COVID-19 Measures in Sweden Found to be More Effective in Reducing Rhinovirus Infections Among Older Adults Than Children

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg conducted a study to assess the impact of COVID-19 measures on the epidemiology of rhinovirus and other Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI)-causing viruses in the western part of Sweden in 2020. The study analyzed 13,791 nasopharyngeal samples from ARI patients for 19 different viruses and bacteria using qPCR, and found that the interventions implemented after week 12 significantly reduced the spread of ARI-causing viruses among adults over 56 years, but had a lesser effect on young children.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed 13,791 nasopharyngeal samples from ARI patients in the western part of Sweden in 2020, finding that 2,018 samples were positive for rhinovirus (RV) and enterovirus (EV), and 106 contained adenoviruses.
  • The interventions implemented after week 12 were found to be more effective in reducing the spread of ARI-causing viruses among adults over 56 years, compared to young children.
  • The study identified an outbreak caused by RV-A strains that predominantly infected children younger than 13 years and individuals within the age range of their parents.
  • RV-A strains were identified in 118 of 242 (49%) RV-positive samples, followed by RV-C (36%) and RV-B (10%).
  • The study suggests the need for new strategies for preventing the spread of ARI pathogens like RV and EV, which cause disease in all age groups and can lead to large outbreaks.

Statistics:

  • 13,791 nasopharyngeal samples were analyzed from ARI patients in the western part of Sweden in 2020.
  • 2,018 samples were positive for rhinovirus (RV) and enterovirus (EV).
  • 106 samples contained adenoviruses.
  • 118 of 242 (49%) RV-positive samples were identified as RV-A strains.
  • 36% of RV-positive samples were identified as RV-C strains.
  • 10% of RV-positive samples were identified as RV-B strains.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. University of Gothenburg Reports Findings in COVID-19 (Measures against SARS-CoV-2 in Sweden were more efficient against rhinovirus infections in older adults than in children: a molecular epidemiology perspective). Pediatrics Week. June 28, 2025; p 13.
  • Infectious Diseases. 2025;1-12.
  • Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2-4 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon OR14 4RN, Oxon, England.