Risk factors in children with acute respiratory infections

ABSTRACT

1826 children attending the Outpatients Department of Mandalay General Hospital from 1st February 1986 to 31st January 1987 with acute respiratory infection (ARI) related symptoms and sings were studied. They were followed up till they died or were well and the classification was done considering the clinical presentation, the response to treatment and the discharge status of the patient. The risk factors which determine the severity of ARI among the presenting clinical signs and symptoms were determined. The severe forms of ARI tend to occu in younger age groups and in malnourished children. Chest indrawing, inability to drink and nasal flaring were found to be absolute risk factors in ARI. In addition, temperature of > 38 degree C, pulse rate of > 120/min and respiratory rate of > 40/min were found to be important risk factors inthe morbidity and mortality of children with ARI.