Information for Clinicians

Dear Doctors:

There have been a number of questions asked about testing for influenza and what tests can be ordered here at Rady Children's. Hopefully, this communication will clarify some of those questions. We are including a table of all tests that can be ordered through Rady Children's for influenza A. We are also including a suggested algorithm for testing and treating patients with suspected influenza illness. Our website will be updated to include further information and resources as they become available.

Hope this is helpful.

John S. Bradley M.D.
Alice Pong M.D.

• Testing information for H1N1 Influenza A (Swine flu)
• Proposed algorithm for influenza testing
• Notice to Medical Staff regarding vaccination

News

• Oct. 22, 2009: AMA Launches Nation's First Comprehensive Web-Based Flu Health-Assessment Program for Patients and Physicians: Free flu Web site allows patients to assess symptoms quickly, interact with their physician, and receive advice on when to return to work or school.
• Updated Interim Recommendations for the Use of Antiviral Medications in the Treatment and Prevention of Influenza for the 2009-2010 Season
• Officials give pandemic flu advice for high-risk kids

CDC Information

• CDC Swine Flu Web Site
• H1N1 Flu Clinical and Public Health Guidance
• Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
• CDC Fact Sheet - Swine Flu and You
• Interim Guidance for Infection Control for Care of Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Infection in a Healthcare Setting
• Interim Guidance on Case Definitions for Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Human Case Investigations - This document provides interim guidance for state and local health departments conducting investigations of human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus. These case definitions are for the purpose of investigations of suspected, probable, and confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.

California Department of Public Health Updates

• Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Virus: Information for Health Professionals

Additional Resources

• Prescribing and Patient Information for Tamiflu & Relenza
• Supplemental Contact Follow-up Form for Household and Other High-risk Contacts
• Ctr for Medicaid & State Operations: Survey & Certification Issues Related to Swine Flu Outbreak (4-28-09)
• SD County Public Health Laboratory: Influenza Virus Culture Request Form (Swine Influenza)
• EMS Specific Guidance #1 - Swine Flu
• Interim WHO guidance for the Surveillance of Human Infection with Swine Flu (4-27-09)