Respiratory Virus Testing Research Articles

2652. Detection of respiratory viruses by air sampling and student and staff surveillance testing in two elementary schools

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for better data to understand how ventilation may impact respiratory virus transmission. We evaluated if there was an association between respiratory viruses detected in school room air samples and nasal swabs from students/ staff in the same room. Methods We performed air and respiratory sampling to detect respiratory viruses at 3 time points between Feb 27 - Mar 28, 2023 in 2 elementary schools. Three classrooms, a multipurpose room, and school nurse’s office in each school had 1 air sample/ room collected using Thermo Scientific AerosolSense™ sampler during 8 school hours. Concomitant respiratory viral testing, using self-collected nasal swabs, was performed in students/ staff enrolled in a respiratory virus surveillance school testing program. Air and respiratory specimens were tested for adenovirus (AdV); coronaviruses (CoV) 229E, HKU1, NL63, OC43; human metapneumovirus (hMPV), influenza A and B (Flu), parainfluenza virus 1-4 (PIV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus/ enterovirus (RV/EV), and SARS-CoV-2 using the Hologic® Panther Fusion® Respiratory Assay. Detected respiratory viruses in room air and respiratory samples were compared to determine likelihood of capturing current human respiratory viral infections in room air and additional viruses circulating from unsampled students/ staff in the same room. RV and AdV in human respiratory samples were typed by partial genomic sequencing to understand if viruses were similar. Results Ten rooms, including 6 classrooms with ≈25 people/ room, were sampled at 3 occasions. At least 1 respiratory virus was detected in 27/ 30 (90%) air samples. 59 samples were obtained from 20 students and 5 staff in these rooms; 24 (41%) were positive for ≥1 virus and 11/24 (46%) rooms with concomitant air and respiratory samples had the same viruses detected (Table). RV typing demonstrates that both participants from Room E, Round 1 and 2 had RV-B27. Both participants from Room F, Round 2 with single AdV infections had AdV B3.Table.Concomitant respiratory virus detection from student and staff nasal swabs and air samplers (N=student/staff tested per room) Conclusion Concomitant respiratory virus surveillance in air samples and students/ staff can be performed to better understand the role of ventilation and respiratory virus transmission. Additional studies, including sequencing data and symptom assessment, are needed. Disclosures Rangaraj Selvarangan, BVSc, PhD, D(ABMM), FIDSA, FAAM, Abbott: Honoraria|Altona Diagnostics: Grant/Research Support|Baebies Inc: Advisor/Consultant|BioMerieux: Advisor/Consultant|BioMerieux: Grant/Research Support|Bio-Rad: Grant/Research Support|Cepheid: Grant/Research Support|GSK: Advisor/Consultant|Hologic: Grant/Research Support|Lab Simply: Advisor/Consultant|Luminex: Grant/Research Support

2653. Duration of Respiratory Virus Detection by Multipathogen PCR Testing after Acute Respiratory Illness

Abstract Background Persons with respiratory viral infections (RVI) may shed detectable virus after symptom recovery. Duration of detection by molecular methods is not well described for non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses. Methods School KIDS is a prospective respiratory viral surveillance program in a Missouri school district. Participating students and staff with RVI symptoms can receive respiratory viral testing using self-collected nasal swabs. Symptomatic participants with detectable virus(es) on primary swabs were scheduled to receive 2 convalescent swabs weekly after initial test during weekly school surveillance testing. All convalescent tests performed within 21 days of the primary specimen were included. Only participants providing ≥ 1 convalescent swab were included. Specimens were tested using Hologic® Panther Fusion® or QIAstat-Dx PCR assays that included adenovirus (AdV); seasonal coronaviruses (sCoV) 229E, HKU1, NL63, OC43; human metapneumovirus, influenza A and B (Flu), parainfluenza viruses 1-4, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus/ enterovirus (RV/EV), and SARS-CoV-2. We used survival analysis to quantify median number of days until individuals tested negative for each virus. Results From November 3, 2022 – April 14, 2023, 344 symptomatic participants (141 preK/elem, 49 middle, 22 high, 132 staff) submitted 586 primary specimens; 292 (50%) were positive for a virus. For positive primary specimens, median [IQR] time of symptom onset to specimen collection was 2 [1,3] days. A total of 320 viruses were detected; most common were RV/EV (37%) and sCoVs (25%) (Table). An additional 370 convalescent specimens were collected (87 specimens on days 1-7 following primary positive; 166 specimens on days 8-14; and 117 specimens on days 15-21). Median number of days [95% confidence interval] when repeat convalescent tests became negative varied by virus (AdV 15 [11,undefined] days, Flu A 14 [9,19] days, RV/EV 12 [11,14] days, SARS-CoV-2 14 [14,17] days, sCoV 10 [9,12] days) (Figure).Table.Characteristics of primary positive and convalescent testing (i.e. ongoing positivity) of nasal swabs from preK—12 grade students and staff with respiratory symptoms—Missouri, November 2022 -April 2023Figure.Cumulative probability of testing negative for a respiratory virus on subsequent respiratory viral testing Conclusion Students and staff continued to have detectable virus by nasal swabs 10-15 days after symptomatic positive specimen. Further data are needed to determine when participants are no longer infectious. Disclosures Rangaraj Selvarangan, BVSc, PhD, D(ABMM), FIDSA, FAAM, Abbott: Honoraria|Altona Diagnostics: Grant/Research Support|Baebies Inc: Advisor/Consultant|BioMerieux: Advisor/Consultant|BioMerieux: Grant/Research Support|Bio-Rad: Grant/Research Support|Cepheid: Grant/Research Support|GSK: Advisor/Consultant|Hologic: Grant/Research Support|Lab Simply: Advisor/Consultant|Luminex: Grant/Research Support

