Respiratory Pathogen Coinfections in SARS-CoV-2-Positive Patients in Southeastern Wisconsin: A Retrospective Analysis
Samantha J Scott1, Beth Pfotenhauer1, Joshua J Weiner1
1City of Milwaukee Health Department Laboratory, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Microbiology Spectrum
|October 20, 2021
Summary
Coinfections with other respiratory pathogens are common in COVID-19 patients, especially in young children. These polymicrobial infections can increase disease severity and complicate treatment.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19, impacting all age groups globally.
- Polymicrobial infections in SARS-CoV-2 patients may increase disease severity and diagnostic challenges.
- Limited studies exist on SARS-CoV-2 coinfections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and types of respiratory pathogen coinfections in laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 cases.
- To identify demographic factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 coinfections.
- To inform public health surveillance and clinical management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 796 SARS-CoV-2 positive specimens collected between March 2020 and February 2021.
- Use of Luminex NxTAG respiratory pathogen panel (RPP) to detect coinfecting pathogens.
- Analysis of valid results from 745 specimens.
Main Results:
- Coinfections were detected in 7.1% (53/745) of SARS-CoV-2 positive specimens.
- Rhinovirus/enterovirus (RV/EV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and adenovirus were the most common coinfecting pathogens.
- Coinfections were more prevalent in young children (≤9 years old) and did not involve influenza A or B.
Conclusions:
- Respiratory coinfections are a significant factor in SARS-CoV-2 cases, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Findings highlight the need for enhanced seasonal respiratory pathogen surveillance by public health laboratories.
- Understanding polymicrobial infections is crucial for managing COVID-19 severity and improving patient outcomes.
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