Seasonal influenza is responsible for up to 650,000 respiratory disease deaths annually worldwide, according to an analysis published today.
A decade ago researchers estimated that flu was responsible for up to 500,000 deaths from all causes.
The new analysis suggests a much higher toll of deaths from respiratory diseases along – and is based on a study of many more countries than in the past.
The findings, from the World Health Organisation and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are published in The Lancet today.
WHO said the findings highlighted the need for global cooperation to control the virus and prepare for pandemics.
Dr Peter Salama, from WHO, said: “These figures indicate the high burden of influenza and its substantial social and economic cost to the world.
“They highlight the importance of influenza prevention for seasonal epidemics, as well as preparedness for pandemics.”
He added: “All countries, rich and poor, large and small, must work together to control influenza outbreaks before the arrival of the next pandemic.
“This includes building capacity to detect and respond to outbreaks, and strengthening health systems to improve the health of the most vulnerable and those most at risk.”
Lancet 14 December 2017
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