Secondary Bacterial Infections Associated with Influenza Pandemics
Denise E Morris1, David W Cleary1, Stuart C Clarke1,2,3
1Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Academic Unit of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Hospital Southampton Foundation NHS TrustSouthampton, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Lower and upper respiratory infections are the fourth highest cause of global mortality (Lozano et al., 2012). Epidemic and pandemic outbreaks of respiratory infection are a major medical concern, often causing considerable disease and a high death toll, typically over a relatively short period of time. Influenza is a major cause of epidemic and pandemic infection. Bacterial co/secondary infection further increases morbidity and mortality of influenza infection, with Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Staphylococcus aureus reported as the most common causes. With increased antibiotic resistance and vaccine evasion it is important to monitor the epidemiology of pathogens in circulation to inform clinical treatment and development, particularly in the setting of an influenza epidemic/pandemic.
Insights
Respiratory infections are a leading cause of death globally. Monitoring influenza and common bacterial co-infections is crucial due to rising antibiotic resistance and vaccine evasion.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Lower and upper respiratory infections rank as the fourth leading cause of global mortality.
- Influenza outbreaks pose significant public health risks, causing substantial disease and mortality.
- Bacterial co-infections, particularly by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, *Haemophilus influenzae*, and *Staphylococcus aureus*, exacerbate influenza's impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for monitoring circulating pathogens.
- To inform clinical treatment strategies during influenza epidemics and pandemics.
- To guide the development of new interventions against respiratory infections.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of existing literature on respiratory infections and influenza.
- It synthesizes data on the epidemiology of common bacterial co-pathogens.
- It discusses the implications of antibiotic resistance and vaccine evasion.
Main Results:
- Influenza is a primary driver of epidemic and pandemic respiratory infections.
- Specific bacterial species frequently cause secondary infections during influenza.
- Increasing antibiotic resistance and vaccine evasion complicate management.
Conclusions:
- Continuous epidemiological surveillance of respiratory pathogens is essential.
- Such monitoring is vital for effective clinical management and therapeutic development.
- Proactive strategies are needed to combat the threat of influenza and co-infections.
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