Acute respiratory infections and their complications

The aim of the study is to summarize data on the epidemiological features, clinical manifestations and peculiarities of complications of influenza and other acute respiratory infections. Materials and methods. The modern scientific literature about influenza and other ARVI was analysed. Conclusions. At present the flu and other acute respiratory infections are the most common diseases that cause frequent epidemics and even pandemics and are an urgent matter worldwide. Influenza is dangerous for the elderly and infants in particular. The most recent data on the disease, peculiarities of its spreading, nature of epidemics in 2009 and 2016, characteristic clinical symptoms, main complications (pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, sinusitis) and their clinical aspects are presented. Influenza caused by a new California influenza A (H1N1) virus, which may cause pandemic outbreaks and is a typical emergent infection, is another topical issue. It should be noted that the new influenza A (H1N1) virus is rapidly spreading around the planet and can exchange genetic information with seasonal and avian influenza viruses. The mutation that originates in this case can significantly increase its pathogenic properties and make the mutant strain more aggressive.