Upper Respiratory Microbiota in Relation to Ear and Nose Health Among Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children

Abstract Background We explored the nasal microbiota in Indigenous Australian children relation to ear and health. Methods In total, 103 aged 2–7 years (mean 4.7 years) were recruited from 2 Queensland communities. Children’s ears, nose, throats examined upper respiratory tract (URT) swabs collected. Clinical histories obtained parents/medical records. URT characterized using culturomics with Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identification. Real-time PCR was used quantify otopathogen (Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis) loads detect viruses. Data analyzed beta diversity measures, regression modeling, a correlation network analysis. Results Children historical/current otitis media (OM) or infection (URTI) had higher detection rhinovirus compared healthy (all P < .04). purulent rhinorrhea (P .04) children. High correlated OM URTI, whereas Corynebacterium pseudodiphtheriticum Dolosigranulum pigrum Conclusions D. are associated The importance main otopathogens disease/OM confirmed, their role relates co-colonization high loads.