High number of ICU admissions for influenza even though the epidemic threshold has not yet been reached: 75 severe cases

In Week 3, in mainland France, 26 new severe cases of influenza admitted to intensive care were reported to the InVS, bringing the total to 75 severe cases since November 1, 2013. Ages ranged from 10 months to 97 years, with a median age of 60 years. The patients were predominantly adults with risk factors, unvaccinated, and infected with influenza A (Table). Among them, 5 cases died. In Limousin, no severe cases were reported. The number of severe cases admitted to intensive care is higher than the number expected prior to the onset of the epidemic. Compared with data from previous years, admitted patients do not appear to have more severe forms of the disease. This number may be inflated by improved influenza screening in intensive care units but more likely reflects the circulation of the A(H1N1) pdm09 virus. Consequently, vaccination and prompt care for individuals at risk of influenza complications are all the more urgent.