Clinical progress note: Influenza

Abstract

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory pathogen with a significant persisting global burden despite decades of scientific advancement. Vaccines have profoundly affected the natural history of influenza to become our most effective means of prevention. In these times of increasing vaccine hesitancy, there is a need for an ongoing strong endorsement of the annual influenza vaccine to prevent severe illness, reduce hospitalizations/deaths, protect vulnerable populations, and minimize community spread.