Cross-Sectional Evaluation of the Patterns of Respiratory Infections Among Pediatric Outpatients

Abstract

Background: Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are common causes of illness and outpatient visits among children. Understanding their clinical patterns supports early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and prevention. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and demographic and clinical characteristics of respiratory infections among children attending the pediatric outpatient department. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was carried out in the Department of Pediatrics in a tertiary care teaching hospital from January to June 2025. The number of children enrolled was 150 (1-10 years) with clinically diagnosed respiratory tract infections. The data collected included demographic and clinical data, which were collected using a structured proforma. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Chi-square test and Descriptive statistics were used and a value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Of the 150 participants, 61 (40.7%) were aged 1–5 years and 85 (56.7%) were male. URTIs were more common than LRTIs 94 (62.7%) vs. 56 (37.3%). The common cold was the most frequent diagnosis 37 (24.7%), followed by pharyngitis 28 (18.7%) and bronchitis 22 (14.7%). Symptoms lasted 4–7 days in 70 (46.7%) children. Age group was significantly associated with type of respiratory infection (p = 0.004), with LRTIs more common among younger children. Conclusion: URTIs were the most frequent type of respiratory infections of pediatric outpatients, with lower respiratory tract infections being more common in younger children. The burden of pediatric respiratory infections could be reduced if the illness is diagnosed early, managed age-appropriately and preventive measures are implemented.