The influenza epidemic of the 2014-2015 season is characterised by the predominant circulation of A(H3N2) type viruses, known to be responsible for serious forms of the illness in at-risk subjects, particularly older people. The efficacy of the vaccine is sub-optimal as a significant portion of circulating A(H3N2) viruses are variants of the vaccinal strain not covered by the vaccine. This situation led this winter to excess mortality of all causes, higher than usually observed.
The French High Council of public health (HCSP) reiterates firstly the importance of following hygiene measures (wearing surgery masks, frequent hand washing) to limit the risk of transmission and contamination, particularly for very young children and persons presenting with comorbidities. Indeed, these persons are exposed to serious forms of influenza. These hygiene measures apply to community practices or hospital environments when treating respiratory infections, but also community and family environments.
The HCSP also reiterates the recommendations for the targeted use of antivirals (neuraminidase inhibitors) and, where these antivirals have been rationed, it recommends that:
they not be systematically prescribed to persons over 65 years of age, but rather that a case-by-case assessment be performed based on the presence or not of comorbidity factors;
particular attention should be paid to following paediatric dosages, which requires access to 30 mg and 45 mg formulations.
- Recommendation
- Europe
- France
- Influenza
