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[Influenza--always present among us]
V Turkulov1, N Madle-Samardzija
1Medicinski fakultet, Novi Sad Klinika za infektivne bolesti, Klinicki centar, Novi Sad.
Medicinski Pregled
|August 31, 2000
Summary
Influenza virus causes annual epidemics and occasional pandemics with high mortality. Annual vaccination is crucial for prevention, especially for high-risk groups, though vaccine effectiveness varies with strain matching.
Area of Science:
- Virology and Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Influenza virus causes significant global morbidity and mortality annually.
- Antigenic variability (shifts and drifts) necessitates continuous vaccine updates and poses pandemic threats.
- Current epidemics, like the H3N2 strain, highlight ongoing public health challenges.
Purpose:
- To review the epidemiology, clinical features, complications, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of influenza.
- To emphasize the public health impact of influenza, including its historical pandemics and current threat.
Summary:
- Influenza spreads via respiratory secretions, presenting with sudden onset fever, myalgia, and cough.
- Complications include pneumonia, bronchitis, croup, and neurological issues; diagnosis involves various tests.
- Treatment includes antivirals (amantadine, rimantadine, neuraminidase inhibitors) and symptomatic care; annual vaccination is key.
Impact:
- Influenza remains a major cause of death globally, particularly in the elderly.
- The potential for novel pandemic strains underscores the need for preparedness.
- Effective prevention strategies, including vaccination and prompt treatment, are vital for mitigating influenza's impact.