Effect of Viral Respiratory Illness on Older Adults

In a prospective, observational study, participants aged ≥60 with underlying illness were more likely than younger, healthy participants to have dyspnea and prolonged symptoms.

Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) cause the common cold and may be associated with exacerbations of asthma and chronic lung disease. Although considered benign, infection may result in hospitalization.

To assess the effects of HCoV infection and other viral respiratory illnesses on older adults, researchers in St. Louis performed a prospective, observational study in which they compared 100 individuals aged ≥60 with chronic heart or lung disease (group 1) and 101 healthy adults aged 18 to 40 (group 2). If an acute respiratory illness occurred, nasal and oropharyngeal swab and serum specimens were obtained after clinical assessment; serum specimens were obtained again 3 to 4 weeks after illness onset. Enrollees each participated for up to 2 years d…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Effect of Viral Respiratory Illness on Older Adults

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Reviewing Author