Respiratory Symptoms and Health Outcomes of Rhinovirus and Influenza Virus Infections: Implications of Asthma, Diabetes Mellitus and Allergic Rhinitis in Rhinovirus C Infection

Rhinovirus (RV), classified into RV-A, RV-B, and RV-C, is a prevalent cause of respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Here, we analysed RV infection and its clinical implications among outpatients with acute upper RTIs. Demographic data, baseline comorbidities, clinical symptoms, and health outcomes of RV-infected patients (n = 849) were compared with influenza (n = 417). Multivariable logistic regression was employed to evaluate predictors and health outcomes over a 1-year follow-up period. RV infections predominantly presented with cough, nasal discharge, and sore throat, whereas fever was more prevalent in influenza cases. RV-C-infected individuals with diabetes mellitus (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.6; 95% CI 1.7-7.2; p = 0.001) and asthma (aOR 1.9; 95% CI 1.0-3.5; p = 0.047) showed a higher likelihood of experiencing severe acute respiratory symptoms. RV-C patients with comorbidities were twice more likely to have primary care visits due to RTIs within 1 year (aOR 2.4; 95% CI 1.4-4.4; p = 0.003). Asthma (aOR 3.8; 95% CI 1.9-7.2; p < 0.0001) and allergic rhinitis (aOR 2.9; 95% CI 1.0-8.0; p = 0.042) were key predictors of increased RTI-related primary care visits. RV infection, particularly in individuals with asthma, allergic rhinitis and diabetes, poses a significant disease burden similar to that of influenza.