TITLE:
Impact of COVID-19 on the Circulation of Respiratory Viruses in Kinshasa: Analysis of the Prevalence and Viral Etiologies of Acute Respiratory Infections
AUTHORS:
Edith Nkwembe Ngabana, Youdhie Ituneme N’ka Flabo, Grace Mufwaya Makayi, Lisa Lebo Nsimba, Meris Matondo Kuamfumu, Heritier Yalungu Milo, Laurette Imbanda, Leonie Manya Kitoto, Wally Disuasani, Pelagie Babakazo, Steve Ahuka Mundeke
KEYWORDS:
Viral Etiologies, ARI, Pandemic, Surveillance, Kinshasa
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.14 No.4,
November
22,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the sentinel surveillance system for influenza was adapted to monitor SARS-CoV-2 infections during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing an opportunity to expand surveillance to other respiratory viruses responsible for acute respiratory infections (ARI). This study aims to document the extent and circulation of influenza viruses, as well as the viral etiologies of ARIs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kinshasa. Methodology: Between 2020 and 2021, respiratory samples were collected from patients presenting with influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). Socio-demographic information was gathered using a pre-established form. Virus detection was carried out using molecular biology techniques. The prevalence of the respiratory viruses and the characteristics of the population were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and comparisons between gender and age groups were made using Chi-2 test. Results: Eleven respiratory viruses were detected in the analyzed samples. Children under five years of age, individuals over 65 years old, and male patients were particularly affected. The COVID-19 pandemic altered the circulation of influenza viruses. Conclusion: In addition to SARS-CoV-2, other respiratory viruses co-circulated during the pandemic, and the circulation of influenza viruses was disrupted.