Navigating Viral Threats: Enteric and Respiratory Viral Challenges in the Post-COVID-19 Era

A special issue of Viruses (ISSN 1999-4915). This special issue belongs to the section "Human Virology and Viral Diseases".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 1077

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Host–Pathogen Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
Interests: microbiology; viruses; antivirals; vaccines; innate immunity; adaptive immunity; vaccine development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Koç University-işbank Center for Infectious Diseases (KUISCID), Koç University Hospital, Istanbul 34010, Türkiye
Interests: enteric viruses; respiratory viruses; human influenza viruses; COVID-19; avian influenza viruses; surveillance; virus epidemiology; viral diagnosis

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global health landscape has undergone significant transformations, highlighting the critical need to understand and investigate both enteric and respiratory viruses. The symptoms of enteric and respiratory viruses overlap, with respiratory symptoms occurring after enteric virus infections and gastrointestinal symptoms following respiratory virus infections, complicating typical clinical diagnosis. These viral groups not only contribute to substantial morbidity and mortality but also pose ongoing challenges to public health systems worldwide.

Enteric viruses, which are primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, can lead to severe gastrointestinal diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations. The significance of early detection, along with effective sanitation and hygiene practices and developing novel therapeutics, is paramount in preventing the spread of these viruses and managing outbreaks. By implementing comprehensive measures, we can substantially reduce transmission risks and safeguard public health.

On the other hand, respiratory viruses, such as influenza and coronaviruses, have shown how quickly they can spread through human interaction, leading to widespread illness and disruption. The recent emergence of avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses in cattle and other mammals has amplified the crucial importance of early detection and rapid response in respiratory virus outbreaks. Enhanced surveillance, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and the development of new therapeutics are crucial in promptly identifying infections, allowing for timely interventions that can save lives and reduce transmission.

This Special Issue will explore the multifaceted dimensions of enteric and respiratory viruses, focusing on their epidemiology, prevention strategies, and innovative methods for early detection and therapy. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and sharing cutting-edge research, we aim to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of these viral threats and enhance preparedness for future outbreaks and possible pandemics.

Dr. Ahmed Mostafa
Dr. Abdou Kamal Allayeh
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • enteric viruses
  • respiratory viruses
  • human influenza viruses
  • COVID-19
  • avian influenza viruses
  • surveillance
  • virus epidemiology
  • viral diagnosis

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

12 pages, 3207 KB  
Article
Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Infections in Hospitalized Children During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Sandra Prgomet, Zvonimir Boban, Sunčica Prgomet and Nataša Boban
Viruses 2025, 17(10), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17101296 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 544
Abstract
Infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory system, are a major cause of hospitalization among children. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of childhood infections underwent a significant transformation. To understand these changes, this study analyzes the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of infections in [...] Read more.
Infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory system, are a major cause of hospitalization among children. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of childhood infections underwent a significant transformation. To understand these changes, this study analyzes the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of infections in children hospitalized during the first quarters of years 2021–2024. The number of hospitalizations was four times greater in 2024 compared to 2021. The average patient age decreased from 4.6 years in 2021 to 2.3 years in 2024 due to the increase in proportion of infants. The most prevalent symptom changed from fever in 2021 to cough in subsequent years. Bacterial pathogens were dominant in 2021, and viral pathogens were more common in the other three years. SARS-CoV-2 and rotavirus were the most common viruses in 2021 and 2022 but were overtaken by influenza and respiratory syncytial virus in 2023 and 2024. The findings of the study highlight changes in patient characteristics caused by the easing of restrictions and subsequent resurgence of viral infections. Continued surveillance of infection trends is crucial for adapting clinical practices to the evolving challenges posed by infectious diseases in the post-pandemic world. Full article
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