Role of Antiviral Prophylaxis and Infection Control Measures in Elimination of Influenza -A- Nosocomial Infection among Unvaccinated Patients and Healthcare Workers

Background: Influenza is primarily a community-based infection; it poses threats inside healthcare facilities and can cause outbreaks. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of acquiring influenza as they act as source of infection for patients. Preventing the spread of influenza in healthcare settings is an important element to improve patient safety. Method: A prospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the nosocomial transmission of influenza A (H1N1) virus infection in 25 beds in cardiology ward in a tertiary care hospital. Results: The epidemiological investigation identified 7 cases (4 male patients and 3 female HCWs) all developed new onset of fever and cough. While 50% of them had throat irritation and none of them had gastrointestinal manifestations. All cases were confirmed as H1N1 viral infection using real-time reverse transcription PCR from 6-12 April 2015. Cases age range was 48-54 years old for patients and 32-36 years old for HCWs. All patients have ischemic heart disease and HCWs were all healthy. None of them were vaccinated, all cases received oral Oseltamivir and got favorable outcome. Conclusion: Antiviral prophylaxis and treatment (when indicated) play essential roles in controlling transmission of healthcare associated influenza and implementing rigorous infection control practices minimize cross-transmission and successively control influenza outbreak.