Open AccessInfluence of meteorological parameters in the seasonality of influenza viruses circulating in Northern Cameroon
Author(s) -
Munshili Njifon Hermann Landry,
Monamele Chavely Gwladys,
Kengne Nde Cyprien,
Vernet MarieAstrid,
Bouba Gake,
Tchatchouang Serges,
Njankouo Mohamadou Ripa,
Tapondjou Raphaël,
Deweerdt Louis,
Mbacham Wilfred,
Njouom Richard
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
influenza and other respiratory viruses
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.743
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1750-2659
pISSN - 1750-2640
DOI - 10.1111/irv.12612
Subject(s) - seasonal influenza , relative humidity , seasonality , subtropics , humidity , climatology , environmental science , veterinary medicine , atmospheric sciences , meteorology , geography , medicine , biology , covid-19 , infectious disease (medical specialty) , ecology , disease , geology
Background Several studies have demonstrated the role of meteorological parameters in the seasonality of influenza viruses in tropical and subtropical regions, most importantly temperature, humidity, and rainfall. Objectives This study aimed to describe the influence of meteorological parameters in the seasonality of influenza viruses in Northern Cameroon, a region characterized by high temperatures. Methods This was a retrospective study performed in Garoua Cameroon from January 2014 to December 2016. Monthly proportions of confirmed influenza cases from six sentinel sites were considered as dependent variables, whereas monthly values of mean temperature, average relative humidity, and accumulated rainfall were considered as independent variables. A vector error correction model was used to determine the relationship between influenza activity and the meteorological variables. Results and conclusion Analysis showed that there was a statistically significant association between overall influenza activity and influenza A activity with respect to average relative humidity. A unit increase in humidity within a given month leads to more than 85% rise in the overall influenza and influenza A activity 2 months later. Meanwhile, none of the three meteorological variables could explain influenza B activity. This observation is essential in filling the gap of knowledge and could help in the prevention and control strategies to strengthen influenza surveillance program in Cameroon.