Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease in Nursing Homes, Minnesota, 1995–2006
Author Information
Author(s): Rainbow Jean, Jewell Brenda, Danila Richard N., Boxrud David, Beall Bernard, Van Beneden Chris, Lynfield Ruth
Primary Institution: Minnesota Department of Health
Hypothesis
Nursing home residents are at high risk for invasive group A streptococcal (GAS) disease, and clusters of cases in nursing homes are common.
Conclusion
Nursing home residents are at high risk for invasive group A streptococcal disease, and improved surveillance and infection control measures are needed.
Supporting Evidence
- 134 out of 1,858 invasive GAS disease cases occurred in nursing home residents.
- Clusters of cases were identified in 13 nursing homes.
- The case-fatality rate for nursing home residents was 35% compared to 18% for non-residents.
Takeaway
This study found that many nursing home residents get sick from a type of bacteria called group A strep, and sometimes there are outbreaks of this illness in nursing homes.
Methodology
Active, statewide, population- and laboratory-based surveillance for invasive GAS disease was conducted from April 1995 through 2006.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of residence for GAS case-patients due to reliance on hospital admission records.
Limitations
The true incidence of GAS disease in nursing homes is likely higher than detected due to limitations in specimen collection and early surveillance methods.
Participant Demographics
The age of nursing home case-patients ranged from 36 to 100 years, with a median age of 84 years; 58% were women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.33
Statistical Significance
p=0.33
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website