Research

8 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Severe Pneumonia Caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Adenovirus in Children from 2 to 24 Months at Children’s Hospital 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

by Suong Thi Thu Nguyen, Tuan Anh Tran and Giau Van Vo

Viruses 2024, 16(3), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030410 - 07 Mar 2024

Viewed by 878

Abstract

In Vietnam, due to the lack of facilities to detect respiratory viruses from patients’ specimens, there are only a few studies on the detection of viral pathogens causing pneumonia in children, especially respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and adenovirus (Adv). Here, we performed a [...] Read more.

In Vietnam, due to the lack of facilities to detect respiratory viruses from patients’ specimens, there are only a few studies on the detection of viral pathogens causing pneumonia in children, especially respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and adenovirus (Adv). Here, we performed a cross-sectional descriptive prospective study on 138 children patients from 2 to 24 months old diagnosed with severe pneumonia hospitalized at the Respiratory Department of Children’s Hospital 1 from November 2021 to August 2022. The number of patients selected in this study was based on the formula n = ([Z(1 − α/2)]2 × P [1 − P])/d2, with α = 0.05, p = 0.5, and d = 9%, and the sampling technique was convenient sampling until the sample size was met. A rapid test was used to detect RSV and Adv from the nasopharyngeal swabs and was conducted immediately after the patient’s hospitalization. Laboratory tests were performed, medical history interviews were conducted, and nasotracheal aspirates were collected for multiplex real-time PCR (MPL-rPCR) to detect viral and bacterial pathogens. The results of the rapid test and the MPL-rPCR in the detection of both pathogens were the same at 31.9% (44/138) for RSV and 8.7% (7/138) for Adv, respectively. Using MPL-rPCR, the detection rate was 21% (29/138) for bacterial pathogens, 68.8% (95/138) for bacterial–viral co-infections, and 6.5% (9/138) for viral pathogens. The results showed few distinctive traits between RSV-associated and Adv-associated groups, and the Adv group children were more prone to bacterial infection than those in the RSV group. In addition, the Adv group experienced a longer duration of treatment and a higher frequency of re-hospitalizations compared to the RSV group. A total of 100% of Adv infections were co-infected with bacteria, while 81.82% of RSV co-infected with bacterial pathogens (p = 0.000009). This study might be one of the few conducted in Vietnam aimed at identifying viral pathogens causing severe pneumonia in children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

13 pages, 1217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic and Lockdown on the HRSV Circulation: Experience of Three Spoke Hospitals in Northern Italy

by Francesca Parola, Adalberto Brach del Prever, Virginia Deut, Giulia Costagliola, Carla Guidi, Neftj Ragusa, Antonella Tuscano, Fabio Timeus and Massimo Berger

Viruses 2024, 16(2), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16020230 - 01 Feb 2024

Viewed by 633

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic affected the global epidemiology of respiratory infections, including Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (HRSV), thanks to state governments’ implementation of mitigation strategies, like the promotion of face masks and lockdowns. However, after the Pandemic, the dramatic resurge of these diseases was [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic affected the global epidemiology of respiratory infections, including Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (HRSV), thanks to state governments’ implementation of mitigation strategies, like the promotion of face masks and lockdowns. However, after the Pandemic, the dramatic resurge of these diseases was reported worldwide. Our retrospective study, involving three Spoke Pediatric Departments, includes all the infants under one year of age hospitalized for HRSV bronchiolitis in a period before the Pandemic period (2017–2020), during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic (2020–2021), and after the Pandemic (2021–2023). The primary aim was to analyze the temporal trend of HRSV in these three periods. Then, the clinical and epidemiological characteristics were analyzed to highlight the clinical differences in the affected patients, in the severity of the infections, and in the short-term outcomes. Ultimately, we analyzed the HRSV prevalence in the global bronchiolitis hospitalization over the reported periods. Overall, we included 237 patients. Before the Pandemic, the peak was recorded in January and February, while after the Pandemic, the peak was in November and December. A higher prevalence of HRSV was demonstrated after the Pandemic compared to the period before the Pandemic; overall, no difference in severity was reported. In conclusion, an increase in HRSV cases after the Pandemic has been demonstrated with an anticipated peak, while no differences were recorded in severity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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12 pages, 1601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Associated Deaths among Children under Five before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh

by Md Zakiul Hassan, Md. Ariful Islam, Saleh Haider, Tahmina Shirin and Fahmida Chowdhury

Viruses 2024, 16(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010111 - 12 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1168

Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections in young children worldwide. RSV-associated deaths in children are underreported in Bangladesh. We analyzed hospital-based surveillance data on severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs) in under-five children before (August 2009–February 2020) [...] Read more.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections in young children worldwide. RSV-associated deaths in children are underreported in Bangladesh. We analyzed hospital-based surveillance data on severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs) in under-five children before (August 2009–February 2020) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020–March 2022). Using the World Health Organization definition, we identified SARI cases in 14 tertiary-level hospitals. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected for real-time reverse-transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) testing of six respiratory viruses, including RSV. SARI deaths during the pandemic (2.6%, 66) were higher than pre-pandemic (1.8%, 159; p < 0.001). Nearly half of pandemic deaths (47%) had underlying respiratory viruses, similar to the pre-pandemic rate (45%). RSV detection in deaths was consistent pre-pandemic (13%, 20/159) and during the pandemic (12%, 8/66). Children aged < 6 months constituted 57% (16) of RSV-related deaths. Evaluating interventions like maternal vaccination and infant monoclonal antibody prophylaxis is crucial to address RSV, a major contributor to under-five SARI deaths. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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10 pages, 414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Differences between SARS-CoV-2 and RSV Infections in Infants: Findings from a Case–Control Study

by Victor Daniel Miron, Raluca-Oana Raianu, Claudiu Filimon and Mihai Craiu

Viruses 2024, 16(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010063 - 30 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1774

Abstract

Infants are a unique pediatric group due to their high hospitalization rates and unfavorable outcomes from acute infectious diseases. Understanding the clinical differences and aftereffects of SARS-CoV-2 in comparison to other prevalent viruses in this age group, like RSV, is crucial for effective [...] Read more.

Infants are a unique pediatric group due to their high hospitalization rates and unfavorable outcomes from acute infectious diseases. Understanding the clinical differences and aftereffects of SARS-CoV-2 in comparison to other prevalent viruses in this age group, like RSV, is crucial for effective management. We conducted a retrospective case–control study of infants hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in one year, in a tertiary pediatric hospital in Bucharest, Romania. A total of 188 infants were included in the analysis in a 1:1 ratio (94 with SARS-CoV-2 infection and 94 with RSV infection). Infants with COVID-19 were 10.2 times more likely to have fever (p < 0.001) and 2.4 times more likely to have diarrhea (p = 0.016). Conversely, infants with RSV were 2.5 times more likely to have a cough (p < 0.001), 3.0 times more likely to have nasal congestion (p < 0.001), and 14.7 times more likely to present with dyspnea (p < 0.001). Increased lymphocyte count was more common in infants with RSV (p = 0.008), while lymphopenia was more frequent in infants with SARS-CoV-2 (p = 0.011). The median length of hospital stay was one day longer in infants with RSV infection (5 days vs. 4 days). Overall, infants with RSV infection had a 27.3-fold increased risk of developing respiratory failure (p < 0.001), while infants with COVID-19 had a 5.8-fold increased risk of laryngitis (p = 0.003). Our findings suggest that infants with SARS-CoV-2 infection may present with polymorphic symptoms, mostly dominated by fever, whereas infants with RSV often present with respiratory symptoms. Laboratory differentiation between the two infections is challenging; therefore, the use of rapid antigen or molecular diagnostic tests is crucial for accurate diagnosis, epidemiologically appropriate measures, and effective management. Continued surveillance of both viruses in infants, and beyond, and the implementation of specific control measures are needed to mitigate their impact on this vulnerable pediatric group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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Review

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16 pages, 1198 KiB

Open AccessReview

From Forgotten Pathogen to Target for New Vaccines: What Clinicians Need to Know about Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Older Adults

by Matteo Boattini, André Almeida, Sara Comini, Gabriele Bianco, Rossana Cavallo and Cristina Costa

Viruses 2024, 16(4), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040531 - 29 Mar 2024

Viewed by 590

Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is increasingly recognized as being implicated in acute illness in older adults, with a significant weight in hospitalizations for respiratory illness and death. By means of a best-evidence review, this paper aims to investigate whether RSV can be considered [...] Read more.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is increasingly recognized as being implicated in acute illness in older adults, with a significant weight in hospitalizations for respiratory illness and death. By means of a best-evidence review, this paper aims to investigate whether RSV can be considered a forgotten pathogen in older patients, looking at trends in the literature volume and exploring possible epidemiological and clinical features underlying the focus given to it. We then present an assessment of its disease burden and present and future strategies for its reduction, particularly in light of the recent availability of new vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

19 pages, 1840 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Impact of Nonpharmaceutical Interventions during the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Prevalence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Hospitalized Children with Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by José J. Leija-Martínez, Luis A. Esparza-Miranda, Gerardo Rivera-Alfaro and Daniel E. Noyola

Viruses 2024, 16(3), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030429 - 11 Mar 2024

