Outbreak Investigation on Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in a Postpartum Nursing Care Center, Tainan City, 2014

Pei-Yi Lin^＊1, Wei-Chen Chiu², Yueh-Chun Liao¹, Chiao-Wen Lin¹, Jen-Te Wang¹, Pi-Long Lio¹

2015 Vol.31 NO.4

Correspondence Author： Pei-Yi Lin

Abstract：

       Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of common pathogens that causing respiratory infections in infants and children. Infections can result from droplets containing the virus, and direct or indirect contact the nasal or oral secretions from infected persons. It is highly pathogenic in infants, and easily spread out in high population density institutions. We reported an outbreak investigation on RSV infection in a postpartum nursing care center in Tainan City in 2014. Among 17 infants in that institution, 9 were symptomatic with an attack rate of 52.9%. Respiratory specimens were collected from 5 patients, and RSV was confirmed from these five specimens. Meanwhile, the local health bureau helped that institution to implement infection control measures, including patient isolation, disinfection, hand hygiene, and daily check-up for health status. The relevant suggestions and future improvement were given according to the attitude of the institution, the intervention they had already done, the characteristics of nursing care customers. This event can be a reference for both postpartum nursing care centers and public health dealing with similar outbreaks in the future.