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Influenza surveillance, England and Wales: October 1993 to June 1994
D J Dedman1, C A Joseph, P Chakraverty
1Birmingham Research Unit, Royal College of General Practitioners.
Communicable Disease Report. CDR Review
|December 9, 1994
Summary
A moderate influenza epidemic occurred in England and Wales during 1993-1994, starting earlier than usual. Influenza A(H3N2) was the dominant strain, with activity spreading north to south.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
Background:
- Influenza surveillance is crucial for monitoring seasonal activity and predicting outbreaks.
- Understanding the geographical spread and dominant strains informs public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize influenza surveillance data from England and Wales for the 1993-1994 season.
- To describe the timing, intensity, and characteristics of the influenza epidemic.
Main Methods:
- Data collected through routine influenza surveillance systems.
- Virological analysis of influenza isolates to determine strain types.
Main Results:
- A moderate influenza epidemic occurred between October 1993 and June 1994.
- The epidemic began earlier than in previous years, with activity spreading from Scotland southwards.
- Influenza A(H3N2) viruses were responsible for over 98% of typed isolates; a small number of Influenza B strains were also detected.
Conclusions:
- The 1993-1994 influenza season was characterized by an early onset and the predominance of Influenza A(H3N2).
- Surveillance data highlights the importance of tracking influenza trends for public health preparedness.