Absence of detection of RSV and influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Brazilian cohort: Likely role of lower transmission in the community

Abstract

Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza are prevalent seasonal community viruses. Although not completely understood, SARS-CoV-2 may have the same means of transmission. Preventive social measures aimed at preventing SARS-CoV-2 spread could impact transmission of other respiratory viruses as well. The aim of this study is to report the detection of RSV and influenza during the period of social distancing due to COVID-19 pandemic in a heavily affected community. Methods Prospective study with pediatric and adult populations seeking care for COVID-19-like symptoms during the fall and winter of 2020 at two hospitals in Southern Brazil. RT-PCR tests for SARS-CoV-2, influenza A (Flu A), influenza B (Flu B) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was performed for all participants. Results 1435 suspected COVID-19 participants (1137 adults, and 298 children). were included between May and August. Median age was 37.7 years (IQR = 29.6-47.7), and 4.92 years (IQR = 1.96-9.53), for the adult and child cohorts, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 was positive in 469 (32.7%) while influenza and RSV were not detected at all. Conclusions Measures to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission likely exerted a huge impact in the spread of alternate respiratory pathogens. These findings contribute to the knowledge about the dynamics of virus spread. Further, it may be considered for guiding therapeutic choices for these other viruses.

Circulation of Respiratory Viruses in Hospitalized Adults before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brescia, Italy: A Retrospective Study

“…Moreover, the positivity rate of respiratory syncytial decreased significantly during the pandemic period. This result was in agreement with other studies that show that positive RSV tests also decreased notably [ 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 ], and in disagreement with others that demonstrate a resurgence of RSV circulation [ 34 , 35 ].…”

During the COVID‐19 pandemic where has respiratory syncytial virus gone?

“…The most evident impact is the significant reduction of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases from March 2020, both in the Southern and in the Northern Hemisphere. 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8…”

“…A complete absence of RSV cases during winter 2020 (May–August) has been detected in Brazil, where restrictions are still ongoing due to the severity of the pandemic. 5 On the contrary, in Australia, restrictions were lifted in April 2020 due to the low number of SARS‐CoV‐2 cases and only social distancing and implemented hygiene measures were maintained. Even following the relaxation of restrictions, no RSV cases had been detected in Western Australia until the end of August 2020.…”

Modeling the systemic risks of COVID-19 on the wildland firefighting workforce

“…It is documented that spread of "camp crud" (a generic term for any respiratory disease that spreads between personnel on wildland fire assignments) occurs on an annual basis. The results from this research have implications for the spread of a variety of infectious diseases, and the impact of the COVID-19 mitigation measures used herein may decrease disease and absenteeism from a variety of respiratory pathogens including influenza and RSV [19][20][21] . There could also be similarities with other dynamic populations such as emergency response or disaster relief where the ABM could prove useful.…”