Clinical spectrum, risk factors, and outcomes of children with laboratory-confirmed influenza infection managed in a single tertiary hospital: A 6-year retrospective cohort study

Alya Al Ali, Najla Al Kuwaiti, Eiman Al Kaabi, Salwa Al Kaabi, Aysha Al Kaabi, Hassib Narchi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Influenza is a highly contagious disease that causes severe illness each year. Data in the United Arab Emirates are scarce. Objectives: To study the seasonality, morbidity, mortality rate, and comorbidities associated with confirmed influenza infection in a tertiary hospital in Al-Ain city, UAE. Methods: Retrospective study, from 2012 to 2017, of the electronic medical records in Tawam hospital, of children up to 15 years of age with laboratory-confirmed influenza infection. Results: There were 1392 children, with the highest number in 2017 (n = 461, 33%). The incidence peaked between October and March. The infection was more common between 1 and 11 years of age (n = 948, 68%). The overall prevalence of influenza A (n = 1144, 82%) was higher than influenza B (n = 276, 19.8%). One-third of the patients required admission. The commonest underlying comorbidity was asthma (n = 170, 12%). The two commonest complications were pneumonia (n = 165, 12%) and acute otitis media (n = 82, 6%). Conclusion: Our findings serve as a benchmark for comparison with reports from other countries and need to be considered when reviewing the national vaccination program.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere432
JournalHealth Science Reports
Volume4
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2021

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine(all)

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