CDC: Global annual flu deaths greater than previously estimated

Somewhere between 291,000 and 646,000 people worldwide die from seasonal influenza every year, according to a CDC-supported study published in The Lancet.

Advertisement

To generate this estimate, researchers analyzed data on influenza-related deaths recorded by 33 countries for a minimum of four years between 1999 and 2015. This analysis created a more robust dataset than used to develop prior estimates, which suggested 250,000 to 500,000 flu-related deaths occur annually

Researchers identified the greatest burden of influenza-related mortality among people aged 75 years and older and among impoverished people living in sub-Saharan African countries.  

“This work adds to a growing global understanding of the burden of influenza and populations at highest risk,” said Danielle Iuliano, PhD, a researcher in the CDC’s influenza division and the study’s lead author. “It builds the evidence base for influenza vaccination programs in other countries.”

More articles on infection control: 
Shortened 15-second time for alcohol-based hand rub may improve hand hygiene compliance 
Rauner administration criticized for handling of Illinois Veterans Home Legionnaires’ outbreaks: 5 things to know 
Dallas-area school district closes for 2 days amid flu outbreak

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Advertisement

Next Up in Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

Advertisement

Comments are closed.