Spotlight on Bocavirus and Other Parvoviruses, and Overlooked Respiratory Viruses

Dear Colleagues,

In this Special Issue, we aim to shed light on parvoviruses that primarily cause respiratory infections—but also gastrointestinal and systemic infections—in both humans and animals, as well as on some neglected respiratory viruses such as metapneumovirus and rhinoviruses.

Human Bocavirus 1 (HBoV1), a member of the Parvoviridae family first identified in 2005, is frequently detected in children with respiratory symptoms. In contrast, HBoV2–4 primarily infects the gastrointestinal tract, although the roles of both in human disease remain poorly understood. Parvovirus B19 is a well-known pathogen that causes the specific syndrome erythema infectiosum and poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

Animal parvoviruses—such as canine parvovirus and porcine parvovirus—raise important veterinary concerns and provide valuable insights into viral evolution and cross-species transmission.

One of the neglected human respiratory viruses is Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which is increasingly recognized as a cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in young children and the elderly. In addition, Rhinoviruses, frequently dismissed as mere causes of the common cold, are now recognized as major contributors to lower respiratory tract infections in hospitalized young children, and they play a key role in the exacerbation of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults.

This Special Issue seeks to explore the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and public health impact of these frequently neglected viruses. By expanding our focus beyond the most familiar pathogens, we can enhance our understanding of the unique characteristics and disease mechanisms of these viruses—and ultimately strengthen our preparedness for future viral threats.

Prof. Dr. Suncanica Ljubin‐Sternak
Dr. Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
Guest Editors

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