Rapid Reference to Influenza

Introduction The influenza virus Antigenic variability of influenza: origin of pandemics and epidemics Clinical picture and impact of flu Prevention and control References The Influenza Virus: Structure and Replication Classification and nomenclature of influenza viruses Influenza virus structure Virus replication References Antigenic Drift and Shift: Epidemic and Pandemic Influenza Antigenic drift Antigenic shift Influenza pandemics Influenza surveillance and pandemic preparedness References The Immune Response to Influenza Infection The innate immune response The adaptive immune response Importance of T-cell responses in adaptive immunity Effect of ageing on the immune system References Pathogenesis, Clinical Features and Diagnosis Pathogenesis of influenza Presentation of uncomplicated influenza Complications of influenza Influenza in susceptible subgroups Diagnosis of influenza References Social and Economic Impact of Influenza Social impact Economic impact Impact of pandemic influenza References Vaccination: Cornerstone of Influenza Control Current inactivated influenza vaccines Recommendations and vaccination coverage Benefits of influenza vaccination Vaccine safety and contraindications References Treatment and Prophylaxis with Antivirals Mechanisms of action of antivirals Antivirals in treatment and prophylaxis of influenza Antivirals and pandemic preparedness References Novel Developments in the Control of Influenza Novel inactivated influenza vaccines with improved efficacy Mucosal delivery of influenza vaccines Novel approaches to vaccine virus production How may influenza control be further improved? References Appendix 1 - Useful Websites Appendix 2 - WHO Guidelines Appendix 3 - WHA Resolution