Seasonal Influenza A Virus in Feces of Hospitalized Adults

Abstract

In a cohort of hospitalized adults with seasonal influenza A in Hong Kong, viral RNA was frequently (47%) detected in stool specimens. Viable virus was rarely isolated. Viral RNA positivity had little correlation with gastrointestinal symptoms and outcomes. In vitro studies suggested low potential for seasonal influenza viruses to cause direct intestinal infections.

Keywords

• influenza
• viruses
• seasonal influenza A
• gastrointestinal
• fecal virus detection
• Hong Kong