Respiratory syncytial virus persists as flu season concludes in Europe

Despite the end of the 2025-26 influenza season across the WHO European Region, respiratory viruses, particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), continue to circulate, with elevated activity reported in several countries.

A weekly analysis of hospitalizations for acute respiratory infections at Heratsi No. 1 University Hospital, Muratsan Hospital Complex and the Mikayelyan Institute of Surgery indicates a marked decline in severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases from April 6 to 12, the Heratsi Research Center reported on Friday.

A total of 57 new SARI cases were recorded, representing a 39% decrease compared with the previous week. These cases accounted for 4.8% of all hospitalizations – nearly half the proportion reported a week earlier.

Age-stratified data show that 58% of cases occurred in children aged 0-4, while 42% were among those aged 5-14. Six children from the youngest cohort required admission to intensive care units.

Only five new SARI cases were tested for influenza during the reporting period, and no fatalities were registered among hospitalized patients.

According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, the 2025-26 influenza season officially ended as of April 10, with regional activity falling well below epidemic thresholds. The season was characterized by an early onset in early November – approximately four weeks ahead of the typical timeline – followed by a steady decline in recent weeks. Overall, the season was shorter than the regional average.

Health authorities caution that, notwithstanding the conclusion of the influenza season, ongoing circulation of other respiratory pathogens, notably RSV, remains a concern, particularly for young children and vulnerable populations.