# Early application of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in influenza B virus-related fulminant pneumonia complicated with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infection: a case report

## TL;DR

This case report highlights the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in treating severe pneumonia caused by a co-infection of influenza B and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus.

## Contribution

The paper presents a novel case emphasizing early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use in managing fatal co-infections of influenza B and S. aureus.

## Key findings

- Co-infection with influenza B and S. aureus can lead to fulminant pneumonia.
- Early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may improve outcomes in such severe cases.
- The case provides insights into managing severe complications of influenza co-infections.

## Abstract

Co-infection of the influenza B virus with other bacterial pathogens is a significant contributor to the high pathogenicity and mortality associated with influenza B. The most common bacterial co-infections are caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. In this case report, we describe the clinical symptoms and treatment of a 69-year-old woman who developed fulminant pneumonia secondary to S. aureus infection following initial influenza B virus infection. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition and the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in treating fatal pneumonia caused by co-infection with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus and influenza B virus. We conclude that this case provides valuable insights into the severe complications of influenza co-infections and underscores the role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the management of fulminant pneumonia.