bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
493. Clinical and Epidemiological Features of Healthcare Workers Detected with Coronavirus Disease
Authors: Campbell Melissa , Datta Rupak , Wyllie Anne , Casanovas-Massana Arnau , Handoko Ryan , Sewanan Lorenzo , Ko Albert I , Martinello Richard A 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Data early in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic suggested frontline healthcare workers (HCW) may account for 10–20% of all infections. CDC estimated 600,000 infections in HCWs. Symptom screening is a strategy to prevent healthcare-associated transmission. This method may not identify asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic carriers.

Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic healthcare workers in a 1541-bed academic medical center. Although recruitment began in designated COVID-19 units, we expanded to all HCWs providing care to hospitalized patients during the pandemic. Data was gathered on demographics, work area in the hospital and daily questionnaires were sent listing symptoms of SARS-CoV-2. Protocol included twice weekly self-collected nasopharyngeal swab and saliva for SARS-CoV-2 N1 and N2.Those with positive PCR result, underwent telephone survey to assess symptomatology and severity of illness.

Results
A total 525 HCWs began the study protocol and 16 were identified as PCR positive. Samples included concordant saliva and NP samples on 9 (56%), exclusively NP samples on 5 (31%) and 2 (12%) HCWs were positive by saliva PCR only. Majority were female, and all were nursing staff; with 19% reported not working in a designated COVID-19 unit. During the course of this active surveillance, universal masking was mandated in the institution. Rhinorrhea and headache were reported by 6 (38%), 5 (31%) reported cough and 3 (19%) developed myalgia. Changes in smell and taste preceded the positive PCR test in 2 (12%). One HCW reported developing a fever with acute illness. All were notified about their PCR positive status by institution’s occupational health department and self-isolated to monitor for symptoms.

Conclusion
The spectrum of disease in this HCW cohort is similar to mild disease in the community. Due to high incidence of asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic HCWs, active surveillance with routine testing proves be beneficial to prevent hospital transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Universal masking significantly decreased the HCW positive rate in our study, underscoring the need for universal efforts to mitigate healthcare-associated transmission with self-monitoring, face mask use, and other infection prevention behaviors like hand hygiene.

Disclosures
All Authors: No reported disclosures
494. COVID-19 Outbreak: A Tale of Two Psych Units
Authors: Corpuz Marilou , Jain Ruchika , Weston Gregory , Nori Priya , Nori Priya , Boland-Reardon Carmel , Bernard Evan , Graham Esther , Madaline Theresa 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
COVID infections in inpatient psychiatry units present unique challenges during the pandemic, including behavioral characteristics of the patients, structural aspect of the unit, type of therapy for the patients. We present COVID outbreaks in psychiatry units in two hospitals in our medical center in Bronx, NY, and describe our mitigation strategies.

Methods
Hosp A: In the early period of the pandemic in NY, 2 patients in the inpatient psychiatry unit tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 PCR. The unit was temporarily closed to new admissions. Hosp B: On 4/1, one of the patients in a 22 bed Psych unit, admitted since 3/10/20, developed fever, cough and tested positive for COVID-19 PCR. Two of her close contacts tested positive for SARS-COV-2 PCR.

Results
Hospital A: In total, 5 of the 29 patients (17.2%) in the unit were SARS-CoV-2 positive, all of whom were asymptomatic. Hospital B: Testing of the remaining patients showed positive PCR in 10/14. PCR tests of healthcare workers (HCW) were positive in 13/46. Except for the index patient, all the patients were asymptomatic but 32/46 HCW reported symptoms. One negative patient subsequently turned positive.
Infection control and prevention strategies instituted in both hospitals were the same with subtle differences due to dissimilar burden of infection and structure of the units. Table 1 shows the timing of the outbreak and the rapid institution of preventive measures in each of the hospitals.
There was still difficulty with patients regarding adherence. Some of the patients refused to stay in isolation and would roam. Compliance with masking and hand hygiene was problematic.
Communication was of paramount importance. Multiple meetings were held between the Psychiatry staff, Infection Control and Prevention team, executive leadership of the hospital. Environmental Services and Engineering were also involved. Communications with the NY State Department of Health occurred frequently.

