Vaststellen van ziekteverwekkers van griepachtige verschijnselen en karakteriseren van de afweerrespons bij ouderen in Nederland

The public is questioning the effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccination in elderly as a result of the general impression that all influenza-like illness (ILI) is caused by an influenza virus infection. However, several pathogens, both viral and bacterial, can cause ILI. A better understanding of the percentage of ILI caused by an influenza virus infection and the contribution of other respiratory viruses or involvement of bacteria will allow a better appreciation of seasonal influenza vaccines. In addition, information will be collected on the humoral and cellular immune responses induced by the different viruses, bacteria and influenza vaccination, the severity of respiratory symptoms during ILI, respiratory symptoms in the absence of ILI, the acceptance of influenza vaccination and the influence of the intestinal microbiome on the immune responses after infection or vaccination.
Elderly either community-dwelling or living in nursing homes will be included.

The general public is questioning the effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccination in elderly as a result of the general impression that all influenza-like illness (ILI) is caused by an influenza virus infection. However, several pathogens, both
viral and bacterial, can cause ILI. A better understanding of the percentage of ILI caused by an influenza virus infection
and the contribution of other respiratory viruses or involvement of bacteria will allow a better appreciation of seasonal influenza vaccines. The immune response against identied pathogens will be further characterized.

Timepoint 1: Within 72 hours after onset of fever and at least 1 other ILI symptom;

Timepoint 2: 2-3 weeks after timepoint 1;

Timepoint 3: 7-9 weeks after timepoint 1;

Extra timepoint 1: Any timepoint in subjects who do not (yet) have ILI symptoms during the influenza season and a repeat timepoint 2-3 weeks after extra timepoint 1.

N/A