Uncovering the Burden of Influenza-Associated Illness across Levels of Severity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Across Three Seasons

This study demonstrates a significant burden of influenza-associated SARI hospitalizations in Saudi Arabia, with the highest rates observed in the elderly and young children. Seasonal variation was evident, highlighting the urgent need to enhance influenza vaccination coverage, particularly among high-risk groups such as the elderly and young children, to reduce severe outcomes. Expanding sentinel surveillance to more regions and incorporating detailed clinical and economic data are recommended to better inform public health policies. Strengthening pandemic preparedness and tailoring vaccination campaigns based on seasonality and age-specific risk will be critical for mitigating the influenza burden in Saudi Arabia.