The first flu season after the COVID-19 pandemic in the Tuzla Canton area
Abstract
Background: Seasonal influenza viruses, in temperate climates predominantly spread during winter and early spring. Each year, the influenza virus affects approximately 10% of the world's population. The most vulnerable groups are individuals at the extremes of age and those with chronic illnesses.
Aim: To present the epidemiological, laboratory, and clinical characteristics of patients with influenza, to assess the presence of complications, and to evaluate the outcomes of patients with influenza.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical records of 49 patients treated for influenza at the Clinic for Infectious Diseases from January 1 to March 31, 2024. The study included all patients over the age of 18 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of influenza (positive PCR test for influenza).
Results: The overall mortality rate was 36.7%. Older patients, particularly those over 65 years, had a significantly higher likelihood of mortality compared to younger patients (p<0.001). Elevated D-dimer and troponin levels were significantly associated with poor outcomes (p=0.005, and p=0.004). The need for oxygen therapy was another significant predictor of mortality (p=0.036). The presence of comorbidities, especially diabetes mellitus, significantly increased the risk of mortality (p=0.037). No significant differences in mortality rates were observed between male and female patients.
Conclusion: The study highlights the severe impact of influenza on hospitalized patients, particularly those with advanced age and comorbidities. High mortality rates comparable to those in this study have been reported in various countries, underscoring the need for improved healthcare strategies, early intervention, and targeted vaccination programs.
Keywords
References
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DOI: 10.5457/ams.v54i2.813
