Surveillance of influenza virus during 2010-2012 in Changsha, China

The objective of this study was to examine the circulating influenza viruses in Changsha, China, during 2010-2012. Nasopharyngeal specimens were collected from persons with influenza-like illness (ILI) who presented for care at two hospitals. Of 2,955 patients tested, 278/(9.4%) were positive for influenza virus: 116/(41.7%) were influenza type A(H3N2), 79/(28.4%) were type A(H1N1) pandemic 2009 (pdm09) and 83/(29.9%) were influenza type B. The rates of virus detection varied by age and sex. The highest rate was in the 5-14 year old age group and females were infected more than males. After the initial 2009 A(H1N1) pdm09 outbreak, the number of cases of this virus declined and the season become shorter. Influenza A(H3N2) and B viruses occurred mainly during the spring and summer, while influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 occurred mainly during the winter and spring. Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 replaced the usual seasonal H1N1 virus during 2010-2012. Continuing epidemiological surveillance of influenza virus is important to monitor trends in influenza infections and to develop prevention and control measures.