Control of influenza in healthcare settings: early lessons from the 2009 pandemic
- 1 August 2010
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) in Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases
- Vol. 23 (4), 293-299
- https://doi.org/10.1097/qco.0b013e32833bb804
Abstract
The emergence of 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza A (pH1N1) has provided a unique challenge to influenza control in healthcare settings. We provide an overview of the early lessons from the 2009 pandemic. The modes of influenza transmission and their contributions to the development of infections remain unclear. Recent studies in the guinea pig model have demonstrated airborne transmission, but data from human studies and outbreaks are inconclusive. Data on physical interventions to prevent transmission support the use of hand hygiene, gowns, gloves, face shields and respiratory protection. The effectiveness of surgical masks compared to N95 respirators has been investigated, and there is evidence from one trial that surgical masks are noninferior to N95 respirators in preventing infection. Experiences with mandatory vaccination suggest that this is a highly successful approach to increase healthcare personnel vaccination rates. Lessons from pH1N1 have multiple implications for future pandemic preparedness planning. Further research is needed on appropriate respiratory protection for influenza. Mandatory vaccination programs should be considered in all healthcare settings. Pandemic preparedness plans should be revised, focusing on flexibility, communication, stockpiling of essential supplies, and staffing support for infection control.Keywords
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