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BMC Public Health
Published in: BMC Public Health 1/2014

Open Access 01-12-2014 | Research article

Influenza vaccines and influenza antiviral drugs in Africa: are they available and do guidelines for their use exist?

Authors: Jazmin Duque, Meredith L McMorrow, Adam L Cohen

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Background

Influenza viruses cause significant morbidity and mortality in Africa, particularly among high-risk groups, but influenza vaccines and antiviral drugs may not be commonly available and used. The main aim of this study was to determine the availability and use of influenza vaccines and antiviral drugs as well as to describe existing related guidelines and policies in Africa.

Methods

A self-administered survey was distributed among key influenza experts in 40 African countries.

Results

Of the 40 countries surveyed, 31 (78%) responded; 14/31 (45%) reported availability of seasonal influenza vaccine, and 19/31 (65%) reported availability of antiviral drugs for the treatment of influenza. Vaccine coverage data were only available for 4/14 (29%) countries that reported availability of seasonal influenza vaccine and ranged from <0.5% to 2% of the population.

Conclusions

Influenza vaccines and antiviral drugs are available in many countries in Africa but coverage estimates are low and remain largely unknown. Describing the local burden of disease and identifying funding are essential to encourage countries to use influenza vaccine more widely.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Influenza vaccines and influenza antiviral drugs in Africa: are they available and do guidelines for their use exist?
Authors
Jazmin Duque
Meredith L McMorrow
Adam L Cohen
Publication date
01-12-2014
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-14-41

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