his study aims to retrospectively compare fungal positivity rates between the SARS-CoV-2pandemic and the post-pandemic periods. During the pandemic, Candida species had apositivity rate of 17.36%, and Aspergillus had a rate of 2.22%. Post-pandemic, theserates decreased to 9.29% and 1.00%, respectively. The overall fungal positivity ratedecreased from 9.15% during the pandemic to 5.13% post-pandemic. Statistical analysisrevealed a significant decrease in fungal positivity rates post-pandemic (p < 0.01).These findings underscore the effectiveness of post-pandemic healthcare interventions andinfection control strategies.
The study aims to retrospectively compare fungal positivity rates by focusing on Candida
and Aspergillus species during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and in the post-pandemic period.
The dataset includes samples collected during the pandemic period (N=623) and the
subsequent post-pandemic period (N=818). Fungal positivity rates were calculated and
statistically analyzed using chi-square tests, and significance was determined as p<0.01.
During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, Candida species showed a positivity rate of 17.36%, while
the rate in the post-pandemic period significantly decreased to 9.29% (p=0.002). In
contrast, Aspergillus species did not show a significant change in positivity rates
between the pandemic (2.22%) and post-pandemic (1.00%) periods (p=0.186, NS).
Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of fungal infections
during and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, suggesting possible shifts in fungal pathogen
prevalence and healthcare priorities. The findings contribute to the development of
targeted healthcare strategies and surveillance measures for fungal infections in the
post-pandemic era.
Study Design: Retrospective comparative analysis
Data Analysis: Chi-square tests, p<0.01 considered significant
Diagnostic Test: Culture, İsolation
Data on patient demographics, clinical conditions, and fungal infection positivity rates
were extracted from hospital records. Fungal positivity rates were calculated based on
laboratory results and presented as percentages. Statistical analyses were performed
using the Chi-Square test, and p-values were reported.
Inclusion Criteria:
Patients over 18 years of age of both genders
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients under 18 years of age,
- Patients whose demographic, clinical and laboratory data investigated in the study
could not be accessed, patients who were diagnosed with fungal infection during
hospitalization
Hisar Hospital Intercontinental
Istanbul, Turkey
Ramazan Gözüküçük, Study Director
Hisar Hospital Responsible Manager