The Burden of HMPV- and Influenza-Associated Hospitalizations in Adults in New Zealand Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2012–2023 - Summary - MDSpire
Advertisement
The Burden of HMPV- and Influenza-Associated Hospitalizations in Adults in New Zealand Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2012–2023
To examine the temporal trends in incidence rates, hospital outcomes, and associated comorbidities of HMPV infections compared to influenza infections among adults aged ≥20 years from 2012 to 2023, and to assess the impact of COVID-19 on these infections, particularly in terms of their public health implications.
Key Findings:
HMPV accounted for 3.4% of tested cases, while influenza accounted for 15.0%, highlighting the relative burden of each virus.
Annual hospitalization rates were 9.7 per 100,000 for HMPV and 48.2 per 100,000 for influenza, indicating a significant difference in impact.
Influenza hospitalization rates increased significantly post-pandemic, from 43.0 per 100,000 before the pandemic to 79.5 in 2023, suggesting a resurgence in influenza cases.
HMPV-associated hospitalization rates were significantly higher in older adults due to chronic conditions, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.
Interpretation:
The study indicates a notable increase in influenza-related hospitalizations post-COVID-19, while HMPV rates remained stable, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions for vulnerable populations, particularly older adults with comorbidities.
Limitations:
Data limited to Auckland, which may not represent national trends, and potential underreporting of HMPV cases due to lower testing rates.
Seasonal variations may impact hospitalization rates and should be considered in future analyses.
Conclusion:
The findings highlight the ongoing burden of influenza and the need for improved prevention strategies, particularly for older adults and those with comorbidities, while also addressing the significance of HMPV.
by Nayyereh Aminisani, Briony Fanslow, Timothy Wood, Lauren Jelley, Louise Thorn, Ruth Seeds, Conroy Wong, Adrian Trenholme, Cameron C Grant, Q Sue Huang, on behalf of the SHIVERS Investigation Team
