Multiple Virus Isolations in a Group of Children Hospitalized with Acute Respiratory Illness

Abstract

22 children (below 6 years of age), admitted for acute respiratory illness to a pediatric hospital, were investigated for viral and/or bacterial infection by isolation attempts and serological techniques. A high frequency of virus isolations and also of multiple virus isolations from the upper respiratory tract was observed, whereas corresponding seroconversions were comparatively rare. The multiple isolates included combinations between an influenza virus and a paramyxovirus and even combinations within the paramyxovirus group. Further, in several cases, the findings of potentially pathogenic bacteria made the picture even more complex. Technical and other factors which may have contributed to these results are discussed, and possible implications of the findings are considered.