Seroprevalence of influenza A and B viruses among unvaccinated children in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Young children are at increased risk of severe influenza disease and, thus, are good candidates for receiving annual vaccination. Nevertheless, the influenza vaccine is infrequently given to children in our region. The primary objectives of this study are to monitor the serologic immunities against influenza A and B viruses, and provide pediatric data that support the need for influenza vaccination in the community. METHODS: Influenza A and B virus-specific IgG antibodies were measured in 294 children (median age 4.1 years; range 1.9–12.5 years) between July 2014 and September 2015. RESULTS: The percentage of children who were seropositive for influenza A IgG was 15.8%, equivocal 7.4%, and negative 76.8%. The corresponding values for influenza B IgG were 31.3, 9.6, and 59.1%, respectively. There was a higher seropositivity rate for influenza B than for influenza A in all age groups. The percentage of children who were seropositive for either influenza A or B IgG was 27.9% and for both was only 2.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the studied children are serologically naïve and, thus, are likely to acquire primary influenza disease. A national policy that endorses childhood influenza vaccination is highly advisable.