2624. The Usual Suspects: A Retrospective Analysis of Pediatric Respiratory Viral Testing During the Pandemic

Abstract Background Contention measures implemented during the pandemic drastically changed the epidemiology of viral respiratory infections. Some reports have shown a sharp decrease in Emergency department visits for respiratory illnesses in the first months of the pandemic with an increase in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Enterovirus (EV) in subsequent months. The concern caused by COVID-19 during the beginning of the pandemic may have led healthcare professionals to underdiagnose other respiratory viral infections. The aim of this study is to evaluate the behavior of viral infection through the pandemic. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted to determine temporal changes in respiratory panel use and viral epidemiology in the pediatric ED from 2018 to 2022. Medical records were used to determine ICU admission and mortality in those with a positive respiratory panel. Results During the study period, a total of 10,000 respiratory PCR panels were performed in the pediatric ED. There was a significant increase in mean number of panels performed per year during the pandemic period compared to two years prior (2899 vs 198 panels/year). However, the Positivity rate decreased considerably during the pandemic (38.27% vs. 63.54%). Of the 10,000 panels performed, COVID-19 was identified in in 993 cases (9.93%), while other respiratory viruses were identified in 31.27% of cases. The most prevalent virus identified were EV (n=1411, 14.9%) and RSV (n=483, 5.1%). These viruses also had the highest rate of ICU admission and mortality. Patients that tested positive for COVID-19 had a lower rate of ICU admission compared to those infected by other viruses (RR=0.88; CI95%=0.78-0.99). Additionally, the mortality rate associated with COVID-19 was significantly lower than that of other viruses (RR=0.62; CI95%=0.49-0.79). PCR Panel Positivity Rate and Viral Infections in Pediatrics ED from 2018-2022 PCR viral panel tests performed, positive tests, and viral isolates from 2018 to 2022 Conclusion The pandemic increased the use of PCR testing for respiratory illnesses, providing a better picture of seasonal epidemiology of viral infections. Although COVID-19 infection in children was a major of concern, this report shows that throughout the pandemic other viruses were more prevalent and significantly more severe. This study serves as a reminder than even in times of emerging infections, healthcare professionals shouldn’t forget the usual causes of infection. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

2307. Respiratory Virus Testing Strategy on Admission to Hospital in a Season where SARS-CoV-2 is Co-circulating with Seasonal Respiratory Viruses

Abstract Background Syndromic multiplex testing is the mainstay of viral respiratory surveillance, yet some evidence supports the use of asymptomatic testing for SARS-CoV-2 on patient admission. We conducted a prospective quality improvement study to determine the adherence and outcomes associated with a hybrid surveillance strategy for patients being admitted to an acute care hospital who underwent testing on admission. Methods In November, 2022, corporate education recommended that patients with compatible viral respiratory symptoms undergo respiratory multiplex testing for 15 viral pathogens, while those without viral respiratory symptoms (considered asymptomatic) undergo SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing alone. Between December 1, 2022 to March 30, 2023, we measured the testing strategy using positivity rate, rate of omission (i.e., SARS-CoV-2 testing for symptomatic patients, defined as needing a repeat swab for multiplex within 24-hours of admission), and rate of commission (i.e., multiplex testing for asymptomatic patients). Those with detection of non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses in absence of symptoms were prospectively assessed for 24 hours for development of symptoms and roommate contacts underwent syndromic surveillance for 72-hours. Results Among 5659 patients tested on admission, 2868(50.6%) underwent multiplex testing while 2791(49.3%) were tested only for SARS-CoV-2. The positivity rate for multiplex testing, positivity rate for COVID SARS-CoV-2 testing, omission rate and commission rate were 249/2868(8.7%), 81/2791 (2.9%), 259/1403(17.8%), 1618/4091(39.6%), respectively. Symptom status for 165 patients was not available. Asymptomatic non-SARS-CoV-2 positive patients made up 0.6% of all admissions, of whom none developed symptoms within 24 hours, and the attack rate among roommate contacts was zero (0/20). There were only 31 additional days of precautions for asymptomatic non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory virus detection that made up 4.4% of overall precaution-days for respiratory virus infection. Conclusion A hybrid surveillance strategy for patients admitted to hospital based on presence of symptoms was implemented with relatively low rates of repeat testing and asymptomatic non-SARS-CoV-2 virus detection. Disclosures Jerome A. Leis, MD MSc FRCPC, Ontario Hospital Association, Ministry of Attorney General of Ontario, Seneca College: Expert Testimony

