bleasdale Susan C
Published: December 2021

Background

COVID-19 was declared a global Public Health Emergency by the WHO in January 2020. Limited treatment options existed early in the pandemic. As COVID-19 spread across the globe and new therapeutics emerged, different interpretations of the literature grew, and major societies relayed conflictive recommendations. There is a paucity of data on COVID-19 management in low- and middle-income countries. As a result, we performed a nationwide survey of local treatment practices in the Dominican Republic (DR).

Methods

We performed an anonymous survey of infectious diseases specialists in the DR and US. The survey collected hospital characteristics and COVID-19 management protocols during different quarters of 2020-21. Management was categorized by drug and disease severity based on supplemental oxygen requirements. A convenience sample in the US representing community and academic sites was surveyed for point comparison between the US and DR.

Results

The survey was completed by physicians from a total of 11 sites located in 4 cities of the DR: Santo Domingo (3), Santiago (4), La Vega (2) and San Francisco (2). These cities were representative of all regions in the country. The survey included 7 (64%) hospitals with < 200 beds, 3 (27%) with 201-300 beds, and 1 (9%) with >400 beds. Seven (47%) were private, 2 (13%) public, and 6 (40%) were teaching hospitals. In the US, 2 academic hospitals with >400 beds and 2 community hospitals with < 200 beds in a major city were surveyed. Management of COVID-19 at sites in the DR and US throughout the pandemic is plotted in Figure 1. Remdesivir use by disease severity is plotted in Figure 2.

Figure 1. Management of COVID-19 at sites in the US and DR throughout the COVID-19 pandemic

FIgure 2. Remdesivir use by disease severity at sites in the US and DR throughout the COVID-19 pandemic

Conclusion

Throughout the pandemic, as therapeutic options evolved, hospitals and physicians had to adapt to changing guidelines and availability of novel drugs. Variability between countries and sites emerged. The use of hydroxychloroquine and convalescent plasma waned more rapidly in the US. Dexamethasone was widely used at all sites. Tocilizumab and remdesivir were used more liberally in the DR. Antimicrobial stewardship limited these agents at US sites to more narrow therapeutic windows which could explain the discrepancies seen between the US and DR. Uncertainty of benefit in certain disease states, limited availability, and cost may also play a role.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
565. Risk of COVID-19 Among Healthcare Workers After Launch of Vaccination Campaign at an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Navalkele Bhagyashri D , Lucar Jose , Brock James B , Parham Jason
Published: December 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus affected healthcare workers (HCWs) adding additional burden on staffing shortages. COVID-19 vaccination (mRNA 1273 and BNT162b2) has been shown to protect against severe disease, death and reduced risk of asymptomatic infection and transmission from fully vaccinated individuals. Here, we present the impact of COVID-19 vaccination (CoVac) on risk of developing COVID-19 based on test results among unvaccinated and vaccinated HCWs.

Methods

Our academic medical center with 11,785 HCWs on its Jackson campus initiated non-mandatory CoVac among HCWs with BNT162b2 on December 16, 2020. Individuals ≥ 2 weeks after 1st dose of vaccine were defined as partially vaccinated and those ≥2 weeks from 2nd dose of vaccine were defined as fully vaccinated. Per facility policy, all symptomatic HCWs (irrespective of vaccination status) were recommended to undergo SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing. Asymptomatic HCWs were also tested upon household exposure, however, this policy was changed on March 9th 2021 to allow fully vaccinated asymptomatic HCWs to work without need for quarantine or testing. Universal masking policy among HCWs remained effective at our center during study period.

Results

Between the launch of COVID-19 vaccination on December 16, 2020 and April 30, 2021, 5,855 HCWs received one dose of vaccine, and 5,687 received both doses. A total of 1,329 unique HCWs underwent COVID-19 testing between January 4, 2021 and April 30, 2021. Of those, 217 (16.3%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection; 204 were unvaccinated, 7 were partially vaccinated, and 6 were fully vaccinated (figure 1). Of the 6 fully vaccinated employees, 1 was asymptomatic (testing for travel purposes), 4 had mild symptoms, and one elderly employee required hospitalization with oxygen supplementation and had a complete recovery. No facility outbreaks were reported related to asymptomatic, work exposed, fully vaccinated HCWs.

Unvaccinated healthcare workers were more likely to test positive for SARS-CoV-2 compared to partially and fully vaccinated healthcare workers.

Conclusion

COVID-19 vaccination protected HCWs by reducing risk for developing COVID-19. Vaccinating healthcare workers is a crucial infection prevention measure to reduce disease burden, avoid staffing shortages and create a safe environment in the healthcare facility to prevent transmission to other staff and at-risk patients.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
567. Reasons for Deferral of COVID-19 Vaccines Among Arab American Healthcare Professionals Living in the United States
Authors: Shallal Anita , Abada Evi , Musallam Rami , Fehmi Omar , Kaljee Linda , Fehmi Ziad , Alzouhayli Suma , Ujayli Deema , Dankerlui Doreen , Kim Seongho , Kumar Vijaya Arun , Zervos Marcus , Ali Rouba
Published: December 2021

Background

The WHO identified the three most common reasons for worldwide vaccine hesitancy to be safety concerns, lack of knowledge and awareness, and religion and cultural issues. There is limited information on this topic among Arab Americans, a rapidly growing demographic in the US. We sought to determine the reasons for deferral of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine amongst Arab American health professionals living in the US.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study utilizing an anonymous online survey. The survey was distributed via e-mail to National Arab American Medical Association members and Arab-American Center for Economic and Social Services healthcare employees. Respondents were considered vaccine hesitant if they selected responses other than a willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Results

