What is Influenza?

Influenza also called flu is an acute viral respiratory infection, transmitted by the influenza virus. This virus has three main types A, B and C. Influenza A is classified into different subtypes. The currently circulating seasonal viruses are A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2) and influenza B viruses. The flu viruses are typically in circulation in the winter months in South Africa with an average start of the first week of June, although this varies.

Influenza Guidelines (2023)
Influenza FAQ document (2022)
Influenza Info (2022)
Influenza FAQ document for parents and caregivers (2019)
Influenza recommendation for the diagnosis, management, prevention and public health response guidelines(2024)

All specimens that are sent to the Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Meningitis for diagnostic testing are submitted together with a specimen submission form.

SPECIMEN SUBMISSION FORM

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