Influenza Viruses

Abstract

Objective: The influenza viruses classified in the Orthomyxo viridae family have three types, A, B, C according to the irantigenic properties. Influenza A virus can lead to epidemics as well as pandemics with different subtypes depending on hemagglutinin and neuraminidase glycoproteins. Influenza viruses have been monitored by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 1952, due to their public health threat. In this study, it was aimed to determine the influenza data causing epidemics and loss of life in our country and in the world. Method: During the 4 (four) year period from January 2016 to December 2019, samples were taken from patients with suspected SARI in the form of nasal swabs who applied to hospitals in our city's centers and districts with influenza-like symptoms. Turkey Public Health Microbiology Laboratory samples sent to the Virology Department were examined by molecular methods. Findings: In 2016, 276 samples with SARI were examined; 128 (46.3%) specimens were positive for influenza A and 117 (42.3%) were negative. 17 (6.4%) samples were identified as influenza B, while 14 (5%) samples were identified as Rhinovirus. 65 (50.7%) samples of influenza A patients were identified as influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 and 63 (49.3%) samples as influenza A H3N2. Influenza A and Influenza B decreased significantly in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Discussion and conclusion: It is a disease that changes every year in terms of influenza factors and effects. In line with this information, while the number of patients was quite high in 2016, Influenza A and Influenza B decreased significantly in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Molecular typing will be facilitated in that the influenza vaccine to be administered in the following year will include identification genictypes. As a result, individuals who are at risk should be vaccinated; necessary measures should be taken to prevent outbreaks; A sample should be taken from every patient suspected of SARI and examined in terms of influenza and molecular typing should be done. Key words: Severe acute respiratory infection(SARI), influenza, epidemic Special Issue of Health Sciences DOI: 10.7176/JSTR/6-03-43