Study on Influenza and Respiratory Virus Infections Among Adults With and Without HIV in Lusaka, Zambia

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the prevalence and impact of influenza types A and B, respiratory syncytial virus RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 infections among adults in Lusaka, Zambia, a setting with a high HIV burden. This study aims to better understand how these respiratory infections contribute to illness, especially in individuals living with HIV, and to explore the seasonality and clinical outcomes in the post-COVID-19 era. The study will also evaluate diagnostic methods and the acceptability of novel sampling techniques for respiratory viruses. Participants presenting with flu-like symptoms will be enrolled in a cross-sectional surveillance study at two hospitals. They will provide routine nasal or nasopharyngeal swabs and an additional exhaled breath aerosol sample to compare diagnostic accuracy. The study includes a 14-day follow-up period to monitor symptom progression and clinical outcomes. Questionnaires will assess participant experience and preferences regarding the sampling methods. During the study, participants will be asked to provide informed consent, share their HIV and COVID-19 vaccination status, and complete a symptom diary for seven days. Researchers will collect samples and clinical data to determine infection prevalence and outcomes. The primary outcome is the prevalence of influenza infections over 18 months. Participants will receive routine medical care as needed, with follow-up visits occurring up to two weeks after enrollment. The study is expected to last from April 2025 to November 2026 for participant enrollment.

Surveillance, Assessment and Detection of Influenza Associated Respiratory Infections in HIV Positive and Negative Individual in Lusaka, Zambia.