Comparison of influenza epidemiological characteristics before and after the epidemic of COVID-19

Abstract

Abstract
This study compares the epidemiological characteristics of influenza before and after the COVID-19 pandemic to assess the impact of public health interventions on influenza transmission. Surveillance data from multiple influenza seasons preceding and following the onset of COVID-19 were analyzed, focusing on incidence rates, age distribution, seasonal patterns, and subtype prevalence. Results show a significant decline in influenza cases and altered seasonal peaks after the emergence of COVID-19, likely due to widespread non-pharmaceutical interventions such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and enhanced hygiene. Changes in age-specific infection rates and circulating influenza strains were also observed. The findings underscore the influence of COVID-19 control measures on influenza dynamics and provide valuable insights for future respiratory disease prevention strategies.