Conclusion
Strategies for management of COVID-19 patients in inpatient psychiatric units depends on the density of infected patients in the hospital and in the community. The implementation of practice change may need to be rapidly adjusted depending on the situation and available resources. Contingency plans should be formulated early on.

Disclosures
Gregory Weston, MD MSCR, Allergan (Grant/Research Support)
502. The Impact of Combating COVID-19 on Blood Culture Contamination and Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates
Authors: LeRose Jennifer , Sandhu Avnish , Polistico Jordan , Ellsworth Joseph , Baran Nancy , Cranis Mara , Jabbo Lavina , Cullen Lori , Moshos Judy , Chopra Teena 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has presented challenges to every facet of the healthcare system. There is limited research evaluating the consequence of diverting resources from patient safety initiatives to COVID-19 crisis efforts. In an attempt to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on quality of patient care, we compared rates of blood culture contamination and central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) during COVID-19 to those before the pandemic.

Methods
A comparative retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze blood culture contamination and CLABSI rate per 1,000 line days in a tertiary care hospital in Detroit within a “pre- COVID-19” timeframe, January - May 2019, and “COVID-19” timeframe, January - May 2020. The CLABSI rate data was obtained through Infection Control Surveillance System TheraDoc®. Blood culture contamination report was obtained through the Microbiology Department. Chi-square and t-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results
The blood culture contamination rate increased from 3.1% during pre COVID-19 timeframe to 4.0% during COVID-19 (p-value &lt; 0.01) (Figure 1) with the highest rate in March and April 2020 correlating with the peak of COVID-19 (Figure 2). The CLABSI rate per 1,000 line days increased from 0.71 in pre-COVID-19 time frame to 2.70 during COVID-19 (p-value &lt; 0.01) (Figure 1). Of the 33 CLABSIs identified during the COVID-19 time frame, 18 (54%) patients tested positive for COVID-19. When comparing COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 negative patients; average length of stay was 28.1 days shorter in the positive group (p-value &lt; 0.01). COVID-19 positive patient had higher mortality (p-value &lt; 0.01) (Table1). Refer to Table 1 for comparison of variables between pre COVID-19 and COVID-19 cohort and COVID-19 positive and negative cohort.
Figure 1. Rate of blood culture contamination (top) and CLABSI per 1,000 Line Days Rate (below) Between Two Study Period (Pre COVID-19 and COVID-19)

Figure 2. Unique COVID Positive results in a Tertiary Care Center, Detroit, January-May 2020

Table 1. Characteristics of Entire Cohort

Conclusion
A 29% increase in blood culture contamination and 280% increase in CLABSI rate represents an enormous burden on healthcare resources and decreased quality. Despite no increase in length of stay in COVID-19 positive patient, higher mortality and CLABSIs were noted in these patients. During a pandemic, healthcare systems should be allocated additional resources to accommodate the increased patient load without affecting quality of care.

Disclosures
Teena Chopra, MD, MPH, Spero Therapeutics (Consultant, Advisor or Review Panel member)
505. Use of CLABSI Prevention Bundle Audits to Decrease CLABSI Rates in COVID Positive ICU Patients in an Acute Care Hospital in New York City During the COVID-19 Epidemic
Authors: Moss Marie , Ehni Jordan , Herbison Ilka , Rabii Kristine B , Koepsell Caitlin , Devries Eileen , Fetman Rina , Latrace Maria , Mahoney Christine D , O’Neill Ann , Kranitzky Bethany , Barnett Barbara , Javaid Waleed 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Mount Sinai Beth Israel (MSBI) is a 220 bed acute care hospital located in the Manhattan borough of Manhattan in New York City. Prior to COVID-19, the hospital had one 16-bed Medical/Surgical ICU. When the COVID epidemic struck New York City, the MSBI ED was flooded with critically ill patients requiring ICU care. Seven other ICUs were opened, all of which were filled with COVID patients. The majority of these patients required central lines for the multiple antibiotics, steroids, and vasopressors they needed to survive. Agency RNs were brought in to care for ICU patients. In April, the MSBI Infection Prevention (IP) department received several CLABSI notifications through its data mining system. The IPs were alarmed at the number of CLABSIs occurring in ICU COVID patients with central lines.
ICU CLABSI Rates in an Acute Care Hospital During the COVID-19 Epidemic in New York City

Methods
A baseline assessment, using the central line maintenance bundle, was conducted on all COVID patients with central lines. This assessment revealed issues with central line maintenance, including: undated, bloody, and non-intact dressings, poorly placed CHG impregnated disks; blood in end-caps, and missing alcohol impregnated caps on ports. The decision was made to bring in infusion RNs from an outpatient system site to perform daily rounds on central lines. These RNs performed daily intensive maintenance bundle rounds for a month during the COVID epidemic. During their rounds, ICU nurses and managers were notified of central line dressing and cap issues and educated on how to correct them. These RNs also e-mailed daily reports of their findings to Nursing Leadership for their review.
Central Line Audit Team: RNs Who Monitored Central Lines in COVID ICUs in An Acute Care Hospital in NYC

Central Line Audit Team: RNs Who Monitored Central Lines in COVID ICUs in An Acute Care Hospital in NYC

Results
Central line rounds performed after the intervention showed a great improvement in compliance with the central line maintenance bundle, from 13% during the first rounds performed in April, to 88% in May, less than a month after these rounds started. Since this intervention, the ICU CLABSI rate has decreased from a rate of 3.3 per 1,000 central line days in April and May to a current rate of 0.

Conclusion
The timely identification and root cause analysis of a problem must be followed by timely, intensive, and repeated interventions that are designed to attack the causes of problems at their source. After the crisis period is over, the interventions must be maintained to ensure that gains made can be sustained.

Disclosures
All Authors: No reported disclosures
516. SARS-CoV-2 Exhibits Clade-specific Differences in Nasopharyngeal Viral Loads
Authors: Nam Hannah , Lorenzo-Redondo Ramon , Roberts Scott C , Simons Lacy , Achenbach Chad , Hauser Alan R , Ison Michael G , Hultquist Judd F , Ozer Egon A 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been accompanied by the emergence of distinct viral clades, although their clinical significance has yet to be fully elucidated. While whole genome sequencing efforts have identified viral diversity over time, less is known about the clinical significance of this diversity. This study assessed the nasopharyngeal viral loads within patients over time to determine if these changes affect clinical parameters.

Methods
Samples were collected from patients presenting to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL with a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR from nasopharyngeal swabs. Cycle threshold (Ct) values less than 35 were considered positive, and whole genome sequencing was performed by reverse transcription, multiplex PCR, and Nanopore sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted on sequenced isolates and compared with publicly available global sequences. Sequence characteristics and viral loads were correlated with each clade.

Results
177 samples were analyzed from March 14, 2020, through May 1, 2020. Most of the sequences (92.6%) clustered in three main clades [Figure 1]. Clade IDs were ordered by relative abundance as Clades 1 (n=122, 68.9%), 2 (n=34, 19.2%), and 3 (n=8, 4.5%). Over this time, Clade 1 viruses have been increasing in incidence across the USA and globally while Clade 2 viruses were uniquely predominant in Illinois with limited global distribution. Ct values were compared across clades [Figure 2]. Significantly lower average Ct values (higher viral loads) were observed in Clade 1 relative to both Clade 2 (p=0.0002) and Clade 3 (p=0.0011). These findings were independent of time from symptom onset to specimen collection.
Phylogenetic Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Isolates with Number of Clades and Clade Distribution

Associations Between Viral Clade and Ct Value

Conclusion
These data suggest that SARS-CoV-2 genotype may impact viral load in the upper airways. It remains to be determined whether this difference in clades may impact transmission potential and overall viral spread. Further longitudinal studies with more specimens and associated clinical data are needed.

