Surveillance of influenza A (H1N1)infection among dialysis population in Okinawa

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  • Tokuyama Kiyoyuki
    Okinawa Dialysis Physicions Association Tokuyama Clinic
  • Iseki Kunitoshi
    Dialysis Unit, University Hospital of the Ryukyus Hospital Okinawa Dialysis and Transplantation Association

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  • 沖縄県における透析患者新型インフルエンザ罹患状況調査
  • オキナワケン ニ オケル トウセキ カンジャ シンガタ インフルエンザ リカン ジョウキョウ チョウサ

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Abstract

Outbreak of a new type (swine) of influenza is a major threat to dialysis patients and the staff of dialysis facilities. The first fatal case of this influenza was an Okinawa dialysis patient in August 2009. With this news, we started a weekly survey of every new case of influenza in both patients and staff throughout the islands. Information was obtained by sending questionnaire through the dialysis network in Okinawa and by telephone interview, if necessary. All dialysis facilities (N=73) cooperated. Data suggested that the prevalence and incidence were lower among dialysis patients (2.5%) than among dialysis staff (6.2%). Preventive strategies, such as increased personal hygiene, although not specific, to this virus, are currently being practiced. At present, we give one tablet of Oseltamivir (Tamiful) to patients complaining of fever, suggesting influenza unless proven otherwise. General supportive care is of utmost importance, as malnutrition is the strongest predictor of poor survival among dialysis patients. Vaccine against swine influenza is still not available in Japan. Our survey efforts may provide some epidemiological basis for a better understanding of the “new type of influenza” in high risk populations.

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