Association Between Social Vulnerability Index Theme Percentile Ranks and the Number of Respiratory Viruses Detected in People Who Underwent Multiplex Testing in Nashville, Tennessee, 2018–2022

Abstract Background The CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index (SVI)—an aggregate of 16 variables grouped under four themes—measures the relative social vulnerability of each census tract in the United States. We hypothesized that social vulnerability may be a determinant of health in the context of viral co-detection because community attributes are associated with viral circulation. Therefore, we aimed to assess the association between SVI theme percentile ranks and the number of viruses detected in people who underwent respiratory viral panel testing in Nashville, Tennessee. Methods We systematically retrieved the records of all people who underwent respiratory viral panel testing at Vanderbilt University Medical Center between 01/01/2018 and 12/01/2022. Anyone who had a medical encounter >14 days after a preceding encounter was considered a new, distinct case. We supplemented the data with SARS-CoV-2 test results by any method (antigen-based, molecular, or serologic). We used the United States Census Bureau’s census geocoder to retrieve the census tract by city and state, which we subsequently used to retrieve data from the CDC/ATSDR SVI 2020 database, including the percentile ranks for the four themes (Socioeconomic Status, Household Characteristics, Racial & Ethnic Minority Status, and Housing Type & Transportation). We described the distribution of each theme percentile rank using the mean and standard deviation and used proportional odds models to assess the association between each SVI theme percentile rank (higher values indicate higher vulnerability) and the number of respiratory viruses detected. The odds ratio (OR) for each theme represents groups differing in their SVI theme percentile rank by 10%. Results Of 57,930 people who underwent multiplex testing, we retrieved data from the SVI database for 54,356 (93.8%), of whom 28,369 (52.2%) were male. The median age at presentation was 15.7 years (IQR, 1.7–55.5 years), and the numbers of people in the 0–4, 5–17, 18–64, ≥65 age groups were 20,247 (37.2%), 8,245 (15.2%), 17,566 (32.3%), and 8,298 (15.3%), respectively. The mean percentile ranks for the themes of Socioeconomic Status, Household Characteristics, Racial & Ethnic Minority Status, and Housing Type & Transportation were 0.55 (0.28), 0.51 (0.28), 0.41 (0.25), and 0.47 (0.29), respectively. No viruses were detected in 30,201 people (55.6%), while one virus was detected in 20,325 (37.4%), two in 3,400 (6.3%), three in 408 (0.8%), and four in 22 (0.04%). The number of viruses detected was significantly associated with Socioeconomic Status (OR=1.017 [95% CI, 1.011–1.023]; p<0.001), Household Characteristics (OR=1.009 [95% CI, 1.003–1.015]; p=0.003), and Racial & Ethnic Minority Status (OR=1.051 [95% CI, 1.044–1.058]; p<0.001), although not Housing Type & Transportation (OR=0.999 [95% CI, 0.993–1.005]; p=0.74). Figure 1 shows the mean percentile ranks for the four themes stratified by the number of viruses detected. Figure 1. Mean percentile ranks for the four themes that comprise the CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index, stratified by the number of viruses detected, for the addresses of 54,356 people who underwent respiratory viral panel testing in Nashville, Tennessee. Error bars indicate 95% confidence intervals. Conclusion Various aspects of social vulnerability were associated with the number of respiratory viruses detected in people of all ages who underwent multiplex testing. The strongest association was observed for racial and ethnic minority status, more so than other well-established social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status. Future research will focus on racial and ethnic disparities that inform this finding.

Patterns of Antibiotic Use in Young Children Hospitalized with RSV in Amman, Jordan