A total of 4,000 surveys were sent via e-mail from December 28 2020 to January 31 2021. The highest group of respondents were between the ages of 18-29 years and physicians constituted 48% of the respondents. Among 515 respondents, 41.9% (n=216) would receive the vaccine within one month of it becoming available to them, and 30.2% (n=156) had already received a vaccine. Among those who would defer the vaccine, 9.3% (n=48) would receive it within 1-3 months, 5.6% (n=29) within 3-6 months and 6.6% (n=34) after over 6 months or longer. 6.2% (n=32) would not receive the vaccine. The three most commonly reported reasons for deferral of vaccine among 75 vaccine hesitant respondents were: “I am worried about the side effects” (65.3%), “I am worried the vaccine moved through clinical trials too fast (54.7%), and “There is no information about long term side effects of the vaccine” (52%). Data indicate that about a quarter of respondents also expressed distrust of the government and the pharmaceutical industry. The results are summarized in table 1.

Conclusion

Reasons cited by this sample of Arab Americans for deferring the COVID-19 vaccine mirror more general concerns about vaccine side effects and need for information. Concerns about clinical trial procedures and distrust have become more prevalent with COVID-19. This data can help inform COVID-19 vaccine advocacy efforts among health care providers, and thus could have substantial impact on vaccine attitudes of the general population.

Disclosures

Marcus Zervos, MD, contrafect (Advisor or Review Panel member)janssen (Grant/Research Support)merck (Grant/Research Support)moderna (Grant/Research Support)pfizer (Grant/Research Support)serono (Grant/Research Support)
577. COVI-VAC™, a Live Attenuated COVID-19 Vaccine, Provides Single Dose Protection Against Heterologous Challenge with SARS-CoV-2 Beta (B.1.351) in the Syrian Golden Hamster Model
Authors: Kushnir Anna , Mueller Steffen , Tasker Sybil , Robert Coleman J
Published: December 2021

Background

Although multiple COVID-19 vaccines are currently in use, emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants with reduced neutralization raises concern of future vaccine escape. COVI-VAC™ is a live attenuated SARS-CoV-2 strain based on WA/1 being developed as an intranasal COVID-19 vaccine. COVI-VAC is attenuated through removal of the furin cleavage site and introduction of 283 silent, deoptimizing mutations that maintain viral amino acid sequence but slow viral replication in vivo by up to 5 logs. Notably, COVI-VAC presents all viral antigens in their native conformation and is not limited to spike. COVI-VAC demonstrated attenuation, immunogenicity and single dose protection in both the Syrian golden hamster and non-human primate models and currently in Phase 1 clinical trials. In this study, we evaluated efficacy of COVI-VAC against challenge with the Beta/B.1.351 variant in Syrian golden hamsters.

Methods

Syrian golden hamsters, 7-10 weeks of age were, vaccinated intranasally with 8.25x104 PFU COVI-VAC (n=28) or vehicle control (n=16). Twenty seven days post-vaccination, animals were challenged intranasally with 3x104 PFU of wildtype (WT) SARS-CoV-2 Beta. Animals were weighed daily. Further analysis is being conducted with serum and key tissues from pre and post challenge timepoints to include neutralizing antibody, biodistribution (subgenomic qPCR) and histopathology.

Results

COVI-VAC prevented weight loss following challenge with the heterologous variant of SARS-CoV-2, B.1.351/Beta (Figure). Results of additional analyses will be available before the IDWeek meeting.

Change in Weight following SARS-CoV-2 Beta Challenge

Conclusion

COVI-VAC is protective against heterologous challenge with SARS-CoV-2 Beta. By presenting all viral antigens, COVI-VAC may be less affected by viral evolution than spike-based vaccines.

Disclosures

Anna Kushnir, PHD, Codagenix Inc (Employee) Steffen Mueller, PhD, Codagenix Inc (Board Member, Employee, Shareholder) Sybil Tasker, MD, MPH, FIDSA, Codagenix Inc (Employee, Shareholder) J. Robert Coleman, PhD, Codagenix Inc. (Board Member, Employee, Shareholder)
589. Oral Tablet Vaccination Induces Heightened Cross-Reactive CD8 T Cell Responses to SARS-COV-2 in Humans
Authors: Johnson Susan , Martinez Clarissa , Cortese Mario , Martinez Josefina , Garg Shaily , Peinovich Nadine , Dora Emery , Tucker Sean
Published: December 2021

Background

Covid-19 has accelerated global demand for easily distributed vaccines. Furthermore, as variant SARS-CoV-2 strains that circumvent antibody responses emerge, cross-protective vaccines provide substantial public health benefits. Vaxart is developing a shelf stable oral tablet vaccine that incorporates both the spike (S) and the more conserved nucleocapsid (N) proteins. Vaxart’s vaccine platform uses a non-replicating adenovirus and a TLR3 agonist as an adjuvant.

Methods

In an open-label phase 1 clinical study, 35 healthy subjects received either a single low (1x1010 IU; n=15) or high (5x1010 IU; n=15) dose of the vaccine candidate VXA-CoV2-1 with a small cohort receiving 2 low doses. PBMCs were taken at pre- and 7 days post-vaccination and restimulated with S and N peptides from SARS-CoV-2 or the 4 human endemic coronaviruses (HCoV). Cells were stained for CD4/CD8/CD107a (surface) and IFNγ/TNFα (intracellular). Subjects that received an intramuscular (i.m.) mRNA vaccine had PBMCs taken at the same timepoints and were compared in the same assay.

