Clinical and demographic characteristics of patients hospitalized for Influenza during the 2024/2025 season

Background: Seasonal flu represents a significant public health challenge and cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among vulnerable populations. The aim of our study is to describe demographic and clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized for laboratory of confirmed influenza during the 2024/2025. season.Methods: The data of patients hospitalized in the Clinic for infectious diseas of the University Clinical Center of the Republic of Srpska from December 2024 to March 2025 were restrospectively analyzed. The diagnosis of influenza was confirmed by PCR testing from a nasopharyngeal swab. Data were collected on age, sex, comorbidities, laboratory findings, therapy, the need for oxygen support and mechanical ventilation, the outcome of treatment.Results: A total of 175 patients, average age 63, were hospitalized. Influenza A was confirmed by PCR test in 78 (44.6%), and Influenza B in 20 patients (11.4%). The most common symptoms on admission were fever, cough and muscle pain. Chronic diseases were present in 155 patients (88.6%), while only 12 patients (6.9%) were vaccinated against influenza. Pneumonia was radiographically diagnosed in 102 patients (58%). Antiviral therapy was used in 160 patients (91.4%). 54 patients (30.9%) required oxygen support, while 7 patients (4%) were on mechanical ventilation. A fatal outcome was recorded in 8 patients (4.6%).Conclusion: Low vaccination rate and high proportion of chronic diseases among the hospitalized indicates to patients the need for stronger vaccination promotion and early intervention in risk groups. Timely diagnosis and adequate therapy remain key factors in prevention of severe forms of disease and reduction of mortality.