Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Arizona Influenza Activity 2003-2004

Summary of 2003-2004 influenza season

Season's summary
Lab surveillance
Influenza-like illness sentinel surveillance

2003-2004 Season summary of flu activity

Influenza activity during the 2003-2004 season first became widespread in Arizona in the week ending 12/6/2003 (week 49) and dropped back to regional after 1/3/2004 (week 53). The peak of activity in Arizona and in many states was much earlier this year than usual. The predominant strain identified nationally was influenza A/Fujian(H3N2). Five influenza-associated deaths among Arizona children were confirmed in the 2003-2004 season.

Lab surveillance

The Arizona State Laboratory confirmed and subtyped 107 cases of influenza A during the 2003-2004 influenza season. These isolates were all influenza A(H3N2). Arizona's first laboratory-confirmed case was identified in mid-October. An additional 11 isolates were identified as influenza A but could not be subtyped, and one isolate was identified as influenza B.

Influenza-like illness (ILI) surveillance from sentinel providers

Influenza-like illness (ILI) surveillance measures the proportion of patient visits to sentinel providers for ILI out of the total visits each week. The peak of ILI during the 2003-2004 season occurred in the week ending 12/13/2003.