Silent threats: understanding the Impact of respiratory viruses on the ageing population
Patra, Shantanu Rajadurai, Rachel Fayyaz, Sidra Hagan, Guy
Patra, Shantanu
Rajadurai, Rachel
Fayyaz, Sidra
Hagan, Guy
Abstract
Respiratory viruses are an important cause of acute respiratory illnesses in older adults. The spectrum of illness may range from pneumonia to an exacerbation of underlying respiratory disease or acute bronchitis. Respiratory viruses can account for a significant proportion of chest infections. However, respiratory viruses, either acting as primary pathogens or in conjunction with bacterial infections, are often underdiagnosed due to less frequent viral testing compared to bacterial infections. Hitherto neglected, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought into sharp focus and generated interest in respiratory viruses and their burden in all age groups. This article addresses this interest and summarises the most prevalent and emerging respiratory viruses affecting the elderly. There is a general overview as well as specific information on how to approach, identify, and treat these viruses. We will also discuss the latest guidance on vaccination, as well as adjunctive tests like procalcitonin and point-of-care testing and the niche that these occupy in the diagnosis and management of chest infections.
MIDER Authors
Date
2025-11-19
Type
Article
Subject
Pulmonary Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine
Collections
Citation
Patra S, Rajadurai R, Fayyaz S, Hagan G. Silent Threats: Understanding the Impact of Respiratory Viruses on the Ageing Population. Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2025 Nov 25;86(11):1-31. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2024.0918. Epub 2025 Nov 19
Journal / Source Title
British Journal of Hospital Medicine
DOI
10.12968/hmed.2024.0918
PMID
41284231
Publisher
MA Healthcare