Ireland Influenza Surveillance 2014-2015

[Ronan Kelly]

High death toll from flu among elderly last winter
Irish Independent
Eilish O'Regan
9 hrs ago

Higher than normal deaths were reported in people over 65 from the beginning of the year. The average age of those who died was 81.

The main virus circulating was the A(H3) strain which was only partly covered by the flu vaccine, and particularly affects the elderly.
...
"The total number of confirmed influenza cases hospitalised this season is the highest reported since 2010/2011," said the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.
...

http://www.msn.com/en-ie/news/other/high-death-toll-from-flu-among-elderly-last-winter/ar-BBkKKU6

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 20 2015 (11th ? 17th May 2015)

Summary
Overall, all indicators of influenza activity continued to decline and were at low levels in Ireland during
week 20 2015 (the week ending 17th May 2015).

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was low at 2.6 per
100,000 population in week 20 2015.
o ILI rates remained below the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population).
o Age specific ILI rates have remained low in all age groups in recent weeks.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services remained at low
levels during week 20 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained low during week 20 2015. Thirteen (6.2%) influenza positive specimens
were reported from the NVRL during week 20 2015, all of which were positive for influenza B.
o Influenza B has been the predominant influenza virus circulating since week 12 2015, albeit at low
levels.
o Low numbers of positive detections of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, parainfluenza
viruses and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) have been reported in recent weeks.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete respiratory admissions data reported from sentinel hospitals
was low.

 Hospitalisations: Eight confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week
ending 17th May 2015. For the 2014/2015 season to date, 978 confirmed influenza cases were reported as
hospitalised. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 59 years.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 53 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care
units and reported to HPSC: 25 associated with A(H3), nine with A(H1)pdm09, nine with influenza A (not
subtyped) and 10 with B. The median age of confirmed influenza cases admitted to critical care units to
date this season is 66 years.

 Mortality: Forty-one influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median
age of 81 years. Between weeks 2 - 10 2015, excess all-cause mortality was reported in Ireland in those
aged 65 years and older.

 Outbreaks: Three acute respiratory general outbreaks from HSE-S were reported to HPSC during the week
ending 17th May 2015: two outbreaks were associated with influenza A and one outbreak had no
pathogen identified. Of the 89 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority have
been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity remained at low levels. In the northern hemisphere influenza
activity was approaching inter-seasonal levels and in the southern hemisphere activity remained low.

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15185,en.pdf

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 15 2015 (6th ? 12th April 2015)
...
Summary
Overall, influenza activity decreased further in Ireland during the week ending 12th April 2015 (week 15
2015). Confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations have continued to decrease in recent weeks.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 14.0 per 100,000
population in week 15 2015, remaining stable compared to the updated rate of 11.9 per 100,000
population during week 14 2015.
o ILI rates remain below the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population).
o Age specific ILI rates have decreased significantly in all age groups in recent weeks.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased further during week 15 2015, with 29 (16.8%) influenza positive
specimens reported from the NVRL: 4 A(H3), 1 A(H1)pdm09 and 24 B.
o The number of influenza B positive specimens reported each week has been higher than influenza
A, since week 12 2015; however positive detections for both influenza A and influenza B have
continued to decrease.
o Sporadic positive detections of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, parainfluenza viruses
and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) have been reported in recent weeks.  Respiratory admissions: The latest complete respiratory admissions data reported from sentinel hospitals
was low.

 Hospitalisations: 35 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending
12th April 2015. For the 2014/2015 season to date, 874 confirmed influenza cases were reported as
hospitalised. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 60 years.

 Critical care admissions: One new confirmed influenza A(H3) case was admitted to a critical care unit and
reported to HPSC during week 15 2015. To date this season, 47 confirmed influenza cases were admitted
to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 23 associated with A(H3), eight with A(H1)pdm09, nine with
influenza A (not subtyped) and seven with B. The median age of confirmed influenza cases admitted to
critical care units to date this season is 68 years.

 Mortality: Thirty influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of
82 years. Between weeks 2 - 10 2015, excess all-cause mortality was reported in Ireland in those aged 65
years and older.

 Outbreaks: Two acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 12th
April 2015: one outbreak was associated with influenza B and one outbreak had no pathogen identified.
Of the 79 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority have been associated with
influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity has continued to decrease, however the proportion of
influenza positive specimens has remained high.
...

