[Epidemiologic characteristics of influenza A H1N1 in Queretaro]

To describe the epidemic profile of Influenza A H1N1 and the main actions considered for its control.

A descriptive and prospective study in patients with signs and symptoms suggestive of influenza was performed (fever above 38°C, sore throat, cephalgia, muscular and articular pain). Fast test and PCR test were done to all suspicious patients. Lethality and mortality rates were calculated.

From 7678 registered cases, 2220 were confirmed. The 75.3% of deaths and 75.4% of patients aged 10 to 59 years. There was no difference by sex. The State Health Services reported 45.7% patients and 67.5% deaths and the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social 41.6% patients and 28.5% deaths. The sensitivity of fast test was 79% and there was a 21% of false negatives. Clinical features was: fever 98%, migraine 86.5%, dry cough 84.8% and general malaise 84.3%. The control strategy included: medical units for immediate answer, institutional detection of cases, opportune and accessibility treatment, specific areas in urgencies, hospitalization and intensive care attention.

The control strategy applied was useful.