Influenza surveillance in 15 countries in Africa, 2006-2010
Loading...
Date
Authors
Radin, Jennifer Michalove
Katz, Mark A.
Tempia, Stefano
Nzussouo, Ndahwouh Talla
Davis, Richard
Duque, Jazmin
Adedeji, Adebayo
Adjabeng, Michael Jeroen
Ampofo, William Kwabena
Ayele, Workenesh
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In response to the potential threat of an influenza pandemic, several international institutions and governments, in partnership with African countries, invested in the development of epidemiologic and laboratory influenza surveillance capacity in Africa.
METHODS: We used a standardized form to collect information on influenza surveillance system characteristics, the number and percent of influenza-positive patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and virologic data.
RESULTS: Between 2006 and 2010, the number of ILI and SARI sites in 15 African countries increased from 21 to 127 and from 2 to 98, respectively. Influenza was detected in 22% of ILI cases and 10% of SARI cases. Children 0-4 years accounted for 48% all ILI and SARI cases of which 20% and 10 respectively were positive for influenza. Influenza peaks were generally discernible in North and South Africa. Substantial co-circulation of influenza A and B occurred most years.
CONCLUSIONS: Influenza is a major cause of respiratory illness in Africa, especially in children. Further strengthening influenza surveillance, along with conducting special studies on influenza burden, cost of illness, and role of other respiratory pathogens will help detect novel influenza viruses and inform and develop targeted influenza prevention policy decisions in the region.
Description
Keywords
Influenza, Africa, Influenza-like illness (ILI), Severe acute respiratory illness (SARI), Children, Seasonality, Virologic
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Radin, JM...[et al.] 2012, ' Influenza Surveillance in 15 Countries in Africa, 2006-2010', Journal of Infectious Diseases, vol. 206, no. 12, suppl. 1: S14-S21.