Physicians

April 28, 2009

Dear Physician:

This message provides information regarding swine flu testing through NCH Laboratory.

As of April 26, 2009, confirmed cases of swine flu influenza A have been identified in California, Kansas, New York City, Ohio, and Texas, as well as Mexico.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is advising clinicians to consider swine influenza virus A infections in patients presenting with a febrile respiratory illness who:

1. Live in an area where human cases of swine influenza A have been identified or
2. Have traveled to an area where human cases of swine influenza A have been identified or
3. Have been in contact with ill person from these areas in the 7 days prior to onset of illness.

IDPH is requiring information regarding symptom onset and contact exposure dates for all PCR testing for swine influenza.  Please click here to print and use the attached form to document this information when requesting influenza swine flu testing through NCH.

If swine influenza testing is ordered, NCH Laboratory is requesting collection of 2 nasopharyngeal influenza culture swabs. In younger children, one nasopharyngeal aspirate is acceptable.  Please refrigerate the specimens prior to transport to NCH. Do not freeze.

We are asking that any patient with respiratory illness wear a mask when referred to NCH for influenza testing, or don a surgical mask upon arrival at NCH.

Feel free to contact NCH Microbiology Lab (847-618-6020) or Infection Prevention (847-618-4370) if you have any questions.

Dr. Susan Bleasdale
Co-Hospital Epidemiologist and Infectious Disease Physician
Northwest Community Hospital