Advisory: Influenza Testing Among Persons with Severe Respiratory Illness During Periods of Low Influenza Virus Circulation
Click to Enlarge
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has issued new guidelines for influenza testing amidst the ongoing global outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1). The advisory emphasizes the importance of year-round testing for influenza, especially for patients with severe respiratory illness.
Key Points:
- Testing Requirement: All positive influenza samples from hospitalized patients requiring ICU care should be sent to the Wadsworth Center Virology Laboratory for additional testing, including subtyping and genome sequencing.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Increased vigilance is recommended during the low influenza incidence months (May-September), particularly for patients with a history of exposure to birds or livestock.
- Reporting: Suspected cases of novel influenza A virus infection should be reported immediately to the NYSDOH and the local health department.
- Specimen Submission: Detailed instructions for specimen collection and shipping are provided to ensure proper handling and timely testing.
Please read the full advisory here for more detailed information, including how to submit specimens and contact details for further inquiries.
Stay informed and help prevent the spread of influenza by adhering to these guidelines.