Results

The study’s results indicate that the VXA-CoV2-1 tablet was well tolerated. The majority of subjects had an increase in S-specific anti-viral CD8+ T cell responses. 19/26 (73%) subjects had a measurable CD8+ T cell response on day 8 above baseline, on average 1.5-4.6%. In a comparator experiment with the 2 SARS-CoV-2 i.m. mRNA vaccines, VXA-CoV2-1 outperformed other vaccine candidates with a >3.5-fold increase in S specific antiviral CD8 T cell responses. T cell responses specific to the 4 endemic HCoV were increased by 0.6% in subjects given VXA-CoV2-1.

Conclusion

Here we describe a room temperature stable tablet that induces SARS-CoV-2 S specific CD8 T cells of high magnitude after one dose in humans. Overall, the level of antiviral SARS-CoV-2 specific T cells, particularly IFNg-producing CD8s, induced following oral immunization with VXA-CoV2-1 are of higher magnitude than the mRNA vaccines currently in use against COVID-19. T cell responses against 4 endemic HCoV were also induced. Because T cells may be important in protecting against death and severe infection, these results suggest that VXA-CoV2-1 could be cross-protective against a wide array of emerging pandemic coronaviruses.

Disclosures

Susan Johnson, PhD, Vaxart (Employee) Clarissa Martinez, MPH, Vaxart (Employee) Mario Cortese, PhD, Vaxart (Employee) Josefina Martinez, n/a, Vaxart (Employee) Shaily Garg, BS, Vaxart (Employee) Nadine Peinovich, MPH, Vaxart (Employee) Emery Dora, n/a, Vaxart (Employee) Sean Tucker, PhD, Vaxart (Employee)
600. The Effect of Medication-Assisted Treatment on Completion Rates of Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Greco Christian S , Sobhanie Mohammad Mahdee , Coe Kelci E , Hebert Courtney , Williams Margaret
Published: December 2021

Background

Injection drug use is a nationwide epidemic associated with an increased risk of invasive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infections. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is effective in reducing substance use and increasing adherence to inpatient medical therapy in persons with injection drug use (PWID). Studies assessing the impact MAT has on completion of outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) are limited.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective, cohort study at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in patients admitted from 12/1/2017 to 12/1/2019 with a diagnosis of S. aureus bacteremia who were identified as PWID either by ICD-9 or 10 code or chart review. A formal MAT program was established on 11/30/2018. Patients were assigned to the pre-MAT group if they were discharged prior to 11/30/2018 and to the MAT group with treatment after 11/30/2018. We evaluated a composite outcome of failure to complete OPAT, recurrence of S. aureus bacteremia during the OPAT period and readmission within 30 days. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between MAT therapy and the primary composite outcome, while adjusting for proven confounders.

Results

A total of 700 patients were identified with 644 patients omitted based on exclusion criteria. The study population included 27 in the Pre-MAT group and 17 in the MAT. Median age was 37 years (IQR 30.6 - 46.1). There was a higher number of females in the MAT therapy group compared to the pre-MAT group (82% vs. 33%, p=0.002). Patients in the pre-MAT group had a significantly longer length of stay (25 days vs. 17 days, p=0.01). The primary composite outcome was met if a patient did not complete their OPAT, if they had a recurrence of S. aureus bacteremia during their OPAT or if they were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days. In the pre-MAT group 14/27 (52%) met the composite outcome versus 6/17 (35%) of the MAT group (p=0.28).

Conclusion

Patients in the MAT group met the composite outcome 17% less than those in the pre-Mat group which is suggestive of the impact MAT has on completion of OPAT therapy; however, this study did not reach statistical significance as it was underpowered. Further longitudinal evaluation with greater sample size is needed to fully evaluate this intervention.

Disclosures

Mohammad Mahdee Sobhanie, M.D., Regeneron (Scientific Research Study Investigator)Regeneron (Scientific Research Study Investigator, Was a sub-investigator for Regeneron 2066 and 2069)
603. Misdiagnosis of Lyme Disease in Patients Referred to an Academic Lyme Center
Authors: Shere-Wolfe Kalpana D , Silk Rachel , Lynch Mia , Jones-Dove Adrian , Alexander Carla
Published: December 2021

Background

Confusion and controversy surround various aspects of Lyme Disease (LD) including diagnosis. Typically, the diagnosis of LD is based on tick exposure, clinical history, exam, and laboratory testing. Laboratory testing and interpretation can be confusing, difficult, and a source of misdiagnosis.

Methods

One hundred and fifteen records of patients referred to the Integrated Lyme Program at University of Maryland for evaluation of LD were analyzed. All patients underwent initial evaluation by Infectious Disease (ID) physician who made a determination regarding Lyme diagnosis based on history, exam, epidemiologic risk factors and laboratory test results. Pt were determined to have one of the following diagnoses: 1) Acute LD 2) Past LD 3) Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) 4) Misdiagnosed LD. Data was also collected on reasons for misdiagnosis based on record review, referral information and patient reported information.

