Influenza: epidemiology and hospital management

Influenza is a cause of significant morbidity, mortality, economic and social disruption. Annual seasonal influenza epidemics result in 290,000–650,000 deaths worldwide, while influenza pandemics have resulted in many more – the A(H1N1) pandemic of 1918–1919 caused 20–50 million deaths. Healthcare systems struggle to effectively manage the constant threat because of the evolving nature of the virus. Since the start of 2021, there have been four events of concern related to influenza reported by the World Health Organization. To reduce the burden of disease and protect our global health security, it is essential that clinicians effectively identify and manage cases of influenza, as well as understand and collaborate with the wider public and global health systems. In particular, the rapid identification and management of novel influenza strains of concern is critical. The COVID-19 pandemic has instigated improvements in influenza preparedness guidelines and management protocols. It has accelerated healthcare innovation, with novel tools to manage respiratory disease more effectively. Innovative technologies, new pharmaceuticals and improved global surveillance are changing the way healthcare systems respond to influenza and other diseases to ensure global health resilience and effective management of future outbreaks.