COVID-19 with underdiagnosed influenza B and parainfluenza-2 co-infections in Saudi Arabia: Two case reports

J Infect Public Health. 2021 Nov;14(11):1567-1570. doi: 10.1016/j.jiph.2021.09.005. Epub 2021 Sep 15.

Abstract

The emerging of the COVID-19 pandemic is currently challenging for the public health system globally. Beyond SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity, co-infections with recycling respiratory pathogens, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, might increase disease symptoms, morbidity, and mortality. In this study, we reported two COVID-19 cases in the early phase of the virus spread in Saudi Arabia with underdiagnosed respiratory viruses' co-infections, influenza B and Parainfluenza-2, detected retrospectively. Fortunately, both patients recovered and were discharged home. Underestimation of co-infection among COVID19 patients might lead to hospital stay prolongation and increases morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is crucial to consider and screen for co-infecting pathogens among COVID-19 patients and those with risk factors.

Keywords: COVID-19; Co-infection; Cytokine strom; Virus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Coinfection* / diagnosis
  • Coinfection* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Influenza, Human* / diagnosis
  • Influenza, Human* / epidemiology
  • Pandemics
  • Paramyxoviridae Infections*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Saudi Arabia / epidemiology