Clinical trial data support the use of peramivir to relieve influenza symptoms in acute, uncomplicated influenza, with improvements over placebo similar to those of other approved anti-influenza treatments. The ability to give a one-time injectable dose offers improved adherence over currently available oral regimens. While not approved for hospitalized patients, available data suggest that multiple dose peramivir may also have a role in treatment of severally ill, hospitalized patients. Supportive data for the use of peramivir in special patient populations such as pediatrics and those especially at-risk to develop severe influenza symptoms are promising; however, they require further study.

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Blood culture contamination results in increased hospital costs and exposure to antimicrobials. We evaluated the potential clinical and economic benefits of an initial specimen diversion device (ISDD) when routinely utilized for blood culture collection in the emergency department (ED) of a quaternary care medical center.

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability world wide. Persons with stroke experience many types of con sequences. This study investigated the selfperceived consequences of stroke at 1 and 5 years poststroke. Forty-five people participated in face-to-face interviews at 1 year and responded to surveys via regular mail after 5 years. The results show that the perceived impact of stroke becomes more severe with time, even for per sons with mildtomoderate stroke. We conclude that persons with stroke are in need of continuous support. Objective: To investigate different aspects of selfperceived impact of stroke 1 and 5 years after stroke onset, with a focus on self-perceived participation. Design: Longitudinal cohort study. Participants: Forty-five persons diagnosed with firsttime stroke included in the Stroke Arm Longitudinal study at University of Gothenburg (SALGOT). Methods: Participants responded to the Stroke Impact Scale, the Impact on Participation and Autonomy and the European Quality of Life 5 dimensions at 1 year and 5 years post-stroke. Wilcoxon signedrank test was used to check for differences in changes over time between groups. Results: In general, the perceived consequences of stroke were more severe after 5 years compared with at 1 year. Strength, emotion and participation were the areas most affected, along with restrictions in social life and autonomy indoors. Global disability (mRS) was moderately correlated with quality of life. Conclusion: The perceived impact of stroke becomes more prominent with time, even for persons with mild-to-moderate stroke. This study highlights the need for long-term support for persons with stroke.