Vigilance Urged as Influenza and RSV Circulate Simultaneously
Washington, D.C., January 10, 2026 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a call to action for countries across the Americas to enhance health system preparedness as seasonal influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circulate concurrently. This convergence poses a significant challenge, potentially exacerbating the strain on healthcare facilities throughout the Northern Hemisphere’s winter season.
Current Epidemiological Landscape
The recent epidemiological alert acknowledges a rise in global influenza cases, with the A(H3N2) strain being the predominant variant observed since October 2025. Early activity signs have been recorded in several countries across the Northern Hemisphere, while RSV circulation shows an upward trajectory as well. Notably, influenza positivity rates have surpassed 10% in the Northern Hemisphere, with the Caribbean nearing 20%, signifying heightened public health concerns.
Impact on Healthcare Systems
Analysis of selected countries—including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Spain—indicates an early onset of the flu season characterized by increased outpatient visits, especially among children, and rising hospitalizations among older adults. Although the overall severity of the season aligns with expectations and no excess mortality has been reported thus far, some countries are witnessing levels of influenza activity that exceed those of previous years. Such trends necessitate close monitoring to effectively manage and adjust health service response strategies.
Preventive Measures and Importance of Vaccination
Dr. Marc Rondy, PAHO Regional Adviser in Epidemiology of Epidemic- and Pandemic-Prone Diseases, emphasized the critical role of vaccination in mitigating severe cases that could lead to hospitalization. “The simultaneous circulation of influenza and RSV requires a proactive approach to vaccination and surveillance to prevent larger outbreaks and hospital overcrowding,” he stated.
Interim studies suggest that current influenza vaccines are effective, with a reported 30-40% effectiveness in adults and as high as 75% in children in preventing hospitalizations. PAHO has urged member countries to prioritize vaccination coverage, particularly for vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions, to ensure better health outcomes.
Recommendations for Health Authorities
To address this public health challenge, PAHO recommends that countries in the region:
- Strengthen integrated surveillance systems for influenza, RSV, SARS-CoV-2, and other respiratory viruses. Weekly data should be reported to FluNET and FluID to enhance regional and global monitoring efforts.
- Adjust health service response plans to effectively manage potential increases in influenza and RSV cases and associated hospitalizations.
- Prioritize influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations for at-risk groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, those with chronic conditions, and healthcare workers.
- Implement RSV prevention strategies in line with PAHO/WHO recommendations, including maternal vaccination and administering long-acting monoclonal antibodies for newborns and infants.
- Enhance risk communication initiatives to promote key preventive practices in communities.
Public Health Guidance
PAHO encourages the public to take preventive actions, including getting vaccinated against influenza, practicing frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks indoors when symptomatic, staying home when experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms, and seeking prompt medical assistance for severe symptoms. These measures are particularly vital for protecting vulnerable populations, such as young children and older adults.
The simultaneous circulation of influenza and RSV necessitates a robust public health response. By prioritizing preparedness and vaccination, healthcare systems can mitigate the impact of these respiratory viruses, ultimately safeguarding community health during this critical season.
