The number of influenza and RSV cases continues to trend downward overall; however, similar numbers were detected in week 8 as in week 7. The number of COVID-19 cases remains low. Diagnoses of other respiratory viruses increased from the previous week, with a rise in cases of human metapneumovirus.

Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19

Influenza diagnoses are declining, although the number of cases in week 8 was similar to week 7. A total of 30 individuals were diagnosed with influenza in week 8, including 17 with influenza A(pdm09), nine with A(H3), and four with influenza B. Cases were recorded across all age groups: one individual was under five years old, three were aged 5–14 years, 15 were 15–64 years, and 11 were 65 years or older.

Five individuals were in hospital with influenza at Landspítali in week 8, all aged 65 years or older. Additionally, 15 individuals required emergency department care for influenza, similar to week 7.

The number of RSV cases remained similar to week 7, continuing the overall decline observed since late last year. In week 8, 15 individuals were diagnosed, including nine aged 65 years or older, three aged 15–64 years, one aged 3–4 years, and two under one year of age.

Five individuals were in hospital with RSV at Landspítali in week 8, including four aged 65 years or older and one child aged 3–4 years.

Three individuals were diagnosed with COVID-19, all aged 65 years or older. One person was in hospital with COVID-19.

Other Respiratory Infections

The number of detected respiratory viruses, excluding influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, increased compared to the previous two weeks. Rhinovirus (common cold) remains the most frequently identified virus, but cases of human metapneumovirus also increased in week 8. Seven individuals were diagnosed with human metapneumovirus in week 8, whereas weekly case numbers have ranged between 0–3 since autumn 2024. The total number of respiratory samples tested was similar to week 7, with a positivity rate of around 40%.

The number of diagnosed Mycoplasma bacterial infections (clinician-diagnosed, regardless of lab confirmation) remained stable, with four cases in week 8. One individual aged 15–64 years was diagnosed with pertussis (whooping cough).

Situation in Europe

• Respiratory infections remain prevalent in EU/EEA countries.

• Influenza activity is high, and hospital admission rates are similar to peak levels in previous outbreaks. Cases appear to be increasing in about one-third of countries, while in others, the outbreak has either peaked or is declining. Hospitalization rates are highest among individuals aged 65 years and older.

• RSV infection rates vary between countries but are generally declining. Hospital admissions for RSV remain highest among children under five years old.

• COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) infection rates are very low in most EU/EEA countries.

For further information, visit the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control website.

Prevention Measures

Vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe influenza illness. Influenza vaccines are still available at healthcare centers and from suppliers. Parents of children aged 6 months to 4 years, individuals over 60, and those in priority and high-risk groups are encouraged to receive vaccination, as they are most vulnerable to severe influenza.

General Infection Prevention Reminders:

• Avoid close contact with individuals displaying symptoms of infection.

• Stay home while symptomatic and until symptoms have improved and fever-free for 24 hours.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

• Take special precautions around vulnerable individuals if experiencing symptoms.

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly.

• Clean shared surfaces and ensure proper ventilation in shared spaces.

• Consider wearing a face mask in crowded places.

• Wearing a mask in healthcare settings during the peak of the influenza epidemic may help reduce transmission to vulnerable individuals.

The Chief Epidemiologist