A Cluster of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections in a Hospital Ward for Adult Immunocompromised Patients

Abstract

Four male patients admitted to the same ward in the first half of September 201Y were identified to have respiratory syncytial virus（RSV）infection. Their ages ranged from 49 to 85 years（median 72.5）. One patient was infected with human immunodeficiency virus and three patients had hematological malignancies. Following immuno-chromatological testing with a nasal cavity swab, RSV infection was diagnosed. Although blood and sputum cultures were performed in three patients, no significant bacteria were detected. Two cases responded to supportive therapy. However, one patient died secondary to multiple myeloma, and another patient developed pneumonia and died with an exacerbation of leukemia. RSV infections in immunocompromised hosts are associated with a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis will facilitate isolation of infected individuals to prevent hospital outbreaks.