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[The risk of contagious epidemics in geriatric facilities]
1Service de gérontologie et de soins palliatifs Hôpital Paul Brousse 14, avenue Paul-Vaillant Couturier 94804 Villejuif. christophe.trivalle@pbr.ap-hop-paris.fr
Abstract:
THE RISKS OF EPIDEMICS IN INSTITUTIONAL SETTINGS: An epidemic must be suspected when an increase in the number of cases of a same type of infection is observed. Numerous microorganisms are responsible for epidemics in geriatric facilities: viruses, bacteria and parasites. In the case of an epidemic, a certain number of specific measures must be taken in order to prevent the transmission of infection and eradicate the epidemic. IN THE CASE OF INFLUENZA: Other than the vaccination of elderly institutional residents, that of the nursing staff appears essential. If a severe epidemic occurs, specific antivirals can be used, three of which are already available. IN THE CASE OF PNEUMOCOCCI: Examples of epidemics of pneumococcal infections in elderly institutional residents in the United States underlines the interest of pneumococcal vaccines, particularly since the strain responsible corresponded to a serotype contained in the 23 valence vaccine. WITH REGARD TO SCABIES: All the patients and all the staff must be treated on the same day and at the same time their clothing and bed linen. All persons in contact with the patient, the families and friends of the staff, their clothes and the environement must be treated.
Insights
Preventing epidemics in geriatric facilities requires prompt action against infections like influenza, pneumococci, and scabies. Vaccination, antivirals, and thorough treatment protocols are crucial for residents and staff.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Geriatric Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Institutional settings, particularly geriatric facilities, are vulnerable to outbreaks of various infections.
- Identifying an epidemic requires recognizing an unusual increase in similar infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the risks of epidemics in institutional settings.
- To detail specific preventive and management strategies for common institutional infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of common pathogens causing epidemics in geriatric populations.
- Discussion of control measures for influenza, pneumococcal infections, and scabies.
Main Results:
- Influenza epidemics necessitate vaccination for residents and staff, with antivirals available for severe cases.
- Pneumococcal vaccines are effective, especially when the prevalent serotype is covered by the 23-valent vaccine.
- Scabies outbreaks require simultaneous treatment of all patients, staff, their belongings, and the environment.
Conclusions:
- Prompt identification and implementation of targeted control measures are essential to prevent and manage epidemics in institutional settings.
- Vaccination and appropriate treatment protocols significantly reduce the risk and impact of infectious disease outbreaks in the elderly.