Article abstract There are currently three different presentations of Influenza A: seasonal influenza (currently H3N2 and H1N1), avian influenza (H5N1), and novel H1N1 influenza A (nH1N1) which is antigenically distinct from seasonal influenza A. Although there are important differences in epidemiology and clinical presentation, the available prevention measures and treatment options share common features. The common principles of prevention are presented in the first part of this article and the specific indications for treatment as well as management issues are outlined in the second part.