Rising Cases of Flu and RSV Pose Challenge to European Health Systems
Table of Contents
- 1. Rising Cases of Flu and RSV Pose Challenge to European Health Systems
- 2. ECDC Recommendations Emphasize Vaccination and Surveillance
- 3. EU/EEA Health Agencies Highlight preparedness for a Potential Winter Surge in Respiratory Infections
- 4. Monitoring Evolving Viral Threats
- 5. Early Reporting is Crucial
- 6. Respiratory Virus Activity Increases Across Europe
- 7. influenza and RSV Pose Highest Risks to Vulnerable Groups
- 8. Bird Flu Risk Remains Low for general Population
- 9. You may also be interested…
Europe is experiencing a meaningful surge in influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity, prompting concerns from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). This increase in cases, coupled with the ongoing circulation of SARS-CoV-2, is putting a strain on healthcare systems across the continent.
The ECDC has observed a notable rise in influenza and RSV indicators in most European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries. This surge is already impacting secondary care services and is anticipated to intensify during the upcoming christmas holidays.
The co-circulation of these viruses presents a significant challenge to health systems, especially for vulnerable populations. Hospitalizations are expected to rise across all age groups, with young children and older adults at particularly high risk.
According to the ECDC,”The flu season is considered officially started after reaching the threshold of 10% positivity in tests carried out in Primary Care in the region.” They also note that influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, A (H3N2), and B viruses are co-circulating along with RSV, further complicating the situation.
The severity of the flu season will largely depend on vaccination rates and the predominant A(H3N2) virus subclade. ”If the latter is not well covered by the vaccine, the impact could be considerably worse,” the ECDC warns.
ECDC Recommendations Emphasize Vaccination and Surveillance
In light of the increasing number of influenza and RSV cases, the ECDC urges Member States to prepare for a perhaps intensified viral activity in the coming weeks.
The organization recommends that health authorities consider implementing preventive and infection control measures in healthcare centers, including long-term care facilities, to minimize transmission.
Additionally,they suggest bolstering the capacity of Primary and secondary Care systems to handle the anticipated rise in cases,taking regional needs and capabilities into account.
“Scenario models have shown that a high rate of vaccine acceptance at the population level is closely linked to a lower burden of disease,” emphasizes the ECDC.
Scenario models have shown that a high rate of vaccine acceptance at the population level is closely linked to a lower burden of disease
They strongly encourage people to get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, especially those at higher risk of complications. The updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 winter booster offer improved protection against current SARS-CoV-2 variants compared to the autumn 2023 booster dose. Immunoprophylaxis against RSV, already proven safe and effective for infants, should be considered according to national guidelines.
The ECDC also reminds healthcare professionals that, where appropriate, early use of antiviral treatments can prevent the progression to severe illness in vulnerable groups. If a virus subclade emerges that is not well matched to the vaccine, antivirals may need to be used at a lower threshold for risk groups.
Continuous surveillance is crucial for monitoring the evolving situation and adapting strategies accordingly.
EU/EEA Health Agencies Highlight preparedness for a Potential Winter Surge in Respiratory Infections
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is urging heightened vigilance as health systems across the EU/EEA prepare for a possible surge in respiratory infections during the upcoming winter season. The agency emphasizes the importance of maintaining robust infection control measures and monitoring for unusual respiratory illnesses.While authorized monoclonal antibodies are currently ineffective against the latest SARS-CoV-2 variants like those found in XEC lineages, including KP.3 and BA.2.86, the ECDC assures the public that available antiviral treatments remain effective.”It is essential to guarantee infection control as much as possible,” the agency emphasizes. Beyond COVID-19, the ECDC highlights the need to monitor for unusual respiratory infections, such as those caused by adenovirus or *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, which aren’t typically captured in routine surveillance but can strain healthcare resources.
Early Reporting is Crucial
The ECDC urges healthcare professionals to report any unusual respiratory outbreaks or surges through the Epi platform. This platform enables timely data collection and analysis, supporting informed public health responses.Respiratory Virus Activity Increases Across Europe
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported a noticeable surge in respiratory virus circulation, particularly influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), since late November 2024. Surveillance data indicates that positivity rates in primary care settings have surpassed the 10% threshold, signaling the official start of the flu season across Europe. This uptick follows a trend of returning to more regular seasonal patterns for flu and RSV after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Flu activity is mirroring patterns observed last year, while RSV circulation has increased with a slight delay of approximately two weeks,” the ECDC noted. While SARS-CoV-2 activity has stabilized at low levels following a period of elevated transmission during the summer and autumn, the lack of a predictable seasonal pattern for this virus makes it challenging to predict the likelihood of a new epidemic wave this winter.influenza and RSV Pose Highest Risks to Vulnerable Groups
Data from the European Respiratory virus Surveillance System (ERVISS) confirms an increase in hospitalizations due to influenza and RSV. Interestingly, despite the decrease in SARS-CoV-2 activity, a steady stream of severe cases persists, with hospitalization numbers comparable to those for RSV. Individuals aged 65 and older remain the group most susceptible to severe influenza outcomes, though the severity of the season can vary depending on the dominant viral subtypes. RSV, on the other hand, disproportionately affects children under 5, particularly infants, who account for over 40% of severe acute respiratory infection cases in this age group. Infants frequently require admission to intensive care units, while fatalities are more concentrated among older adults. The elderly also remain highly vulnerable to severe COVID-19, accounting for 84% of hospitalizations related to the disease between weeks 40 and 49 of 2024. Despite this rise in hospitalizations, excess mortality rates in the region remain within expected ranges, according to reports from the european Mortality Monitoring activity (EuroMOMO).Bird Flu Risk Remains Low for general Population
The ECDC assesses the risk of bird flu A(H5) infection in the general population as low, but considers it to be low to moderate for individuals with occupational exposure or those in contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. While the overall risk remains low, ongoing surveillance for potential zoonotic influenza cases will continue throughout the flu season.You may also be interested…
## archyde Interview: Navigating the Surge of Flu and RSV Across Europe
**Host:** Welcome back to Archyde, where we delve into the latest health news and insights. Today’s focus: the surging cases of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) across Europe, posing a formidable challenge to healthcare systems.Joining us is Dr. [Alex Reed Name], a leading epidemiologist with expertise in infectious disease control. Dr. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for being here.
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has raised concerns about a notable increase in influenza and RSV activity across the EU/EEA. Can you shed light on the current situation and its implications?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Absolutely. We are indeed witnessing a significant rise in both flu and RSV cases across European countries. This increase, coupled with the ongoing circulation of SARS-CoV-2, is putting a considerable strain on already stretched healthcare systems.
**Host:** what are the primary concerns associated with this co-circulation of viruses?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** The main concern is the potential overwhelming of healthcare resources, especially for vulnerable populations like young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.
We anticipate a rise in hospitalizations across all age groups, with these vulnerable populations at especially high risk of severe illness.
**Host:** The ECDC has emphasized the importance of vaccination. Can you elaborate on its role in mitigating this threat?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Vaccination remains our most effective tool against these respiratory viruses.
The ECDC urges everyone eligible to receive their influenza vaccine, and those at risk should also consider RSV vaccination.
The updated COVID-19 boosters for the winter season offer improved protection against the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
**Host:** What specific measures can healthcare professionals and institutions take to prepare for this potential surge?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Implementing robust infection control measures
within healthcare settings, especially those catering to vulnerable populations, is crucial. This includes proper hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and isolating infected individuals.
**Host:** Beyond vaccination and infection control, are there other strategies that can help manage this situation?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Early detection and treatment are essential. Healthcare professionals should encourage individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms to get tested and seek appropriate medical attention.
Antiviral treatments can be effective in preventing severe illness, particularly for high-risk groups.
**Host:** This surge comes amidst the ongoing evolution of SARS-CoV-2.
How do these circulating variants factor into the current situation?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** The rise of new variants, such as the XEC lineages, requires continuous monitoring. While current antivirals remain effective, it underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and rapid adaptation of our public health strategies.
**Host:** The ECDC stresses the need for continuous surveillance. Why is that vital at this juncture?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Continuous surveillance empowers us to track the emergence of new variants, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and adapt our responses accordingly.
It allows us to stay ahead of the curve and mitigate the impact of these viruses.
**Host:** Thank you,Dr. [Alex Reed Name], for providing such insightful data. Your expertise helps us understand the complexities of this evolving situation and the importance of collective action to protect public health.
