Tests rapides de surveillance (TRS) de la grippe en établissements accueillant des personnes âgées : évaluation de quatre années d’utilisation dans le cadre du réseau Grog Géronto-Alsace

Abstract

Objective Outbreaks of acute respiratory infections (ARI) are common in institutions for elderly people. The objective of our study was the assessment of immunoassay rapid test used for influenza diagnosis in institutions for elderly people. Methodology Prospective surveillance for ARI was conducted in 11 institutions in Alsace over a four-year period. Clinical case definitions are used to identify the infected residents. For the identification of influenza virus, nasopharyngeal swabs are obtained and rapid tests (immunoassay) are performed. Results Influenza virus was identified with immunoassay rapid test. Then, prophylaxis according to the Conseil supérieur d’hygiène publique de France guidelines was implemented. Nevertheless, the use of the rapid test was not frequent in the individual institution and the information recorded at the Grog Géronto-Alsace level could be use to inform the institutions when it is important to perform these rapid tests. Conclusion Ours findings show the value of the rapid test used in the influenza surveillance and how the networks could help to improve their uses.