The Impact of Point-of-Care Testing for Influenza on Antimicrobial Stewardship in UK Primary Care: Nested Cohort Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) predominantly circulate during the winter season and cause acute respiratory illness (ARI). Deploying molecular point-of-care testing (POCT) in primary care can inform whether a patient presenting with an ARI has influenza or RSV. An early virological diagnosis could facilitate appropriate use of antivirals and enable better antimicrobial stewardship.

Objective

This study aimed to report the impact of POCT for influenza and RSV on antimicrobial prescribing, including antiviral therapy in primary care.

Methods

The impact of POCT for influenza on antimicrobial stewardship (PIAMS) in UK primary care was a nested cohort study undertaken from January 20 to May 31, 2023, after the period of peak virus circulation, w

SUBMITTER: Hoang U 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12283063 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature