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Molecular epidemiology of an outbreak of human parainfluenza virus 3 among oncology patients

E S Bailey1, E Lobaugh-Jin2, B Smith3

  • 1Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.

The Journal of Hospital Infection
|July 30, 2019
PubMed

Insights

A hospital outbreak of human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV-3) affected 12 oncology patients. Interventions including enhanced cleaning stopped the spread of this nosocomial infection.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Hospital-Acquired Infections

Background:

  • Human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV-3) outbreaks pose a significant risk to immunocompromised individuals, particularly in hospital settings.
  • Hematologic oncology patients are highly susceptible to viral infections due to their weakened immune systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a hospital outbreak of HPIV-3 in a hematologic oncology ward.
  • To investigate the sources and transmission routes of HPIV-3 during the outbreak.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of infection control interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case series of 12 patients with HPIV-3 infection over four weeks.
  • Epidemiological investigation including exposure history analysis.
  • Molecular analysis of HPIV-3 isolates to determine transmission chains.
  • Evaluation of infection prevention team's interventions.

Main Results:

  • Twelve cases of HPIV-3 infection occurred within a four-week period in hematologic oncology patients.
  • Both community-acquired and nosocomial transmission of HPIV-3 were identified.
  • Molecular data confirmed transmission among multiple patients within the oncology ward.
  • Fomites, visitors, and unit activities were implicated in the nosocomial spread.
  • Advanced cleaning procedures successfully halted further nosocomial transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Hospital outbreaks of HPIV-3 can occur in vulnerable patient populations like hematologic oncology patients.
  • Nosocomial transmission is a significant concern, facilitated by fomites, visitors, and unit activities.
  • Prompt implementation of enhanced infection prevention strategies, including advanced cleaning, is crucial for controlling HPIV-3 spread in healthcare settings.
Keywords:
Haematology unitHuman parainfluenza virus type 3Nosocomial outbreakPhylogenetic analysis

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