Molecular diagnosis of microbial copathogens with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 in Oaxaca, Mexico

Luis Román Ramírez-Palacios1, Diana Reséndez-Pérez2, Maria Cristina Rodríguez-Padilla2

  • 1Laboratorio Estatal de Salud Pública de Oaxaca, Oaxaca.

Abstract

Insights

Coinfections with bacteria and viruses are common in influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 cases in Oaxaca, Mexico. Early detection and treatment of these copathogens are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • * Infectious Diseases
  • * Virology
  • * Microbiology

Background:

  • * Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 severity is influenced by multiple factors.
  • * Bacterial coinfections are clinically associated with H1N1 cases, potentially increasing disease severity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To identify influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and co-occurring pathogens in Oaxaca, Mexico.
  • * A cross-sectional survey was conducted between 2009 and 2012, involving 88 confirmed H1N1 patients.

Main Methods:

  • * Total nucleic acid was extracted from patient samples.
  • * A TessArray RPM-Flu microarray assay was employed to detect respiratory pathogens.

Main Results:

  • * A high prevalence of copathogens (77.3%) was detected, with most patients harboring one to three additional pathogens.
  • * Predominant copathogens included *Streptococcus*, *Haemophilus*, *Neisseria*, and *Pseudomonas*.
  • * Patients with copathogens were four times more likely to have H1N1 than those with H1N1 alone (80.68% vs. 19.32%).
  • * Four fatal H1N1 cases (4.5%) had evidence of bacterial coinfections.

Conclusions:

  • * Coinfections are prevalent in a significant proportion of influenza cases in Oaxaca.
  • * Urgent need for timely detection and treatment of coinfections to manage increased disease acuity and severity.