With up to 50% of households affected, influenza has a significant impact on society. At the personal level, the duration and severity of influenza illness markedly disrupt family and social life. Furthermore, patients normally require someone to look after them, which immediately affects the lives of close family and friends. Life at home, work and school is often severely disrupted for 2 weeks or longer. In addition, adult patients unable to attend work may suffer a loss of income, adding to the burden on society.1–3
1. Szucs. J Antimicrob Chemother 1999;44:11–15.
2. Carrat et al. Arch Intern Med 2002;162:1842–8.
3. Keech et al. Occup Med 1998;48:85–90.