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Influenza-associated excess mortality in southern Brazil, 1980-2008.
F T M Freitas1, L R O Souza, E Azziz-Baumgartner
1Health Surveillance Secretariat, Ministry of Health, Brasilia, Brazil. felipe.freitas@saude.gov.br
Epidemiology and Infection
|October 9, 2012
Summary
Influenza causes excess deaths in southern Brazil, particularly among older adults. Continued surveillance is crucial for targeted vaccination campaigns against this respiratory virus.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Influenza poses a significant public health burden globally.
- Estimating influenza-associated excess mortality is vital for resource allocation and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate influenza-associated excess mortality in southern Brazil.
- To identify age groups most affected by influenza.
Main Methods:
- Serfling regression models applied to monthly mortality data (1980-2008).
- Analysis included pneumonia/influenza and respiratory/circulatory coded deaths.
- Stratified analysis for all ages and individuals aged ≥60 years.
Main Results:
- Southern Brazil exhibits a distinct influenza season (April-August).
- Excess mortality rates varied based on coding methods (pneumonia/influenza vs. respiratory/circulatory).
- Rates for individuals ≥60 years were substantially higher than for all ages.
Conclusions:
- Influenza-associated excess mortality in southern Brazil is comparable to international estimates.
- Data underscore the importance of ongoing influenza surveillance.
- Recommendations for targeted vaccination campaigns to protect vulnerable age groups.
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