Abstract Introduction Antibiotic misuse is associated with the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. It is therefore important to limit antibiotic use for respiratory infections, especially those that are virus-associated. In developing countries, without point-of-care testing for common respiratory viruses (e.g., respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV), clinicians rely on clinical judgment clinicians relay on clinical judgement to distinguish between viral and bacterial causes of illness. We sought to evaluate patterns of antibiotic use in young, hospitalized children with RSV in Amman, Jordan. Methods A prospective acute respiratory viral surveillance study was conducted between January 8 and March 17, 2020. Eligible children were <2 years old presenting with fever and/or respiratory symptoms within 72 hours of hospitalization. Nasal or throat swabs were collected from each child. Research molecular testing for RSV and other respiratory viruses was performed. Demographic and clinical data were collected through parental interviews and chart abstractions. For this analysis, we restricted our study to children with RSV detected by research molecular testing. We classified antibiotic patterns into three categories: 1) 1st line/empiric: ampicillin, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime, cefotaxime, and gentamycin; 2) azithromycin; 3) expanded: vancomycin, amikacin, imipenem/meropenem, and metronidazole. We compared clinical characteristics and outcomes between the three antibiotic groups using Pearson's χ2 test for categorical variables and linear regression with robust standard errors for continuous variables. Results Of the 531 children who were enrolled, 400 (75.3%) were RSV-positive by research molecular testing: 221 (55.3%) were male, median age was 2.9 months (IQR, 1.7–6.4), 174/390 (44.6%) reported consuming an antibiotic prior to hospitalization, and 387 (96.8%) received at least one antibiotic during their hospitalization. The most common antibiotic category was empiric 261 (67.4%), followed by azithromycin (n=106; 27.4%) and expanded (n=16; 4.1%). Table 1 compares clinical and demographic data between antibiotic categories for RSV-positive children during hospitalization. Children in the empiric group had higher mean age and were more likely to be diagnosed with bronchopneumonia at admission, while those in the azithromycin group were more likely to be diagnosed with pertussis-like cough or bronchiolitis at admission. Children in the expanded group were more likely to have fever, be diagnosed with pneumonia at admission, require oxygen, and be admitted to the intensive care unit. Among those who had a blood, urine, and/or CSF culture performed (n=209; 54%), a total of 10 (2.6%) were positive for gram-positive bacteria. Conclusion In our study, most children received an antibiotic during their hospital stay. Antibiotic stewardship programs and the implementation of point-of-care testing in Jordanian hospitals are needed to help limit antibiotic use for RSV.

Association Between the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Adverse Outcomes in Children Aged <2 Years with Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Abstract Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of hospitalization in children <2 years old. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a readily available marker of inflammation that has been studied as a prognostic marker in various infectious diseases. However, its utility in children with RSV remains underexplored. We aimed to determine the association between NLR and adverse outcomes in children <2 years old with RSV. Methods We retrieved records for all clinician-ordered multiplex respiratory viral panel tests for common respiratory pathogens (including RSV) at Vanderbilt University Medical Center between 01/01/2018 and 12/01/2022. We identified RSV-positive children <2 years old who had a complete blood count (CBC) performed with absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) ≥2.00×103/μL and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥1.70×103/μL. Any child with a medical encounter >14 days following a previous encounter was considered a distinct case. We used logistic regression to assess the association between (log-transformed) NLR and adverse outcomes defined as hospitalization, supplemental oxygen use, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and intubation. Results Of 2,395 RSV-positive children <2 years old, 446 (18.6%) had a CBC performed. Of those, 349 (78.3%) met the stated thresholds for ALC and ANC. The median age of the cohort was 3.7 months (IQR, 1.6–11.6 months), 178 (51.0%) were male, and 269 (77.1%) were hospitalized. Of those hospitalized, 185 (68.8%) received supplemental oxygen, 113 (42.0%) were admitted to the ICU, and 45 (16.7%) were intubated. The odds ratio associated with a two-fold difference in NLR was significant for hospitalization (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.13–1.91; p=0.005) and ICU admission (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.07–1.78; p=0.013) but not for supplemental oxygen use (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.87–1.49; p=0.34) or intubation (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 0.96–1.83; p=0.092; Table 1). Conclusion Higher NLR was associated with hospitalization and ICU admission in children <2 years with RSV. These findings suggest that NLR has prognostic value in children with RSV.

Changes in clinical, demographic, and outcome patterns of children hospitalized with non-SARS-CoV-2 viral low respiratory tract infections before and during the COVID pandemic in Rome, Italy.

We performed this study aiming to evaluate changes in epidemiology, clinical presentation and outcomes of children hospitalized for viral lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI). We performed a retrospective study of children younger than 18 years of age hospitalized for LRTIs with a positive respiratory viral testing from 2018 to 2022. We compared need of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), invasive ventilation, and other respiratory support, viral etiologies, clinical presentations, imaging, and laboratory results in the precovid (2018-2019) and covid (2020-2022) period. A total of 523 were included in the analysis. In the pandemic period, the detection of influenza was 95% less likely to occur (odds ratio [OR]: 0.05; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.02-0.12; p < .001), likewise the detection of adenovirus was 77% less likely to occur (OR: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.10-0.51; p < .001). In the pandemic period, the number of codetections increased from 15.52% in 2018 to 57.25% in 2022, resulting in a significantly increasing trend (p < .001). The odds of transfer to PICU was more than five times greater during the pandemic period (OR: 5.31; 95% CI: 1.78-15.86; p = .003). We found that the pattern of LRTI in children during COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed in terms of etiologies and increased severity.

