[Economic prerequisites of active influenza prevention]

Abstract

Influenza and other acute infections of the upper respiratory tract are characterized by a high morbidity and mortality. As a result, they entail not only human but also economic consequences. A typical treatment is nonspecific and conservative. It consists of treatment with nonsteroid antiinflammatory drugs, antitussive drugs, hydratation, etc. Influenza is very often associated with complications especially in high risk groups (children, the elderly, chronically-ill people). The cost of treatment increases because of raising costs of pharmacotherapy and the increased absence from work. Vaccination is a safe and morbidity-diminishing method.