Trends in hospitalization for asthma exacerbation among children in Kochi prefecture and in viral infection in acute asthma

Aims : The present study aimed to examine the characteristics of pediatric admissions to hospitals in Kochi prefecture for asthma exacerbation, and to determine which viral infections are most commonly responsible for such admissions at Kochi Medical School Hospital. Methods : We retrospectively studied children with asthma who were hospitalized during 2005, and from 2010 through 2015. Five major pediatric institutions in Kochi prefecture reported monthly numbers of hospitalized patients, sex, age, detected viruses, ICU admissions, and mechanical ventilations required to treat acute asthma exacerbation. Results : The total numbers of hospitalizations for asthma have gradually decreased. The numbers of these events increased to twice as much in September and October 2015 compared to the same months in 2014. At Kochi Medical School Hospital, human rhinovirus was detected mostly from 2012 through 2015. Conclusion : Surveillance of infectious diseases and asthma is needed to prevent severe asthma exacerbation.