Paediatric viral infections and the blood supply

Abstract

Viral infections in children frequently exert their main effects at mucosal surfaces, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, and do not have significant systemic effects. For example, rhinovirus is found in children with the common cold and asthma; rotavirus is a significant agent in childhood gastroenteritis, and enteroviruses cause a wide spectrum of illness in children and are often asymptomatic. Indeed, experiencing some of these viral infections is considered a normal part of childhood.