To Test or to Treat? An Analysis of Influenza Testing and Antiviral Treatment Strategies Using Economic Computer Modeling

Bruce Y Lee, Sarah M McGlone, Rachel R Bailey, Ann E Wiringa, Shanta M Zimmer, Kenneth J Smith and Richard K Zimmerman

PLOS ONE, 2010, vol. 5, issue 6, 1-11

Abstract: Background: Due to the unpredictable burden of pandemic influenza, the best strategy to manage testing, such as rapid or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and antiviral medications for patients who present with influenza-like illness (ILI) is unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings: We developed a set of computer simulation models to evaluate the potential economic value of seven strategies under seasonal and pandemic influenza conditions: (1) using clinical judgment alone to guide antiviral use, (2) using PCR to determine whether to initiate antivirals, (3) using a rapid (point-of-care) test to determine antiviral use, (4) using a combination of a point-of-care test and clinical judgment, (5) using clinical judgment and confirming the diagnosis with PCR testing, (6) treating all with antivirals, and (7) not treating anyone with antivirals. For healthy younger adults (

Date: 2010
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pone00:0011284

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0011284

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