Sharp increase in influenza A infections in Limpopo: A call for increased influenza vaccinations

To the Editor: Influenza is often characterised by yearly seasonal epidemics and sporadic outbreaks, which are typically caused by influenza virus types A, B and C.[1] Influenza A and B are further classified into antigenically diverse subtypes, including influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, influenza A H3, inf...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:South African medical journal 2022-01, Vol.112 (1), p.3-4
Main Authors: Umunnakwe, C N, Makatini, Z N, Maphoto, R, Tempelman, H A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analysis
Control
Epidemics
Influenza
Influenza vaccines
Prevention
Risk factors
Seasonal variations (Diseases)
South Africa
Statistics
Supply and demand
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Summary:To the Editor: Influenza is often characterised by yearly seasonal epidemics and sporadic outbreaks, which are typically caused by influenza virus types A, B and C.[1] Influenza A and B are further classified into antigenically diverse subtypes, including influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, influenza A H3, influenza B Yamagata and influenza B Victoria. These viruses cause acute respiratory disease and are transmitted through aerosolised droplets and by direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Influenza A and B are responsible for the majority of seasonal influenza cases, and influenza A typically causes more morbidity and mortality. Those at highest risk of severe illness and death include the very young, the elderly and the immunocompromised.[2]
ISSN:0256-9574
2078-5135
DOI:10.7196/SAMJ.2022.v112i1.16284