4-month-old boy coinfected with COVID-19 and adenovirus

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Viral Co-infections
• Public Health

Background:

• Infants with congenital heart conditions and atopic dermatitis may present with non-specific symptoms.
• Respiratory viral infections are common in young children.
• COVID-19 can present with varied symptoms, mimicking other common childhood illnesses.

Observation:

• A 4-month-old infant with a history of muscular ventricular septal defect and atopic dermatitis presented with decreased oral intake, loose stools, stuffy nose, cough, and diaphoresis.
• The infant had known in-home exposure to COVID-19.
• Initial respiratory pathogen panel was positive for adenovirus.

Findings:

• The infant subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 PCR.
• Adenovirus and COVID-19 co-infection was diagnosed.
• The infant received supportive care and was discharged on day 4.

Implications:

• This case underscores the necessity of COVID-19 testing in pediatric patients, even when another respiratory virus is identified.
• Prompt diagnosis of COVID-19 in children is vital for implementing isolation measures and preventing community spread.
• Considering co-infections is critical for accurate diagnosis and management of pediatric respiratory illnesses.