J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2017 Nov;56(4):203-210. 10.4306/jknpa.2017.56.4.203.

Influenza A (H1N1) Outbreak at a Psychiatric Closed Ward and Infection Control

• Kim JH
• Lee KU

• KMID: 2396668
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2017.56.4.203

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
In this study, we propose effective policies for preventing transmission in the closed ward of psychiatry department at the subject hospital.
METHODS
15 patients (9 in 2010, 3 in 2012, and 3 in 2013) infected by 2009 H1N1 Influenza A were treated with Tamiflu® (Roche), and preventive Tamiflu® was administered to patients without symptoms as well as healthcare workers. Infected patients were placed in cohorts or isolation rooms with droplet and contact precautions. The ward was cleaned daily with chloride. Influenza vaccinations were administered to immunosuppressed patients and long-term patients. In addition, respiratory etiquette posters were posted on the closed ward during the latter half of 2012. The 2013 outbreak involved the same controls as 2012.
RESULTS
The incidence of outbreak among patients during the three outbreaks was 53%, 18%, and 19%. The incidence of infection among healthcare workers was 0% throughout the three periods, and there was no additional infection.
CONCLUSION
In a closed ward of the psychiatry department, there is constant contact between healthcare workers and patients. Therefore, the possibility of influenza transmission is expected to be high. It is important to maintain constant inspection to detect outbreaks. Effective infection control should be applied to block the virus.

Keyword

Influenza A (H1N1); Closed ward; Infection control; Disease outbreaks

MeSH Terms

Cohort Studies
Delivery of Health Care
Disease Outbreaks
Humans
Incidence
Infection Control*
Influenza, Human*
Vaccination

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 The number of cases and incidence of infected patients during the outbreak periods of 2009 H1N1 Influenza A virus.

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