Viewed by 2364

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) were implemented in order to control the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, potentially affecting the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This review evaluated the impact of NPIs on RSV-related hospitalizations in children during the lockdown (2020–2021) compared [...] Read more.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) were implemented in order to control the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, potentially affecting the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This review evaluated the impact of NPIs on RSV-related hospitalizations in children during the lockdown (2020–2021) compared to the pre-pandemic (2015–2020) and post-lockdown (2021–2022) periods. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published in English between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2022. Additionally, we conducted hand searches of other records published between 1 January 2023 and 22 January 2024. Our target population was hospitalized children aged 0–18 years with RSV-related lower respiratory tract infections confirmed through immunofluorescence, antigen testing, or molecular assays. We focused on peer-reviewed observational studies, analyzing the primary outcome of pooled RSV prevalence. A generalized linear mixed model with a random-effects model was utilized to pool each RSV prevalence. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q and I² statistics, while publication bias was evaluated through funnel plots and Egger’s tests. We identified and analyzed 5815 publications and included 112 studies with 308,985 participants. Notably, RSV prevalence was significantly lower during the lockdown period (5.03% [95% CI: 2.67; 9.28]) than during the pre-pandemic period (25.60% [95% CI: 22.57; 28.88], p < 0.0001). However, RSV prevalence increased notably in the post-lockdown period after the relaxation of COVID-19 prevention measures (42.02% [95% CI: 31.49; 53.33] vs. 5.03% [95% CI: 2.67; 9.28], p < 0.0001). Most pooled effect estimates exhibited significant heterogeneity (I²: 91.2% to 99.3%). Our findings emphasize the effectiveness of NPIs in reducing RSV transmission. NPIs should be considered significant public health measures to address RSV outbreaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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10 pages, 431 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Characteristics of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections in Children in the Post-COVID Seasons: A Northern Italy Hospital Experience

by Davide Treggiari, Chiara Pomari, Giorgio Zavarise, Chiara Piubelli, Fabio Formenti and Francesca Perandin

Viruses 2024, 16(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010126 - 16 Jan 2024

Viewed by 966

Abstract

Background: Public health measures for COVID-19 mitigation influenced the circulation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during the 2020–2021 winter season. In the following autumn, an unprecedented resurgence of RSV occurred. Our study monitored RSV pediatric infections one and two years after the relaxation [...] Read more.

Background: Public health measures for COVID-19 mitigation influenced the circulation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during the 2020–2021 winter season. In the following autumn, an unprecedented resurgence of RSV occurred. Our study monitored RSV pediatric infections one and two years after the relaxation of containment measures for the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We analyzed diagnostic molecular data for SARS-CoV-2, flu, and RSV infections and clinical data from children with respiratory symptoms referring to our hospital during the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons. Results: In the 2021–2022 season, the number of RSV-affected children was very high, especially for babies <1 year. The outbreak appeared in a shorter interval of time, with a high clinical severity. In the 2022–23 season, a reduced number of infected pediatric patients were detected, with a similar hospitalization rate (46% vs. 40%), and RSV accounted for 12% of the infections. Coinfections were observed in age <2 years. In RSV patients, symptoms were similar across the two seasons. Conclusions: The clinical presentation of RSV in the two post-COVID seasons suggests that the pathophysiology of the virus did not change across these two years. Further studies are needed to continuously monitor RSV to support an effective prevention strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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6 pages, 227 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Urgent Hospitalizations Related to Viral Respiratory Disease in Children during Autumn and Winter Seasons 2022/2023

by Francesca Peri, Beatrice Lorenzon, Carolina Cason, Alessandro Amaddeo, Stefania Norbedo, Manola Comar, Egidio Barbi and Giorgio Cozzi

Viruses 2023, 15(12), 2425; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15122425 - 14 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 842

Abstract

Aim: The loosening of social distancing measures over the past two years has led to a resurgence of seasonal epidemics associated with respiratory viral infections in children. We aim to describe the impact of such infections through urgent hospitalizations in a pediatric emergency [...] Read more.

Aim: The loosening of social distancing measures over the past two years has led to a resurgence of seasonal epidemics associated with respiratory viral infections in children. We aim to describe the impact of such infections through urgent hospitalizations in a pediatric emergency department. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of medical records of all children and adolescents with a positive nasal swab admitted at the children’s hospital IRCCS Burlo Garofolo of Trieste, in Italy, from September 2021 to March 2022, and September 2022 to March 2023. Results: Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza viruses accounted for up to 55% of hospitalizations for respiratory infections during the study periods. During the last season, the number of hospitalizations related to the Influenza virus was five times higher than those related to SARS-CoV-2 (25% vs. 5%). Respiratory Syncytial Virus was associated with a greater need for respiratory support, mostly HFNC (High Flow Nasal Cannula). Conclusions: Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza virus had a more significant impact on urgent hospitalizations during the past wintery seasons than SARS-CoV-2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RSV Epidemiological Surveillance)

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