Risk assessment for seasonal influenza, EU/EEA, 2017–2018
Since the 2009 influenza pandemic, ECDC has regularly produced early-season risk assessments for EU/EEA countries to inform national public health authorities of key features during the ongoing season. The main objectives of the early season risk assessment are to provide an early description of the epidemiological pattern of seasonal influenza in the first affected countries; to anticipate the progression of influenza activity and to assess the risk of reduced vaccine effectiveness and susceptibility to neuraminidase inhibitors.
Executive Summary
First detections indicated circulation of A(H3N2) and B/Yamagata viruses. As the former subtype dominated last season, a high proportion of the population should be protected. However, the emergence of variant strains cannot be excluded and this would increase the likelihood of severe outcomes in the elderly.
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More about seasonal influenza
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Seasonal influenza
Seasonal influenza is a preventable infectious disease with mostly respiratory symptoms. It is caused by influenza virus and is easily transmitted, predominantly via the droplet and contact routes and by indirect spread from respiratory secretions on hands etc.
Factsheet about seasonal influenza
General disease information for public health experts and the general public on seasonal influenza.
Surveillance for seasonal influenza
Epidemiological and virological data from the EU/EEA Member States. The surveillance data reported comes largely from sentinel influenza surveillance systems.
Prevention and treatment for seasonal influenza
Information on personal protective measures and treatment for seasonal influenza.