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[Infectious disease in primary care: 1-year prospective study]
Carles Llor1, Silvia Hernández
1Centro de Salud Jaume I, Tarragona, España. carles.llor@urv.cat
Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiologia Clinica
|September 2, 2009
Summary
Infectious diseases represent one-third of primary care visits, with respiratory infections being the most common. These infections show significant seasonal variation, peaking in winter.
Area of Science:
- General Medicine
- Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
Background:
- Infectious diseases are a frequent reason for primary care consultations.
- Understanding their frequency and seasonal patterns is crucial for public health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and seasonal variability of infectious diseases in a primary care setting.
- To analyze the types of infectious diseases and treatment patterns.
Main Methods:
- An observational, prospective study was conducted in 2007.
- Data collected from 12,676 patients over one year included diagnoses, antibiotic use, and referrals.
Main Results:
- 33.2% of patients presented with at least one infectious disease.
- Respiratory infections were most common (50.4%), followed by skin (13.5%) and urinary tract infections (10.4%).
- Infections peaked in winter (39.8%), with respiratory infections showing significant seasonal variation.
Conclusions:
- Infectious diseases constitute one-third of general practitioner visits.
- Respiratory tract infections are the most prevalent, with notable seasonal fluctuations.
- Self-administration of antimicrobials was observed, particularly in respiratory infections.
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