Influenza viral infection in 2005-2006 in Samitivej Hospital.
OBJECTIVE
Set an alarm system for early detection of respiratory viral infection.


METHODS
The authors prospectively investigated avian flu and SARS between March 2005 and April 2006. Specimens from a nasopharyngeal swab or bronchial washing were analyzed for influenza A, B, parainfluenza, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus and avian flu and SARS by using technique of PCR and immunofluorescence by the Department of Medical Sciences.


RESULTS
Eighty-nine patients who were enrolled in the present study. Peak of the incidence was 43% on April 2005 and there was no incidence of the influenza from December 2005 till April 2006. This may be due to the mass campaign of influenza vaccination or seasonal variation.


CONCLUSIONS
Vaccination remains the primary strategy for the prevention of influenza, and the broadened recommendations should lead to protection of a larger portion of the population.
Saenghirunvattana
Sawang
S
Samitivej Sukumvit Hospital, Bangkok 10110, Thailand.
Laohathai
Piboon
P
Thawatsupha
Pranee
P
Kitplati
Rungrueng
R
Masakul
Naruemol
N
Jaturaphunsathaporn
Wimonthip
W
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006761:Hospitals; D006801:Humans; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000821:virology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000821:virology; D013785:Thailand