Abstract 13153: Non-Rheumatic Streptococcal Myocarditis Manifesting as Acute Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Case presentation: A 24-year-old healthy man presented with acute, constant, non-radiating, chest pain with pleuritic quality. Three days prior, he had developed fever, sore throat, cervical lymphadenopathy, and tachycardia. Amoxicillin was given for a positive rapid streptococcal test. He was afebrile and bradycardic at 50 bpm. Lab showed leukocytosis (WBC 20,000/μL, neutrophil 80%), elevated ESR 70 mm/hr, CRP 23 mg/dL, and rising hs-cTn from 800 to 1,700 ng/L. Anti-streptolysin O and anti-DNase-B were normal. Tests for adenovirus, EBV, CMV, and other respiratory viruses were negative. Initial EKG showed sinus bradycardia with ST depression and T-wave inversion in V1-V2 and III. CXR and echo were unremarkable. He received intravenous penicillin G and indomethacin. Chest pain resolved on the following day. Repeat EKG showed resolution of bradycardia, ST depression, and T-wave inversion in V2. Indomethacin, colchicine, and amoxicillin were given upon discharge. Discussion: In contrast to acute rheumatic fever (ARF), a condition caused by molecular mimicry leading to cross-reactive humoral and cellular immune responses between cardiac and Streptococcus pyogenes antigens, the pathophysiology of non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis is presumably toxin-mediated. Although the revised Jones criteria were fulfilled in our patient, the temporal relationship between pharyngitis and the onset of carditis must be taken into account to distinguish these two entities. Concurrent myocarditis and pharyngitis suggest non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis, as opposed to a delayed presentation in ARF. Latency from pharyngitis to chest pain was reportedly around 3 days. The absence of valvular heart disease and streptococcal antibodies, such as anti-streptolysin O and anti-DNase B, are a clue to diagnosis. A recent case-series also suggested male-predominance. There has been an increase in a diagnosis of non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis due to a widespread use of diagnostic modalities such as MRI. Clinicians should consider this condition in a differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome, particularly in any young individuals with chest pain, elevated cardiac biomarkers, EKG changes, and simultaneous streptococcal pharyngitis.

Safety of CAR-T Cell Therapy in Asymptomatic Patients with Positive Respiratory Viral Testing Prior to CAR-T Infusions

Introduction. Active infection is a contraindication to CAR T-cell infusion (CAR-T). Our standard institutional practice (SOP) is to perform a respiratory virus panel (RVP) prior to CAR-T infusion; however, the risk of toxicity after CAR-T in the context of an asymptomatic, incidentally noted respiratory viral infection (+RVP) during pre-CAR-T testing is unclear. We report our institutional experience for asymptomatic patients (pts) with PCR evidence of viral respiratory presence who subsequently received CAR-T. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 306 pts with non-Hodgkin lymphomas who were treated at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania with commercial CAR-T products from 2018-2023. Per SOP, all pts had a PCR-based RVP test prior to lymphodepleting chemotherapy (LD); LD-CAR-T was delayed for at least 7 days for asymptomatic pts with +RVP. After 7 days, pts with continued +RVP can proceed to CAR-T if they remain asymptomatic. RVP included: adenovirus, non-SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, human metapneumovirus, rhinovirus/enterovirus, influenza A/B, parainfluenza 1-4, respiratory syncytial virus A/B, with/without SARS-CoV-2. We selected pts who had a +RVP within 4 weeks of CAR-T and who were asymptomatic (without respiratory viral symptoms) at time of CAR-T infusion. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neuro-toxicity domains defining immune effector cells (ICANS) were evaluated using ASTCT consensus grading. Any fever post-CAR-T without an alternative cause was considered CRS. Results . We identified 15 pts with +RVP who were asymptomatic at the time of CAR-T: 12 (80%) were male; median age 54 years (range 38-75); 10 (67%) had large B-cell lymphoma; 4 (27%) follicular lymphoma; 1 (7%) mantle cell lymphoma; ECOG performance status (PS) ≤1 in 14 (93%); lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) elevated in 5 (33%); 14 (93%) received bridging therapy. Overall, 11 pts (73%) had rhinovirus/enterovirus, 1 (7%) had SARS-CoV-2, 1 (7%) had non-SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, 1 (7%) had adenovirus, and 1 (7%) had RSV A. Of these 15 pts with +RVP, 8 (53%) were asymptomatic at time of initial +RVP and 7 (47%) pts were symptomatic at time of +RVP. The median time of intial +RVP was 13 days before CAR-T; the median time of closest +RVP to CAR-T was 7 days prior to CAR-T. No patient who was asymptomatic with a +RVP developed symptoms between initial screening +RVP and CAR-T infusion. At the time of CAR-T infusion, all patients were asymptomatic and no patient required supplemental oxygen. CAR-T was administered outpatient in 9 pts (60%). Of 15 asymptomatic pts infused, 10 (67%) received tisagenlecleucel (tisa-cel), 2 (13%) axicabtagene ciloleucel (axi-cel), 2 (13%) lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso-cel), and 1 (7%) brexucabtagene autoleucel (brexu-cel). 8 of these 15 pts (53%) developed CRS (7 pts grades 1-2, one pt grade 3) and 4/15 (27%) ICANS (2 pts grades 1-2, 2 pts grades 3-4). Of the 8 patients who remained asymptomatic and received CAR-T, 6 (75%) received tisa-cel, 1 (13%) axi-cel and 1 (13%) liso-cel. 5 of these 8 pts (63%) developed CRS (all grades 1-2) and 1/8 (13%) ICANS (grade 2). Of the 7 patients whose symptoms resolved prior to CAR-T but had +RVP, 4 (57%) received tisa-cel, 1 (14%) axi-cel, 1 (14%) liso-cel, and 1 (14%) brexu-cel. 3 of these 7 pts (43%) developed CRS (2 pts grades 1-2, 1 pt grade 3) and 3/7 (43%) ICANS (1 pts grades 1-2, 2 pts grades 3-4). Discussion: In our experience, CAR-T in pts with PCR evidence of upper respiratory viral infection was generally safe in pts not requiring oxygen with a good PS who are asymptomatic or symptomatically resolved at time of CAR-T infusion. Rates of CRS and ICANS were comparable between asymptomatic pts and pts with resolved symptoms at time of CAR-T.

