Respiratory virus activity is summarized weekly for specimens tested at PCMC’s Microbiology lab. We track RSV, influenza A, influenza B, parainfluenza 1, 2 and 3 and adenovirus. Latest data.
RSV season is considered to be over when we have 5 or fewer cases per week for 2 consecutive weeks.
Although we are clearly doing more testing (281 last year to date compared to 1044 this year to date) the positivity rate is actually higher this year (59% vs. 44%). This suggests we are not just throwing a wider net. The increase in influenza A clearly reflects a marked increase that cannot be blamed on increased testing. Last year we diagnosed roughly 1 influenza A for every 10 RSV. This year, that ratio has increased to 1 influenza A for every 3.4 RSV. Note also the increased adenovirus activity.
Rimantidine and oseltamivir are both approved for treatment of influenza A in children as well as adults. When given within 48 hours of onset they can shorten duration of symptoms. In some studies, oseltamivir reduced the incidence of secondary infections like otitis and pneumonia. This was not studied with rimantidine.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is approved down to 1 year of age for treatment of influenza A and B. Rimantidine (Flumadine) is approved "for children < 10 years" but the indication is for influenza A only.
More information about the Respiratory Viral DFA Testing used for this surveillance data.