〔Abstract〕 Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of influenza in Anhui province from 2018 to 2023, and to explore the change rule of influenza etiology, so as to provide reference for the prevention and control of influenza. Methods Sentinel hospital surveillance data and network laboratory etiological surveillance data of influenza-like cases(ILI) in Anhui province from 2018 to 2023 were collected by "China influenza surveillance information system", and the data were analyzed using Excel 2019 and SPSS 25.0. Results From 2018 to 2023, ILI% in Anhui province were 3.74%, 4.26%, 3.53%, 4.34%, 6.80%, respectively. The positive rates of influenza virus were 14.87%, 19.98%, 0.12%, 12.39% and 24.72%, respectively. There were significant differences in time distribution and age distribution of ILI% and influenza virus positive rates(P<0.001). Influenza mainly occurred from December to March and from June to August in Anhui province. The positive rate of influenza virus detection was the highest among children under 15 years old, which was the main population of influenza cases. The outbreaks had mainly occurred in primary and secondary schools and childcare facilities. Conclusion There are two incidence peaks of influenza each year, one is in winter and spring, another one is in summer. From December to March, from June to August are the critical periods of influenza control and prevention. Children under 15 years old are the key groups and schools are the key places of influenza control and prevention. Continuous influenza surveillance can provide scientific basis for the prevention and control of influenza in Anhui province.