Pandemic H1N1 influenza in the pediatric emergency department: a comparison with previous seasonal influenza outbreaks.

摘要: Study objective We compare the acuity of pediatric emergency department (ED) patients between ongoing H1N1 influenza pandemic and previous seasonal outbreaks. Methods An observational, cross-sectional analysis patient visits at 2 tertiary care EDs was made for following periods: (1) regional fall 2009 surge (August 17 to September 20, 2009), (2) combined 2007 early peak seasons (January 28 March 2, 2008, February 8, 2009). Proportions admissions, return visits, resulting in admission were compared periods. Subset with influenza-like illness performed. Results Of total no difference found proportions hospital admissions (18,503 visits) (29,002 visits): non-ICU 9.9% versus 10.4%, 95% confidence interval −0.07% 1.0%; ICU 0.9% 0.9%, CI −0.1% 0.2%. illness, (7,064 (8,489 4.8% 5.2%, −0.3% 1.1%, whereas proportion increased during surge: 0.3% 0.1%, 0.05% 0.4%. The within 7 days, including those admission, similar periods both ED population subset. Conclusion severity appeared that EDs, an increase observed illness.