Influenza a pneumonia in the pediatric population in the post-pandemic era

Introduction:Influenza A pneumonia is an acute viral infection that affects the respiratory tract and is transmitted through droplets expelled when coughing or sneezing. In the pediatric population, it presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, rhinorrhea, and respiratory distress, which can lead to complications like respiratory distress or bacterial superinfection. Objective:The aim was to identify Influenza A as a cause of pneumonia in children aged 1 year to 10 years in the post-pandemic context. Methods:A prospective, observational, and analytical study was conducted in 265 children without previous comorbidities, admitted between 2023 and 2025 at the Ambato General Hospital IESS. Patients aged 1 year to 10 years, diagnosed through nasopharyngeal swabs for Influenza A, were included. Results: 53 % of the cases were female, and 47 % male, with the majority of cases in the 3 to 5 years group (27 %). 82 % had contact with individuals with prior respiratory symptoms. The most common symptoms were cough (23 %), fever (22 %), rhinorrhea (21 %), and respiratory distress (50 %). Radiological images showed hyperinflation (19 %) and interstitial patterns (18 %). Influenza A and Respiratory Syncytial Virus were the predominant etiological agents. Conclusions:Influenza A is a significant cause of pneumonia in children, particularly in those under 5 years old, with a higher incidence in winter months, especially in February. The implementation of epidemiological surveillance protocols and early treatment is recommended to reduce mortality.