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15099,en.pdf

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 14 2015 (30th March ? 5th April 2015)


Summary

Overall, influenza activity decreased further in Ireland during the week ending 5th April 2015 (week 14 2015). Confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations continue to be reported at low levels.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 11.4 per 100,000 population in week 14 2015, a decrease compared to the updated rate of 16.4 per 100,000 population during week 13 2015.
o ILI rates remain below the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population).
o Age specific ILI rates have decreased significantly in all age groups in recent weeks.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased further during week 14 2015, with 37 (15.7%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 7 A(H3) and 30 B.
o The number of influenza B positive specimens was higher than influenza A(H3) during weeks 12, 13 and 14 2015, however overall positive detections for both influenza A(H3) and influenza B are decreasing. For the season to date, influenza A(H3) viruses have predominated.
o No positive detections of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus or parainfluenza viruses were reported during week 14 2015. Sporadic cases of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) continue to be reported each week.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete respiratory admissions data reported from sentinel hospitals decreased compared to recent weeks.

 Hospitalisations: 35 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 5 th April 2015. For the 2014/2015 season to date, 830 confirmed influenza cases were reported as hospitalised. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 61 years.

 Critical care admissions: No new confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC during week 14 2015. To date this season, 46 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 22 associated with A(H3), eight with A(H1)pdm09, nine with influenza A (not subtyped) and seven with B. The median age of confirmed influenza cases admitted to critical care units to date this season is 68 years.

 Mortality: Twenty-seven influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years. Between weeks 2 - 10 2015, excess all-cause mortality was reported in Ireland in those aged 65 years and older.

 Outbreaks: Three acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 5 th April 2015: two outbreaks were associated with influenza A(H3) and one with influenza B. Of the 78 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity decreased further but remained above the seasonal threshold in the northern hemisphere. While influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominated this season, the proportions of influenza B and influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have increased in the last few weeks.
...

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15093,en.pdf

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 13 2015 (23rd ? 29th March 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15086,en.pdf

Summary

Overall, influenza activity has decreased further in Ireland during the week ending 29th March 2015 (week 13 2015); confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations continue to be reported at low levels.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 16.0 per 100,000 population in week 13 2015, a decrease compared to the updated rate of 21.3 per 100,000 population during week 12 2015.
o ILI rates are now below the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population).
o Age specific ILI rates have decreased significantly in all age groups since the peak of influenza activity during weeks 7 and 8 2015.  GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services decreased during week 13 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased further during week 13 2015, with 52 (15.2%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 17 A(H3), 4 A(H1)pdm09 and 31 B.
o The number of influenza B positive specimens was higher than influenza A(H3) during weeks 12 and 13 2015, however positivity levels for both influenza A(H3) and influenza B are decreasing. Overall for the season to date, influenza A(H3) viruses have predominated.
o Sporadic detections of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), adenovirus and parainfluenza viruses continue to be reported each week.

 Respiratory admissions: Of the five sentinel hospitals that reported data during week 13 2015, all reported a decrease in respiratory admissions compared to the previous week.  Hospitalisations: 50 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 29th March 2015. For the 2014/2015 season to date, 795 confirmed influenza cases were reported as hospitalised. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 61 years.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 46 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 22 associated with A(H3), eight with A(H1)pdm09, nine with influenza A (not subtyped) and seven with B. The median age of confirmed influenza cases admitted to critical care units to date this season is 68 years.

 Mortality: Twenty-seven influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years. Between weeks 2 - 9 2015, excess all-cause mortality was reported in Ireland in those aged 65 years and older.

 Outbreaks: Five acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 29th March 2015: one outbreak was associated with influenza A, two with influenza B, one with RSV and one outbreak had no pathogen identified. Of the 75 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity is decreasing in most countries. Influenza A(H1)pdm09, A(H3) and B viruses continue to circulate in Europe, with increasing proportions of influenza B viruses detected.
...

