An epidemiological analysis of human bocavirus infection in Wuhan, China

Introduction: Human bocavirus (HBoV) is a critical pathogen responsible for acute respiratory infections in young children. However, there is a relative paucity of relevant epidemiological data related to the HBoV infection, which constrains a comprehensive understanding of the infection and transmission patterns of the virus. Objective: This study aimed to address the knowledge gaps and to provide a scientific basis for public health strategies and clinical management programs for HBoV through epidemiological analyses. Methods: This study analyzed 416 HBoV-positive respiratory cases in Wuhan, China, from July 2021 to December 2024, focusing on demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and co-infection patterns. Results: The results indicated that 86.3% of infections occurred in children under 3 years of age, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.5:1. Seasonal peaks were observed in autumn, accounting for 54.81%, and winter, accounting for 26.68%. The AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average+Seasonal-Trend decomposition using the Loess model predicted that HBoV infections would continue to be concentrated in autumn and winter in 2025. The most common co-infections were with human rhinovirus (HRV), Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and other pathogens. The HRV co-infection rate was 22.84%. Elevated levels of interleukins (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-2R, as well as altered lymphocyte subsets, such as reduced natural killer cells, suggested compromised immune responses during infection. Conclusion: HBoV infections are highly prevalent in young children, particularly during autumn and winter. Frequent co-infections and immune dysregulation underscore the need for improved diagnostics and surveillance. Public health interventions should focus on high-incidence seasons to reduce the burden of HBoV-associated respiratory infections.