The Ministry of Health reported that there is a trend of increased syncytial virus and a 40% increase in consultations for influenza-like illness in five sentinel centers.
The Special Surveillance and Sentinel Program of the Health Surveillance Directorate indicates that, in the country, circulation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and seasonal influenza A H3N2 are currently reported at low levels, according to what is recorded in the report from SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infection) sentinel centers until epidemiological week (EW) 16; however, with an increasing trend in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) identification records.
On the other hand, a 40% increase in consultations for influenza-like illness (ILI) was recorded in epidemiological week (EW) 16, in five sentinel centers. From 11,577 in (SE) 15, there were 19,321 in (SE) 16, the report refers.
In this same period, from the surveillance of severe acute respiratory infection (SARI), hospitalized patients from 14 sentinel centers confirmed: one case of Influenza A H3N2 (seasonal flu), 21 cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and 10 cases of SARS-CoV2, a virus that still remains at low levels.
The age groups most affected by respiratory viruses are those under 2 years of age and those over 60 years of age.
In this sense, they urge to maintain prevention measures, being key to take precautions to reduce contagion: get vaccinated against winter diseases, keep closed environments ventilated, in case of presenting respiratory symptoms, wear a mask and go to the doctor’s office.