Results

We evaluated 115 patient records from our Lyme Program Registry. There were 78 female (68%) and 37 males (32%). The mean age was 46 years (range 19 to 83). Of the 115 records analyzed, there were 8 (7%) patients with acute Lyme disease; 38 (33%) patients with past Lyme disease , 3 (2.6%) patients with PTLDS and 93 (81%) of patients who were misdiagnosed with LD. Patients were misdiagnosed for multiple reasons and by different people. Twenty three percent (21/93) were misdiagnosed based on false positive IGM Western Blot; 16% (15/93) were misdiagnosed based on misread IGG Western Blot and 14% (13/93) were misdiagnosed based on unconventional Lyme test. The remainder were misdiagnosed based on symptoms. Forty two percent (39/93) were misdiagnosed by PCP; 4.3%(3/93) were misdiagnosed by Urgent/Emergent care physician and 31% (29/93) were misdiagnosed by physicians’ self-referred as Lyme Literate Medical Doctor. The remainder were incorrectly self-diagnosed by patients based on symptoms.

Conclusion

Misdiagnosis of patients referred to Lyme Center is common and due to various reasons including misinterpretation of laboratory Lyme testing by healthcare providers and misinterpretation of symptoms by patients.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
608. Continuous Infusion Vancomycin Is Not Associated with Improved Safety in an Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy Program
Authors: Tagare Rosemarie D , McDonald Joshua A , Tritle Brandon , Fong Karen , Newman Michael G , Certain Laura , Benefield Russell J
Published: December 2021

Background

Continuous infusion (CI) vancomycin has been reported to be associated with improved safety outcomes compared to intermittent infusion (II) in the outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) setting. Based on this our institution implemented a quality improvement intervention to discharge more patients on CI vancomycin aiming to improve vancomycin safety in our OPAT program.

Methods

This single-center, pre-/post-intervention, quasi-experimental study evaluated adult patients who received vancomycin for a minimum 7-day intended duration of therapy after discharge, were discharged to home health or a skilled nursing facility, and had a follow-up visit with an infectious diseases provider. Outcomes included discontinuation due to acute kidney injury (AKI) or due to any adverse drug event (ADE), time to AKI or ADE, and unplanned 30-day readmissions and were compared between the pre-intervention (11/25/2018 to 7/5/2020) and post-intervention (7/6/2020 to 3/31/2021) periods. Adverse events were defined as premature discontinuation of vancomycin with documentation of a suspected adverse event.

Results

Of the 445 patients included, 102 patients received CI vancomycin. Demographic characteristics were generally similar between time periods, although more patients discharged to home health were included during the post-intervention period. CI vancomycin use was higher after the intervention (42% vs 11%, P < 0.0001). Discontinuation due to AKI (7% vs 8%, P = 0.68) or any ADE (16% vs 18%, P = 0.65) occurred just as frequently post-implementation. Unplanned 30-day readmission was higher post-intervention (21% vs 12%, P = 0.02). When comparing patients receiving CI and II vancomycin, discontinuation rates due to AKI (10% with CI vs 7% with II, P = 0.35) and any ADE (17% with CI vs 17% with II, P = 0.85) were similar. Time to AKI (median 21 days with CI vs 16 days with II, P = 0.26) and any ADE (median 22 days vs 22 days, P = 0.55) were also similar. There was a trend toward a significantly higher unplanned 30-day readmission rate with use of CI compared to II (22% vs 14%, P = 0.07).

Control Charts

These control charts show the variation over time of the proportion of patients A. utilizing CI vancomycin, B. experiencing any adverse drug reaction, C. experiencing acute kidney injury, and D. being readmitted within 30 days. Upper and lower control limits are depicted by red lines, and the mean is depicted by a green line.

Conclusion

We found no safety advantages when using CI instead of II vancomycin in the outpatient setting. The potentially higher readmission rate observed with CI vancomycin will be investigated further.

Disclosures

Russell J. Benefield, PharmD, Paratek Pharmaceuticals (Grant/Research Support)
614. Evaluating the Use of Dalbavancin for Off-Label Indications
Authors: Taylor Katherine , Williamson John , Stone Tyler , Johnson James , Gruss Zachary , Luther Vera , Luther Vera , Russ-Friedman Courtney , Ohl Chris , Beardsley James
Published: December 2021

Background

Dalbavancin (dalba) is a long-acting antibiotic (ABX) approved for skin and soft tissue infections. Post-marketing data suggests dalba is being used for off-label indications that require long term IV ABX; however, data assessing this off-label usage is limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the real-world efficacy, safety, and financial impact of off-label dalba use.

Methods

Setting: 4-hospital health system. Design: retrospective, observational study. Adult patients (pts) who received dalba from Jan 2018 to Jan 2021 for an off-label indication were included. Pts who were pregnant or had an infection caused by a pathogen outside dalba’s antimicrobial spectrum were excluded. Primary outcome was clinical success at 90 days defined as no need for additional ABX (excluding suppression therapy) or surgical intervention following dalba therapy and no positive cultures post treatment associated with the dalba-targeted infection. Secondary outcomes included safety (nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity). A financial analysis was performed by subtracting the cost of dalba from the anticipated cost of pt stay [&427/day for hospital; &262/day for skilled nursing facility (SNF)] if standard IV therapy was given.

