PubMed · 2006 · 11 citations · 0 references
Public HealthInfectious Disease ControlInfectious DiseasesImmunizationInfectious Disease EpidemiologyOutbreak InvestigationHealthcare-associated InfectionsInfection SurveillanceInfectious Disease SurveillanceInfluenza-like Illness SurveillanceOutbreak ControlOutbreak ManagementHealthcare-associated OutbreaksHospital Infection Outbreak InvestigationHospital Outbreak InvestigationInfection Control MeasuresInfluenza Infection ControlInfluenza TreatmentMicrobiological SurveillanceViral Outbreak Investigation
In January 2005, the Department of Public Health, HSE Eastern Region, received notification of an outbreak of influenza-like illness (ILI) in a community hospital for elderly patients. Influenza A (H3N2 subtype) was isolated in 12 of 18 (66%) throat swabs sent to the National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL). An outbreak control team was convened. Infection control measures were put in place. Immunisation clinics were organised for non-immunised staff. The epidemic curve confirmed peak onset of illness from 14th-17th January. Attack rates were high among patients (37/74: 50%). Mortalities were also reported. A high percentage of cases occurred in patients who had been immunised (19/34: 55.6%). Seventeen of 94 healthcare workers (HCWs) became ill (18.1%), of whom only 3 (3.2%) had been immunised. A questionnaire circulated to staff identified reasons for non-immunisation. In accordance with the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines and microbiological advice, antiviral medication was recommended for patients and non-immunised HCWs as treatment or chemoprophylaxis. This outbreak highlights the importance of immunisation of HCWs against influenza.