Journal article

Publication year: 2023

Journal: Medizinische Klinik = Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin

ISSN: 2193-6218

eISSN: 2193-6226

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00063-023-01050-7

Publisher: Springer

Abstract: 
Respiratory viruses cause the highest number of morbidities and deaths annually among all infectious pathogens. This article discusses the current epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, and drug treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other respiratory viruses. The SARS-CoV-2 and influenza are preventable with vaccines and a first vaccine against RSV is available since 08/2023. For infections with SARSCoV-2 and influenza, a stage-specific (antiviral) drug treatment is also recommended. Due to the high and commonly underestimated disease burden caused by RSV, it must be hoped that antiviral substances will be found in the future. In patients at risk, particular attention should be paid to an adequate vaccination status against respiratory pathogens and if there is clinical suspicion of a viral airway infection, the pathogen should be promptly identified and, if necessary, specific treatment should be carried out. Now that effective vaccinations and antiviral drugs are available, the challenge is to use them for all patients at risk and thus really prevent avoidable infections, severe courses and long-term sequelae.

Harvard Citation style: Trauth, J. (2023) Respiratory viral infections. Under special consideration of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and influenza viruses, Medizinische Klinik = Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00063-023-01050-7

APA Citation style: Trauth, J. (2023). Respiratory viral infections. Under special consideration of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and influenza viruses. Medizinische Klinik = Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00063-023-01050-7