Estimation of influenza-attributable burden in primary care from season 2014/2015 to 2018/2019, France

Influenza viruses cause seasonal epidemics whose intensity varies according to the circulating virus type and subtype. We aim estimate influenza-like illness (ILI) incidence attributable influenza in France from October 2014 May 2019. Physicians participating French Sentinelles network reported number of patients with ILI seen consultation performed nasopharyngeal swabs a sample these patients. The were tested by RT-PCR for presence viruses. These clinical virological data combined subtypes age groups. rates over seasons ranged 1.9 (95% CI, 1.9; 2.0) 3.4% 3.2; 3.6) population. Each season, more than half cases influenza. Children under 15 years most affected, ranging 3.0 2.8;3.3) 5.7% 5.3;6.1). Co-circulation several (sub)types was observed each year, except 2016/2017 where A(H3N2) accounted 98.0% cases. Weekly incidences (sub)type mostly synchronized incidence, 2014/2015 2017/2018, B peaked few weeks later. burden medically attended among is significant France, varying considerably across results show importance surveillance primary care combining data.