Hospital acquired viral respiratory tract infections: An underrecognized nosocomial infection

Abstract

Background: Our study aimed to describe the incidence, epidemiology of respiratory viruses and outcomes in hospital acquired viral respiratory infections (HAVRI).

Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study on all adults and children with hospital acquired viral respiratory infections between July 2012 and April 2019. Clinical and microbiological data were collected in a major tertiary level hospital in North Queensland. Morbidity indicators were the length of stay, need for intensive care and mechanical ventilation. Length of stay was analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test and mortality with the Chi-Square test.

Results: A total of 283 patients tested positive for a respiratory virus and fulfilled the criteria for a hospital acquired infection. Individuals in the younger age group were more likely to be admitted to intensive care and need mechanical ventilation. A higher mortality was found with individuals in the older age category. The morbidity and mortality did not differ based on the virus type. Influenza A was the most common respiratory virus associated with hospital acquired viral respiratory infections.

Conclusion: Hospital acquired viral respiratory infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality regardless of the virus species.

Keywords: Cross infection; Lung; Viral infections.