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Published on: April 14, 2011

Mortality from influenza and allied infections in South Australia during 1968-1981

A S Cameron, D M Roder, A J Esterman

    The Medical Journal of Australia
    |January 7, 1985
    PubMed

    Insights

    Influenza significantly increases pneumonia deaths by 74% in South Australia, particularly affecting those over 60. Prophylactic care in autumn is crucial for the elderly, especially those with underlying conditions.

    Area of Science:

    • Epidemiology
    • Public Health
    • Gerontology

    Background:

    • Pneumonia and influenza (PI) pose significant public health risks, especially to the elderly.
    • Understanding seasonal mortality patterns is crucial for effective public health interventions.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the impact of PI on mortality in South Australia from 1968-1981.
    • To investigate the association between PI deaths and other causes of mortality.
    • To identify specific populations at higher risk.

    Main Methods:

    • Analysis of weekly death records from South Australia (1968-1981).
    • Comparison of mortality rates during winter/early spring versus summer/early autumn.
    • Statistical analysis to determine associations between PI deaths and other causes.

    Main Results:

    • A 74% excess in PI deaths was observed during winter and early spring.
    • An 18% excess in deaths from other causes accompanied PI outbreaks.
    • A strong association was found between PI deaths and other deaths, particularly in individuals aged 60 and over.

    Conclusions:

    • Influenza has a broad impact on overall mortality, not just PI-specific deaths.
    • The elderly, especially those with underlying conditions, are most vulnerable to influenza's effects.
    • Prophylactic measures against influenza should be administered in autumn to protect at-risk elderly populations.

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