A Trilogy of Influenza, Immunization, and Antimicrobial Resistance: A Review Article

Abstract

Influenza virus could lead in a mild acute respiratory illness or severe systemic and respiratory disease, therefore, during the activity of influenza considerable number of respiratory syndromes and complications can be related to this virus. On the other hand, risk for concomitant and post-influenza bacterial complications threat is not huge enough to consider to prescribe empiric antibiotics. Influenza vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related visits every year. Influenza immunization has clear effects on disease burden as well as the number of patients with resistant disease acquired and transmitted in communities. Vaccination program indirectly diminishes antibiotic use and reduces the exposure of bacteria to antibiotics and consequently selective pressure for resistance. It seems there is definite evidence to consider annual influenza immunization in antimicrobial stewardship program and promote the global and national health quality. Hereby, we review scientific evidence of direct and indirect effects of influenza as well as the influence of vaccination and prevention program health systems.