- 期刊
- OpenAccess
Taiwanese Guidelines for Molecular Point-of-Care Testing for Influenza in Emergency Medicine From the New Diagnostic Technology Team of the Taiwan Society of Emergency Medicine
摘要
Seasonal influenza, caused by influenza viruses, is responsible for a significant number of deaths worldwide each year, with the elderly and children being the most vulnerable populations. Influenza A viruses, in particular, have caused global pandemics throughout history, and Taiwan has faced its share of influenza pandemics, including the 1918, 1957, 1968, and 2009 outbreaks. Timely and accurate diagnosis of influenza is crucial in preventing its transmission and mitigating its impact on public health. Various diagnostic methods have been developed to identify influenza, ranging from traditional viral culture and antibody detection to more advanced techniques such as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, rapid nucleic acid amplification tests, and rapid influenza diagnostic tests. However, in the context of emergency settings in Taiwan, there is a lack of consensus on influenza diagnostics, leading to a need for clear guidelines to assist emergency medicine physicians in the early detection and treatment of influenza cases, thereby reducing associated risks. To address this gap, the New Diagnostic Technology Team of the Taiwan Society of Emergency Medicine conducted extensive discussions and literature reviews to provide recommendations on diagnostic testing for influenza in emergency settings. The guidelines focus on various aspects, including appropriate sampling methods, the characteristics and diagnostic performance of targeted tests, and clinical recommendations for testing during both prevalent and non-prevalent influenza seasons, taking into account patients' risk factors. These guidelines aim to standardize influenza diagnostic practices in emergency departments, ensuring that physicians are equipped with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding testing and treatment. By facilitating early detection, the guidelines can help improve patient outcomes, minimize the spread of influenza, and enhance public health preparedness in Taiwan.