The burden of influenza B: a structured literature review

Abstract

We reviewed the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, disease severity, and economic burden of influenza B as reported in the peer-reviewed published literature. We used MEDLINE to perform a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed, English-language literature published between 1995 and 2010. Widely variable frequency data were reported. Clinical presentation of influenza B was similar to that of influenza A, although we observed conflicting reports. Influenza B-specific data on hospitalization rates, length of stay, and economic outcomes were limited but demonstrated that the burden of influenza B can be significant. The medical literature demonstrates that influenza B can pose a significant burden to the global population. The comprehensiveness and quality of reporting on influenza B, however, could be substantially improved. Few articles described complications. Additional data regarding the incidence, clinical burden, and economic impact of influenza B would augment our understanding of the disease and assist in vaccine development.

FIGURE 1—

Influenza B activity, as indicated by proportion of samples testing positive for influenza B in Europe and the United States, 1994–2011. Note. Data on influenza B activity in Europe from the European Influenza Surveillance Network are unavailable before 2000. Source. Data were obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the European Influenza Surveillance Network.

FIGURE 2—

Flowchart of article selection and review process of influenza B literature, 1995–2010.