Dear all
I have been asked to investigate the "influenza epidemic" in the UK in early
January. I have checked BBC news, Eurpoean Influenza Surveillance Scheme and
PHS in the UK on the WWW and can find no trace of the "epidemic" apart from
denials, news about the bed shortage, and data about consultation rates. My
bosses are particularly interested because of a reported 3000 deaths,
although again I can find no data to support (apart from the usual seasonal
increase in respiratory deaths). Can any point me in the direction of some
decent data on
1. mortality directly attributable to influenza
2. influenza vaccination uptake rates 1998/99 season
3. Causes of the bed shortage.
regards
Andrew Jull
Auckland Hospital
New Zealand
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