Molecular characterization and clinical epidemiology of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) A and B in hospitalized children, Southern Brazil

Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is a major etiologic agent of pediatric respiratory infections. Genetic variability of its glycoprotein G enables HRSV to evade the immune response and determines its seasonal dissemination. This study reports genetic variability and clinical profiles of HRSV-infected patients from Southern Brazil. Seventy positive samples, 78% type A and 22% type B, were analyzed. Of the patients (median age, 6 months; interquartile range, 2-11 years), 16% had co-morbidities and 17% developed severe disease. The ON1 HRSV genotype first appeared in 2012, and patients infected with this genotype showed an increased tendency to develop severe disease.