Influenza in the Age of COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Very little data are available on how the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will affect influenza, and although new information is emerging daily, much remains to be learned. Infection-control measures undertaken as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly impacted the annual influenza season, with a substantial drop in positive influenza cases compared with previous years. Despite the lack of influenza circulation, data suggest that coinfection with influaenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 worsens disease severity and worsens prognosis. Although the spread of influenza decreased, misinformation has widely increased. Pharmacists have proven to be essential in the community, offering support not only in vaccine administration and point-of-care testing but also in combating misinformation through education.