Influence of school closure on the incidence of viral respiratory diseases among children and on health care utilization

Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2004 Jul;23(7):675-7. doi: 10.1097/01.inf.0000128778.54105.06.

Abstract

We evaluated the effect of school closure on the occurrence of respiratory infection among children ages 6-12 years and its impact on health care services. During this period, there were significant decreases in the diagnoses of respiratory infections (42%), visits to physician (28%) and emergency departments (28%) and medication purchases (35%). The present study provides quantitative data to support school closure during an influenza pandemic.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Israel / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / epidemiology*
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / prevention & control
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / transmission
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Schools / organization & administration*