May 7, 2021

Prevalence and Outcomes of Co-Infection and Superinfection with  SARS-CoV-2 and Other Pathogens: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Clinical Characteristics and Health Care Setting

Keywords (Tags): co-infection

• A meta-analysis of 118 studies reporting the clinical features and outcomes of persons with SARS CoV-2 infection found that up to 19% had co-infections (pathogens detected at the time of SARS CoV-2 diagnosis) and 24% had superinfections (other pathogens detected during SARS-CoV-2 care). Persons with co- and super-infections had a higher risk of mortality (OR = 3.3) compared to persons  with only SARS-CoV-2 infection. The most frequently detected pathogens among co-infected  persons were influenza A and B, and respiratory syncytial virus. The authors suggest that testing and  treatment for other pathogens may be necessary to improve outcomes in persons with COVID-19. 

Musuuza et al. (May 6, 2021). Prevalence and Outcomes of Co-Infection and Superinfection with  SARS-CoV-2 and Other Pathogens: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PLOS ONE.  https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0251170