Armenia reports 10% drop in acute respiratory infections in early February

New acute respiratory infection (ARI) cases in Armenia fell by 10% on Feb. 2–8 compared to the previous week, according to data released by the Heratsi Analytical Center.

A total of 66 new severe cases were recorded during the sixth epidemiological week of 2026, accounting for 7.4% of all hospitalizations, down from 9% a week earlier. Children under five made up half of the new cases (33), while those aged 5-14 accounted for 48% (32 cases). One case was reported among people aged 65 and older.

Five patients, all under the age of five, were admitted to intensive care. No deaths were reported among hospitalized ARI patients.

Eleven new severe cases were tested for influenza during the reporting period.

Health authorities said influenza A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses continue to circulate in Armenia, alongside rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), metapneumovirus, parainfluenza and adenovirus.

According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, influenza positivity rates in parts of the region increased in the week of Jan. 26–Feb. 1, though overall activity remained stable. The influenza A(H3) strain remained dominant, accounting for 73% of detected cases, followed by A(H1) at 21%. Regional test positivity stood at 33%, above the 10% epidemic threshold and up from 30% the previous week.

SARS-CoV-2 activity in the region remained at 3%, while RSV activity was broadly unchanged, with children under five accounting for most cases.