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Review 1: "The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 inferred from seroprevalence data"

This study finds substantial heterogeneity in the infection fatality rate across different locations. Data are useful and add to the emerging picture on IFR, however substantial conclusions cannot be drawn.

Published onAug 23, 2020
Review 1: "The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 inferred from seroprevalence data"
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key-enterThis Pub is a Review of
The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 inferred from seroprevalence data
Description

Objective To estimate the infection fatality rate of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from data of seroprevalence studies. Methods Population studies with sample size of at least 500 and published as peer-reviewed papers or preprints as of July 11, 2020 were retrieved from PubMed, preprint servers, and communications with experts. Studies on blood donors were included, but studies on healthcare workers were excluded. The studies were assessed for design features and seroprevalence estimates. Infection fatality rate was estimated from each study dividing the number of COVID-19 deaths at a relevant time point by the number of estimated people infected in each relevant region. Correction was also attempted accounting for the types of antibodies assessed. Secondarily, results from national studies were also examined from preliminary press releases and reports whenever a country had no other data presented in full papers of preprints. Results 36 studies (43 estimates) were identified with usable data to enter into calculations and another 7 preliminary national estimates were also considered for a total of 50 estimates. Seroprevalence estimates ranged from 0.222% to 47%. Infection fatality rates ranged from 0.00% to 1.63% and corrected values ranged from 0.00% to 1.31%. Across 32 different locations, the median infection fatality rate was 0.27% (corrected 0.24%). Most studies were done in pandemic epicenters with high death tolls. Median corrected IFR was 0.10% in locations with COVID-19 population mortality rate less than the global average (<73 deaths per million as of July 12, 2020), 0.27% in locations with 73-500 COVID-19 deaths per million, and 0.90% in locations exceeding 500 COVID-19 deaths per million. Among people <70 years old, infection fatality rates ranged from 0.00% to 0.57% with median of 0.05% across the different locations (corrected median of 0.04%). Conclusions The infection fatality rate of COVID-19 can vary substantially across different locations and this may reflect differences in population age structure and case-mix of infected and deceased patients as well as multiple other factors. Estimates of infection fatality rates inferred from seroprevalence studies tend to be much lower than original speculations made in the early days of the pandemic.

RR:C19 Evidence Scale rating by reviewer:

  • Potentially informative. The main claims made are not strongly justified by the methods and data, but may yield some insight. The results and conclusions of the study may resemble those from the hypothetical ideal study, but there is substantial room for doubt. Decision-makers should consider this evidence only with a thorough understanding of its weaknesses, alongside other evidence and theory. Decision-makers should not consider this actionable, unless the weaknesses are clearly understood and there is other theory and evidence to further support it.

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Review:

The concept of estimating the Infection Fatality Ratio (IFR) by dividing reported deaths by an estimated of those ever infected through a seroprevalence estimate is, in principle, a good one. The IFR is an important concept and it is very difficult to estimate. The paper does a good service in collating available data and offering the computations. Many of the limitations are noted, and I agree with these. However, the limitation are so important that I do not believe that substantial conclusions can (yet) be drawn from this analysis. I do not believe that the evidence presented here supports such a strong statement as “… the fact that its IFR is typically more lower than originally feared”. I do believe that these data are useful and add to the emerging picture on IFR and that a continued collation of data will contribute to more firm conclusions being drawn.


The main limitations that I note are as follows:

1. Is it recognised that the IFR varies _very_ substantially by age. This (i) makes an average IFR not very meaningful per se, (ii) means that differences in the age-composition of populations and the pattern of spread of the epidemic substantially confound the analysis (to such an extent that it is not overcome by the basic <70 vs >70 years old split presented). This also means that summaries (e.g. the the median across a range of countries included in the analysis) potentially over-simplifies things.


2. There is little accounting for the variable quality of the data that go into the estimates. That is, some studies will be of very high quality and give a high likelihood of a good estimate of IFR, but others will not (due to factors like non-representative samples in the serosurvey or variable methods for counting deaths that can be attributed to COVID-19). It would be useful to show how indicators of quality (decided a priori) relate the resulting IFR estimate. Related to this point, it is interesting that estimates of IFR are higher in settings with higher death counts overall. This could be a real effect (less care available due to overburdened hospitals, or more infections among older people) but it could also be the result of a bias (e.g. countries with have more complete death reporting have commissioned more representative serosurveys). Without further information it is difficult to tease these apart.

3. The inclusion of data from blood donors does - as the author notes - potentially introduce the health-volunteer effect by which a lower prevalence of infection is measured in the sample, thereby increasing the apparent IFR.

4. The method for adjusting for the performance characteristics of the tests used is not well explained or justified. It seems to me that substantial uncertainty is introduced by this and it ought to be communicated in the analysis. Similarly, the correspondence of the cumulative deaths reported and the period of the survey is not always perfect or perfectly known but uncertainty within this may be important and this should also be reflected in the estimates of IFR.

5. The completeness of the reporting is not fully assured. I note that the reports used are drawn from a search of “PubMed (LitCOVID), medRxiv, bioRxiv, and Research Square”. Could this miss “grey literature”, official government reports etc (which may be among the most reliable reports)?

