An Integrated Approach From Disease To Prevention

Abstract

Seasonal influenza, more commonly referred to as “flu” is an acute viral infection caused by an influenza virus. The virus circulates worldwide and can affect anybody, in any age group. The clinical features and complications associated with the disease are highlighted in Table 1. There are 3 types of seasonal influenza viruses – A, B and C. Type A influenza viruses are further classified into subtypes according to the combinations of various virus surface proteins. Among many subtypes of influenza A viruses, influenza A (H1N1) and A (H3N2) subtypes are currently circulating amongst humans. WHO, with its partners, monitors influenza globally, recommends seasonal influenza vaccine compositions twice a year for the Northern and Southern hemispheres, and supports member states efforts to develop prevention and control strategies. WHO works to strengthen national and regional influenza diagnostic capacities including antiviral susceptibility monitoring, disease surveillance, outbreak responses, and increases vaccine coverage among highrisk group.