Infant Illness Severity Tied to Viral Combinations

A study conducted by researchers at National Jewish Health has identified specific viruses and viral combinations that significantly raise the risk of severe lower respiratory tract illnesses (LRIs) in infants. The findings, published in the Journal of Infection, stem from the Puerto Rican Infant Metagenomic and Epidemiologic Study of Respiratory Outcomes (PRIMERO), which tracked over 2,000 children from birth until the age of two between 2020 and 2024.

Led by Max A. Seibold, PhD, the research offers a comprehensive view of how various viral species interact in infancy and affect the severity of respiratory illnesses, as well as potential asthma risk. Notably, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was found to increase the likelihood of severe lower respiratory illness nearly nine times. While rhinovirus and bocavirus are primarily linked to mild illnesses, their co-infection nearly tripled the odds of severe lower respiratory infection.

The researchers suggest that the results highlight the need for enhanced viral surveillance and targeted preventive measures, particularly aimed at high-risk groups such as Puerto Rican infants, who face higher rates of asthma and respiratory conditions.

Understanding the implications of these viral interactions could inform better vaccination strategies and clinical monitoring for infants exhibiting co-infections, according to Camille Moore, PhD, the study’s lead author.

• Why it matters: Insights from this study could lead to improved health interventions and preventive measures for infants at risk of severe respiratory illnesses.
• Targeted strategies may particularly aid high-risk populations, such as Puerto Rican infants, in reducing asthma incidences.

• The latest: The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive viral surveillance and tailored prevention strategies for infants impacted by multiple viral infections.