NCT07388173 · University Hospital, Grenoble
Functional Impact of Acute Respiratory Viral Infections in Older Adults
(AFIRI)
What this study is about
The prevention of infectious diseases in older adults remains a major public health challenge, as acute respiratory infections are a leading cause of hospitalisation, mortality, and functional decline worldwide. Immunosenescence and environmental exposures increase susceptibility to infection and reduce vaccine effectiveness in this population.
View original scientific description
The prevention of infectious diseases in older adults remains a major public health challenge, as acute respiratory infections are a leading cause of hospitalisation, mortality, and functional decline worldwide. Immunosenescence and environmental exposures increase susceptibility to infection and reduce vaccine effectiveness in this population. Respiratory viruses, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, and human metapneumovirus, account for a substantial share of this burden, much of which is vaccine-preventable. However, their impact on functional decline and recovery in older adults remains insufficiently characterized. This international study aims to assess the effect of hospitalization for major respiratory viral infections on loss of autonomy in individuals aged 60 years and older, to inform targeted prevention and vaccination strategies.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Male or female subjects aged 60 years or older
- Hospitalized in a study center (emergency department, infectious disease, internal medicine or geriatric hospital wards…) for acute respiratory infection (refer to table 1 below for definition).
- Confirmed positive PCR test for influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, or human metapneumovirus (hMPV). Participants with co-infections with other viral or bacterial agents can be included.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants with conditions significantly impacting short-term functional status, such as severe disability (ADL score ≤2 or Clinical Frailty Scale ≥7), terminal illness, palliative care needs, or inability to comprehend and complete study questionnaires due to severe stroke sequelae, complete sensory loss, advanced dementia, or similar impairments.
- Participants that refuse or are unable to answer the 3- and 6-months follow-up phone call assessments
- Positive laboratory test for single (mono-infection) virus other than influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, or human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
- Participant in exclusion period for another study using an investigational / unapproved medicinal product.
- Participant referred to in articles L1121-5 to L1121-8 of the CSP (corresponding to all protected persons : pregnant woman, parturient, breastfeeding mother, person deprived of liberty by judicial or administrative decision, persons undergoing psychiatric care under articles L.3212-1 and L.3213-1 who do not fall under article L.1121-8, persons admitted to a healthcare or social institution for purposes other than research, minors, person under legal protection or unable to express consent).
- Individuals opposed to participating in the research
- Staff members with a hierarchical relationship to the principal investigator
Where
- Rochester, New York
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations