The present review summarizes current knowledge on pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of severe influenza.

Immunological dysfunction during viral infection correlates with severity and mortality among ICU patients.

A theranostics strategy should be implemented to improve outcomes.

Pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus circulates seasonally and remains the predominant subtype among intensive care patients.

Mortality in acute respiratory failure (ARF) is around 20%, independent of influenza subtypes.

During severe infection, the imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules, such as Th1 and Th17 cytokines, is associated with complicated infections and mortality.

Primary viral pneumonia presents in more than 70% of ICU influenza patients and more than 50% develop acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Read More