Epidemiology and clinical manifestations of pandemic a(h1n1)pdm09 in casablanca-morocco : may 2009– may 2010

Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 emerged in Mexico and United States and spread throughout the world over a short period of time. The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic, clinical manifestations and epidemiologic characteristics of influenza H1N1pdm09 associated to confirmed influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 in Casablanca. From 07 May, 2009 to 17 May 2010, 1347 nasopharyngeal swab from patients with clinical evidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) were tested for pandemic A(H1N1)pdm09 virus, using One-Step Real-Time RT-PCR. Demographic data, symptoms, exposure and co-morbidity conditions were documented. Of 1347 nasopharyngeal swab 489 (36.3%) were positive and 858 (63.7%) were negative. The Maximum positive cases were found in the age group of 15-44 yr, (46.4%) followed by 5-14 yr (32.3%) and the low positive cases was found in the age group > 65 yr(1.7%). Fever (82.4%), Cough (80.2%), Sore throat (47%), Headache (44.6%), Rhinitis (46.4%) and Myalgia (28.6%), were the most commonly reported symptoms in the A(H1N1)pdm09 positive group, but gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea, were not commonly reported (9.2%), (4.7%) respectively. The prevalence of Influenza A(H1N1 is high in the younger population. Continuous monitoring is essential for evaluation and surveillance to be prepared for and able to control future influenza activities.