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Human rhinovirus infections most prevalent in first year
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Despite respiratory virus infections being the most significant trigger of respiratory illnesses in children younger than age 1, data on these viruses remain limited.
To better understand respiratory pathogens in infants, researchers from the Netherlands observed a group of infants from the time of birth through 1 year. Parents completed daily questionnaires about respiratory symptoms, and the infants’ nose and throat areas were swabbed for samples.
Researchers collected 668 samples from 305 infants. Parents reported an average five respiratory episodes a year. More than one respiratory pathogen was detected in about 85% of the samples, with the most common being the human rhinovirus (HRV), found in 73% of the samples. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronavirus were next, at 11% and 8% respectively.
HRV infections were associated with a longer period of symptoms when compared with RSV, which was associated with more frequent overall doctor visits.
Despite RSV infections being responsible for the more severe symptoms, including wheeze and fever, HRV infections seemed to have the greatest burden of disease, the researchers concluded. – Erin Hopkins
PIDJ. 2009; 28(6): 472-476.
This study is further evidence that human rhinoviruses are the cause of a significant burden of disease and not just “common cold viruses.” This is particularly true in infants and young children. Developing vaccines for rhinoviruses represents an overwhelming challenge as there are over 100 serotypes and new serotypes continue to be discovered. There is a need for further research into this group of pathogens.
– Jeffrey S. Kahn, MD, PhD
Chief, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology
Sarah M. & Charles E. Seay
Chair in Pediatric Infectious Diseases
UT Southwestern Medical Center