EMEA braces for possible influenza epidemic next winter

Influenza surveillance data from the southern hemisphere may be able to predict influenza epidemics in the northern hemisphere1. By stepping up influenza campaigns, you may be able to prevent severe disease and influenza-related hospitalisations2.

Thanks to measures in place to contain the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., masking, social distancing and limiting international travel), global rates of influenza were relatively low in 2020 and 20213.

Influenza epidemic transmission from the southern to northern hemisphere

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References

  1. Zhang Y, Yakob L, Bonsall MB, Hu W. Predicting seasonal influenza epidemics using cross-hemisphere influenza surveillance data and local internet query data. Scientific Reports. 2019;9(1):3262. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-39871-2
  2. World Health Organisation (WHO). Influenza Update N° 420. Published May 30, 2022. Accessed June 7, 2022. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/influenza-update-n-420
  3. Waite T, Ramsay M, Russell S. National flu immunisation programme 2022 to 2023 letter. Published April 22, 2022. Accessed June 3, 2022. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-flu-immunisation-programme-plan/national-flu-immunisation-programme-2022-to-2023-letter
  4. Australian Department of Health. Australian Influenza Surveillance Report No 04 – fortnight ending 22 May 2022. Published May 27, 2022. Accessed June 3, 2022. https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/cda-surveil-ozflu-flucurr.htm#current
  5. Emborg HD, Vestergaard LS, Botnen AB, Nielsen J, Krause TG, Trebbien R. A late sharp increase in influenza detections and low interim vaccine effectiveness against the circulating A(H3N2) strain, Denmark, 2021/22 influenza season up to 25 March 2022. Euro Surveill. 2022;27(15). doi:10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2022.27.15.2200278
  6. Little, HA. Two million flu shots for COVID winter plan. Published April 1, 2022. Accessed June 7, 2022. https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/two-million-flu-shots-covid-winter-plan

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