Introduction

In Sub-Saharan Africa, the rainy season coincides with a surge in acute respiratory infections (ARIs) among children. In Togo, these diseases rank among the main causes of pediatric hospitalizations, especially in Greater Lomé, where ARIs and malaria predominate in 2024.

Common Types of Respiratory Infections

ARIs in children include various illnesses such as pneumonia (often caused by bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae), bronchiolitis (Common in infants, often due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)), seasonal flu (caused by influenza viruses, leading to fever and cough), rhinopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat, usually viral in origin), and a whooping cough (highly contagious bacterial infection characterized by severe coughing fits).

Aggravating Factors During the Rainy Season

The rainy season promotes the spread of pathogens responsible for ARIs. High humidity, temperature fluctuations, and overcrowding due to displacement from flooding increase infection risks. Moreover, indoor air pollution, notably from the use of solid fuels for cooking, worsens the situation.

Impact on Child Health

ARIs account for a significant proportion of pediatric hospitalizations in Togo. They can lead to severe, even fatal complications if not promptly treated. Pneumonia, in particular, remains one of the leading causes of child mortality in the country.

Recent Studies on ARIs in West Africa

A study conducted at the Sylvanus Olympio University Hospital in Lomé from 2012 to 2014 revealed that severe ARIs accounted for 4.5% of pediatric hospitalizations, with a mortality rate of 12.8%. Infants under 12 months were the most affected, and malnutrition was identified as a major aggravating factor, present in 63.2% of recorded deaths. In Côte d’Ivoire, a study published in October 2024 examined the incidence of ARIs among children under five in Grand-Bassam, in relation to climatic parameters. Results showed a high incidence rate of 375.42 per 1,000 in 2020, with a positive correlation between humidity and temperature and the increase in ARI cases.

Prevention and Recommendations

To reduce the incidence of ARIs in children during the rainy season, it is essential to ensure adequate ventilation in homes, limit children’s exposure to cooking smoke, maintain strict hygiene, especially frequent hand washing, and seek prompt medical attention if respiratory symptoms appear.

Conclusion

The rainy season in Togo and Sub-Saharan Africa is a critical period for children’s health due to the surge in respiratory infections. Increased awareness among parents and appropriate preventive measures can help protect the youngest against these preventable diseases.