Efficacy of convalescent plasma for treatment of COVID-19 in Uganda.

Rationale: Convalescent plasma (CCP) has been studied as a potential therapy for COVID-19, but data on its efficacy in Africa are limited.

Objective: In this trial we set out to determine the efficacy of CCP for treatment of COVID-19 in Uganda.

Measurements: Patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR test irrespective of disease severity were hospitalised and randomised to receive either COVID-19 CCP plus standard of care (SOC) or SOC alone.

Feasibility of collecting and processing of COVID-19 convalescent plasma for treatment of COVID-19 in Uganda.

Introduction: Evidence that supports the use of COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) for treatment of COVID-19 is increasingly emerging. However, very few African countries have undertaken the collection and processing of CCP. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of collecting and processing of CCP, in preparation for a randomized clinical trial of CCP for treatment of COVID-19 in Uganda.

Characteristics and outcomes of admitted patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Uganda.

Rationale: Detailed data on the characteristics and outcomes of patients with COVID-19 in sub-Saharan Africa are limited.

Objective: We determined the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in Uganda.

Measurements: As of the 16 May 2020, a total of 203 cases had been confirmed.

Hyperlactatemia and concurrent use of antiretroviral therapy among HIV infected patients in Uganda.

Background: We determined the prevalence and factors associated with hyperlactatemia among HIV patients admitted on the emergency ward of a national hospital in Uganda.

Objective: We were specifically interested in knowing whether there was an association between clinically significant hyperlactatemia and concurrent antiretroviral therapy (ART) use.

Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study enrolled 303 HIV infected patients at a national referral hospital between March and April 2008.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity in young adults in Uganda.

Background: Obesity in young adults is rising and predicts diabetes and cardiovascular diseases later in life. Data on prevalence and determinants of obesity in developing countries are needed for primary prevention.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in young adults in urban (Kampala city) and rural areas (Kamuli District) of Uganda.