Abstract:
INTRODUCTION:
Little information is available on the evolution of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09-related mortality in Brazil.
METHODS:
During the period 2009-2014, official epidemiological surveillance and mortality data were used to ascertain influenza-related deaths in the Santa Catarina State in Brazil.
RESULTS:
The highest overall mortality rate (2.3 per 100,000) was observed in 2009. Pregnant women constituted the highest risk group (mortality rate 18.0 per 100,000). Following vaccination of high-risk groups, the rate reduced sharply but peaked again in 2012. It subsequently decreased, albeit more gradually.
CONCLUSIONS:
Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 mortality demonstrated a cyclic pattern, with two peaks followed by a gradual decrease.
Keywords:
Influenza A (H1N1); Mortality rate; Brazil