VIRal Pulmonary Infections in Older AGE

Severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs) represent one of the leading causes of hospitalization and mortality worldwide. These infections are associated with substantial in-hospital mortality and often constitute a turning point in the medium-term prognosis of older patients and those with comorbid conditions. SARIs are most frequently of viral origin, involving well-known pathogens such as Orthomyxoviridae (influenza A and B viruses), Pneumoviridae \[(respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV)\], Paramyxoviridae \[parainfluenza viruses (PIV)\], adenoviruses, or rhinoviruses, as well as emerging viruses such as pandemic influenza strains and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Age-related immune decline (immunosenescence) increases the risk of severe forms and related respiratory or cardiovascular complications. However, the prevalence and burden of the different viral etiologies of Severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs) in older adults remain limited and insufficiently characterized. The primary objective is to determine the proportion of viral respiratory infections attributable to polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed pathogen agents among hospitalized older subjects (≥60 years old).