Rhinoviruses Cause Severe Respiratory Infections

In a study involving children with severe respiratory infections, rhinoviruses were found in 49% of those with an agent identified.

In recent years, sensitive molecular testing has revealed that rhinoviruses may play a role in respiratory infections beyond the common cold. Now, investigators have linked rhinoviruses to severe lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in children.

Upper respiratory tract samples (nasopharyngeal washes or swabs) were collected from 43 patients aged <18 years consecutively admitted with community-acquired LRTIs to the ICU of a California children’s hospital. If available, lower respiratory tract specimens (endotracheal aspirates, bronchoalveolar lavage fluids, or pleural fluids) were also tested. Specimens were subjected to direct fluorescence antibody testing for influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and to real-time PCR…

Reviewing Author

Robert S. Baltimore, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsInfectious Diseases in Children

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesMember Committee on Rheumatic Fever, Endocarditis and Kawasaki Disease

Robert S. Baltimore, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsInfectious Diseases in Children

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesMember Committee on Rheumatic Fever, Endocarditis and Kawasaki Disease

Rhinoviruses Cause Severe Respiratory Infections

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Reviewing Author