Results

50 pts met study criteria; 42% were IV drug users; 14% were self-pay. Indications included osteomyelitis (54%), endocarditis (22%), bacteremia (16%), and prosthetic joint infection (PJI) (8%). The predominant organism was S. aureus (60%), with 42% caused by MRSA. All but 1 pt received 1.5 g of dalba. 20 (40%) pts received 1 dose; 26 (52%) received 2. Overall, 43 (86%) pts achieved clinical success at 90 days, including 87% of osteomyelitis/PJI pts, 82% of endocarditis pts, and 100% of pts with bacteremia. There were no instances of nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity. Estimated cost avoidance per pt was &5210 and &1652 if traditional IV therapy was completed in the hospital and SNF, respectively. Because the alternative therapy to dalba could not be predicted, these costs were not included in analysis but likely would have increased calculated cost avoidance.

Conclusion

Dalba was associated with a relatively high success rate for the treatment of off-label indications and may have less total costs than traditional IV ABX.

Disclosures

James Johnson, PharmD, FLGT (Shareholder) Vera Luther, MD, Nothing to disclose
615. A Year with COVID19 – Experience from the Front Line in a Large Infectious Disease (ID) Clinical Practice
Authors: Nahass Ronald G , Giordano Angelo , McManus Edward J
Published: December 2021

Background

ID Care (IDC) is a large, 43 physician, 74 provider, practice that treats patients in 16 acute care hospitals (ACH) and 120 skilled nursing facilities (SNF) in NJ. March 4, 2021 was the first day a patient with COVID19 seen by IDC. Over the subsequent year IDC evaluated, treated, and tested over 23,000 persons for COVID19. Patients were seen in 2 distinct times - wave 1 (W1) March 5-August 31 and wave 2 (W2) September 1 to March 4. We compare the experience of these 2 waves and report on the year of COVID19 at IDC.

Methods

The administrative data base for IDC was queried for demographic, visit and testing information. A survey of providers was performed to capture incidence of COVID19 and vaccination rates. Daily census logs were used to create epi curves. Comparisons between waves were performed using student T Test or X2.

Results

Table 1 provides the comparisons between waves. More patients were seen in W2, however, the number of visits per patient was less, consistent with a shorter length of stay. Fewer patients were seen in SNF in W2 compared to W1. The age and sex distribution between the waves were the same. A total of 8741 molecular tests were performed. Test positivity peaked the week of December 31 at 6.99% and dropped to 0% by May 1 consistent with vaccination and the NJ epidemic curve. During the year of COVID19, 6/74 (8%) clinicians were infected with SARSCoV2. All recovered. Infections in providers were not clearly work-related exposures. 73/74 clinicians were vaccinated.

Table 1. Demographics For the Year in COVID19 at ID Care

Figure 1. Test Positivity Rate for ID Care

Conclusion

The year of COVID19 occurred in 2 distinct waves. W1 was short and intense. The age and gender distributions were the same between the waves. Even though wave 2 was numerically greater, the cases in SNF were statistically less than the first wave likely from improved IP practice initiated in W1. The numbers of visits per patient, a surrogate for LOS, was statistically less in W2. The decline in test positivity paralleled deployment of vaccination. Despite an intensity of exposure of 158 patients/provider or 1198 visits/provider to SARSCoV2 infected persons only 8% of the clinician staff were infected. ID clinical practice can use electronic databases to help describe regional outbreaks of transmissible disease giving additional perspective across the care continuum. A more usable standard tool would enhance this capacity.

Disclosures

Ronald G. Nahass, MD, Abbvie (Grant/Research Support, Speaker's Bureau)Alkermes (Grant/Research Support)Gilead (Grant/Research Support, Speaker's Bureau)Merck (Grant/Research Support, Speaker's Bureau)
620. Identifying the Role for a Pharmacist on an Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) Team in an Academic Teaching Hospital
Authors: Hino Garret H , Abdul-Mutakabbir Jacinda , Hamada Norman , Zhou Anna , Tan Karen K
Published: December 2021

Background

Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) is currently an emerging practice to continue effective treatment after hospital discharge for patients requiring parenteral (IV) treatment. Pharmacists can collaborate with outpatient services like home infusion services to allow for safe administration and monitoring of IV antibiotics. The role of pharmacists in an OPAT team has been shown to improve patient outcomes such as optimizing antimicrobial therapy and reducing hospital length of stay and readmissions. We sought to define the utility of an OPAT pharmacist at an academic teaching hospital that currently does not have an OPAT service.

Methods

Patients receiving IV therapy via home infusion from 1/4/21 to 3/4/21 were screened for inclusion and excluded if antimicrobials were not prescribed. Infection characteristics and antimicrobial therapy were recorded. Interventions on day of and after discharge were noted. Duration of therapy (DOT) was calculated by the difference between start and stop dates of appropriate antibiotics. Discharge delays due to OPAT-related reasons were recorded. Continuous data are expressed as median (IQR). Categorical data are expressed as frequencies (%).

Results

Of the patients screened, 77 of 123 patients met inclusion criteria. Most patients were treated for a bone/joint infection (29/77, 38%). Ceftriaxone (18/82, 22%) and vancomycin (13/82, 16%) were the most frequently prescribed agents. The median DOT was 30 days (IQR 15, 42). On day of discharge, 52 opportunities for a pharmacist initiated intervention were identified with majority being clarifying DOT (19/52, 37%), streamlining or escalating antibiotic (8/52, 15%), and optimizing drug dose (8/52, 15%). OPAT-related discharge delays resulted in an excess of 58 hospital days and over 25% of patients (20/77) were readmitted 30 days after discharge. The most common post-discharge issues (n=56) were worsening infection (11/56, 20%), PICC line issues (9/56, 16%), and drug related adverse events (8/56, 14%).

