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Rapid Molecular Detection and Differentiation of Influenza Viruses A and B
Published on: January 30, 2017
Association between multiple meteorological variables and seasonal influenza A and B virus transmission in Macau
HoiMan Ng1, Yusi Li2,3, Teng Zhang2,3
1Clinical Laboratory, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macau, China.
Abstract:
Few studies have evaluated the influence of meteorological variables on different influenza types in subtropical regions. This study aimed to explore the association between meteorological variables and the onset of influenza A (Flu-A) and B (Flu-B) in Macau. Daily influenza case data in Macau were collected from Kiang Wu Hospital from 1 January, 2014 to 31 December, 2018. Daily meteorological data were obtained from the Macau Meteorological Service. The distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was used to estimate the effects of meteorological variables on seasonal influenza outbreaks. Regarding mean air temperature (temp), the peaks of the cumulative relative risks (RRs) of Flu-A and Flu-B were both at 4.0 °C and 28.0 °C. Regarding the diurnal temperature range (DTR), the peaks of the cumulative RR of Flu-A were at 1.0 °C and 5.0 °C, while the cumulative RR of Flu-B increased as the DTR decreased. The association between influenza risks and relative humidity (RH) showed a U-shape curve. The risk of influenza increased when the RH was below 50% or above 90%. The risk of both types of influenza increased significantly when the sunshine duration (SD) was below 3.5 h. Taking the median value as the reference, a significant cold effect was observed over 16-24 days lag for Flu-A. Lag effects were found for both types of influenza in low-DTR, and humid and short SD conditions. This study revealed complex non-linear association between meteorological variables and the different influenza types in Macau.
Insights
Meteorological variables significantly impact influenza A and B outbreaks in Macau. Temperature, humidity, and sunshine duration showed complex associations with increased influenza risk, particularly in specific conditions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Meteorology
Background:
- Limited research exists on meteorological influences on diverse influenza types in subtropical zones.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for public health interventions and disease surveillance in regions like Macau.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between meteorological variables and the incidence of influenza A (Flu-A) and influenza B (Flu-B) in Macau.
- To identify specific weather patterns associated with increased risk of different influenza strains.
Main Methods:
- Utilized daily influenza case data from Kiang Wu Hospital (2014-2018).
- Collected daily meteorological data from the Macau Meteorological Service.
- Employed a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) to analyze associations between weather variables and influenza outbreaks.
Main Results:
- Both Flu-A and Flu-B showed peak risks at mean air temperatures of 4.0°C and 28.0°C.
- Influenza A risk peaked at diurnal temperature ranges of 1.0°C and 5.0°C, while Flu-B risk increased with decreasing diurnal range.
- Influenza risk elevated with relative humidity below 50% or above 90%, and significantly increased when sunshine duration was less than 3.5 hours.
- Lag effects were observed, with cold temperatures showing a significant effect on Flu-A over 16-24 days.
Conclusions:
- Complex, non-linear relationships exist between meteorological factors and distinct influenza types in Macau.
- Findings highlight the importance of considering specific weather conditions, such as temperature extremes, humidity levels, sunshine duration, and diurnal temperature range, in predicting influenza outbreaks.
- This research provides valuable insights for targeted public health strategies in subtropical regions.
