Characteristics of respiratory outbreaks in care homes during four influenza seasons, 2011-2015

Respiratory outbreaks in care homes were associated with significant morbidity and mortality, despite high vaccination uptake. The absence of indicators at notification of an outbreak to accurately predict influenza infection highlights the need for prompt reporting and laboratory testing. Raising staff awareness, training in the management of respiratory outbreaks in accordance with national guidance, and improvement of staff vaccination uptake are recommended.