Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19

Influenza cases are rising. In the last week of 2024, 65 people were diagnosed, twice as many as in the previous week. Among these, 38 had influenza type A(pdm09), 26 had type A(H3), and one had type B. Cases spanned all age groups, with 19 individuals aged 65 years and older and nine under five years of age.

At Landspítali University Hospital, influenza has overtaken RSV as the leading cause of isolation due to respiratory viruses. By week 52, 22 people were hospitalized with influenza, including eight aged 65 years or older and two under five years old. An additional 24 individuals sought care at emergency departments.

RSV infections slightly decreased, with 70 diagnosed cases in week 52. Among these: 26 were under one year old, nine were aged 1–2 years and16 were aged 65 years or older. Hospitalizations for RSV also declined, with 16 admissions, including three infants under one year, two children aged 1–5 years, and five people aged 65 or older.

COVID-19 cases remained low, with eight diagnoses in week 52. Six individuals were hospitalized, including four aged 65 years and older and two aged 15–64.

Other Respiratory Infections

Other respiratory viruses detected included non-SARS-CoV-2 coronaviruses, rhinoviruses, and small numbers of enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and others.

Testing for respiratory infections increased in recent weeks, with 317 samples analyzed in week 52. The positivity rate was 57%, down slightly from over 60% in week 51.

Five individuals were diagnosed with Mycoplasma bacterial infections during week 52, while no cases of whooping cough (pertussis) were reported.

Situation in Europe (Week 51, 2024)

• Across EU/EEA countries, influenza and RSV cases continue to rise, consistent with seasonal trends.

• Individuals aged 65 years and older face the highest risk of severe illness and hospitalization from influenza.

• Most RSV-related hospitalizations occur in children under two, though 13% involve adults aged 65 years and older.

• SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) cases remain lower than last summer, but older adults remain most at risk of hospitalization and severe illness.

For more details, visit the European Centre for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Prevention

Influenza cases are expected to increase further in the coming weeks, along with potential RSV surges. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe respiratory illness.

Vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza are still available. Individuals aged 60 years and older and those in high-risk groups are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to reduce their risk of serious illness due to both COVID-19 and influenza.

We also emphasize general infection prevention measures. Further information is available on the Directorate of Health website.

The Chief Epidemiologist