MORBIDITY DUE TO ACUTE RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS: JORDANIAN ROYAL MEDICAL SERVICES

Abstract

This descriptive, cross-sectional study assessed morbidity due to acute respiratory infections (ARIs) among 176 children under five years old, admitted to Princess Haya Bint Al-Hussein Military Hospital, Jordan, from May to June 2024. ARIs, a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, disproportionately affect young children due to factors like malnutrition, environmental exposures, and inadequate healthcare access. This study aimed to characterize ARI morbidity, identify common symptoms, and analyze risk factors, including socioeconomic status, nutritional health, and environmental conditions. Data collection included demographic information, clinical presentations, diagnoses, and treatments. Results showed that pneumonia and bronchopneumonia were the most prevalent diagnoses, particularly in children under one year, with male predominance. Risk factors such as exposure to secondhand smoke (75%) and low socioeconomic status (58.3%) were prevalent. The study also highlighted high antibiotic use, with 59.1% of patients receiving ceftriaxone, despite 80–90% of ARIs being viral in origin, which raises concerns about antimicrobial resistance. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions addressing socioeconomic disparities and improving environmental health. Enhanced preventive measures and responsible antibiotic stewardship are crucial for reducing the burden of ARIs in this vulnerable population.