Disclosures
Michael G. Ison, MD MS, AlloVir (Consultant)
520. Longitudinal Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Viruses in Hospitalized Adults
Authors: Simons Lacy , Lorenzo-Redondo Ramon , Nam Hannah , Roberts Scott C , Ison Michael G , Achenbach Chad , Hauser Alan R , Ozer Egon A , Hultquist Judd F 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been accompanied by the emergence of viral mutations, some of which may have distinct virological and clinical consequences. While whole genome sequencing efforts have worked to map this viral diversity at the population level, little is known about how SARS-CoV-2 may diversify within a host over time. This is particularly important for understanding the emergence of viral resistance to therapeutic interventions and immune pressure. The goal of this study was to assess the change in viral load and viral genome sequence within patients over time and determine if these changes correlate with clinical and/or demographic parameters.

Methods
Hospitalized patients admitted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test were enrolled in a longitudinal study for the serial collection of nasopharyngeal specimens. Swabs were administered to patients by hospital staff every 4 ± 1 days for up to 32 days or until the patients were discharged. RNA was extracted from each specimen and viral loads were calculated by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). Specimens with qRT-PCR cycle threshold values less than or equal to 30 were subject to whole viral genome sequencing by reverse transcription, multiplex PCR, and deep sequencing. Variant populations sizes were estimated and subject to phylogenetic analysis relative to publicly available SARS-CoV-2 sequences. Sequence and viral load data were subsequently correlated to available demographic and clinical data.

Results
60 patients were enrolled from March 26th to June 20th, 2020. We observed an overall decrease in nasopharyngeal viral load over time across all patients. However, the temporal dynamics of viral load differed on a patient-by-patient basis. Several mutations were also observed to have emerged within patients over time.
Distribution of SARS-CoV-2 viral loads in serially collected nasopharyngeal swabs in hospitalized adults as determined by qRT-PCR. Samples were collected every 4 ± 1 days (T#1–8) and viral load is displayed by log(copy number).

Conclusion
These data indicate that SARS-CoV-2 viral loads in the nasopharynx decrease over time and that the virus can accumulate mutations during replication within individual patients. Future studies will examine if some of these mutations may provide fitness advantages in the presence of therapeutic and/or immune selective pressures.

Disclosures
Michael G. Ison, MD MS, AlloVir (Consultant)
538. Percent Positivity of COVID-19 Testing in Children of Racial/Ethnic Minority Groups in Mississippi
Authors: Inagaki Kengo , Hobbs Charlotte V 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 testing data in children from different backgrounds such as race/ethnicity can guide the strategies for controlling the pandemic. In this study, we aimed to characterize the percent positivity of real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) among children with different race/ethnicity in Mississippi, a state with historic racial health disparity.

Methods
We performed a retrospective study using a deidentified COVID-19 registry abstracted from the electronic health record at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the only academic institution in the state encompassing the main university hospitals and ambulatory sites statewide. Children aged 18 years or younger who underwent RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 between 11 March 2020 and 31 May 2020 were included in the study. The primary outcome of interest was positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test, and the primary exposure of interest was race/ethnicity. Multivariable analysis was performed by developing a logistic regression model.

Results
Of 1838 children who underwent SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing, 162 tested positive, corresponding to percent positivity of 8.8%. Non-Hispanic white children had percent positivity of 2.4%, which was substantially lower than that of non-white children (9.7%, 28.6%, and 11.5% for non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, and other race/ethnicity children, respectively) (Table). Older children (particularly those aged 10–18 years) also had higher percent positivity (Table, Figure). The risks associated with non-white race/ethnicity remained substantial after adjusting for insurance status, which was used as a surrogate for socioeconomic status (Figure).
Table

Figure

Conclusion
We found a striking difference in percent positivity by race/ethnicity among children, suggesting inadequate allocation of testing resources to this population. Higher percent positivity among school age children may also have particular public health implications, considering their school attendance. We argue that minority children should not be left behind in data analysis, research, targeted testing and transmission reduction measures.

