Prevalence and seasonality of six respiratory viruses during five consecutive epidemic seasons in Belgium.

Background: Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) are a major health problem, especially in young children and the elderly.

Objectives: Insights into the seasonality of respiratory viruses can help us understand when the burden on society is highest and which age groups are most vulnerable.

Study Design: We monitored six respiratory viruses during five consecutive seasons (2011-2016) in Belgium. Patient specimens (n=22876), tested for one or more of the following respiratory viruses, were included in this analysis: Influenza viruses (IAV & IBV), Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV), Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), Adenovirus (ADV) and Human parainfluenza virus (hPIV). Data were analysed for four age categories: <6y, 6-17y, 18-64y and ≥65y.

Results: Children <6y had the highest infection rates (39% positive vs. 20% positive adults) and the highest frequency of co-infections. hRSV (28%) and IAV (32%) caused the most common respiratory viral infections and followed, like hMPV, a seasonal pattern with winter peaks. hRSV followed an annual pattern with two peaks: first in young children and ±7 weeks later in elderly. This phenomenon has not been described in literature so far. hPIV and ADV occurred throughout the year with higher rates in winter.

Conclusions: Children <6y are most vulnerable for respiratory viral infections and have a higher risk for co-infections. hRSV and IAV are the most common respiratory infections with peaks during the winter season in Belgium.