Focus: Inverno e infezioni respiratorie "atipiche"

Next winter we shall face the usual peak of respiratory infections due to rhino, parainfluenza, influenza viruses and further more the threat of a new outbreak of SARS-associated coronavirus infection. We can't forget that in the same winter season other "usual" pathogens may be involved in respiratory infections and pneumonia, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Legionella, Streptococcus pneumoniae and so on. The risk of an influenza pandemia is probably higher than a larger outbreak of SARS. We must then implement a correct vaccine prophylaxis, an adequate use of antiviral agents and a judicious use of antibiotics.