Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Published on: December 10, 2013
Respiratory Viral Burden and Healthcare Utilization Among Pediatric Patients With Acute Respiratory Viral Infections
1Department of Emergency Medicine King Abdulaziz University Jeddah Saudi Arabia.
Insights
Pediatric respiratory viral infections like RSV and influenza cause significant winter healthcare burdens, leading to high emergency visits and hospitalizations. Proactive planning and prevention are crucial for managing seasonal pediatric respiratory illness demands.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public health
Background:
- Respiratory viral infections, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza, are leading causes of pediatric illness and hospitalizations.
- These infections strain healthcare resources, particularly during winter months.
- Understanding the burden is key for effective management and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical and epidemiological burden of RSV and influenza in pediatric patients.
- To assess the associated healthcare resource utilization for these infections.
- To inform public health strategies for seasonal respiratory illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 1428 patients in Saudi Arabia (Oct 2024 - Mar 2025).
- Focus on pediatric subgroup (0-14 years) presenting to emergency department.
- Viral pathogens detected via rapid antigen testing (SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B, RSV, adenovirus).
Main Results:
- 257 (18%) patients tested positive for respiratory viruses.
- In the pediatric group (n=158), RSV (37%) and Influenza A (36%) were predominant.
- 31% of pediatric patients required hospitalization, with significant need for oxygen therapy and advanced respiratory support.
Conclusions:
- RSV and influenza impose a substantial winter burden on young children, driving emergency visits and hospital admissions.
- The study highlights significant healthcare demands, including respiratory support.
- Proactive planning, resource allocation, and preventive strategies are essential to manage seasonal pediatric respiratory illness effectively.
Background:
Respiratory viral infections, particularly Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza, are major causes of pediatric morbidity, hospitalization, and healthcare strain during winter seasons. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological burden of RSV and influenza in pediatric patients and assess associated healthcare resource utilization.
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study analyzed 1428 patients of all ages, including a pediatric subgroup (0-14 years) who presented to an emergency department in a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia between October 2024 and March 2025. Viral pathogens were detected using a rapid antigen test detecting SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B, RSV, and adenovirus. Descriptive epidemiological analysis was performed to assess clinical trends and healthcare utilization.
Results:
A total of 1428 patients were tested, of whom 257 (18%) confirmed positive for respiratory viruses. The pediatric group (n = 158) had a mean age of 3.2 years and was largely composed of young children, with 48% under 2 years and 76% under 5. RSV (37%) and Influenza A (36%) predominated, followed by Influenza B (14%), SARS-CoV-2 (7.0%), and Adenovirus (5.1%). Peak positivity occurred in January (34% of detected cases) with continued detections into March (15%). Most children (60%) were discharged, while 31% required hospitalization; ICU admissions were infrequent. Oxygen therapy was required in 12% (n = 19), and antiviral therapy (oseltamivir) was administered in 7 patients. Advanced respiratory support included high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC; n = 11) and non-invasive ventilation (continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP] and bilevel positive airway pressure [BiPAP]; n = 12), highlighting substantial healthcare demands.
Conclusion:
This study shows a substantial winter burden from RSV and influenza in young children, leading to high emergency visits, admissions, and respiratory support use. Increased medication demand highlights the need for proactive planning, resource allocation, and preventive strategies to manage seasonal healthcare pressures effectively.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease
01:31Common Respiratory Disorders
Upper respiratory disorders impact the airways above the vocal cords, encompassing areas like the nose, sinuses, and throat. Various conditions fall under this category, including the common cold and allergic rhinitis. These disorders can stem from several causes,...
01:21Acute Respiratory Failure-II
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
01:30Acute Respiratory Failure-III
01:21Acute Respiratory Failure-I
Definition: It is defined by specific criteria based on blood gas measurements. Hypoxemia happens when the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) falls below 60 mmHg. At the same time,...
01:29Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...