Biennial Cycle of RSV Outbreaks in Croatia
Author Information
Author(s): Mlinaric-Galinovic Gordana, Welliver Robert C, Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana, Ljubin-Sternak Suncanica, Drazenovic Vladimir, Galinovic Ivana, Tomic Vlatka
Primary Institution: Croatian National Institute of Public Health
Hypothesis
The study aims to analyze the epidemic pattern of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) outbreaks in children in Croatia.
Conclusion
RSV outbreaks in Croatia follow a biennial cycle, which is influenced by climate factors.
Supporting Evidence
- RSV was detected in 32.2% of the subjects studied.
- The study covered a period of 11 consecutive winter seasons from 1994 to 2005.
- RSV outbreaks were shown to vary in a two-year cycle.
- Climate factors correlated significantly with RSV cases in large seasons.
- The average age of patients was 13.4 months.
- Statistical analysis indicated significant differences in RSV cases between large and small seasons.
- RSV activity was inversely related to temperature and directly related to humidity in large seasons.
- The findings can help predict future RSV outbreaks in Croatia.
Takeaway
The study found that RSV infections in children happen in a pattern that repeats every two years, and weather can affect how many kids get sick.
Methodology
The study analyzed RSV infections in 3,435 hospitalized children over 11 winter seasons using virus isolation and antigen detection methods.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to using hospitalization as a marker for community RSV activity.
Limitations
The study's reliance on hospitalizations may impair statistical analysis of community activity.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 0 to 10 years from Zagreb County.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.018
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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