Atypical Testing in the Viral Era

Study questions routine testing for atypical bacterial co-infection in viral respiratory hospitalizations

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Routine testing for atypical bacterial co-infections in viral respiratory infections shows limited value, according to a Danish cohort study.
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Only 1% of patients tested for atypical bacteria had positive results, indicating low prevalence of co-infection.
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Despite low co-infection rates, 4% of patients received empirical clarithromycin within 48 hours of admission.
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Most patients with confirmed atypical bacterial co-infection did not receive early macrolide therapy before test results.
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The study suggests that routine testing and treatment for atypical pneumonia in viral infections is not supported by current guidelines.

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