Comments
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Vape Factory:

FDA regulation on vape manufacturers and retailers

For Manufacturer of E-Cigarettes, Vapes

As a manufacturer of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), vapes, or other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), it is crucial to be aware of the regulatory framework imposed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA oversees various aspects of ENDS, including manufacturing, importation, packaging, labeling, advertising, promotion, sale, and distribution. However, it's important to note that FDA regulations apply to ENDS components and parts, excluding accessories.

Regulated Components and Parts of ENDS

The following are examples of components and parts of ENDS that fall under FDA regulations:

  • E-liquids: These are the fluids used in ENDS devices, typically containing nicotine and other ingredients.

  • Glass or plastic vial containers: Used to store and dispense e-liquids.

  • Cartridges: These are pre-filled containers that hold e-liquids and are attached to ENDS devices.

  • Atomizers: The atomizer is the part of an ENDS device responsible for heating the e-liquid and converting it into vapor for inhalation.

  • Cartomizers and clearomizers: Similar to atomizers, these components deliver e-liquid in vapor form.

  • Certain batteries: FDA regulations cover specific types of batteries used in ENDS devices.

  • Digital display or lights: Components that enable users to adjust settings and view information on the device.

  • Tank systems: Reservoirs that hold e-liquids.

  • Drip tips or mouthpieces: The part of an ENDS device that users inhale vapor from.

  • Flavorings: Various flavors added to e-liquids.

  • Programmable software: ENDS devices that contain programmable software are subject to FDA regulations.

  • Products marketed for therapeutic purposes: ENDS products advertised as aids for smoking cessation fall under the regulation of FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). The FDA has clarified the criteria for determining when tobacco-derived products are classified as tobacco products, drugs, and/or devices.

Compliance Requirements for ENDS Manufacturers

If you engage in any of the following activities related to ENDS, you must comply with the FDA's requirements for manufacturers:

  • Making or modifying ENDS products

  • Mixing or preparing e-liquids containing nicotine

  • Manufacturing, fabricating, or assembling ENDS devices

  • Processing, labeling, repacking, or relabeling ENDS products

  • Importing ENDS products

To ensure compliance, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations governing ENDS manufacturing. For guidance and assistance with understanding FDA requirements, you can reach out to the Office of Small Business Assistance within the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products (CTP). This office provides valuable resources, including online educational materials, to help regulated industries navigate FDA regulations and policies effectively.

Are You a Retailer of ENDS Products?

If you operate as a retailer of ENDS products, it is crucial to understand your role in safeguarding the well-being of consumers, particularly youth, and adhering to FDA regulations. The following resources can assist you in complying with FDA tobacco regulations:

"This is Our Watch" Program

"This is Our Watch" is a voluntary education program designed to provide resources to tobacco retailers, enabling them to better understand and comply with FDA regulations. By actively participating in this program, retailers play a direct role in protecting young individuals from nicotine addiction and the harmful effects of tobacco use. To safeguard the future generation from tobacco-related diseases, it is essential for tobacco retailers to be well-informed about the rules and regulations.

Retail Sales of Tobacco Products

For comprehensive information regarding federal rules that retailers must follow, the Retail Sales of Tobacco Products offers valuable insights. This resource provides guidance, regulations, and access to webinars specifically curated for retailers in the tobacco industry. By staying updated with these resources, retailers can ensure compliance and contribute to the health and well-being of their communities.

Vape Shops with Mixing or Modification Services

If you operate a vape shop that offers services such as mixing or preparing e-liquids containing nicotine or modifying ENDS products, it is important to note that you may be classified as both a manufacturer and a retailer of tobacco products. Consequently, you are required to comply with the regulations outlined for both roles, as mentioned above.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and complying with FDA regulations is crucial for vape manufacturers and retailers involved in the production, distribution, and sale of E-Cigarettes, Vapes, or other ENDS. By adhering to these regulations, you contribute to the safety and well-being of consumers, particularly young individuals. Stay informed, seek guidance when needed, and ensure compliance to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

FAQs

1. Are accessories for ENDS devices regulated by the FDA?
No, FDA regulations for ENDS cover components and parts but exclude accessories.

2. What are some examples of regulated components of ENDS?
Regulated components include e-liquids, cartridges, atomizers, batteries, tank systems, flavorings, and more.

3. What should I do if I have specific questions about FDA requirements for small businesses?
You can contact the Office of Small Business Assistance within the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products (CTP) for guidance and answers to your queries.

4. How can vape shops comply with FDA regulations?
Vape shops must adhere to the requirements for both manufacturers and retailers, as they may have legal responsibilities in both capacities.

5. What resources are available for tobacco retailers to understand and comply with FDA regulations?
The "This is Our Watch" program and the Retail Sales of Tobacco Products provide valuable resources, guidance, and webinars for tobacco retailers to ensure compliance with FDA regulations.

Focus Keywords

  • ENDS Manufacturers

  • FDA Regulations

  • Compliance Requirements

  • Retailers of ENDS Products

  • Vape Shops and FDA Regulations

SEO Title

ENDS Manufacturers: Understanding FDA Regulations and Compliance Requirements

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Meta Description

Learn about FDA regulations and compliance requirements for ENDS manufacturers. Understand the guidelines for retailers of ENDS products and vape shops. Discover how to comply and ensure consumer safety.

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