FluSTAR, a novel influenza surveillance system: outcomes from the 2005-2006 flu season.
BACKGROUND
The FluSTAR Surveillance System covers most of the United States, providing local and national information on influenza and influenza-like illness that is updated twice weekly.


METHODS
Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to explore demographic characteristics, symptoms, vaccination status, and treatment of patients tested for influenza, using a rapid test kit, in the FluSTAR program during the 2005 to 2006 influenza season (October 1, 2005-April 11, 2006).


RESULTS
Of 17,247 patients tested, the most common age groups were 35 to 49 (20%) or 19 to 34 years (18%). Overall, 22% of tests were positive. Patients testing positive were more likely to report influenza-associated symptoms such as cough and fever than those testing negative. Most patients testing positive were prescribed antiviral agents.


CONCLUSIONS
Surveillance systems such as FluSTAR can provide timely data on the circulation of influenza and influenza-like illness. This information could assist with accurate diagnosis and aid treatment decisions.
Aull
Larry
L
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, Georgia, USA.
Blumentals
William A
WA
Iacuzio
Dominick A
DA
Cheng
Steve
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003371:Cough / Q000453:epidemiology; D019992:Databases as Topic; D004345:Drug Industry; D005260:Female; D005334:Fever / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008297:Male; D008499:Medical Records; D008875:Middle Aged; D011159:Population Surveillance / Q000379:methods*; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D014611:Vaccination
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic