Viral etiology in adult influenza-like illness/acute respiratory infection and predictivity of C-reactive protein

Abstract

Conclusions: Influenza virus is the most likely pathogen in ILI/ARI when CRP = 5 mg/L. This might be explained by tissue destruction. Myalgia is rare with rhinovirus probably due to absence of viremia. Negative bacteria by PCR and culture suggest unnecessary antibiotic use in ILI/ARI.