Routine, molecular point-of-care testing for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses within an acute oncology service improves patient care

COVID-19 has caused significant challenges for infection prevention measures and patient flow in hospital admission pathways. We aimed to assess the impact of replacing laboratory PCR with molecular point-of-care testing (mPOCT) for respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2, within an Acute Oncology Service (AOS). This pre- and post-implementation study took place in the AOS of a large teaching hospital, in Southampton, UK. We collected data from two periods: November 25th, 2019 to November 24th, 2020, when respiratory virus testing utilised laboratory PCR, and December 1st, 2020 to May 31st, 2021 following the introduction of mPOCT. The primary outcome was the time to results. 2189 patients were tested in the pre-implementation period and 1540 in the post implementation period. Median (IQR) time to results was 5.8h (4.2-10.6) pre-implementation and 1.9h (1.5-3.0) post-implementation (difference -3.6h [95%CI to -3.8 to -3.5]; p<0.0001). Median time spent in assessment areas was 6.0h (4.1-7.9) pre-implementation and 5.5h (3.8-7.4) post-implementation (p<0.0001). 20 (0.9%) patients admitted via AOS assessment unit developed hospital-acquired respiratory virus infection pre-implementation versus 0 (0%) post-implementation (p=0.031). Routine mPOCT for respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, was associated with a reduced time to results, reduced time in assessment areas, and a reduction in the rates of hospital-acquired respiratory virus infection in an acute oncology assessment unit.

Clinical Outcomes of Acutely Ill Children According to Cycle Threshold Values of Respiratory Viruses Detected by Multiplex PCR Testing.

In this cohort study of 800 children attending a pediatric emergency department at Oulu University Hospital, Finland with fever or respiratory symptoms, the cycle threshold values of point-of-care multiplex polymerase chain reaction testing for respiratory viruses were not associated with hospitalization, respiratory support, or need for intensive care.

The re-emergence of influenza following the COVID-19 pandemic in Victoria, Australia, 2021 to 2022.

BackgroundCOVID-19 pandemic mitigation measures, including travel restrictions, limited global circulation of influenza viruses. In Australia, travel bans for non-residents and quarantine requirements for returned travellers were eased in November 2021, providing pathways for influenza viruses to be re-introduced.AimWe aimed to describe the epidemiological and virological characteristics of the re-emergence of influenza in Victoria, Australia to inform public health interventions.MethodsFrom 1 November 2021 to 30 April 2022, we conducted an epidemiological study analysing case notification data from the Victorian Department of Health to describe case demographics, interviewed the first 200 cases to establish probable routes of virus reintroduction and examined phylogenetic and antigenic data to understand virus diversity and susceptibility to current vaccines.ResultsOverall, 1,598 notifications and 1,064 positive specimens were analysed. The majority of cases (61.4%) occurred in the 15-34 years age group. Interviews revealed a higher incidence of international travel exposure during the first month of case detections, and high levels of transmission in university residential colleges were associated with return to campus. Influenza A(H3N2) was the predominant subtype, with a single lineage predominating despite multiple importations.ConclusionEnhanced testing for respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic provided a more complete picture of influenza virus transmission compared with previous seasons. Returned international travellers were important drivers of influenza reemergence, as were young adults, a group whose role has previously been under-recognised in the establishment of seasonal influenza epidemics. Targeting interventions, including vaccination, to these groups could reduce future influenza transmission.

Comparing the Clinical Courses of Children With Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus to Children With Other Respiratory Viruses in the Outpatient Setting.

