H1N1 flu virus causes 66% of deaths from influenza in 2018, according to the Ministry of Health | Welfare

The Ministry of Health explains that the H1N1 virus circulates more in the Brazilian territory. The record also says that all subtypes are equally disturbing, with no more lethality in any of them.

Last year, the report indicated that the H3N2 was responsible for the largest number of cases – the number is also a reflection of an increased circulation of the virus on the territory.

Data were recorded between January and June 23, according to the Ministry of Health.The influenza virus (influenza) is divided into types and subtypes. The letters (A and B, for example) refer to the type, since the forms (H3N2, H1N1) are subtypes.

See deaths and cases divided by type and subtype of influenza:

• H1N1: 2124 cases and 399 deaths;
• H3N2: 728 cases and 102 deaths;
• Influenza B: 296 cases and 40 deaths;
• Influenza A not subtyped: 410 cases and 67 deaths.

According to the Ministry of Health, most deaths have occurred in people with diseases that increase the risk of complications of the virus. Many were heart patients with diabetes or had previous respiratory problems.

The mortality rate of influenza in Brazil is 0.29% per 100,000 inhabitants, according to the report.

National campaign, coverage and remaining doses

The national flu vaccination campaign began on April 23 and continued until Friday (22). On Monday (25), some cities with a stockpile of vaccines expanded immunization with advice from the Ministry of Health.

Children aged 5 to 9 and adults aged 50 to 59 now receive a free indication in areas where doses are available.

On Friday (22), 17 capitals announced that they were going to expand the campaign.

Group with indication of free vaccination (depends on the availability of doses in the cities):

1. Teachers of the public and private network;
2. Health professionals
3. Children between 6 months and 9 years;
4. Pregnant women;
5. Women with recent birth (up to 45 days);
6. Adults between 50 and 59 years old;
7. Seniors from 60 years old;
8. Indigenous Peoples
9. Carriers of chronic diseases;
10. Population deprived of liberty (includes penitentiary staff and juvenile offenders).

In total, the Ministry of Health managed to reach 86.1% of the target audience by Friday (25). Pregnant women and children had the lowest coverage (73.4% and 73.2%).

Influenza Immunization Index by Group (2018)

Data between April 23 and June 25, 2018

Source: National Immunization Program / Ministry of Health

Among the regions, the Southeast has the lowest coverage to date (81%), according to the Ministry of Health.