Preliminary findings of a randomized trial of non-pharmaceutical interventions to prevent influenza transmission in households.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There are sparse data on whether non-pharmaceutical interventions can reduce the spread of influenza. We implemented a study of the feasibility and efficacy of face masks and hand hygiene to reduce influenza transmission among Hong Kong household members.

Methodology/principal findings

We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial of households (composed of at least 3 members) where an index subject presented with influenza-like-illness of <48 hours duration. After influenza was confirmed in an index case by the QuickVue Influenza A+B rapid test, the household of the index subject was randomized to 1) control or 2) surgical face masks or 3) hand hygiene. Households were visited within 36 hours, and 3, 6 and 9 days later. Nose and throat swabs were collected f

SUBMITTER: Cowling BJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2364646 | biostudies-literature | 2008 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature