Prospective cohort study to investigate the burden and transmission of acute gastroenteritis in care homes: a study protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Noroviruses are the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in all age groups, but illness is more severe and causes excess mortality in the elderly, particularly those in long-term care. The total burden of norovirus disease in the elderly in the UK is poorly defined; no current surveillance programmes systematically or accurately quantify norovirus infection in those living in care homes. The aim of this study is to evaluate an enhanced surveillance system for acute gastroenteritis among the elderly in care homes.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct this prospective cohort study in care homes in North West England; residents and staff at study care homes will be asked to participate. We will prospectively enrol a cohort of participants in an enhanced surveilla

SUBMITTER: Inns T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5722098 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature