Influenza: A Global Perspective

Influenza is a common respiratory illness in children and accounts for substantial morbidity and mortality on an annual basis. Inactivated and live influenza vaccines are approved for children and are safe and efficacious. The absolute effectiveness of vaccines varies by year and is influenced by several factors. The reason for recent reduced performance of live attenuated influenza vaccines is poorly understood, and active research is ongoing. Vaccination programs are less common in tropical and subtropical countries, where unique logistical and feasibility challenges exist. Antiviral medications for prevention and treatment of influenza in children are an important adjunct to vaccines.