Pathogen and Patient Characteristics and the Severity of Viral Respiratory Infections in Children

How are pathogens, age, comorbidities, and coinfections associated with the severity of viral respiratory infections in children?In this cohort study of 516 children, respiratory syncytial virus infections, influenza infections, and the presence of preexisting chronic conditions were associated with significantly worse clinical outcomes, including clinical severity score, length of hospital stay, intensive care unit admission, and the need for oxygen therapy.These results underscore the importance of targeted surveillance and preventive measures, including vaccination and early intervention, particularly for vulnerable pediatric subgroups.

Corresponding Author: Marco Poeta, MD, PhD, Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy (marco.poeta@unina.it).

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