Atypical epidemic of influenza and acute respiratory illness (ARI) in Ukraine in 2009/2010

Background: The „new“ 2009 A(H1N1) pandemic influenza has spread to more than 213 countries worldwide and caused 16,931 deaths since its first detection in April 2009. In Ukraine influenza/ARI are normally characterized through seasonality, mass coverage and longstanding cycling. The 2009/2010 influenza season started significantly earlier than usual, marked by rapid increase in consultations, fatal cases of pneumonia complications and cases of 2009 pandemic influenza. Methods: To graphically describe the 2009/2010 epidemic of influenza/ARI in Ukraine, official data (29.10.09–23.03.10) published by Ministry of H…