Resumen

VEGA-BRICENO, Luis E et al. Hospitalization due to influenza in children in Santiago, Chile, 2001-2005. Rev. chil. infectol. [online]. 2008, vol.25, n.4, pp. 262-267. ISSN 0716-1018.  doi: 10.4067/S0716-10182008000400003.

Background: Influenza cause high hospitalization rates and complications in children. Objective: To describe clinical and epidemiological characteristics of influenza infection in hospitalized children. Patients and methods: In Universidad Católica Hospital, all hospitalizations due to influenza in children aged 15 days to 14 years, ocurring between January 2001 and December 2005 were reviewed. Results: Of a total of 3570 admissions associated with a respiratory illness, 124 (3.5%) were due to influenza, of which 75% presented between the months of April and June. Median age was 20.5 months (60% younger than 2 years) and 24% had an underlying risk factor. Most common symptoms were fever (94%) and dry cough (61%) and 75% of the children required oxygen. The most frequent complication was pneumonia (53%). The mean duration of hospitalization and oxygen use were 4.4 and 2.5 days respectively. Fifty two children (49.1%) received an antibiotic and nine children were admitted to intensive care unit. No deaths were recorded. Conclusion: Influenza virus cause serious complications and affects mostly healthy children younger than 2 years

Palabras clave : influenza; complications; children; hospitalization.