Disclosures
All Authors: No reported disclosures
539. Prevalence of Symptomatic and Asymptomatic COVID-19 Infection in Pregnant Women and Their Infants in an Urban Hospital
Authors: Woods Krystina L , Gabasan Angela , Schwing Deborah , Wagner Brian , Eiland Lisa , Camins Bernard 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 is an emerging pathogen that has caused a global pandemic, with New York City as one of its epicenters. Data are still forthcoming if pregnant women are more vulnerable to COVID-19, as they are with influenza. Additionally, it is not known if infants born to COVID-19 positive women are at risk of being infected at birth.

Methods
In March 2020, our hospital instituted a policy of testing all pregnant women presenting for active labor and scheduled C-section or induction of labor, with a nasopharyngeal swab that was sent for RT-PCR qualitative SARS-CoV-2 assay (Roche Cobas® 6800). Upon birth, infants were also tested, unless the parent did not give consent. We retrospectively reviewed the COVID-19 test results of all pregnant women and their infants, from March 23 through May 31, 2020 using our infection control surveillance system (VigiLanz®). We also reviewed the electronic medical record (EPIC®) for documentation of any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection either prior to hospitalization or during the hospital stay.

Results
A total of 415 women and 72 infants were tested for SARS-CoV-2. Of the 415 women tested, 41 (9.9%) were positive. Of the 72 infants tested, 2 (2.8%) were positive and concordant with their birth parent. Only 1 (2.4%) of the women who tested positive was symptomatic. The remaining 40 (97.6%) women did not report any symptoms of COVID-19 during labor. Neither of the two positive infants displayed any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. Of the 41 women who were positive, 5 did not consent to have their infant tested. The one symptomatic woman who tested positive for COVID-19 had an infant who tested negative by PCR.

Conclusion
During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, we found 9.9% (41/415) of pregnant women presenting for labor tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Among the 41 women who tested positive, only 1 (2.4%) had symptoms on presentation and only 2 newborn infants tested positive. Our data suggests that pregnant women may not be at increased risk for complications from COVID-19 disease and are not likely to transmit the disease to their infants during labor.

Disclosures
All Authors: No reported disclosures
540. Prolonged Viral Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 In Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Nam Hannah , Roberts Scott C , Tanna Sajal D , Ison Michael G 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are more susceptible to viral infection and present with differing viral kinetics when compared to non-immunocompromised cohorts. The duration of viral shedding in SOT recipients with SARS-CoV-2 infection is unknown.

Methods
All SOT recipients with a diagnosed of SARS-CoV-2 by nasopharyngeal of bronchoalveolar lavage RT-qPCR from March 06, 2020 to May 31, 2020 were identified. Viral shedding duration was obtained by evaluating all subsequent SARS-CoV-2 PCR results following initial positivity over time. Severity classification was defined as mild (outpatient), moderate (hospitalized), and severe (ICU level care). Data were obtained from electronic medical record case review and analyzed with Stata 16.

Results
71 patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test were identified. 50 (70.4%) were classified as mild/moderate disease, while 21 (29.5%) had severe disease. Median age was 56.5 (IQR 45 – 61.3) years, and 56.9% (n = 41) were male. Older age was significantly associated with severe disease. A disproportionate number of patients were African American/Black or Hispanic at 72.2% (n=52). Interestingly, Caucasian race was significantly associated with less severe outcomes (p=0.038). The majority of patients were kidney transplant recipients (46, 63.9%), followed by liver (13, 18.1%), heart (6, 8.3%), lung (3, 4.2%), and pancreas (9, 12.5%) with a median duration from transplantation at 5 (IQR 3 – 17) years. Overall mortality was 5.6% (n=4), with all deaths occurring only in those with severe disease (19.1%, n=4). Prolonged viral shedding was observed in few patients, with median duration of SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity at 32 (IQR 18.5 – 41.0) days. One kidney recipient was observed with up to 64 days of positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR from initial diagnosis despite not developing severe disease.
Demographics and Outcomes

Duration of Viral Shedding in SOT Patients with COVID-19

Conclusion
COVID-19 can lead to significant outcomes in SOT with increased mortality in those with severe disease, as well as prolonged viral shedding. Further studies are needed to elucidate the full duration of viral shedding in this population.

Disclosures
Michael G. Ison, MD MS, AlloVir (Consultant)