Flu and Beyond: The Burden of Adult Influenza Infections and Benefits from Influenza Vaccination

Influenza virus infects millions of people each year, possibly resulting in far more deaths and hospitalizations than reported. It is an acute respiratory tract infection caused by influenza A or B viruses, which recovers within one to two weeks in general, however can lead to fatal or long-term complications in adults. In particular, adults over the age of 65, children, pregnant women, healthcare professionals and those with comorbidities (or individuals having risk factors) are at serious risk for influenza infection and complications. Influenza infection creates a serious burden on individuals, society and health system. Influenza is a vaccine preventable disease; vaccination is recommended for every adult without contraindications, especially for those named under risk groups. It has been proven by studies that influenza vaccination is effective in protecting people from serious illness, intensive care hospitalization, complications, death and long-term sequela, as well as preventing the flu. Above mentioned public health effects have also been proved by studies and real world data.