[Epidemiology of influenza A with special reference to the "Texas" pandemic in 1978]

A synopsis of morbidity, mortality, causes of death and serological surveys offers a different view of the epidemiology of influenza A from what is generally assumed. Special emphasis was laid upon the question, if small epidemics are the main cause of the mortality late in winter and absence of work. It seems unlikely that epidemics originating during a period of drift can be controlled through mass-vaccinations with variant-specific vaccines. These epidemics occur too fast. Better knowledge of the epidemiology is an important preliminary for an effective and rational prophylaxis.