Influenza

Abstract

Influenza is a viral disease of global and historic importance which takes an annual toll on the lives and health of Australians. While the virus most commonly causes an acute self-limiting febrile illness, it is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in high-risk groups and has a major economic impact on the community at large. We have the power to prevent these outcomes with annual influenza vaccine, and soon may have effective treatment for those who slip through the vaccination net.