Pediatric Respiratory Infections ‎After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single-Center Experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Pediatric respiratory infections, particularly bronchiolitis, represent a significant clinical challenge.
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the leading cause of bronchiolitis, with other viruses also contributing.
• Understanding post-pandemic viral behavior is crucial for managing pediatric respiratory illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiology and clinical features of viral bronchiolitis and flu in children post-COVID-19 pandemic.
• To compare the clinical behavior and outcomes of different viral infections, including RSV, influenza, and COVID-19.
• To analyze seasonal patterns and severity of pediatric respiratory infections.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective observational study conducted over seven months (October 2022 - April 2023).
• Included children aged 0-14 diagnosed with bronchiolitis or flu, with viral etiology confirmed by PCR.
• Collected clinical data, lab results, and X-rays, correlating them with specific viral infections.

Main Results:

• 237 children were recruited; RSV was the predominant virus (63.3%), followed by influenza A/B (13% each) and COVID-19 (10%).
• RSV infections were associated with more severe hypoxia and longer hospital stays compared to other viruses.
• COVID-19 cases presented with milder disease, shorter hospital stays (2 days), and shorter illness duration (5 days).

Conclusions:

• Post-pandemic, a resurgence of aggressive upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and flu occurred in children, notably driven by RSV.
• This resurgence led to increased severe respiratory symptoms and hospitalization needs.
• Children with COVID-19 experienced milder illness compared to those infected with RSV.