Conclusion

A pharmacist on a dedicated OPAT service can assist with antimicrobial selection, treatment duration, and drug monitoring to promote patient safety in patients discharged on antimicrobials.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
623. Exploring ‘Slicer Dicer’, an Extraction Tool in EPIC, for Clinical and Epidemiological Analysis
Authors: Saini Vikram , Jaber Tariq , Como James D , Lejeune Keith , Bhanot Nitin
Published: December 2021

Background

Electronic Health Record (EHR) implementation has created an unprecedented library of patient data. Data extraction tools provide an opportunity to retrieve clinico-epidemiological information on a wide scale. Slicer Dicer is a data exploration tool in the EPIC EHR that allows one to customize searches on large patient populations. This software contains a variety of models that present de-identified information from EPIC’s Caboodle database. We explored the applicability and potential utility of this tool utilizing the diagnosis of Lyme disease as an example.

Methods

The following steps outline an overview of data extraction utilizing ICD-10 codes around Lyme disease at our health system. Step 1-3: Denominator chosen as ‘All Patients’ over a 3-year period, ‘Slicing’ of the data by ‘Lyme disease, unspecified’ was applied to these results, and the ‘sliced’ data was categorized by year of diagnosis (Slide 1). Step 4: This data was further arranged by month of diagnosis for trend analysis (Slide 2). Step 5: Sub-diagnosis was applied for Lyme arthritis (Slide 3). Step 6: Further ‘slicing’ was/can be done by other variables, such as ‘Hospitalization,’ ‘Encounter Diagnosis,’ and ‘ED Diagnosis’ (Slide 4). Step 7-8: Output was ‘sliced’ by ‘Age’ (Slide 5) and ‘Postal Code’ (Slide 6).

Slide 1. EPIC EHR screen capture showing 3-year period data

Data shown here represents 'All patients' chosen as the denominator further sliced by 'Lyme disease, unspecified' and categorized by the year of diagnosis.

Slide 2. EPIC EHR screen capture showing data further arranged by month of diagnosis

Results

Macro-level data of period prevalence on Lyme disease over 3 years (Slide 1), seasonal trends (Slide 2), specific sub-diagnosis (Slide 3), output by setting of diagnosis (Slide 4), and demographic information of our patient population (Slides 5, 6) was revealed by application of these parameters.

Slide 3. EPIC EHR screen capture showing application of sub-diagnosis for Lyme arthritis

Slide 4. EPIC EHR screen capture showing further slicing by multiple variables like hospitalization and diagnosis

Slide 5. EPIC EHR screen capture showing slicing of data by demographic information (Age)

Conclusion

Slicer Dicer can provide a snapshot for preliminary data analysis prior to investing time and commitment to a project. The appeal of this tool is that it mines de-identified data and thus does not require initial IRB approval. This opens an avenue for potential full research projects based on the results obtained and helps generate preliminary hypotheses through analysis of healthcare.

Slide 6. EPIC EHR screen capture showing slicing of data by demographic information (Postal Code)

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
645. Rapid Diagnosis of Disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection in Renal Transplant Recipients Using Plasma Microbial Cell Free DNA Next Generation Sequencing
Authors: Ogunsiakan Tosin , Fajgenbaum Kristen D , Phadke Gautam , Montgomery Thomas , Gajurel Kiran
Published: December 2021

Background

Disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection is rare in kidney transplant recipients. The diagnosis may not be suspected readily due to non-specific clinical presentation. The diagnosis and treatment can be further delayed due to poor sensitivity of culture (especially of extra-pulmonary sites) and slow growth in culture media. Accurate and rapid diagnosis of disseminated M. kansasii infections in transplant recipients is important for antimicrobial management.

Methods

Two cases of disseminated M. kansasii infections with unusual presentation in which rapid diagnosis was made using the Karius test (KT) are presented. The KT is a CLIA certified/CAP-accredited next-generation sequencing (NGS) plasma test that detects microbial cell-free DNA (mcfDNA). After mcfDNA is extracted and NGS performed, human reads are removed, and remaining sequences are aligned to a curated database of >1400 organisms. Organisms present above a statistical threshold are reported.

Results

Case 1: A 31-year female kidney transplant recipient presented with a thyroglossal duct cyst, as well as swelling of her right metacarpophalangeal joint and left 3rd finger. AFB culture of the thyroglossal cyst aspiration done on post admission day (PAD) 2 took 27 days to be identified as M. kansasii (on PAD 29) whereas plasma sent for KT on PAD 5 reported a positive test for M. kansasii at 284 molecules/microliter (MPM) in 4 days (on PAD 9). Case 2: A 59-year male kidney transplant recipient presented with generalized weakness, arthralgia, pericardial effusion, cytopenia, weight loss and intermittent fevers. Plasma sent for KT on PAD 12 was reported positive for M. kansasii at 1314 MPM in 3 days (on PAD 15). PET CT done simultaneously was consistent with an infection of an old AV graft in the left upper extremity. The AFB culture of the resected graft was confirmed as M. kansasii in 22 days on PAD 36. After the KT was available (before confirmation of M. kansasii on culture), the first patient underwent modification of empiric treatment and the second patient was started on specific treatment for M. kansasii.

