Seasonal Variation in Respiratory Pathologies: Comparative Analysis of Winter and Spring Trends (2022-2023)

Background: Seasonal changes are known to influence the incidence and severity of pediatric respiratory conditions. Understanding these patterns is essential for optimizing preventive and therapeutic strategies. Objective: This study compared the seasonal impact on asthma exacerbation, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia among children admitted to Prince Sultan Military Medical City (PSMMC), while assessing the relationship between viral infections and patient outcomes. Methodology: A retrospective and prospective analysis was conducted from November 2022 to May 2023, involving 428 children aged 1 month to 15 years. Data on demographics, clinical outcomes, and viral studies were analyzed. Results: Most admissions occurred in winter (79.7%). Bronchiolitis was more common in winter, while asthma was more frequent in spring. Hospital stays were longer and viral positivity was higher in winter (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Seasonal variation significantly affects pediatric respiratory admissions, supporting the need for season-specific clinical preparedness.