While infections caused by rhinoviruses and enteroviruses are common among children, the entirety of their clinical impact remains elusive. We compared the clinical outcomes of children with rhinovirus/enterovirus infections to other common respiratory viruses in outpatient settings. We conducted a retrospective analysis of nasopharyngeal samples singly positive for human rhinovirus/enterovirus (HRV/ENT), influenza A/B (FLU) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) from patients ≤17 years submitted for clinical testing via multiplex polymerase chain reaction between 2016 and 2019. We evaluated the following outpatient outcomes: days of respiratory symptoms before testing; visits for respiratory symptoms; receipt of a breathing treatment; receipt of antibiotics and hospital admission. Statistical analyses were conducted controlling for age and comorbid conditions. There were 1355 positive samples included in this analysis (HRV/ENT: n = 743, FLU: n = 303 and RSV: n = 309). Compared to HRV/ENT, children with FLU had 28% fewer days of respiratory symptoms (β: -0.32; 95% confidence interval: -0.46 to -0.18; P < 0.001), fewer visits for respiratory symptoms, and significantly decreased odds of receiving a breathing treatment or antibiotics, and admission to the hospital. Children with RSV had a similar number of days of respiratory symptoms, outpatient visits and odds of hospital admission, but significantly increased odds of receiving a breathing treatment and antibiotics compared to those with HRV/ENT. Clinicians should have a high level of vigilance when managing children with positive respiratory viral testing for HRV/ENT given the potential for clinical outcomes similar to and, in some instances, worse than known highly pathogenic viruses.

Association between preoperative respiratory symptoms and perioperative respiratory adverse events in pediatric patients with positive viral testing

Study objectiveTo determine the association between the presence of upper respiratory tract viral infection symptoms and occurrence of perioperative respiratory adverse events (PRAE) in children with positive viral screening, and to analyze the risk of PRAE in children with SARS-CoV-2 compared to non-SARS-CoV-2 infection. DesignA prospective cohort study. SettingA tertiary, freestanding pediatric hospital in Dallas, Texas. PatientsChildren <18 years of age with positive respiratory viral testing who underwent general anesthesia. InterventionMeasurement of incidence of PRAE and severe adverse events during the first 7 postoperative days. MeasurementsThe primary outcome was a composite of PRAE: oxygen saturation < 90% for >5 min, supplemental oxygen for >2 h after anesthesia, laryngospasm, and bronchospasm. The secondary outcome was severe adverse events: high flow nasal cannula >6 l of oxygen per minute, admission to the ICU for escalation of respiratory support post-anesthetic, acute respiratory distress syndrome, postoperative pneumonia, cardiovascular arrest, extracorporeal life support, and death. Main resultsIn this convenience sample of 196 children, 83 were symptomatic and 113 were asymptomatic. The risk of PRAE was similar in children with active viral symptoms and asymptomatic children (risk difference: −1.9%; 95% CI: −10.9, 7.9%), but higher among children with documented fever within 48 h of the anesthetic (risk difference: 20.8%; 95% CI: 5.3, 39.7%). The multivariable adjusted odds ratio of PRAE was 0.68 (95% CI: 0.25, 1.85) for symptomatic compared to asymptomatic patients, and 0.46 (95% CI: 0.14, 1.44) for patients with SARS-CoV-2 compared to non-SARS-CoV-2 infection. ConclusionsThere was no significant difference in the incidence of PRAE between symptomatic and asymptomatic children with laboratory confirmed viral respiratory infection, and between children with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 compared to non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses. However, the risk was increased in children with recent fever.

The Effect of Rapid Point-of-Care Respiratory Pathogen Testing on Antibiotic Prescriptions in Acute Infections-A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Rapid point-of-care testing for respiratory pathogens has gained increasing popularity, but its impact on antibiotic consumption is unclear. Thus, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to estimate the effect of rapid point-of-care testing on antibiotic prescriptions. The search for this systematic review with meta-analysis was performed in February 2023. Randomized controlled trials investigating the impact of testing for respiratory pathogens in all-aged patients were included regardless of the comparator. The main outcome was the antibiotic prescription rate. Analyses were stratified by test type, test setting, and patient age. A random-effects Mantel-Haenszel model was used to calculate risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Risk of bias was assessed for included studies, and the quality of the evidence was rated according to GRADE. A total of 754 abstracts were screened, and 10 studies were included in the analysis. Risk of bias was high in 2, low in 4, and had some concerns in 4 studies. Four studies analyzed influenza and respiratory syncytial virus tests, and 6 studies analyzed multiplex (viral and/or bacterial) testing. The prescription rate was 48.2% (496/1029) in the influenza and respiratory syncytial virus test group and 48.7% (540/1109) in the control group (risk ratio [RR], 0.97; 95% CI, 0.92-1.02; moderate-quality evidence). The prescription rate in the multiplex testing group was 54.3% (1554/2859), and it was 57.3% (1336/2326) in the control group (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.96-1.04; moderate-quality evidence). In an age-stratified analysis, the prescription rates showed no evidence of a difference (children: RR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.81-1.30; adults: RR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96-1.01; very low- and moderate-quality evidence). We found moderate-quality evidence that rapid point-of-care testing for respiratory pathogens does not decrease the antibiotic prescription rate.