Table of M. kansasii cases

Rapid diagnosis of disseminated M. kansasii infection

Conclusion

Open-ended NGS plasma testing for mcfDNA identified disseminated M kansasii infection much earlier than standard microbiology and thus helped in initiation and modification of pathogen directed treatment.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
652. Comparison of QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus and T-SPOT.TB in the Diagnosis of Active Tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Lifan , yang zhengrong , Liu Xiaoqing , Ma Huimin , Ge Qiping , Zhang Yueqiu , Shi Xiaochun , Cao Qifei , Gao Mengqiu
Published: December 2021

Background

Objective: To compare the accuracy of Quantiferon ®- TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) and T-SPOT.TB in the diagnosis of active tuberculosis (ATB).

Methods

From April 2020 to May 2021, patients with pathologically confirmed or clinically diagnosed ATB in Peking Union Medical College Hospital and Beijing Chest Hospital were enrolled as case group, while patients excluded from ATB in the same period were enrolled as control group, The clinical and laboratory information were collected. QFT-Plus and T-SPOT. TB were tested simultaneously to evaluate the consistency of the results and compare the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and likelihood ratios for diagnosing ATB.

Results

Fifty-seven ATB patients and 159 non-ATB patients were included. 33 (57.9%) ATB patients were pathologically confirmed. The proportions of indeterminate results in QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB were 3.7% vs 0%, respectively. The agreement between the results of the QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB was substantial (kappa=0.644, p＜0.001). The area under the ROC curve of the QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB for diagnosing ATB was 0.759 (95%CI 0.689-0.829) vs 0.810 (95%CI 0.742-0.877), respectively, and there was no significant difference (p=0.303). the sensitivity of the QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB was 85.2% vs 89.5%, while the specificity was 61.7% vs 52.2%, respectively. In 33 Patients with pathologically confirmed ATB, the sensitivity of QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB was 87.9% vs 93.9% (p=0.669), respectively. In 78 patients (36.1%) who received glucocorticoid / immunosuppressive / biological agents, the positive rate of QFT-Plus was 35.9% (28/78), which was significantly lower than that of those who did not receive these agents (77 / 138pm,55.8%) (p=0.005), but there was no significant difference in the positive rate of T-SPOT.TB between the two groups (52.6% vs. 62.3%, p=0.162). The positive rate for both tests was independent of the peripheral blood lymphocyte count (p=0.675 for QFT-Plus vs. P=0.138 for T-SPOT.TB).

Conclusion

There was no significant difference between the QFT-Plus and T-SPOT.TB in the diagnosis of ATB. QFT-plus might be prone to indeterminate results and influenced by the immunosuppressive status. The results need to be verified by a prospective cohort study with large sample.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
659. Correlate Clinically and More-Use of Interpretative Comments in Clinical Microbiology Reporting
Authors: Kochhi Raksha
Published: December 2021

Background

Microbial identification & antibiotic susceptibility testing is an important investigation in clinical microbiology laboratory. In many centres in India the report has only the isolate and antibiotics tested. The additional comments if added give guidance to the clinicians to utilize the results. Pre-analytical issues of adequate & relevant clinical history, appropriate sampling techniques, timely transport & storage, history of antibiotic usage along with post analytical issues of recommended line of antibiotic therapy and infection control practices are better addressed with this practice.

Methods

This was a prospective qualitative study from the period of January 2017-March 2021 where in the standard operating protocol of Clinical Microbiology was reviewed and appropriate comments were included in the Laboratory Information System once the isolate was identified using VITEK 2, automated ID/AST instrument and interfaced. The Clinical Microbiologist would then review the comments upon discussion with the clinicians and then authorize reports. The reports included sample & isolate specific details , recommended antibiotic therapy and infection control related comments. This was based on standard international and national guidelines (CLSI, EUCAST, IDSA, IAP, and National Treatment Guidelines of India).

Results

There was a gradual improvement in completion of request forms with clinical history, sample site and antibiotic history being mentioned. This was assessed through periodic audits conducted every quarter from 36% in March 2017 to 95% in March 2021. Clinical communication with the microbiology laboratory also showed improvement with documentation. Feedback from clinicians was also taken on the utility of these comments, (87/120)72.5% of the clinicians found them useful(Grade 5). (32/120) 26 %(Grade 3) of the clinicians had concerns about the turnaround time and requested for provisional reports.

Conclusion

Interpretative comments in reports act as a bridge between clinical microbiology, infectious diseases and infection control. They help us to choose the correct antibiotics or sometimes no antibiotics when the situation demands it. With all the recent advancements, the clinico-microbiological utility of culture reports is the need of the hour.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
676. Impact of Stratified Testing Algorithm Utilizing Rapid Testing and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Tests for Viral Infections
Authors: Khatri Akshay M , Rasul Rehana , McCann-Pineo Molly , Schwartz Rebecca , Khameraj Aradhana , Malhotra Prashant , Farber Bruce
Published: December 2021

Background

In 2017, the multiplex respiratory viral panel (RVP) test was the only test available for patients (pts) with respiratory symptoms in our emergency department (ED). In 2018, the more rapid influenza/respiratory syncytial virus (Flu/RSV) test was incorporated in a stratified testing algorithm (STA) – depending on clinical features and physician discretion, pts underwent either Flu/RSV or RVP. We analyzed the STA impact by comparing data between winters of 2017 and 2018.

Methods

In a retrospective, single-center cohort study in suburban NY, admitted pts ≥18 years diagnosed with viral infections (by either test) were included. We excluded pts diagnosed at another hospital, admitted to intensive care or observation (< 24 hours) units and pts with missing data. Data was collected through electronic medical chart review.

Primary outcomes were clinical evaluation time [time between triage and test order]; laboratory-turnaround (lta) time (between order and result); ED length of stay [EDLOS] (between admit order and bed assignment). Secondary outcomes included isolation time (between result to start of isolation precautions), treatment time (between result to influenza treatment). Outcome differences were assessed using Chi-Square and Mann-Whitney rank sum tests for categorical and continuous variables, respectively.

Results

734 pts were included in the study [368 in 2017; 366 in 2018]. Median age was 75 years and 55.9% were female. After implementing the STA, EDLOS was significantly lower [Table 1], with no significant differences in other parameters. Lta times were slightly higher after implementation [25 minutes (2017) v/s 29 minutes (2018)].

Table 1. Differences in clinical and laboratory turnaround times among patients admitted with viral infections in winters of 2017 and 2018

Conclusion

A stratified diagnostic algorithm may have reduced EDLOS, but without significant differences in other outcomes. A higher lta time might have been due to testing constraints, heterogeneous pt populations or other confounders. Prospective studies will help assess the real-world impact of such algorithms.

Disclosures

Prashant Malhotra, MBBS, MD,FACP, FIDSA, Gilead Sciences (Scientific Research Study Investigator, Other Financial or Material Support, Site PI for a industry funded multi center research study)
678. Rapid Molecular SARS-CoV-2 Detection by Abbott ID NOW Is Reliable in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Murphy Catherine , Scarcello Emily Sheboy , Nolan Sheila M
Published: December 2021

Background

The COVID-19 Pandemic demonstrated the importance of rapid, accurate, point of care testing to control spread of the virus. The availability of this testing has been crucial to re-opening schools, keeping children safely in schools, and returning children to school quickly following illness. The Abbott ID Now molecular assay to detect SARS-CoV-2 was granted Emergency Use Authorization in March 2020. Reports of lower sensitivity compared with conventional PCR prompted some school districts to require confirmatory conventional PCR for negative rapid molecular results to return children to school. In this study we aim to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the Abbott ID NOW molecular SARS-CoV-2 test in a large pediatric primary care practice.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed using data from 25 pediatric primary care sites in the Boston Children’s Health Physicians network, a large multispecialty pediatric practice in New York and Connecticut. Data were extracted from the electronic health record for all patients 0-22 years of age who had an Abbott ID NOW rapid molecular COVID-19 assay from October 1, 2020 - February 28, 2021. For all patients with rapid tests, we identified patients who had a conventional PCR test sent within 1 day before or 1 day after the ID NOW test. The result of the conventional PCR test was considered the “true” result. All discrepant test results were identified.

Results

During the study period, 14993 patients had ID NOW testing performed. The percent positivity was 8.5%. The percent positivity in our practices paralleled that in the surrounding community throughout the winter surge of COVID-19. 500 patients had confirmatory testing sent within 1 day before or after the ID NOW test (15 positive and 485 negative results). Based on the conventional PCR test results, 2 of 15 positive results were false positive and only 1 of 485 negative results was a false negative, resulting in a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 99.6%. The false negative result was in a patient with nasal congestion whose mother was COVID positive.

Conclusion

Rapid, molecular, point of care testing is an important tool to identify SARS-CoV-2 in pediatric patients and limit school absences. The ID NOW assay is highly sensitive and specific in a real-world pediatric setting.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
683. Epidemiology and Microbiology of Infective Endocarditis: A Six Year Experience
Authors: Muhammed Niyas Vettakkara Kandy , Ananthanarayanan Rajalakshmi , Sasidharan Aswathy
Published: December 2021

Background

The epidemiology and microbiology of infective endocarditis (IE) is not well studied in India. Studies from developed countries report a culture positivity of more than 90% in IE, while in India it has been lower (40–70%). Viridans Group Streptococci (VGS) are the commonest organism identified from previous Indian studies. The state of Kerala in India has better health indicators compared to the rest of India and it is likely that the epidemiology of IE in Kerala may be different. We therefore studied the epidemiology and microbiology of IE in patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Kerala over six years (2015 – 2020).

Methods

An electronic medical record search was conducted to identify patients who satisfied definite or possible IE criteria as per modified Duke criteria. Three sets of blood cultures were sent in BacT/Alert blood culture bottles for all suspected cases of IE. Blood culture was done using BacT-ALERT 3D automated microbial detection system (bioMérieux, France) and organisms were identified using VITEK-2 system. Transthoracic echocardiogram was done for all patients and a transoesophageal echocardiogram was done when indicated.

Results

70 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. Majority (70.4%) were male; mean age was 50.7±16.3 years. 71% patients had underlying valvular heart disease. Diabetes mellitus (53.5%) was the most common comorbidity followed by chronic kidney disease (18.3%). Mitral valve was most commonly affected (53.5%) followed by the aortic valve (19.7%) and both valves were involved in 5.7%. Right sided valves were affected in 8.5%. Prosthetic valve endocarditis accounted for 10% of cases. No echocardiographic evidence of endocarditis was seen in 11.3%. Blood culture was positivity was 64.8%. Staphylococcus aureus (20%) was the most common organism isolated, followed by VGS (17.1%). 50% of the Staphylococcus aureus isolated were methicillin resistant. Among 57 patients in whom an outcome was recorded, mortality was 12.2%.

Microbiology profile of infective endocarditis

Conclusion

Staphylococcus aureus has emerged as the most common etiological agent of IE in our study, in contrast to previous studies from India where VGS was predominant. The high prevalence of MRSA is of concern.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures