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A Luciferase-fluorescent Reporter Influenza Virus for Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection
05:21

A Luciferase-fluorescent Reporter Influenza Virus for Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection

Published on: August 14, 2019

Influenza update 2000

S A Kemmerly1

  • 1Section on Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Ochsner Clinic and Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, New Orleans, LA.

Ochsner Journal
|July 19, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Influenza epidemics cause 30,000-40,000 American deaths annually. Vaccination and early antiviral treatment are key to preventing complications and reducing mortality from this respiratory illness.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Influenza epidemics cause significant annual mortality in the US, estimated between 30,000-40,000 deaths.
  • The illness is primarily a respiratory tract infection with characteristic symptoms like fever, myalgia, and cough.
  • Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to secondary complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of influenza epidemics, including their cause, transmission, and impact.
  • To highlight the importance of vaccination and antiviral therapies in managing influenza.
  • To emphasize the need for accurate diagnosis to differentiate influenza from bacterial infections.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological data on influenza spread and mortality.
  • Description of influenza virus types (A, B, C) and their clinical significance.
  • Information on current influenza prevention (vaccination) and treatment (antiviral drugs).

Main Results:

  • Influenza A and B types are responsible for the majority of human illnesses.
  • Vaccination efficacy is approximately 70%, with recommendations for high-risk groups and individuals over 50.
  • Four antiviral drugs are available for treatment, with early diagnosis crucial for effective therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Influenza remains a significant public health concern requiring ongoing surveillance and intervention.
  • Vaccination is a primary preventive measure, with updated vaccine compositions annually.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including antivirals, can mitigate influenza's impact and prevent secondary bacterial infections.

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