Influenza

Background Information

Influenza, or "flu", attacks significant numbers of people of all ages each winter. It is an infection of the respiratory tract caused by the influenza virus. Influenza tends to cause a more severe illness than most other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. Although nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea can sometimes accompany influenza infection, especially in children, these symptoms are not often the main ones.

Most people who get influenza recover completely in 1 to 2 weeks, but a few develop serious and potentially life-threatening medical complications, such as pneumonia. Influenza-related complications can occur at any age; however, the elderly, the very young and people with chronic health problems are more likely to develop serious complications than younger, healthier people.

The data in this report, compiled from a number of sources, provide historical information about patterns and trends in influenza outbreaks up to and including winter 2006/07. It offers insight into how influenza impacts on the health of people in Scotland and on general practices, which are at the frontline in dealing with this illness. Data were sourced from Health Protection Scotland (HPS), who compile data from the SERVIS (Scottish Enhanced Respiratory Viral Infection Surveillance) scheme, GP flu-spotter practices, laboratory reports and other sources, from Practice Team Information (PTI), who collect data from a sample of general practices in Scotland, and from the Prescribing Information System (PIS), both part of ISD Scotland.

                                                                                                                                                         

Related influenza information:
 Introduction
 GP Consultations
 Vaccinations
 Surveillance