Real-time surveillance systems: Applicability for the control of influenza in acute care

Abstract

Background: The high morbidity and mortality caused by influenza viruses translate into a great impact on specialized health care. Apart from the annual vaccination, the relevance of other measures to prevent and control this infection is unknown. The objective of our research was to determine the importance of a real-time surveillance system to establish early extended transmission precautions. Methods: Quasi-experimental before-and-after study comparing the influenza cases detected in hospitalized adults during the 2016/2017 season (264 patients) with those detected after the implementation of a real-time surveillance system in the 2017/2018 season (519 patients). The improvements included early microbiological diagnosis, immediate communication of results, constant updating of patient information, coordination among professionals, periodic surveillance of the adequacy of preventive measures, and greater control of roommates. The effectiveness of the intervention was determined from the nosocomial infection rate in each season. Results: After the real-time surveillance system for influenza was implemented, patients with early microbiological diagnosis and immediate isolation increased significantly (13.7% vs 68.2%; P