Most Brazilian states report severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG) at alert, risk, or high-risk levels, according to Fiocruz's InfoGripe bulletin released on April 29. Cases are driven mainly by influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which circulate more in autumn and winter. Exceptions are Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul.
Fiocruz's InfoGripe bulletin, released on Wednesday, shows 13 of 27 capitals on alert with rising severe flu cases, including Belém, Brasília, Manaus, Recife, and Teresina.
Increases are linked to drier weather and more time in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces during cooler periods. Fiocruz stresses vaccination as the best prevention against severe forms. The national influenza campaign runs until May 30 for priority groups, with northern region dosing in the second semester.
RSV hospitalizations are rising across all states, mainly affecting children up to 2 years old and causing bronchiolitis. The RSV vaccine is advised for pregnant women from the 28th week of gestation. Over the last four weeks, influenza A accounted for 46.9% of SRAG deaths in positive cases, followed by Covid-19 (16.9%), rhinovirus (20.5%), RSV (8.3%), and influenza B (4.3%). For hospitalizations, RSV led at 36.2%, influenza A at 31.6%, and rhinovirus at 26%.
Hospitalizations focus on young children, tied to RSV and rhinovirus, while deaths weigh heavier among the elderly, driven by influenza A and coronavirus.
