Respiratory viral infections in professional ice hockey teams—a one-season observational study

Abstract

Background – Little is known about viral acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in ice hockey teams. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence, etiology, and transmission of ARIs in three professional ice hockey teams playing the Finnish Elite League during the 2022–2023 season. Methods – A total of 81 players and 18 staff members were prospectively followed during a 7-month season. Nasal swabs for the detection of 16 respiratory viruses and rhinovirus typing were collected from all players at the onset of sore throat, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, cough, and/or fever and, for one team, also once monthly from asymptomatic players. Viral diagnostics was done using the Allplex Respiratory Panels or FilmArray. Results – Ninety-three percent (75/81) of the players experienced at least one ARI, and 17% (14/81) experienced three or more. A viral cause was detected in 65% of the 129 cases, with 23 different viruses. The most commonly detected viruses were SARS-CoV-2, rhinoviruses, and influenza A viruses. Thirteen potential cluster groupings (caused by 11 different viruses) of respiratory viral infections were detected, four of which were asymptomatic. Of the 104 illness episodes among the players for which symptom forms were completed, 25 (24%) were febrile. Thirty-six percent (37/104) of the players played while ill. Thirty-four percent (35/104) of the symptomatic players missed at least one game. Conclusion – Most professional ice hockey players suffered from viral ARI during the competitive season. Infections were contracted from both the community and the team. The clinical manifestations were mild or moderate, but the time loss from ARIs was evident.