Notes from the Field: Multipathogen Respiratory Virus Testing Among Primary and Secondary School Students and Staff Members in a Large Metropolitan School District - Missouri, November 2, 2022-April 19, 2023.

Notes from the Field: Multipathogen Respiratory Virus Testing Among Primary and Secondary School Students and Staff Members in a Large Metropolitan School District - Missouri, November 2, 2022-April 19, 2023.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome in children treated at a pediatric referral hospital in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background - Although we have accumulated knowledge along with the pandemic, there are still gaps, including the impact of seasonal conditions of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses. Methods - A retrospective cohort study that aimed to describe the etiological diagnosis and compare the clinical presentation and outcomes of children with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Results – 1,027 children diagnosed with SARS were evaluated. In 926 (90.2%) children who collected RT-PCR Covid, 2.3% had a positive result. A total of 365 (35.4%) of the children underwent collection for Viral Panel exam, with identification of the etiology in 28%. There was a statistically significant difference in the age of patients infected with RSV and other viruses. The length of hospital stay was statistically different (p:0.006) when comparing groups of rhinovirus with COVID or RSV. Conclusion - This study is a pioneer in conducting large-scale testing for respiratory viruses in pediatric patients during the pandemic and contributes to the knowledge about the etiology of SARS in childhood, and this disease's relationship with the seasonality of respiratory viruses.

Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea Are Common in Community-Acquired Acute Viral Respiratory Illness

BackgroundGastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are recognized sequelae of acute respiratory illness (ARI), but their prevalence is not well documented. Our study aim was to assess the incidence of GI symptoms in community ARI cases for persons of all ages and their association with clinical outcomes.MethodsWe collected mid-nasal swabs, clinical, and symptom data from Seattle-area individuals during the 2018–2019 winter season as part of a large-scale prospective community surveillance study. Swabs were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for 26 respiratory pathogens. Likelihood of GI symptoms given demographic, clinical, and microbiological covariates were analyzed with Fisher’s exact, Wilcoxon-rank-sum, and t-tests and multivariable logistic regression.ResultsIn 3183 ARI episodes, 29.4% had GI symptoms (n = 937). GI symptoms were significantly associated with pathogen detection, illness interfering with daily life, seeking care for the illness, and greater symptom burden (all p < 0.05). Controlling for age, > 3 symptoms, and month, influenza (p < 0.001), human metapneumovirus (p = 0.004), and enterovirus D68 (p = 0.05) were significantly more likely to be associated with GI symptoms than episodes with no pathogen detected. Seasonal coronaviruses (p = 0.005) and rhinovirus (p = 0.04) were significantly less likely to be associated with GI symptoms.ConclusionIn this community-surveillance study of ARI, GI symptoms were common and associated with illness severity and respiratory pathogen detection. GI symptoms did not track with known GI tropism, suggesting GI symptoms may be nonspecific rather than pathogen-mediated. Patients presenting with GI and respiratory symptoms should have respiratory virus testing, even if the respiratory symptom is not the primary concern.

Liver transaminase concentrations in children with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection

ObjectiveTo evaluate the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and liver injury by comparing transaminase concentrations among children tested for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in pediatric emergency departments. Design & methodsEligible children were <18 years with suspected SARS-CoV-2, tested using molecular approaches in emergency departments between March 7, 2020, and June 15, 2021 (Pediatric Emergency Research Network), and between August 6, 2020, and February 22, 2022 (Pediatric Emergency Research Canada). We compared aspartate (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentrations at presentation for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses through a multivariate linear regression model, with the natural log of serum transaminase concentrations as dependent variables. ResultsOf 16,892 enrolled children, 2,462 (14.6%) had transaminase concentrations measured; 4318 (25.6%) were SARS-CoV-2 positive, and 3932 (23.3%) were tested for additional respiratory viruses. Among study participants who had additional respiratory virus testing performed, the most frequently identified viruses were enterovirus/rhinovirus [8.7% (343/3,932)], respiratory syncytial virus [4.6% (181/3,932)], and adenovirus [2.6% (103/3,932)]. Transaminase concentrations were elevated in 25.6% (54/211) of children with isolated SARS-CoV-2 detection and 21.6% (117/541) of those with no virus isolated; P = 0.25. In the multivariable model, isolated SARS-CoV-2 detection was not associated with elevated ALT (adjusted geometric mean ratio (IU/L): 0.96; 95%Confidence Interval (CI): 0.84, 1.08) or AST (adjusted geometric mean ratio (IU/L): 1.03; 95%CI: 0.92, 1.16) concentrations, with negative respiratory panel as the referent group. Ninety-day follow-up was completed in 82.2% (3,550/4,318) of SARS-CoV-2 positive children; no cases of new-onset liver disease were reported. ConclusionAmong those tested, transaminase concentrations did not vary between SARS-CoV-2-positive children and those with a negative respiratory viral panel. In multivariate analysis, SARS-CoV-2 infection was not associated with increased initial transaminase concentrations compared to other respiratory viruses.