Rapid decline of seasonal influenza during the outbreak of COVID-19
Grant M. Young, Xiaohua Peng, André Rebaza, Santos Bermejo, De Chang, Lokesh Sharma, Charles S. Dela Cruz
Abstract
Seasonal influenza is a leading cause of disease worldwide, resulting in as many as 650 000 deaths on a yearly basis [1]. Vaccination is the cornerstone of influenza prevention, but its efficacy is limited by the accuracy in predicting circulating strains. Epidemiological methods such as social distancing, the use of protective face masks and frequent hand washing are not routinely practiced in influenza prevention. In contrast, these methods have been widely applied during the COVID-19 outbreak. In this study, we investigated how this year's influenza season has been impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The implementation of public health measures during the #COVID19 pandemic may also help to reduce transmission of respiratory illnesses such as influenza <https://bit.ly/2BmysRJ>