More than 900 children in the emergency room of the Buzzi Children's Hospital in Milan in just seven days, and some of them have been diverted to other facilities in Lombardy due to lack of places. An increase in attendance is also being observed in family pediatricians' offices. The cause of this increase is attributed to the spread of various respiratory viruses, including cases of influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and gastrointestinal disorders. Lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis and bronchopneumonia, are becoming increasingly common, and even streptococcus, previously associated primarily with spring and summer, is now endemic. However, it is important to note that, in cases of viral infection, the use of antibiotics is not recommended. Children with more severe symptoms are flocking to emergency rooms, and in Buzzi Hospital alone, 928 admissions and 89 hospitalizations were recorded in the week of December 7-13. Respiratory syncytial virus is particularly problematic, causing respiratory distress in younger children, which may require hospitalization or even intensive care, although there are few places available at the moment.
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