Early application of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in influenza B virus-related fulminant pneumonia complicated with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infection: a case report

Co-infection of the influenza B virus with other bacterial pathogens is a significant contributor to the high pathogenicity and mortality associated with influenza B. The most common bacterial co-infections are caused by <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> and <i>Streptococcus</i> species. In this case report, we describe the clinical symptoms and treatment of a 69-year-old woman who developed fulminant pneumonia secondary to <i>S. aureus</i> infection following initial influenza B virus infection. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition and the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in treating fatal pneumonia caused by co-infection with methicillin-sensitive <i>S. aureus</i> and influenza B virus. We conclude that this case provides valuable insights into the severe complications of influenza co-infections and underscores the role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the management of fulminant pneumonia.