Abstract
BackgroundThe Estudio Vacuna de Influenza Peru (VIP) cohort aims to describe the frequency of influenza virus infection, identify predictors of vaccine acceptance, examine the effects of repeated influenza vaccination on immunogenicity, and evaluate influenza vaccine effectiveness among HCP.MethodsThe VIP cohort prospectively followed HCP in Lima, Peru, during the 2016‐2018 influenza seasons; a fourth year is ongoing. Participants contribute blood samples before and after the influenza season and after influenza vaccination (for vaccinees). Weekly surveillance is conducted to identify acute respiratory or febrile illnesses (ARFI). When an ARFI is identified, participants self‐collect nasal swabs that are tested for influenza viruses by real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Influenza vaccination status and 5‐year vaccination history are ascertained. We analyzed recruitment and enrollment results for 2016‐2018 and surveillance participation for 2016‐2017.ResultsIn the first 3 years of the cohort, VIP successfully contacted 92% of potential participants, enrolled 76% of eligible HCP, and retained >90% of participants across years. About half of participants are medical assistants (54%), and most provide “hands‐on” medical care (76%). Sixty‐nine percent and 52% of participants completed surveillance for >70% of weeks in years 1 and 2, respectively. Fewer weeks of completed surveillance was associated with older age (≥50 years), being a medical assistant, self‐rated health of fair or poor, and not receiving the influenza vaccine during the current season (P‐values < .05).ConclusionsThe VIP cohort provides an opportunity to address knowledge gaps about influenza virus infection, vaccination uptake, effectiveness and immunogenicity among HCP.
Highlights
A multi-year, prospective cohort study of healthcare personnel (HCP) in Lima, Peru, is underway, named Estudio Vacuna de Influenza Peru (VIP)
The first objective of the VIP Cohort is to describe the frequency of influenza virus infections among HCP, including acute illnesses and asymptomatic infections
The VIP Cohort is poised to address knowledge gaps regarding the burden of laboratory-confirmed influenza illness and the preventive value of influenza vaccines among HCP
Summary
A multi-year, prospective cohort study of healthcare personnel (HCP) in Lima, Peru, is underway, named Estudio Vacuna de Influenza Peru (VIP). A meta-analysis of studies of seasonal influenza estimated that 1/5 HCP are infected with influenza virus annually, based on serologic and clinical testing.[1] Estimates of influenza virus infection among HCP vary widely depending on the extent of active surveillance and whether studies relied on serologic[2] or molecular diagnostics.[3,4] Healthcare personnel are believed to be at increased risk because of frequent patient contact They may transmit influenza to their patients, though the extent of these risks is unclear.[5] Because HCP often work while ill,[3,6,7] more information is needed on the number and types of contacts HCP may have with patients while HCP are symptomatic with influenza and other viral infections.[3,6,7,8] Recent research suggests that certain subgroups of HCP, such as those that perform aerosol-generating procedures, may be at heightened risk of infection with respiratory pathogens including influenza.[9] Our cohort study was designed to address gaps in our knowledge of influenza burden and impact among HCP.
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