Influenza Viral Infection in 2005-2006 in Samitivej Hospital†
Sawang Saenghirunvattana MD*, Piboon Laohathai MD*, Pranee Thawatsupha BSc*, Rungrueng Kitplati MD, FETP**, Naruemol Masakul BSc, MBA*, Wimonthip Jaturaphunsathaporn BA*
Affiliation : † Supported by Prasert Prasartthongosot Foundation * Samitivej Sukumvit Hospital, ** Ministry of Public Health
Objective : Set an alarm system for early detection of respiratory viral infection.
Materials and 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.
Conclusion : 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.
Keywords : Influenza vaccine, Broncho-alveolar lavage
