Epidemiology, impact on oncologic treatments, and management of community-acquired respiratory virus (CARV) infections in pediatric onco-hematology patients: a survey among Italian pediatric oncology hematology centres (AIEOP)

Abstract A survey was conducted across Italian Pediatric Onco‑Hematology centres to assess epidemiology of community‑acquired respiratory virus (CARV) infections, chemotherapy management, Oseltamivir use and vaccination policies. Most reported infections were mild and managed outpatients, and their occurrence affects mainly the continuity of chemotherapy. Influenza was associated with a relevant rate of hospitalization and pneumonia compared with other CARV. Marked variability emerged regarding oncological treatment interruptions and the use of Oseltamivir. Influenza vaccination was strongly recommended to contacts, while indications for patients differ among centres. Findings highlight the lack of standardized approaches to CARV management and reinforce the importance of influenza vaccination.