We developed a 7-domain tool to determine QOL in NETS. Strong internal consistency exists within each domain of the QOL-NET. The QOL-NET is reliable and reproducible but weakly identifies NETS. Physical functioning is a greatest contributor to QOL impairment in NETS.

No abstract

We report a surveillance method for influenza that is based on automated hospital laboratory and pharmacy data. During the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, this method was objective, easy to perform, and utilized readily available automated hospital data. This surveillance method produced results that correlated strongly with influenza-like illness surveillance data.

We determined the prevalence of mandatory influenza and tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination policies for staff in Michigan hospitals and factors affecting policy implementation. Forty-one percent of responders reported a mandatory influenza vaccination policy, and 11% reported a mandatory Tdap vaccination policy. The support of hospital leadership is critical to policy implementation and overcoming barriers.

This is the first study to use an IIS to quantify the difference between ACIP's approaches for 2-dose influenza vaccine recommendations. The immunization history and 2-dose forecasting algorithm available through MCIR minimizes overimmunization and has potential cost-saving implications. Our study illustrates the value of a centralized repository provided by IISs to immunization providers, public health, and caregivers.