Every year, during the monsoon and winter seasons, the country experiences a surge in cold, cough, and fever cases. This year is no exception. However, health experts have raised concerns as influenza cases have increased at an alarming rate compared to previous years. Recent data shows that among every 10 patients receiving treatment, six are infected with the influenza virus. Experts are urging the public to take preventive measures, emphasizing vaccination before infection as the most effective protection.
According to specialists, influenza primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to severe complications. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women are at higher risk. The virus can cause pneumonia, lung inflammation, sinus infections, middle ear infections in children, chronic asthma, or other respiratory issues. In some cases, it can exacerbate heart problems, and in severe scenarios, it can even be fatal.
A joint survey conducted by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) and the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B) highlights that influenza can occur at any time of the year, though its prevalence peaks during the monsoon and winter seasons, particularly from April to September.
The survey analyzed 2,455 samples from suspected influenza patients in July this year, identifying 1,453 confirmed cases, representing a 59.2% positivity rate. This is the highest detection rate since the influenza surveillance program began. Comparatively, the influenza detection rate in July last year was 21.5%, with the previous year’s peak being 34.6% in June. In 2023, the highest detection rate occurred in August at 39.7%, while July and September recorded 33.4% and 25.7%, respectively.
Since 2007, influenza surveillance in Bangladesh has shown that the virus is seasonal and continues to claim valuable lives. Timely vaccination can prevent many deaths and severe illnesses. Globally, seasonal influenza remains a major public health concern, causing 290,000 to 650,000 deaths annually, with around 50 million people falling seriously ill.
Professor Tahmina Shirin, Director of IEDCR, reported that from May 2007 to December 2023, 115,580 patients were hospitalized with influenza-like symptoms, with 11.5% testing positive for influenza. Those aged 5–25 years are most commonly affected, and the mortality rate among hospitalized patients is approximately 1%.
ICDDR,B Executive Director Dr. Tahmid Ahmed highlighted that influenza is often underestimated, yet it remains life-threatening. He urged the government to ensure affordable vaccines, especially for high-risk populations. Experts recommend receiving the influenza vaccine during February and March, as it provides protection throughout the peak season from April to September.
Dr. Tarikul Islam Limon, a public health specialist, emphasized that annual vaccination is essential for everyone aged six months and older. Priority groups include children aged six months to six years, adults over 50, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or COPD. Travelers, particularly those going for Hajj or Umrah, should also be vaccinated.
The influenza vaccine generates protective immunity within two weeks and remains effective for six to eight months. While no vaccine offers 100% protection, it provides approximately 80% effectiveness, reducing the risk of severe flu, hospitalization, and complications related to pre-existing conditions.
Influenza initially presents symptoms similar to the common cold, including fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough. Unlike ordinary colds, influenza symptoms progress rapidly, and if one family member is infected, others are at risk. Professor Lelin Chowdhury, a public health specialist, noted that influenza symptoms can include high or low fever, body aches, severe headache, and sometimes rashes. Bleeding is not observed, unlike in dengue or other viral infections.
Assistant Professor Dr. Md. Fazle Rabbi Chowdhury of Bangladesh Medical University explained that the influenza virus spreads through sneezing, coughing, saliva, and nasal discharge. The virus is highly contagious, quickly affecting households. Some patients develop complications like pneumonia, which may require hospitalization. Proper medical care is crucial, as delayed treatment can result in severe illness or death.
Experts stress that vaccination, early detection, and adherence to hygiene practices are the most effective strategies against influenza. Prompt medical consultation is essential if flu-like symptoms develop, particularly for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.