Differences in antibiotic and antiviral use in people with confirmed influenza: a retrospective comparison of rapid influenza PCR and multiplex respiratory virus PCR tests

Abstract Background Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus with clinical impacts on patient morbidity, mortality and hospital bed management. The effect of rapid nucleic acid testing (RPCR) in comparison to standard multiplex PCR (MPCR) diagnosis treatment decisions unclear. This study aimed determine whether RPCR influenza MPCR was associated differences antibiotic antiviral (oseltamivir) utilisation length stay emergency department inpatient settings. Methods A retrospective cohort positive patients performed utilising data from the 2017 season. Medical records correlating presentations were reviewed for collection. An analysis versus outcomes examining test turnaround time, initiation, oseltamivir initiation both stay. Subgroup assess use high risk populations complications. Statistical significance assessed using Mann-Whitney numerical Chi-squared categorical data. Odds ratio 95% confidence intervals calculated where appropriate. Results Overall, 122 362 included this study. Commencement antibiotics less frequent than cohorts (51% vs 67%; p < 0.01, OR 0.52; CI 0.34–0.79). People at complications who tested more likely be treated compared those (76% 63%; = 0.03, 1.81; 1.07–3.08). Hospital not impacted when either used Conclusions These findings suggest management can improve stewardship through reduction improvement higher Further research required other factors that may have influenced cost-benefit should undertaken financial impact test.