Epidemiological characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and viral infections in hospitalized children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections.

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and common viral infections in hospitalized children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections in Chengdu from 2019 to 2023, and to provide scientific evidence to support clinical diagnosis, treatment, and public health prevention.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on pathogen detection results from 10,580 children hospitalized with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections at a hospital in Chengdu between January 2019 and December 2023.

Results: Among the 10,580 hospitalized children, the pathogen detection rate was 28.01%, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae showing the highest positivity rate (17.49%). The detection rates of influenza B virus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae were significantly higher in female children compared to males (all P < 0.05). The positivity rates for adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza A virus, and human rhinovirus in 2023 were significantly elevated compared to other years (all P < 0.05). In children under 1 year of age, detection rates for influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae were lower. The co-detection rate of viral infections and Mycoplasma pneumoniae was low (all P < 0.05). A higher detection rate of Mycoplasma pneumoniae was observed in 3-year-olds, along with a higher co-detection rate of two pathogens (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Mycoplasma pneumoniae is the predominant pathogen in hospitalized children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections. Gender, age and season significantly influence pathogen positivity rates. Notably, in 2023, the positivity rates of many pathogens increased significantly, potentially related to changes in COVID-19 prevention and control measures.