Identification and Characterization of Bacteria in the Lungs of Children From 6 Months up to 6 Years Old, With Suspected Infection of the Lungs, in Spain.

Identification and Characterization of Bacteria in the Lower Airways of Children Aged ≥ 6 Months to < 6 Years With Suspected Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTI) in Spain.

The purpose of this study is to identify and characterise bacteria present in the lower airways of children with suspected chronic LRTIs and for whom bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is indicated by the clinician.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects who the investigator believes that parent(s)/ legally acceptable representatives (LAR[s]) can and will comply with the requirements of the protocol.
• A male or female subject aged ≥ 6 months to < 6 years at the time of enrolment.
• Subjects meet the case definition of suspected chronic LRTIs where BAL is indicated.
• Subject's parent(s)/ LAR(s) agree to the collection of a nasopharyngeal swab from the subject.
• Written informed consent obtained from the parent(s)/ LAR(s) of the subject.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known cystic fibrosis, immunosuppression, or other severe immunodeficiencies such as agammaglobu-linaemia, T cell deficiency or Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, chemotherapy treatment, etc.
• Exacerbation of persistent respiratory symptoms (cough, wheezing, difficulty in breathing, etc.) in the previous 2 weeks.
• Antibiotic treatment in the 2 weeks prior to study entry.
• Concurrent participation in another study within 30 days prior to study entry or at any time during the study period, in which the subject has been or will be exposed to an investigational or a non-investigational product (pharmaceutical product or device).
• Subjects having previously participated in this study.
• Child in care.