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Development of Multiplex Real-Time RT-qPCR Assays for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A/B, and MERS-CoV
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Severe Respiratory Illness and Death Associated with Outbreak of Human Rhinovirus B14 among Older Adults, France,

Julien Andreani, Céline Boschi, Anne Decoppet

    Emerging Infectious Diseases
    |May 12, 2026
    PubMed

    Insights

    An unknown respiratory illness caused 8 deaths in a French care facility. Scientists identified human rhinovirus (HRV-B14) using metagenomics, suggesting this rapid diagnostic method for future outbreaks.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious disease epidemiology
    • Viral genomics
    • Molecular diagnostics

    Background:

    • An unexplained respiratory disease outbreak occurred in a French long-term care facility.
    • The outbreak resulted in eight fatalities among elderly residents.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To identify the causative agent of the respiratory disease outbreak.
    • To evaluate the utility of metagenomics for rapid outbreak diagnosis.

    Main Methods:

    • Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to detect viral pathogens.
    • Metagenomic sequencing was employed for comprehensive pathogen identification.
    • Whole genome sequencing of the identified virus was performed.

    Main Results:

    • Human rhinovirus (HRV) was identified as the causative agent.
    • Specifically, HRV-B14 was detected and characterized through metagenomics.
    • Five complete HRV-B14 genomes were sequenced, showing divergence from existing strains.

    Conclusions:

    • Human rhinovirus-B14 was responsible for the fatal respiratory outbreak.
    • Real-time metagenomics offers a promising approach for rapid clinical diagnosis during outbreaks.
    • Genomic surveillance of viral pathogens is crucial for understanding disease transmission and evolution.
    Keywords:
    FranceHuman rhinoviruselderly peoplemetagenomicsnext-generation sequencingoutbreakrespiratory infectionsrhinovirus B14viruses

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