Abstract: Objective To investigate the influenza epidemic trends and pathogenic characteristics in Kaifeng City from 2012 to 2013 so as to provide a basis for developing influenza prevention and control measures. Methods Data of influenza surveillance were obtained from the Chinese National Influenza Surveillance Information System. Descriptive epidemiology methods were used to analyze the data. Results A total of 1 591 cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) were reported from 2012 to 2013. The average percentage of outpatient visits for ILI was 0.47% (426/91 202) in 2012, 1.20% (1 165/97 285) in 2013, and 0.84% (1 591/188 487) averagely for the two years. The highest proportion of ILI was found in the 0-4 age group (597 cases, 37.52%). The positive isolation rate for influenza virus was 9.09%（30/330) in 2012. Of the 30 strains, 12 strains were type B and 18 were the seasonal A (H3). In 2013, the positive isolation rate for influenza virus was 11.87% (71/598). Among the 71 strains, 28 strains were type B, 12 were the seasonal A (H3), and 31 were the A (H1N1). Conclusion The predominant strains of the influenza virus were type B, seasonal A (H3), and A (H1N1) in Kaifeng City from 2012 to 2013.