Evaluation of clinical, laboratory and prognosis of patients in an influenza epidemic

Abstract

Purpose: Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that causes widespread epidemics and pandemics in the community. While it is usually self-limiting, it can cause significant morbidity and mortality due to complications. It was aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and prognoses of adult patients hospitalized with a preliminary diagnosis of seasonal influenza. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive study based on the information of 50 patients hospitalized with a preliminary diagnosis of seasonal influenza between 1 December 2015 and 31 January 2016. Results: The mean age of the patients was 55.44±17.17 (20-89), and 64% were female. 36% of the cases were H1N1 positive, 30% were H3N2 positive, and 34% had negative PCR results. The time from the onset of symptoms to admission to the hospital was 3.72±2.51 days (1-11). 38 (76%) patients had comorbidities. It resulted in mortality in four patients. Conclusion: Influenza can cause severe illness and death in healthy and young adults. Avoiding contact with infected patients, hand washing and vaccination are important to reduce these complications.