Abstract
Influenza is a relatively serious infection that is a cause of morbidity in hundreds of thousands of people in the Czech Republic every year, resulting in unnecessary deaths. The highest incidence is reported in schoolchildren and young adults; the death rates are highest among the elderly.
Currently, influenza is one of few viral infections that can cause a difficult-to-manage pneumonia and/or even lead to sudden death. Most deaths due to an infection with a pandemic virus were primarily associated with a rapidly developing respiratory failure.
Vaccination remains to be the most important method of preventing influenza and its possible serious complications. Moreover, following basic hygiene habits, including hand hygiene, is of importance in preventing the spread of the disease.