Influenza represents a major source of illness in the United States. This highly contagious medical condition typically presents as an acute onset of multiple systemic symptoms and fever. Influenza accounts for an estimated 20,000 deaths annually in the nation (Nichol, 2008). There are several challenges in the evaluation and treatment of this medical condition. The main issues regarding the prevention, evaluation, and treatment of influenza include, questionable vaccine efficacy, vaccine shortages, and availability of diagnostic tests.
Different vaccines are available to prevent influenza and reduce the severity of illness. In healthcare settings, annual vaccination is highly recommended. Nonetheless, vaccine coverage among healthcare