When 'B' becomes 'A' : the emerging threat of influenza B virus

Abstract

Influenza is a serious condition that affects millions of people (and especially children) annually, around the world and in South Africa. Many people (including many children) die of the disease annually. Last year, the death toll from influenza was estimated to be 80 000 in the USA alone, making it the most lethal of the infectious diseases. And yet, despite effective vaccines, most South Africans decline to be vaccinated. This is a public health concern, and we as doctors are among the greatest culprits for driving down influenza vaccination rates. We do not get vaccinated ourselves, and we listen to, and share, the negative excuses we hear.