Understanding how influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 spread among children

Viral Dynamics of Influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 in Children and Secondary Transmission Within Households and Schools

This study is trying to see how influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 spread among children under 18 by testing them daily after they test positive for these viruses.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 500 (estimated)
• Ages: 1 Day and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: The Hospital for Sick Children (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
• Trial ID: NCT06640387 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the viral dynamics and transmission of influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 in children under 18 years of age. Participants will undergo daily PCR testing for 10 days after a positive test for these viruses, allowing researchers to gather data on the duration of infectiousness and transmission risks. The study also includes household and classroom contacts to assess broader transmission patterns. The findings will help inform public health decisions during outbreaks of these respiratory viruses.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children under 18 years who have tested positive for influenza, RSV, or SARS-CoV-2 and exhibit specific symptoms within 5 days of onset.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a positive PCR test for the targeted viruses or those who are asymptomatic may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide critical insights into the transmission dynamics of respiratory viruses, leading to better public health strategies and reduced illness in children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in understanding viral transmission dynamics, making this approach both relevant and necessary in the current context of respiratory infections.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

Viral dynamics (primary outcome):

* The child must be less than 18 years of age
* Have a positive PCR sample for influenza, RSV or SARS-CoV-2,
* Have any one of the symptoms listed to meet testing eligibility: fever, cough, shortness of breath, decreased or loss of taste or smell, muscle aches/joint pains (unusual, long lasting, not related to injury), extreme tiredness (unusual fatigue not otherwise explained), sore throat, runny or stuffy/congested nose, headache (new, unusual, long-lasting), nausea/vomiting and/or diarrhea, and
* Be within 5 days of symptom onset

Household testing inclusion criteria (secondary outcome):

-Any individual in the same household (i.e. household contacts, defined as residing at the same address) as the individual testing positive by PCR for influenza, RSV or SARS-CoV-2

Classroom testing inclusion criteria (secondary outcome):

-Any individual in the same classroom (i.e. classroom contacts) as the individual testing positive by PCR for influenza, RSV or SARS-CoV-2 (i.e. case identified through the THS program)

Exclusion Criteria:

Viral dynamics (primary outcome):

-Participants will be ineligible if they are more than 5 days from symptom onset

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

• The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Michelle Science — The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids)
• Study coordinator: Michelle Science

Conditions SARS CoV 2 Infection; RSV Infection; Influenza