[New respiratory viruses in children 2 months to 3 years old with recurrent wheeze]

Alberto F Maffey1, Carolina M Venialgo, Paola R Barrero

  • 1Centro Respiratorio, Hospital de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutiérrez.

Insights

Respiratory viruses are common in infants and young children with recurrent wheeze, often leading to hospitalization. Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Rhinovirus were the most prevalent, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Respiratory viruses frequently trigger exacerbations in infants and children.
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is common in infants, while Rhinovirus affects children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of respiratory viruses in young children with recurrent wheeze.
  • To identify common viral pathogens in hospitalized infants and children experiencing bronchial obstruction.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, cross-sectional study included 119 children (2 months to 3 years) with recurrent wheeze and asthma risk factors.
  • Respiratory samples were analyzed using immunofluorescence and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for viral detection.
  • Detected viruses included Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Rhinovirus, Metapneumovirus, Influenza A, Enterovirus, Bocavirus, Adenovirus, Coronavirus, and Parainfluenza.

Main Results:

  • A high prevalence of respiratory viruses was found, with 86% of patients testing positive.
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (43%) and Rhinovirus (23%) were the most common viruses detected.
  • Coinfections were observed in 25% of cases, with single infections in 75%.

Conclusions:

  • Infants and young children hospitalized for bronchial obstruction with recurrent wheeze exhibit a high prevalence of respiratory viruses.
  • Viral circulation peaked during specific months, correlating with hospital admission rates.
  • These findings underscore the significant role of respiratory viruses in pediatric recurrent wheeze and asthma.
Abstract

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