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15086,en.pdf

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 12 2015 (16th ? 22nd March 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15065,en.pdf

Summary

Overall, influenza activity has decreased further in Ireland during the week ending 22nd March 2015 (week 12 2015); confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations continue to be reported at low levels.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 21.1 per 100,000 population in week 12 2015, a decrease compared to the updated rate of 31.8 per 100,000 population during week 10 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population) for 11 consecutive weeks.
o Age specific ILI rates have decreased significantly in all age groups since the peak of influenza activity during weeks 7 and 8 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services increased slightly during week 12 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased further during week 12 2015, with 58 (18.2%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 21 A(H3), 8 A(H1)pdm09, 1 A (not subtyped) and 28 B.
o Influenza A(H3), A(H1)pdm09 and influenza B continue to circulate in community and hospital settings.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity is currently at low levels.  Respiratory admissions: Respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals increased slightly during week 12 2015, although remain well below peak levels reported in late December 2014/early January 2015.

 Hospitalisations: 41 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 22nd March 2015, a marked decrease from 172 cases notified during the previous week. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 61 years.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 43 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 21 associated with A(H3), seven with A(H1)pdm09, eight with influenza A (not subtyped) and seven with B.

 Mortality: Twenty-seven influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years. Between weeks 2 - 9 2015, excess all-cause mortality was reported in Ireland in those aged 65 years and older.

 Outbreaks: Two acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 22nd March 2015: one outbreak was associated with influenza A and one acute respiratory outbreak had no pathogen identified. Of the 72 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity continues to circulate at medium levels, but has passed its peak in most countries.

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 11 2015 (9th ? 15th March 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15061,en.pdf

Summary
Overall, influenza activity has decreased in Ireland during the week ending 15th March 2015 (week 11 2015),
however confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations continue to be reported.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 34.8 per 100,000
population in week 11 2015, remaining stable compared to the updated rate of 29.6 per 100,000
population during week 10 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population) for ten
consecutive weeks.
o Age specific ILI rates increased slightly in the 15-64 year age group and in those aged 65 years and
older during week 11 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services decreased for the
fourth consecutive week during week 11 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased during week 11 2015, with 82 (24.6%) influenza positive specimens
reported from the NVRL: 42 A(H3), 12 A(H1)pdm09, 3 A (not subtyped) and 25 B.
o Influenza A(H3) remains the predominant circulating influenza virus this season, with both influenza
A(H1)pdm09 and influenza B also currently circulating. o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity is currently at low levels.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of
sentinel hospitals decreased.

 Hospitalisations: 171 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending
15th March 2015, an increase from 106 cases notified during the previous week. It is important to note
that the majority of notified hospitalised influenza cases during week 11 2015 were late notifications. The
median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 61 years.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 42 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care
units and reported to HPSC: 21 associated with A(H3), six with A(H1)pdm09, 8 with influenza A (not
subtyped) and seven with B.

 Mortality: Nineteen influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median
age of 81 years.

 Outbreaks: Twelve acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 15th
March 2015: 10 of these outbreaks were associated with influenza and two acute respiratory outbreaks
had no pathogens identified. Of the 71 confirmed influenza outbreaks reported this season, the majority
have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity continues to circulate at medium levels, but has passed its peak
in most countries.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 10 2015 (2nd ? 8th March 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15058,en.pdf

Summary Overall, influenza activity has decreased in Ireland during the week ending 8th March 2015 (week 10 2015), however confirmed influenza outbreaks and hospitalisations continue to be reported.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 29.6 per 100,000 population in week 10 2015, a significant decrease compared to the updated rate of 51.1 per 100,000 population during week 9 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (18.2/100,000 population) for nine consecutive weeks. It should be noted that HPSC in consultation with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have revised the Irish baseline threshold for the 2014/2015 influenza season to 18.2 per 100,000 population.
o Age specific ILI rates decreased in all age groups during week 10 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services decreased during week 10 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained elevated during week 10 2015, with 126 (24.3%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 82 A(H3), 14 A(H1)pdm09, 6 A (not subtyped) and 24 B.
o Influenza A(H3) remains the predominant circulating influenza virus this season, with both influenza A(H1)pdm09 and influenza B also currently circulating.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity is currently at low levels.

 Hospitalisations: 100 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 8 th March 2015, an increase from 89 cases reported during the previous week. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 56 years.
 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 40 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 18 associated with A(H3), four with A(H1)pdm09, 12 with influenza A (not subtyped) and six with B.

 Mortality: Nineteen influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years.

 Outbreaks: Seven acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 8 th March 2015: five of these outbreaks were associated with influenza A (H3), one with influenza B and one acute respiratory outbreak had no pathogen identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity continued to increase in eastern and central countries of the WHO European Region, but is decreasing in western countries. Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2) and influenza B viruses continued to circulate in Europe, with A(H3N2) predominating, despite increasing detections of influenza B.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 9 2015 (23rd February ? 1st March 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15053,en.pdf

Summary

Influenza activity in Ireland remained elevated in community and hospital settings during the week ending 1 st March 2015 (week 9 2015), with some indicators of influenza activity decreasing.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 53.4 per 100,000 population in week 9 2015, a decrease compared to the updated rate of 60.0 per 100,000 population during week 8 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0/100,000 population) for eight consecutive weeks.
o ILI rates were highest in 5-14 year olds during week 9 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services decreased during week 9 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained elevated during week 9 2015, with 128 (25.3%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 102 A(H3), 11 A(H1)pdm09, 6 A (not subtyped) and 9 B.
o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has continued to decrease since the peak of activity during the last two weeks in December.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 86 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 1 st March 2015, a decrease from 116 cases reported during the previous week. The median age of confirmed influenza hospitalised cases to date this season is 58 years.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 29 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 13 associated with A(H3), two with A(H1)pdm09, 11 with A not subtyped and three with B.

 Mortality: Fifteen influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years.  Outbreaks: Ten acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 1 st March 2015: five of these outbreaks were associated with influenza and five acute respiratory outbreaks had no pathogens identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, increased influenza activity has continued, in particular in western and central European countries. The number and percentage of influenza virus detections in sentinel specimens showed a slight reduction in what might be described as a high plateau phase of the influenza season.

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 8 2015 (16th ? 22nd February 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15041,en.pdf

Summary
Influenza activity in Ireland remained elevated in community and hospital settings during the week ending 22nd February 2015 (week 8 2015).
 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 59.5 per 100,000 population in week 8 2015, a decrease compared to the updated rate of 70.4 per 100,000 population during week 7 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0/100,000 population) for seven consecutive weeks.
o ILI rates were highest in 5-14 and 15-64 year olds during week 8 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services remained elevated during week 8 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained high during week 8 2015, with 179 (35.7%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 136 A(H3), 13 A(H1)pdm09, 12 A (not subtyped) and 18 B.
o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has continued to decrease since the peak of activity during the last two weeks in December.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 114 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 22nd February 2015, an increase compared to the previous week.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 27 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: 11 associated with A(H3), two with A(H1)pdm09, 11 with A (not subtyped) and three with B.

 Mortality: Fifteen influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 81 years.

 Outbreaks: Twelve acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 22nd February 2015: eight of these outbreaks were associated with influenza and four acute respiratory outbreaks had no pathogens identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: In Europe, influenza activity continued, in particular in western and central European countries. The overall proportion of influenza positive specimens and the total number of sentinel influenza virus detections decreased slightly which may be indicative of several countries having passed the peak of influenza activity.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 7 2015 (9th ? 15th February 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15030,en.pdf

Summary Influenza activity in Ireland increased in community and hospital settings during the week ending 15th February 2015 (week 7 2015).

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 67.5 per 100,000 population in week 7 2015, a significant increase compared to the updated rate of 36.9 per 100,000 population during week 6 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0/100,000 population) for six consecutive weeks.
o ILI rates increased in 5-14 and 15-64 year olds and in those aged 65 years or older during week 7 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services remained elevated during week 7 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL): o Influenza positivity increased during week 7 2015, with 162 (31.0%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 117 A(H3), 19 A(H1)pdm09, 12 A (not subtyped) and 14 B.
o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has continued to decrease since the peak of activity during the last two weeks in December.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 58 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 15th February 2015, an increase compared to the previous week.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 20 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: seven associated with A(H3), two with A(H1)pdm09, 10 with A (not subtyped) and one with B.

 Mortality: Ten influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 83 years.

 Outbreaks: Sixteen acute respiratory general outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 15th February 2015: 12 of these outbreaks were associated with influenza, one outbreak was associated with human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and three acute respiratory outbreaks had no pathogens identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity remained high in the northern hemisphere with influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominating this season.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 6 2015 (2nd ? 8th February 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15025,en.pdf

Summary Influenza activity in Ireland has continued at moderate levels; with an increase in confirmed influenza outbreaks during week 6 2015.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 36.8 per 100,000 population in week 6 2015, remaining low, and stable compared to the updated rate of 37.3 per 100,000 population during week 5 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0/100,000 population) for five consecutive weeks.
o ILI rates were highest in those aged 65 years or older during week 6 2015.  GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services increased during week 6 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained elevated during week 6 2015, with 100 (23.8%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 86 A(H3), 3 A(H1)pdm09, 6 A (not subtyped) and 5 B.
o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has decreased significantly in recent weeks. o Positive detections of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) have increased in recent weeks.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 47 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 8 th February 2015.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 15 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: five associated with A(H3), two with A(H1)pdm09, seven with A (not subtyped) and one with B.

 Mortality: Ten influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, with a median age of 83 years.

 Outbreaks: Seven acute respiratory outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 8 th February 2015: six associated with influenza A(H3) and one associated with human metapneumovirus. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity remained high in the northern hemisphere with influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominating this season.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 5 2015 (26th January ? 1st February 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15022,en.pdf

Summary

Influenza activity in Ireland has continued at moderate levels; with an increase in hospitalised confirmed influenza cases and ongoing reports of confirmed influenza outbreaks during week 5 2015.
 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 32.9 per 100,000 population in week 5 2015, remaining low, and stable compared to the updated rate of 31.1 per 100,000 population during week 4 2015.
o ILI rates have remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0/100,000 population) for four consecutive weeks.
o ILI rates were highest in the 15-64 year age groups during week 5 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services increased during week 5 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity remained elevated during week 5 2015, with 81 (20.7%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 61 A(H3), 3 A(H1)pdm09, 9 A (not subtyped) and 8 B.
o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has decreased significantly in recent weeks.
o Positive detections of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) have increased in recent weeks.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 44 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending 1 st February 2015, a significant increase compared to 18 cases reported during the previous week.

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, 11 confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC: three associated with A(H3), three with A(H1)pdm09, four with A (not subtyped) and one with B.

 Mortality: Six influenza-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, five associated with influenza A(H3) and one with influenza A (not subtyped).

 Outbreaks: Five acute respiratory outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending 1 st February 2015: two associated with influenza A(H3), one with influenza A (not subtyped) and two with no pathogens identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity was high in the northern hemisphere with influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominating this season. Antigenic characterisation of most recent A(H3N2) viruses this season indicated differences from the A(H3N2) virus used in the influenza vaccines for the northern hemisphere 2014/2015. Vaccination of the elderly and other risk groups is still recommended, as the A(H3N2) component is expected to reduce the likelihood of severe outcomes due to cross-protection, and both the A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza B components are expected to be effective. The latest ECDC risk assessment on seasonal influenza for the 2014/2015 season in Europe is available here.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report Influenza Week 4 2015 (19th - 25th January 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15020,en.pdf

Summary

Influenza activity in Ireland is slowly increasing; with an increase in influenza positivity and confirmed influenza outbreaks reported during week 4 2015.
 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 31.3 per 100,000 population in week 4 2015, remaining low, and stable compared to the updated rate of 30.4 per 100,000 population during week 3 2015.
o ILI rates remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0 per 100,000 population)
o ILI rates increased in the 0-4 and 5-14 year age groups during week 4 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services increased slightly during week 4 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL): o Influenza positivity increased during week 4 2015, with 81 (23.5%) influenza positive specimens reported from the NVRL: 73 A(H3), 1 A(H1)pdm09, 4 A (not subtyped) and 3 B. o Influenza A(H3) is the predominant circulating influenza virus this season. o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity has decreased significantly in recent weeks.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of sentinel hospitals were elevated.

 Hospitalisations: 18 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending January 25th 2015: 15 associated with influenza A(H3), one with influenza A(H1)pdm09 and two with influenza A (not subtyped).

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, eight confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care units and reported to HPSC, two were associated with influenza A(H3), three with influenza A(H1)pdm09, two with influenza A (not subtyped) and one with influenza B.

 Mortality: Six influenza A-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season, five associated with influenza A(H3) and one with influenza A (not subtyped).

 Outbreaks: Eight acute respiratory outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending January 25th 2015: six associated with influenza A(H3), one with RSV and one with no pathogen identified. The majority of confirmed influenza outbreaks this season have been associated with influenza A(H3) in community hospitals/residential care facilities for the elderly.

 International: Globally, influenza activity was high in the northern hemisphere with influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominating this season. Antigenic characterisation of most recent A(H3N2) viruses this season indicated differences from the A(H3N2) virus used in the influenza vaccines for the northern hemisphere 2014/2015. As a consequence of the mismatch between vaccine and circulating strains, reduced vaccine effectiveness is expected. Vaccination of the elderly and other risk groups is still recommended, as the A(H3N2) component is expected to reduce the likelihood of severe outcomes due to cross-protection, and both the A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza B components are expected to be effective. The latest ECDC risk assessment on seasonal influenza for the 2014/2015 season in Europe is available here.

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 3 2015 (12th- 18th January 2015)

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15016,en.pdf

Summary
Influenza activity stabilised in Ireland during week 3 2015, remaining at relatively low levels.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 30.4 per 100,000
population in week 3 2015, remaining low, and stable compared to the updated rate of 30.1 per 100,000
population during week 2 2015.
o ILI rates remained above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0 per 100,000 population)
o ILI rates increased in the 0-4 and 5-14 year age groups during week 3 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services decreased slightly
during week 3 2015.  National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity decreased slightly during week 3 2015, with 36 (13.2%) influenza positive
specimens reported from the NVRL: 28 A(H3), 1 A(H1)pdm09, 4 A (not subtyped) and 3 B.
o Influenza A(H3) has been the predominant circulating influenza virus this season.
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity decreased significantly during week 3 2015.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of
sentinel hospitals were elevated, as expected at his time of year.

 Hospitalisations: 17 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending
January 18th 2015: 10 associated with influenza A(H3), one associated with influenza A(H1)pdm09 and six
associated with influenza A (not subtyped).

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, two confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care
and reported to HPSC, one associated with influenza A(H3) and one associated with influenza
A(H1)pdm09.

 Mortality: Four influenza A(H3)-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season.

 Outbreaks: Two acute respiratory outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending January 18th 2015: one associated with influenza A(H3) and one with no pathogen identified.

 International: Globally, influenza activity continued to increase in the northern hemisphere with influenza
A(H3N2) viruses predominating this season. Antigenic characterisation of most recent A(H3N2) viruses this
season indicated differences from the A(H3N2) virus used in the influenza vaccines for the northern
hemisphere 2014/2015. Vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing infection by seasonal
influenza viruses.
...

[Ronan Kelly]

Influenza Surveillance in Ireland ? Weekly Report
Influenza Week 2 2015 (5th ? 11th January 2015)

Summary
Influenza-like illness GP consultation rates increased above baseline levels for the first time this season,
during week 2 2015. Influenza activity remained at low levels in Ireland during week 2 2015; however most
indicators of influenza activity are increasing.

 Influenza-like illness (ILI): The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate was 29.0 per 100,000
population in week 2 2015, remaining low, however increasing above baseline levels for the first time this
season.
o ILI rates are above the Irish baseline threshold (21.0 per 100,000 population)
o ILI rates increased in the 5-14 and 15-64 year age groups during week 2 2015.

 GP Out of Hours: The proportion of influenza?related calls to GP Out-of-Hours services remained stable
during week 2 2015.

 National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL):
o Influenza positivity increased during week 2 2015, with 48 influenza positive specimens reported
from the NVRL: 45 influenza A(H3), 1 A(H1)pdm09 and 2 influenza A (not subtyped).
o Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) positivity decreased further during week 2 2015, however remained
at elevated levels, as expected at his time of year.

 Respiratory admissions: The latest complete data on respiratory admissions reported from a network of
sentinel hospitals were elevated, as expected at his time of year.

 Hospitalisations: 15 confirmed influenza hospitalised cases were notified to HPSC during the week ending
January 10th 2015: 12 associated with influenza A(H3) and three associated with influenza A (not
subtyped).

 Critical care admissions: To date this season, two confirmed influenza cases were admitted to critical care
and reported to HPSC, one associated with influenza A(H3) and one associated with influenza
A(H1)pdm09.

 Mortality: Three influenza A(H3)-associated deaths have been reported to HPSC this season.

 Outbreaks: Eight acute respiratory outbreaks were reported to HPSC during the week ending January 10th
2015: four associated with influenza A, two with RSV, and two with unknown pathogens.

 International: Globally, influenza activity continued to increase in the northern hemisphere with influenza
A(H3N2) viruses predominating so far this season.
...

http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Respiratory/Influenza/SeasonalInfluenza/Surveillance/InfluenzaSurveillanceReports/20142015Season/File,15010,en.pdf