Magnitude and associated factors of influenza like illness cases among influenza like illness sentinel sites in Addis Ababa

Abstract

Abstract Background: In the middle- and low-income countries, Acute respiratory infections constitute a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite this, there is limited information on influenza related magnitude and associated risk factor studies in Ethiopia. Objectives: The main objective of the study was to assess the magnitude and factors associated with influenza-like illness cases among influenza- like illness surveillance sentinel sites in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Virologic, throat swabs sample and epidemiological data were collected. The sample were tested using molecular amplification method. Descriptive statistics was employed to describe variables. A multivariable logistic regression model was applied to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence interval for factors associated with influenza. A P value of < 0.05 was used for statistical significance. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25 software. Data was presented using table, graphs and charts. Result: Among 422 enrolled ILI cases seeking medical attention, 50.5% were male. Runny nose (69.4%), headache (58.5%), and sore throat (35.8%) were the most frequent symptoms. Influenza A (83.3%) predominated over B (17%), with all A subtypes being AH1N1. Logistic regression for adults over the age of 18 identified significant associations with influenza for sex (AOR 3.13, 95% CI: 1.346-7.197), marital status (AOR 2.614, 95% CI:1.023-5.68), comorbidity category (AOR 2.881, 95% CI:1.056-7.860), antiviral drug use (AOR 0.077, 95% CI: 0.011-0.553) and close contact (AOR 0.216, 95% CI:0.063-0.736). The variables under the study were not significantly associated with influenza for children under the age of eighteen years.

Conclusion and recommendations: High influenza (15.6%) found in Addis Ababa ILI cases, affecting young females (<15) most. Both A and B types present. Sex, pre-existing medical conditions, recent exposure, and close contact linked to influenza for adults over the age of eighteen. The increased morbidity in this season should inform the government to prepare vaccinations at least for high-risk groups, studying other similar viruses and education are crucial. Keywords : Influenza, Sentinel Sites, Surveillance, Addis Ababa, Ethiopian.