Complications of Influenza: A Descriptive Study of Hospitalized Patients at the Service of Infectious Diseases, UHC Tirana (2024–2025)

Background: Influenza A is a seasonal viral infection that continues to pose a significant public health burden globally. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the complications associated with laboratory-confirmed Influenza A in hospitalized patients at the Service of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Center (UHC), Tirana, from December 2024 to February 2025. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed medical records of 32 patients aged 14 years or older with serologically confirmed Influenza A. Demographic data, underlying conditions, clinical complications, and laboratory biomarkers (PCR, neutrophils, monocytes, hepatic and renal markers) were collected. Results: Among the 32 confirmed cases, 15 patients (46.9%) developed complications. Pneumonia was the most frequent complication (9 cases), followed by bronchopneumonia (2), acute bronchitis (2), encephalitis (2), tonsillitis (1), and sepsis (1). The majority of complicated cases were elderly (>60 years) and/or had comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, or chronic pulmonary or renal disease. PCR, and neutrophil counts demonstrated high diagnostic specificity. Conclusion: Influenza A can result in severe complications, particularly in elderly and comorbid patients. Early recognition, biomarker-guided diagnosis, and targeted interventions are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality.