Respiratory pathogen diversity and co-infections in rural Zambia.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The role of respiratory co-infections in modulating disease severity remains understudied in southern Africa, particularly in rural areas. This study was performed to characterize the spectrum of respiratory pathogens in rural southern Zambia and the prognostic impact of co-infections.

Methods

Respiratory specimens collected from inpatient and outpatient participants in a viral surveillance program in 2018-2019 were tested for selected viruses and atypical bacteria using the Xpert Xpress Flu/RSV assay and FilmArray Respiratory Panel EZ. Participants were followed for 3-5 weeks to assess their clinical course. Multivariable regression was used to examine the role of co-infections in influencing disease severity.

Results

A respiratory pathogen was detected in

SUBMITTER: Loevinsohn G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7817328 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature