Genetic and Epidemiological Insights Into Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections: A Comparative Study of Hospitalized Versus Community Cases in Portugal (2021-2023).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in young children, but its genetic diversity requires ongoing surveillance.

Methods

From 2021 to 2023, a total of 619 and 94 RSV-positive samples from the National Respiratory Syncytial Virus Surveillance Network (VigiRSV) and the Sentinel Influenza and other respiratory viruses surveillance network (Sentinel ISN), respectively, were analysed. The RSV A and RSV B typing was assessed by a multiplex real-time RT-PCR. Sanger sequencing was performed on a subset of samples (n = 495). Phylogenetic analysis was carried out on partial glycoprotein G sequences. Clinical and epidemiological data were compared through Pearson Chi-Square tests.

Results

RSV Subgroup A was more p

SUBMITTER: Lanca M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12516350 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature