Consecutive yearly outbreaks of respiratory syncytial virus in a haemato-oncology ward and efficacy of infection control measures

SummaryBackgroundRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes significant respiratory tract infection in immunosuppressed patients.AimTo describe two consecutive yearly outbreaks of RSV in our haemato-oncology ward.MethodsHaematology patients presenting with respiratory symptoms were screened by polymerase chain reaction for viral respiratory pathogens using a saline gargle.FindingsNone of our patients had undergone bone marrow transplant but all had underlying haematological malignancies. Eight patients were affected in the first outbreak (mortality rate: 37.5%) and 12 patients were affected in the second (mortality rate: 8.3%). Extensive infection control measures were implemented in both outbreaks and were successful in preventing further cross-transmission.ConclusionThere was significant learning from both outbreaks and actions implemented with the aim of reducing the likelihood and impact of future outbreaks.