INTRODUCTION:

Seasonal influenza is estimated to cause approximately 3 to 5 million severe cases and 290,000 to 650,000 deaths worldwide due to related respiratory complications. In 2021, Brazil reported 1,389 cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by influenza, resulting in 162 deaths, 12 of which occurred in Amazonas State.

OBJECTIVE:

To identify the risk factors for death from influenza A/H1N1 in Amazonas during the 2019 epidemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A prospective cohort study was conducted using secondary data from epidemiological surveillance in Amazonas State. A logistic regression model was employed to analyze the association between sociodemographic and clinical factors and influenza-related mortality.

RESULTS:

In 2019, 161 hospitalizations due to influenza A were recorded in Amazonas, with 37 (23.0%) resulting in death. Most patients were aged 13 to 59 years and were female. Patients aged 13 to 59 years, those aged 60 or older, and those with pneumopathy were at higher risk of death. The use of antiviral medication was a protective factor.

CONCLUSION:

Reducing influenza mortality is possible through existing public policies, such as the timely availability and administration of antivirals. Comorbidities are significant risk factors for death in patients hospitalized with influenza.