[Epidemiologic and economic efficacy of massive prophylaxis of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections using curantil in Moscow enterprises]

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate epidemiological and cost-effect value of curantil in "in-office" prophylaxis of influenza and acute respiratory diseases (ARD) in Moscow.

Material and methods: Curantil was given once a week for 4-5 weeks in a dose 50 mg with 2-3-week intervals in autumn peaks of ARD and influenza epidemics. Participation of the population was 50-70% maximum. Prevailing influenza viruses causing epidemic in 1990-1991, 1991-1992 were A(H3N2) and B, respectively; ARD were caused by parainfluenza viruses, PC, P, mycoplasma etc. Efficiency index and rate were calculated: EI = a/b; ER = (a-b)/a x 100 where a--morbidity in the test group, b--in the control. Cost effectiveness was estimated by sick leaves pays for workers equal to the number protected by curantil and wages for those who worked instead of the ill workers or by the cost of the saved production.

Results: Epidemiological efficiency at enterprise 1 in autumn 1990 was the following (70% covarage): EI = 4.4, ER = 77.2%; in winter epidemic EI = 2.7, ER = 62.4% (covarage 50%). Close results were obtained in the next epidemiological season. In autumn in the enterprise 2 EI = 3.9; ER = 74.3%. Curantil prophylaxis at enterprise 1 protected 53 workers and saved 11278.88 roubles.

Conclusion: Curantil effectiveness, wide spectrum of action, safety in oral administration 50 mg once a week make curantil convenient for mass prevention of influenza and ARD.