Consecutive yearly outbreaks of respiratory syncytial virus in a haemato-oncology ward and efficacy of infection control measures

Summary

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes significant respiratory tract infection in immunosuppressed patients.

Aim

To describe two consecutive yearly outbreaks of RSV in our haemato-oncology ward.

Methods

Haematology patients presenting with respiratory symptoms were screened by polymerase chain reaction for viral respiratory pathogens using a saline gargle.

Findings

None of our patients had undergone bone marrow transplant but all had underlying haematological malignancies. Eight patients were affected in the first outbreak (mortality rate: 37.5%) and 12 patients were affected in the second (mortality rate: 8.3%). Extensive infection control measures were implemented in both outbreaks and were successful in preventing further cross-transmission.

Conclusion

There was significant learning from both outbreaks and actions implemented with the aim of reducing the likelihood and impact of future outbreaks.